Georgia Mountain Laurel - April 15 by The Laurel of Northeast Georgia

Julie Barnett

Leigh Barnett

Cell 404-697-3860

Cell 404-931-3636

REALTOR速

141 S. Main St. Clayton, GA

706-212-0228

www.lakeburtonhome.com for VIRTUAL TOURS FEATURED HOMES

Enchanting Estate on Lake Burton $5,900,000

Windrush on Lake Burton $4,300,000

Rustic Elegance on Lake Burton $3,300,000

Memory Maker on Lake Burton $2,725,000

Romancing the Stone on Lake Rabun $4,500,000

Nestled In on Lake Burton $4,250,000

Narnia on Lake Burton $3,795,000

Bobcat Lodge on Lake Rabun $2,900,000

Lake Burton Farmhouse $2,895,000

Four Bear Lodge on Lake Burton $2,675,000 Nature's Serenade on Lake Burton $2,595,000 The above information is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted.

Summerside on Lake Burton $1,995,000

The Boathouse on Lake Burton $2,395,000

2+ Ac. with Log Cabin on Lake Burton $1,650,000 Highview over Burton at Waterfall Club $1,895,000

Somerset Cove on Lake Burton $2,495,000

Lake Burton Adirondack Lodge $1,995,000

Sunstone Cottage on Lake Burton $1,455,000

The Lake Burton Magic $1,499,950

The High Life on Lake Burton $1,500,000

Lake Burton Lot with Boathouse $1,195,000

Back to Basics on Lake Burton $1,295,000

Sunset Skies on Lake Burton $1,275,000

Mountain Lake Majesty $699,000

Over the Water on Lake Burton $1,050,000 Vintage Summer Cottage on Lake Burton $1,095,000

www.lakeburtonhome.com

for a complete listing of properties and VIRTUAL TOURS Office - 706-212-0228 • Julie - 404-697-3860 • Leigh - 404-931-3636 The above information is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted.

141 S. Main St. • Clayton, GA • 706-212-0228

Folks

Thank You Mark Swanson

Mr. Swanson Teaches Nouns, Verbs, and Students

Introducing Page Rhoad & Foxglove Cotillion

NGAG featured artist for April 2015 Silke Cliatt: Celebrating Color by Jo Mitchell

magine, if you will: every glorious color you can think of, put into a magic container and then shaken with equal measures of joy, celebration and awe. The resulting explosion pops the lid, escapes overload and then settles, neatly and wonderfully into intricate visual patterns. That is the art of Silke Cliatt: impressionist, pictorial, plus traditional pieced, abstract quilts. Smiling like a kid in a candy shop, dens, hot stripes and storybook scapes, but it’s more complex than that. Silke’s happy art is the cumulative result of decades spent learning and teaching. Sewing since she was a child, a love of fabrics developed into art education and explorations into surface design, the use of repeated patterns, screen and silk printings and batik. While Silke has achieved her wish to create an uplifted reaction in her viewers, she considers herself and her life part of a lifelong lesson and challenge—and she does love a challenge: “I am crazy in love with problem solving. So, if a problem arises, I pull out all the stops to meet it. If I manage that, I am thrilled. If I don’t, I am humbled in a good way.” She wonders at times what happened be“aware that something mystical the “creative process is a connection with the Divine”. different places. They can be an image on a greeting card or photo, and with quilt making can derive from the beauty of the fabric alone. Art making is a process for Silke, one that grows, step by vis-

April 2015

ible step. Contrary to what we see in not have an exact vision of what she wants to create, but makes decisions, one at a time as the need occurs. And as she is always searching, Silke keeps attempting something she has not done previously. If it doesn’t work, she just changes gears. She does not see the value in accomplishing something and then repeating it, safe as it may feel, over and over again. For thirty years, this artist’s energy cating young children. Now, retired, Silke “savors” having entire days to create her own art, if that’s what she chooses. And she is grateful for having the time and energy, for the materials, and for the mystical force that allows her to achieve what she feels she would otherwise not be able to do through any talent, skill or effort alone. You may contact Silke via e-mail: scliatt@paceacademy.org.

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April 2015

Rainy Day Workshop Making Hair Bows

by Melissa Williams-Thomas

air bows are the latest fashion trend. Women of all ages are sporting these pieces everywhere from the red carpet to the boardroom to the classroom. They are being made out of every material and range from colorful to classy, super big to very tiny. These stylish accessories can dress up otherwise boring hair-dos and work for allow you to express your own style. One of the perks of having a daughter is dressing her up and adorning her with ribbons and bows. They are so cheap and easy to make. For this project, I spent less than $5 on the actual hardware for the barrettes and the rest of the materials used I found around the house. The Beaded Bow

The Beaded Bow Silver beading wire Contour clip Beads

String 18 beads on a ten inch piece of wire. Bend wire into eight. Secure the contour clip with a small piece of wire. The Fabric Bow Metal barrette Rectangle piece of fabric Small strip of fabric Old watch face Small piece of wire The Fabric Bow

Fold rectangle of fabric accordion style. Tie center with small strip of fabric. Attach old watch face in the center of the bow with a piece of wire. Twist wires around barrette.

April 2015

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The Paper Bow Colorful paper A bead Contour clip Small piece of wire

end of the wire and string the paper shapes. Attach the wire to contour clip.

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April 2015

Where Science meets Art... Beautifully! by Tracy McCoy

rtist John Phillips has been teaching glass art for many years in his studio Fire and Light Art Glass Studio in Otto, North Carolina. Jennifer Love teaches sciMountain View Intermediate School. This middle grade school in Franklin, North Carolina does not currently offer an art program so Ms. Love got creative about teaching her students about light. They students were studying color spectrum, states of matter and its chemical and physical changes and the transmission of light. Ms. Love called John and asked if he could come into the classroom and help her students learn more about this. John packed up all forms of glass and headed for a more formal classroom than he usually teaches in and he told these students “turn your imagination loose and create”. Using the different types of glass John brought the children created ornaments that demonstrated all of the principals that they had been studying. The students agreed that it was a fun way to learn and Ms. Love stated that she believes students learn better by doing projects and are more likely to remember concepts through interactive learning. The creative process included using hair gel to adhere glass to glass. John then took the projects back to his studio where in his kiln glass melded with glass He then delivered them back to the school where each student could see the result of their project. John teaches art glass classes to children and adults and if you haven’t seen his work or that of his students you should stop in and experience Fire and Light Glass Studio. The studio is located at 9788 Georgia Road in Otto, North Carolina. More information can be obtained by calling 828.349.4505.

April 2015

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Finding Art

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April 2015

Book Review: A Yellow Watermelon Middle-Grade Story Delivers Classic Lesson by John Shivers

“You needs to learn to look at things a little harder and think a little deeper. Things ain’t always what dey seems to be on the surface.” The speaker was a black man named Jake, and the target of those words of advice was none other than an almost twelve year-old white boy named Ted Dillon. Given that the words were spoken in 1948 in a deep south Alabama town, the stage is dences in the pages of A Yellow Watermelon. Authored by Monticello, Georgia author Ted M. Dunagan, himself a three-time Georgia Author of the Year, the story contained in 160 pages is current and pertinent to young, middle-grades readers today. Toward that end, the writer relates the joy and growth he’s enjoyed from traipsing all over the South, doing author visits at elementary and middle schools, teaching kids what it was like to be a kid long ago, the wonder of reading and the art of writing. The book’s two main characters are Ted and Poudlum Robinson, a young black boy, whose parents are sharecroppers. While Ted’s family and Poudlum’s family weren’t that far apart on the economic ladder, the difference in the color of their skin provided a universe of difference and exclusion. It’s a difference Ted can’t quite swallow. When Jake, an escaped convict from a Georgia prison becomes his mentor, compensated with food that Ted has “creatively” acquired, the boy truly struggles to understand the inequality.

Factor in Old Man Cliff Steele, the richest man in the area, who has no limit on how low he will stoop or to what lengths he will go, to keep both black and white who are indebted to him at a severe disadvantage. After seeing of this man, who is apparently revered in community, has both a keen mind and an excellent moral compass, but because of his skin color he’s been persecuted and prosecuted, Ted determines to set things right, once and for all. It was a different world in 1948. In that rural area of south Alabama, very near the Mississippi line and within traveling disprejudices and doomsday predictions of his family and close neighbors. He realizes early on that he must keep himself beneath the some kind of reaction. Often a different reaction than he expected. And those reactions can affect the innocent as well as the guilty. The slightest miscalculation in his master plan could put him in dire danger, even to the point that he might be killed. That he makes several of those small decisions with major consequences only serves to validate his beliefs, and to spur on his determination to see things put to rights once and for all. Ted M. Dunagan dedicated this book that was published in 2008 to “Poudlum, my good friend who knew a good melon when he saw one.” No further details are provided about this childhood friend, but through much of the unsaid and unwritten, it’s a pretty and Poudlum become in the pages of A Yellow Watermelon. So what about that yellow melon? You read the entire book and never once is watermelon referenced. You go back and doublecheck the title. Then, at the very end of the book, when deeds have been revealed and punishments meted out, Poudlum and his family visit the Dillon family, bringing with them a beautiful watermelon. When the cut is made, and the cracking split echoes as the two halves separate, Ted is astounded to see that the meat of the melon is yellow instead of red. Sensing his confusion, Poudlum offers an explanation perhaps even more profound than Jake’s earlier advice to Ted. “Dat melon is like people… it may be a different color, but it still be a watermelon.” A Yellow Watermelon is just one of thousands of middle grade novels on the market today, but it’s one guaranteed to cause the reader to look at different colors in a different manner.

April 2015

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April 2015

Mountain Happenings April and May, 2015 April 24th - 26th Bud Break Wine Tour Participating Wineries of North Georgia & Western North Carolina Info: 706.745.7483 STEPHENS COUNTY April 23rd, May 21st Power House for Kids Training Darkness to Light Power House for Kids, Toccoa Info: 706.886.2290 May 9th Sage Market Stephens County Farmers’ Market Building, Toccoa Info: 706.282.3289 Northeast Georgia Community Concert Series The Schaefer Center, Toccoa Info: 706.297.7121 www.negaconcerts.com April 9th - Fernando Varela April 28th - “Della’s Diners” HABERSHAM COUNTY April 17th - 18th Apple Blossom BBQ Festival Cornelia City Park Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654 April 17th Friday Night Flicks: Big Hero 6 Cornelia City Park Amphitheater Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654 April 17th - 19th, 23rd - 26th “A Biddy Full Day” Habersham Community Theatre Clarkesville Info: www.habershamtheater.org April 25th Baldwin Clean-Up Day Mitchell Gailey City Park Baldwin Info: 706.778.4654 May 1st 2015 NE GA Mountains March for Babies / Friday Night Flicks: Paddington Sam Pitts Park, Clarkesville Info: 706.778.4654 May 16th Mountain Laurel Festival Downtown Clarkesville Info: 706.754.4216

May 29th Cornelia Summer Concert Series: Gina Gailey Cornelia City Park Amphitheater Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654

Unicoi State Park, Helen Info: 706.878.2201

May 23rd - 24th and each weekend through mid November Visiting Artist Series May 23rd and each Saturday until mid November Saturday Evening Music Concert Series

Mauldin House Gardens Clarkesville Info: 706.754.4216 April 4th Pictures with the Easter Bunny

Helen Arts & Heritage Center Helen Info: 706.878.3933 www.helenarts.org

April 25th Magical Gardens at Mauldin

April 21st “Preserving the Old Mountain Ways”

WHITE COUNTY April 3rd and each Tuesday and Friday through September 4th Bingo Helen Chamber of Commerce Festhalle Helen Info: 706.878.1908 April 4th and each Saturday Tour de la Cave and Barrel Tasting Yonah Mountain Vineyards Cleveland Info: 706.878.5522

May 15th Spring Lunch Bunch May 19th Pottery History & Demonstration North Georgia Zoo Cleveland Info: 706.348.7279 April 2nd - 5th Easter Festival

April 11th Springfest 2015 Helen Festhalle, Helen Info: 706.878.1908

April 6th - 11th Springfest

April 13th - 14th 2015 White County United Way Golf Tournament Innsbruck Golf Club, Helen Info: 770.715.1559

April 19th / May 17th Behind the Scenes Tour

April 14th / May 12th Mommy & Me at the Zoo

April 18th Vineyards to Vistas Bike Ride Helen Festhalle, Helen Info: 706.878.1619

May 9th Celebrating Moms

April 18th / May 16th Swinging in the Vines Music Series Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards Sautee Info: 706.878.1056 May 9th, 15th - 16th (SoWo) VW/Audi Car Show Helen Info: 800.858.8027; 706.878.2181 May 2nd Winefest Habersham Winery, Helen Info: 706.878.9463 May 28th - 31st 15th Annual US Riders News Reunion Run and 9th Annual Southeast Victory Run Helen Riverside Park, Helen Info: 478.237.3761

May 1st - 3rd Wool Fest and Fiber, Farm, and Arts Festival

May 22nd - 25th Memorial Day Weekend at the Zoo

April 2nd Easter Egg Hunt Rabun County Recreation Department Tiger Info: 706.782.4600 April 4th Easter Egg Hunt Hillside Orchard Farms Tiger Info: 706.782.4995; 706.782.2776 April 11th Warrior Dash Camp Blue Ridge Mountain City Info: www.wariordash.com April 17th - 19th, 24th - 26th “Last Round-up of the Guacamole Queens” North Georgia Community Players Dillard Playhouse, Dillard Info: www.ngcommunityplayers.com April 19th Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo Main Street, Clayton Info: www.gfncs.com April 25th Celebrate Clayton P.E.A.R.L.s 5K Ramey Blvd., Clayton Info: 706.490.1243 April 25th - 26th 2015 Celebrate Clayton Downtown Clayton Info: www.celebrateclayton.com April 25th and each Saturday Simply Homegrown Farmers’ Market Covered Bridge Shopping Center Clayton Info: www.rabunmarket.com May 1st First Friday Fest Downtown Clayton Info: www.downtownclaytonga.com

Smithgall Woods Helen Info: 706.878.3087

May 2nd Living History Days

April 4th / May 2nd First Visit Tours

Mountain City

May 16th and the 3rd Saturday of the Month through September Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals

May 2nd Mountains of Hope Rabun County Recreation Department Tiger Info; 706.782.1600

RABUN COUNTY April 16th & the third Thursday of each month through November Rabun Trout Unlimited Meeting The TU/Scout Hut, Clayton Info: rabuntu.org

April 2015

May 8th Special Olympics Rabun County High School Tiger Info: 706.212.0508

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May 9th Spring Farm Day Hillside Orchard Farms, Tiger Info: 706.782.4995 May 17th Clayton Rotary 5K Downtown Clayton Info: 706.491.7110 May 17th Fur Ball - Dance, Dinner & Auction Rabun County Civic Center, Clayton Info: 706.982.1284 May 30th - 31st WANNAGoFast.com 1/2 mile shoot-out Heaven’s Landing, Clayton Info: wannagofast.com Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.7981 April 3rd / May 3rd Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike April 4th - 5th, 11th -12th Whitewater Boating Weekends April 4th, 12th Whitewater-Watching Hike April 18th - 19th, 25th - 26th May 2nd - 3rd, 9th - 10th, 16th - 17th Aesthetic Water Releases May 23rd - 25th Holiday Gorge Floor Hike North Georgia Arts Guild Artist Programs Clayton City Hall, Clayton Info: www.northgeorgiaartsguild.com April 16th Jennifer Moore - Graphic Art Design May 21st Jon Houghum - Oil Painter Hambidge Center Rabun Gap Info: www.hambidge.org

TOWNS COUNTY April 11th Plant Affair on the Square Hiawassee Info: 706.896.6240 May 7th National Day of Prayer Towns County Recreation Center Young Harris Info: 706.896.2276 Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4191 April 19th - May 16th Rhododendron Festival May 1st - 2nd BMW State Rally May 16th Georgia Mountain Eggfest Young Harris College Young Harris Info: 800.241.3754 April 9th - Acapalooza April 10th - 11th Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festiva April 11th Songs From a New World April 14th Piano Ensemble Concert April 16th Concert Band Spring Extravaganza April 17th, 24th Cosmic Concert Pink Floyd’s The Wall April 18th - Bach to Rock April 20th - Jazz Band Concert April 21st - Percussion Ensemble April 21st - 25th “Good Boys and True”

April 4th / May 2nd First Saturday Gristmill Visit

April 28th - Musical Theater Revue

April 11th / May 9th Second Saturday Artists’ Talks

UNION COUNTY

April 18th / May 16th Nature Hikes Rabun Arena, Tiger Info: 706.212.0452 April 11th March of Dimes Barrel Racing April 25th - 26th / May 23rd - 24th Wateree Cutting Horse Show Info: 864.876.6272 May 2nd - 3rd NBHA Barrel Race May 9th Wayne Dutton Livestock Roping

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April 1st and each Monday through Thursday and Saturday Knitter’s Knitch / Crochet Classes Blairsville Info: 706.835.1078 April 1st and each Wednesday Bingo Haralson Memorial Civic Center Blairsville Info: 706.300.5722 April 2nd and each Thursday Trivia at the View Union County Community Center Blairsville Info: 706.439.6092 Continued on page 32

April 2015

Mountain Happenings April and May, 2015 April 3rd Pictures with the Easter Bunny United Community Bank Blairsville Info: 706.745.2151

May 23rd and each Saturday Summer Concert Series Paradise Hills Resort & Spa Blairsville Info: 877.745.7483

April 6th and

May 23rd Memorial Day Parade Downtown on the Square Blairsville Info: 706.745.6341

Alzheimer’s Support Group Cadence Bank Blairsville Info: 770.789.2044 April 7th and each Tuesday Smoky Mountain Melodies First United Methodist Church Blairsville Info: 706.379.3836 April 10th - 11th Writers’ Conference The Art Center, Blue Ridge Info: 706.632.2144 April 11th Easter Egg Hunt Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.439.6074 April 18th Patriots Day Celebration Blairsville Town Square Info: 706.835.5910 April 21st North Farm Trail Agritourism Symposium Southern Tree Plantation Blairsville Info: www.gafarmtrail.com/symposium April 22nd - 26th Blairsville Kiwanis Fair Airport Industrial Drive Blairsville Info: 706.781.6552

May 22nd - 23rd Memorial Day Weekend Rodeo Cutworm’s Corral, Hayesville Info: 706.897.0956 May 23rd Butts & Spuds Cook-off Festival Settawig Rd., Brasstown Info: 828.389.3704

John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown Info: 828.837.2775; 800.FOLKSCH

May 23rd - 24th Spring Arts & Crafts Festival Just off the Square, Blairsville Info: 706.745.5943

April 3rd Berea College Bluegrass Ensemble

May 30th American Cancer Society Relay for Life Union County Farmers’ Market Blairsville Info: 706.835.8384; 770.297.1176

April 4th Easter Egg Hunt

Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery Rock Creek Road, Suches Info: 706.838.4723

April 17th Mountain Fling

May 8th Veterans’ Appreciation Fishing Rodeo May 13th Special Kids’ Fishing Rodeo Blue Ridge Community Theater Blue Ridge Info: 706.632.9223 April 9th - 12th, 16th - 29th, 23rd - 26th “The Moving of Lilla Barton” May 2nd Live Music is Better - Gretchen Peters May 14th - 17th, 21st - 24th, 28th - 31st “Breakfast with Les and Bess”

April 24th - 25th Mountain Home Show North Georgia Technical College Blairsville Info: www.mountainhomeshow.com

April 3rd and each Friday Night Live Music Eagle Fork Vineyards, Hayesville Info: 828.389.8466

May 16th The Inaugural Georgia Mountain Metric Century Road Ride Union County Info: 706.745.8141

April 10th The Wilson Family

April 24th Fletcher Bright & The Dismembered Tennesseans May 30th

May 8th - 10th Mother’s Day Bridge Tournament Highlands Rec. Park & Civic Center Highlands Info: 828.526.8334 May 14th - 16th Collective Spirits Food and Wine Festival The Bascom, Highlands Info: 828.526.4949 May 22nd - 23rd Spring into Summer Craft & Art Show Macon County Fairgrounds Franklin Info: 828.349.4324 May 23rd Mountain Garden Club Plant Sale Highlands Baseball Field Highlands Info: 866.526.5841 May 30th Kelsey-Hutchinson Park Grand Celebration Pine Street, Highlands Info: 866.526.5841

Brasstown Ringers Concert

April 23rd Growing the Great Pumpkin Georgia Mountain Research Center Blairsville Info: 706.745.2655

April 30th Buy Local Extravaganza Union County Community Center Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789

April 4th, 18th / May 9th, 23rd Contra & Square Dance

May 8th Mother’s Day Gemboree Macon County Community Building Franklin Info: 866.372.5546

May 8th Blue Eyed Girl Peacock Performing Arts Center Hayesville Info: 828.389.2787 April 3rd - 5th, 10th - 12th “Sylvia” April 18th Lon Eldridge & the 9th Street Stompers

April 17th - 19th, 24th - 26th “The Hallelujah Girls” Licklog Players Community Theater Hayesville Info: 828.389.8632

April 19th Bolshoi Ballet: Ivan the Terrible April 25th MET: Cavallenia Rusticana and Pagliacca May 21st - 31st “Welcome to Mitford”

May 29th - 31st

CLAY COUNTY, NC

April 3rd and each Friday Night Friday Nights at Clay’s Corner Brasstown Info: 828.837.3797

Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center Highlands Info: 828.526.9047

MACON COUNTY, NC April 4th Community Easter Egg Hunt Highlands Rec. Park & Civic Center Info: 828.526.5841 April 8th Car Show Resurrection Lutheran Church Franklin Info: 828.507.6625 April 30th - May 2nd Three Rivers Fly Fishing Tournament Highlands Info: 866.526.5841

April 2015

Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts Franklin Info: 866.273.4615; 828.524.1598 www.GreatMountainMusic.com April 3rd - Jeff & Sheri Easter April 24th Movie: “Life Changes Everything” April 25th - Don Williams May 1st - “West Side Story” May 2nd Taste of Home Cooking School May 8th - Laura Story May 23rd The Collingsworth Family

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Fun, Food, Fashion and Golf for Faith Power House for Kids

Rumsey Family joins the RE/MAX of Rabun Family

he top producing father-daughter real estate team of Sam and Chelsea Rumsey have recently joined RE/MAX of Rabun. These REALTORS® are 2nd and 3rd generation Rumseys working with both buyers and sellers in Rabun County. Sam’s dad Ray Rumsey, former teacher and football coach also worked for Ed Poss, owner of the local RE/MAX franchise in years past. The

ome and enjoy a fabulous day of fun, food and fashion at 2nd Annual Charity Golf Classic & Fashion Show on May 15th. This spectacular event is to raise funds and awareness for Faith’s Power House for Kids. The fashion show is from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM in the main lodge at Waterfall Club. There will be chef inspired hor d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Doncaster is providing the clothing for the show. Tickets are $45 and space is limited. For more information or tickets, call Tammy at Faith 706.782.1003. Tickets may also be purchased at Doncaster, from Faith board members and at Waterfall Club.

The First Annual Rabun County Chamber Connection Fashion Show

well known and solid with a great reputation and they are pleased to welcome the Rumsey family to their team

abun County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the First Annual Chamber Connection Fashion Show and Luncheon on April 22nd at Kingwood Country Club. Doors open at 11:00 AM for registration and

Chelsea agree they are exited to work with their repeat customers and new clients as well, who are looking for their dream home or property in the mountains. Sam Rumsey can be reached by calling his cell at 706.982.9673 or through e-mailing samrumsey66@gmail.com. Chelsea can be reached by calling 706.982.9677 or through her e-mail which is chelsearumsey8@gmail.com.

Spa Day. The Rabun County Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting our area’s businesses and to “show off” what Rabun recognized is the apparel and clothing stores in Rabun County. Tickets are $22 and may be purchased at the Rabun County Chamber of Commerce. For more information go to www. gamountains.com or call 706.782.4812.

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April 2015

hen the days get longer and temperatures lose their chill, it means it’s time for Clayton’s premiere festival event.

County’s largest town on Saturday, April 25th and Sunday, April 26th, come rain or shine. Hours for Saturday are 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

There is no admission charge and parking is free. With two days jam-packed with activities, festival-goers can spend all day Saturday and still want to come back Sunday for more. There is plenty for children to enjoy and their parents alike, making Celebrate Clayton the perfect family-oriented event. If you’ve never attended you will enjoy this festival and it will become a regular event for you and your family to enjoy. For additional info visit www.celebrateclayton.com.

Downtown Clayton, Georgia

April 2015

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April 2015

53rd Annual Mountain Laurel Promises Rebirth of a Festival Favorite - Adds Extra Day of Festivities by Mary Beth Horton

ountain Laurel Festival goers are in for a unique treat The Mountain Laurel Festival- the oldest running festival of at the 53rd Annual Festiits type in Georgia- will commence val, set for Saturday, May Saturday morning at 10:00 AM and 16, 2015. conclude at 5:00 PM. Plans for the 2015 daytime event include: This year’s festival will span The festival committee, includtwo days - kicking off on Friday ing representatives from the City of night, May 15th, with the revival of Clarkesville, Clarkesville Main Street, a favorite Mountain Laurel tradi- rade; 2015’s Theme: “New Beginnings”; Grand Clarkesville Lions Club, Clarkesville tion: street dancing. Kiwanis and several businesses are Marshal, Clarkesville City Mayor Terry Greene; already meeting regularly. “Many years ago, people used to dance in the street as part of the around the square; The festival is a time to celebrate Mountain Laurel festivities,” said Clarkesville’s heritage and to extend longtime committee member and its long tradition of hospitality. Habersham County native Glenda “Clarkesville is quickly becomSmith. “It was always a part of the shows and demonstrations; ing the place to be for quality enterfestival that people looked forward tainment choices in Georgia and this to, but it hasn’t been done again for be open for guided tours; year’s Mountain Laurel Festival will years. We want to incorporate that not disappoint,” said Barbara Kesler, back into this year’s event.” Clarkesville City Manager. “There Exhibit Mauldin House; Live music will be at the gazewill be fun activities for all ages to on bo from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. The both days.” parking lot of the old courthouse 53rd Annual Mountain Laurel event will be reserved for “dancing”. Fol- tions, including music, wood-turning, spinning sponsors include: lowing the street dance the crowd and other needle arts, on the grounds of the Fireworks: South State Bank; will be ushered to the park at 7:00 Historic Mauldin House; cial: Homestar Financial; Platinum: PM for a live performance from The Fieldale and WCON; Gold: Matt American Flyers Show band. The sored by Volunteers for Literacy). Mixon Agency; Silver: Ethicon, South State Bank’s Georgia Power, Habersham Chamworks show will begin at 9:00 PM. ber of Commerce, HEMC, McDonThe Friday night festivities will ald’s, NGTC, Southern Bank & Trust, The Carr Law Firm; replace those that have previously taken place on the evening Bronze: bumbleberry of the Saturday festival. “The kick-off to the Mountain Laurel The Mountain Laurel Festival will kick off the weekend at Festival on that Friday was planned in conjunction with Fri5:00 PM on Friday, May 15th with live entertainment, street day Night Live- Clarkesville Main Street’s 3rd Friday event,” exdancing and FIREWORKS. On Saturday, May 16th, the Fesplained Mary Beth Horton, Main Street Manager. “It allows us tival will begin at 10:00 AM and conclude at 5:00 PM. No to offer the same evening entertainment, just one day earlier. evening activities scheduled for Saturday. Plus, it lets our downtown businesses and eateries be in the spotlight on the square.” For more information on the festival, contact 706.754.4216 or visit www.clarkesvillega.com.

April 2015

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April 2015

Wild, Wild West Art Show Awards & May in the Mountains

he BOWEN held its successful Wild Wild West Art Show opening reception on Friday, March 6th beginning at 4:00 PM. Artists and visitors from all over enjoyed western art displays and cowboy music performed by local musicians “The Pickers.” Their old-timey pioneer music lilted through the Art Center as everyone enjoyed a tremendous art exhibit of 40 artists with over 90 pieces of art. Food and beverages were served and feet tapped to the music. The well-known artist Debra Nadelhoffer of Dawsonville served as judge. She teaches oil and watercolor and has exhibited her work nationally, and has works in private and corporate collections. It was decided three additional awards be added to the venue due to the high quality of works presented. Also, Debra Nadelhoffer chose to donate half of her judge’s fee back to The Bowen whose director then added to artists’ awards. Debra awarded the $500 First Prize to Allen Ferg of Dawsonville for his beautifully executed bronze bust of a Native American titled “Courage”. The second prize of $200 was awarded to James Daniel, Sr. of Dahlonega for his creative pencil illustration “Wild Rams”. Third place prize of $100 went to Amanda Lovett of Gainesville for her expressive, well drawn oil painting “Vigorous Ride”. An Honorable Mention award of $75 went to the unique composition photograph of Tom Reed of Dawsonville “Cowboy in Purple”. Artistic Merit awards were also presented to Michael Melson of Gainesville who showed beautiful use of paint and drawing skills in “Second Shot at Early Light”, and to Tom Slavicek of Dahlonega for creative artistry for his “Chippewa Suede Beaded Cape”. The Bowen wishes to thank all those who contributed their time and talent as well as the incredible volunteers who make it work. Also, a special thanks to the performers of the evening – “The Pickers.” These wonderful musicians include Fred Stowers, Glen Smith, Ray “Cowboy” Harris, Mark Kersch and Les Smith. Their dreamy cowboy tunes captured

the essence of the wild wild West. The Art Exhibit continues th through April 18 . May events at the BOWEN: May 1-30: Spring Fling, Plein Air Art Show by Polka Dots & Friends, May 3, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM opening reception. May 1-30: Dawsonville Senior Art Show, May 9, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM opening reception. May 9: “American Choral Masters” Dawson Community Chorale’s spring event, 7:30 PM First Baptist Church. May 30: Artful Cork Wine Tasting, 6:30PM - 8:30 PM at Chestatee Lodge, Dawsonville. For more information visit www.dawsonarts.org or call 706.216.ARTS(2787).

April 2015

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TOWNS COUNTY Hiawassee & Young Harris

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April 2015

Rhapsody in Rabun 2015 “Feeding Hope” by Angie Cheek

a new initiative under the auspices of the new satellite branch of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. The innovative, forward-thinking initiative, a teaching kitchen, will focus on alleviating the hunger of our neighbors: men, women, the elderly, the homeless, teens and children. This year’s fundraising gala, to be held on Monday, September 14th, will fund this new teaching kitchen which will be housed in the abandoned Movie Time facility, located next to the old BiLo Store. Plans are to open the new facility by September 1st of this year. Food insecurity statistics in our country are shocking: 50.1 million Americans struggle to put food on the table; one in six risk of hunger. Georgia is one of seven states that have statistically higher food insecurity rates than the United States’ sissippi, Texas, Arkansas and Alabama. In our own county, at least 150 children receive food in backpacks (the Food 2 Kids program) at school on Fridays so they can eat during the weekend. The truth is that we might be unable to solve the problem of hunger in our country or even our state, but we can certainly agencies in Rabun County are committed to providing food and counseling to their clients. Hundreds of our neighbors are facing food insecurity. One night a father whose wife had abandoned the family called one of our food agencies and announced that he could not feed dinner to his two autistic sons. Volunteers made a night delivery. Recently, a couple went in to an agency and confessed to workers that they had been securing “good” food, not too out-dated, from a dumpster. In another scenario, the husband is severely disabled and under hospice care and his wife is dying from cancer; their food stamps do not stretch the entire month. The stories are endless. People are suffering. Clients confess that if they didn’t receive food help, they wouldn’t be able to pay their rent. These are our neighbors! This year’s Rhapsody event is an opportunity for you who have been blessed to bless others. The truth is, however, that when you set out to bless “the least of these” you, in fact, receive the greatest blessing. We want you to be a part of this important fundraising event. In the months to come, you will be hearing more about how you can help. Please join this effort in giving our neighbors hope.

April 2015

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North Georgia Community Players

n stage this month at the Dillard Play House, the North Georgia Community Players present The Last RoundUp of the Guacamole Queens. In this deliciously funny Southern-fried comedy, the Verdeen cousins of Sweetgum, Texas – Gaynelle, Peaches and Jimmie Wyvette – are up against the clock as they frantically and hilariously attempt to produce the “ultimate high school reunion” before the old building is demolished. But they’ve got a bushel of obstacles to overcome before they can pull off this miracle: demise of her loathed ex-husband; cause the older her dates get, the more horritologist; gelist.

Brian Grizzle, Tricia Bass, Sharon Purdy, in the back man in the hat is As the cousins fend off threats from their Nicholas Hope, Front Kim Gurtler, tall man Jamie Wooten, in front Jessie self-righteous Aunt LaMerle who’s determined Jones. We met them in Burlington,NC . We traveled there to see the premiere get herself elected mayor of Sweetgum at any opening of “Last Round-up of the Guacamole Queens”. cost, they struggle to keep their beloved Uncle Aubrey from getting himself throttled by the hard you might even consider attending your next high school two octogenarian sisters he’s simultaneously romancing. reunion! You will surely love this gut-busting Jones Hope Wooten farce – and a stand-alone play in its own right. The Last Roundin the Verdeen Cousins Texas Trilogy that begins with The Red Velvet Cake War and continues with Rex’s Exes. You’ll laugh so

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Shows will be April 17th, 18th, 19th, 24th, 25th and 26th at 7:00 PM with matinees on the19th & 26th at 3:00 PM. Tickets are available by visiting www.ngcommunityplayers.com or at the door. The Dillard Play House is located at 892 Franklin Street in Dillard, Georgia 30537.

April 2015

and others who have battled or are currently battling cancer. are engaged in one. Cancer is an ugly word and it is a horrible disease. It can

ny time that a community comes together for a great cause it is incredible! That is exactly what is going to take place on May 2, 2015 at the Rabun County Recreation Department in the old gym. In its third year the commucancer patients through Sid Weber Memorial Cancer Fund has evolved into a true community event. This year will be different than the previous two and might I say, better than ever! The 2015 event has invited people to get involved by having their own tables, tents and spaces where they can have a “yard” sale, present their craft or art, raise funds for their own share their business or basically sell anything! The Sid Weber Memorial Cancer Fund will have their own table for the rummage sale and we’ll be selling baked goods, hotdogs and barbecue sandwiches, chips and drinks to raise money. There will be some activities for the kids and at the end of the day we’ll

the best insurance will pay. Sid Weber Memorial Cancer Fund offers a bit of hope in a dark time. While they do not pay medical expenses, they can help with mortgages, rent, car payments, groceries, utility bills or gas expenses. They also have a program called Road to Recovery in conjunction with The American Cancer Society. Volunteer drivers will take you to and from your appointments to see your doctor or have treatments. This is a wonderful service and can be very helpful when family members cannot take the patient or for those battling alone. Sid Weber was a remarkable man who lost his battle with cancer in 2008. This fund was organized in Sid’s memory by his wife Barbara and his close friends in the Sky Valley community. The fund belongs to the people of Rabun County to help our family and friends and for that reason I ask you to get involved. There are many ways to help. Call and reserve either a space, table and space or a booth outdoors; the money you pay goes to the SWMCF and you keep the money you make. Another option is to volunteer to help that day or come and shop, eat and enjoy the day with us. We need you! We are expecting a great crowd and a day of celebration with a huge need behind it. When someone is facing a cancer diagnosis the last thing they should have to worry about is how to put food on the table or keep the lights on. Your participation at Mountains of Hope can and will make a difference in the life of someone To join our event please call 706.782.1600 or 706.782.1793. The Rabun County Recreation Department is located at Rabun County Park Road in Tiger, Georgia 30576; a turn on Boggs Mountain Road and an immediate left turn will get you there.

April 2015

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April 2015

Creative Learning Center

Where Children Grow Spiritually, Mentally and Physically...

hen it comes to making a difference in children’s lives the Creative Learning Center has to be at the top of the list. Since 1991 they have offered children der to prepare them to face life with an eagerness to learn and the self-assurance that all things, through Christ are possible. Established as a ministry by the Clayton First United Methodist Church, the Creative Learning Center accepts students aged 12 months through 4 years. After school care, school holiday care and summer camp are also provided for children aged 12 months – 12 years. The staff is dedicated to provide a variety of learning experiences which will nurture the spiritual, emotional, physical, social and cognitive development of each child. CLC director Leisa Wall enrolled her son Isaac in the preschool eighteen years ago and then became involved as most parents do. Over the next several years she became more and more involved and when the director’s position opened up Leisa was the logical choice and her heart was already enmeshed in CLC. For seven years she has been the head of the school, which is open year-round from 7:15 AM – 5:30 PM only closing major holidays, two weeks at Christmas and a week between school years. Along with learning basic colors, shapes, numbers, letters, sounds and most being ready to read by the time they “graduate” from CLC, these students are learning social skills, proper nutrition and spiritual development. They are exposed to art, music, dramatic play, Godly play and computer skills. Computer Pals has been an extra offering at an additional cost for 15 years now. Former director Sherry Clow does the Godly Play and Music programs, where the children participate in a Christian curriculum once a week at no additional cost. The church and its members are very supportive of the school and always have been. The school is supported by donations and tuitions paid by parents. A whopping $27,000 has been given in scholarships helping 23 families this year alone. It’s great work done through fundraisers like their Bucket Auction and through organizations such as the North Georgia Community Players, Celebrate Clayton, Lake Rabun Foundation, The North Georgia Community Foundation and area churches and individuals who support the school. Donations are always needed and welcomed. Those wishing to help can visit www. claytonmethodist.com look for the Creative Learning Center link and click to donate. All donations are tax deductible. The administration, staff and children of CLC appreciate the support of our community. When you visit the school you see the faces of these children and how well behaved they are and the smiles on their faces and you know then why this program is so important.

April 2015

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The school is located in the Clayton United Methodist Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family Life Center just north of Clayton at 205 Ministry Mountain Drive. Additional information can be obtained by calling 706.782.1567 or by e-mailing clcchildren@yahoo.com. The CLC team includes: Leisa Wall Amy Bailey Beth Thompson Kelly Gaston Jodie Holt Emily Thurmond Ashlyn Wall Amberly Kilby

Pam Kilby Charlotte English Veronica Phillips Rachel Justice Clarissa Gilbert Sherry Clow Pat Pittman Janie Dickerson

Leisa Wall

CLC Director

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April 2015

Reverend James Turpen and Catherine Making a Difference “Reverend Turpen loves kids, he likes me ya know” Abbie Boggs – TUMC youth

erend James Turpen in 1983 when I attended Antioch Methodist Church. I watched the little children go forward on Sunday mornings and gather around him for a special message just for them. With gentle care he spoke to them and with wide smiles and a lollipop they’d make their way back to their seats. In Proverbs chapter 22 and verse 6 we are told “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”. My guess is that James Turpen has been both the trainee and the trainer. He and his wife Catherine have made a difference in the lives of many children during his 57 years in the ministry. Realizing his desire to serve God at the early age of 10, Reverend Turpen never felt led in another direction. He was appointed pastor at Tallulah Falls Methodist Church in 1958 while still a student at the University of Georgia in Athens. Since that sages to countless church-goers.

and they bought a van to pick up the kids. When providing transportation for all programs was no longer feasible, school children would ride the bus to the churches or in the case of Tiger, Mrs. Turpen and volunteers would walk to South Rabun Elementary and walk back to the church with the children for the program. Often in a week the programs combined would see 100 kids or more. The ladies of the church would lead the children in song, teach them a short Bible lesson or show a movie, after which the kids could choose to go outside and play or make a craft. The people of the community went out of their way to help keep these programs going for many years. Today Reverend Turpen pastors at only two of the previous six churches. He is in the pulpit at Tallulah Falls United Methodist and Tiger United Methodist on any given Sunday. He spoke so highly of both Chuck Stutsman and Lee Krivsky who pastor at the remaining churches. Both share Reverend Turpen’s dedication to reaching our youth with quality sound teaching. Catherine Turpen and the couple’s two sons Mark and Jimbo have walked this path along side their loving husband and father. Catherine has been instrumental in working with the youth. In fact when I talked with 4 year old Abbie Boggs about Tiger United Methodist Church and I asked who was in charge at her church she said Miss Catherine and Mr. Gary (Elzy). When I asked about Reverend Turpen Abbie had this to say...“Reverend Turpen loves kids, he likes me, ya know”. Mission accomplished with this little girl who told me, “I love Jesus, He is in my heart.”

small Methodist churches in Rabun County on a circuit, each with occasional preaching services. Talk began of closing some of the smaller churches; Revered Turpen stepped up believing that each community needed their own church. Working with Tallulah Falls forming a cooperative ministry. Reverend Turpen and one other minister began serving full time. Soon the sixth church was added and Reverend Turpen and an associate were preaching at Tallulah Falls, Tiger, New Hope, Antioch, Mountain City and Dillard United Methodist Churches on alternate Sundays. In the years that followed after school children’s programs were implemented at three of the churches. Antioch hosted Terhosted Triumphant Thursdays. In the beginning Reverend and Mrs. Turpen would pick the kids up in their car and even take them home after the program if need be. Soon the crowd grew

April 2015

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Just One Drop... by Pastor Adam Wright Wiley Church of God

paused. “My friend,” said Wesley, “you may live to regret this sort of life. If you ever do, here’s something to remember: ’The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin!’” The thief hurried away, and Wesley prayed that his words might bear fruit.

The blood of Jesus Christ is central to the New Testament concept of redemption. Ephesians 2:13 says, “But now in Christ

Years later, Wesley was greeting people after a Sunday service when he was approached by a stranger. What a surprise to learn that this visitor, now a believer in Christ as a successful businessman, was the one who had robbed him years before! “I owe it all to you,” said the transformed man. “Oh no, my friend,” Wesley exclaimed, “not to me, but to the precious blood of Christ that cleanses us from all sin!”

hat is the blood of Jesus Christ, and why is it important? There are at least 43 references to the blood of Christ in the New Testament, all testifying to its great importance in the salvation and daily life of the believer. Judas the betrayer spoke of it as “innocent blood (Matthew 27:4) and Peter called it “the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Peter 1:9). It is the cleansing blood in 1 John 1:7 and the washing blood in Revelations 1:5, stressing that it removes the guilt of our sins.

Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.” The blood is what brings people near to God, it reconciles people back to God, we have access to God in prayer because of the shedding of Jesus’ blood, it’s a beautiful thing.

Without the blood of Jesus, there is no power in Easter. The death and resurrection of Christ over sin is why we celebrate Easter. Our God is not dead! Jesus is alive! One drop of His blood produces forgiveness! Forgiveness is the means by which our relationship with God is restored. There is no salvation apart from Him.

When evangelist John Wesley was returning home from a service one night, he was robbed. The thief, however, found his victim to have only a little money and some Christian literature. As the bandit was leaving, Wesley called out, “Stop! I have something more to give you.” The surprised robber

I pray you celebrate the resurrection this Easter. Just one drop of the blood of Jesus can forgive you of your sins and put your life back together! (For more information, check out wileychurch.net or email pastor@wileychurch.net.)

April 2015

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April 2015

utch was excited about his date with Marci. Not only was she lovely, but smart and kind and had a country lilt to her voice that captivated him. At thirty two he was not playing games in dating; he knew the kind of woman he wanted, so to see her again was not there, he wouldn’t be back. But if it was…. . Marci wore her black jeans and boots along with her lovely blue shirt and silver accessories and twirled in front of her mom. “What do you think Mom?” she asked. Sylvia whistled, “Honey you are gorgeous, and he won’t be able to take his eyes off of you.” “Oh mom,” Marci said with a sigh, “You are so prejudiced, but I love you for it.” Marci hugged her mom tight just as the doorbell rang. “That’s him,” Sylvia squealed not so quietly. Marci gave her the ‘shush’ look and opened the door. Hutch was standing there looking quite handsome in his jeans and a tan corduroy jacket and held two bunches of hydrangeas. Smiling at Marci he walked in and went straight for Sylvia. “Sylvia, it’s been a few years hasn’t it?” he asked as he Sylvia laughed and her eyes danced, “Hutch, you were always the charmer, even before puberty!” Hutch died laughing. “You’re right Sylvia, it’s the family curse.” “Sit down, sit down and tell me about yourself for just a minute.” Marci let them chat a minute as she got a couple of Mason

Bless Your Heart Moms Just Know - Part 2 by Lisa Harris

Hutch opened the door for her and she slid in, he walked to his side and got in but before he started the car he looked over and said to her, “You look amazing tonight, thank you for having dinner with me.” Before she could reply, he started the car and as he was backing out he looked at her and winked. That did it! In that one second she knew. She had prayed and asked God to give her a sign of who she would marry. She to her mom forty years ago. The night was incredible, with fabulous food, conversation and another two hours of talking. Marci couldn’t believe how much they had in common—but then, that’s what she asked God for wasn’t it? Hutch got her home safely, and with a light kiss and a promise to call tomorrow, he was off. Marci walked in the house seeing her mom slumped over in the chair asleep. “Bless her,” Marci said under her breath as she woke her mom up to help her to bed. “Sweetheart, how was it? Did y’all hit it off really well?” “Mom, he winked.” Sylvia’s eyes lit up remembering her own special wink years ago. “I guess we have a wedding to plan don’t we.” Marci smiled and her eyes were bright, “I believe we do mom, Hutch just doesn’t know it yet.” “Well honey, that’s best with men…you have to let them know a little at a time, then in the end they think it was all their idea. And you know what a good woman does?” Marci shook her head no.

She picked up the jar and carried it to the table next to her mom for her to enjoy.

“What does a good woman do?” Marci asked.

everything I need, my cell phone, TV clicker, my books, paper,

Marci laughed, “Well that should be easy enough Mom.”

looked apprehensive so Sylvia said, “Hutch, take her somewhere fancy and don’t let her talk about me, hospitals or sickness.” “Mother,” Marci exclaimed, “You are terrible!” Hutch laughed his way out of the house. “I don’t remember your mom being quite the character…has she always been that way?” “More so now than ever, she doesn’t want me to see her sad or in pain, so she becomes lively and talkative thinking it erases the evidence.” “Does it?” he asked. Marci gave a half-way smile, “Not really, but it’s so much better than living in constant negativity or complaints; that would be hard to handle.”

“Why, she lets him think it was all his idea.” Sylvia said. With that last piece of advice from her mom, they both went to bed remembering their own special wink. Sylvia’s eyes ran with tears from the past, while Marci’s eyes shone for the future. Months passed as Hutch and Marci got closer, seeing each other exclusively. It was only six months into the relationship when Hutch dropped the “L” word. Totally unexpected on that particular fall day. He had talked her into zip lining in the North Georgia Mountains and Marci was a tad nervous…she preferred her feet on solid ground but he was up for an adventure, and being a good sport, she agreed. After getting hitched up, Marci closed her eyes as the guy gave her a little shove, the ride was exhilarating and breathtaking all at once. Hutch was right behind her having just as much

April 2015

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fun. It ended all too soon for them both. After getting out of the harnesses, she went in for a hug and kiss, and with that he cupped her face with his hands and said, “I love you Marci.” Marci looked into his eyes and said, “I’ve loved you since the wink.” Hutch looked confused, “What wink?” She just laughed, “I’ll tell you about it in forty years.” it.”

Hutch grabbed her around the waist and said, “I’ll wait for

Sylvia knew the moment she walked in that Marci was different. “He said he loved you didn’t he?” Marci nodded yes, saying, “How do you do that?” Sylvia laughed, “When you have a daughter one day, you will just know. Now, when’s the wedding?” “Mom, he said he loved me, he didn’t propose.” “Well, it doesn’t hurt to get a jump on things, let’s head to Walmart and pick up a few bridal magazines…we’ll keep them hid until he proposes.” Marci just laughed and decided to humor her mom, plus she did kinda want to see the latest bridal dresses. Later that evening after they had drooled over the magazines, talked over all the details, imagined the wedding and snacked on junk food, Marci noticed her mom seemed weaker than usual. “Hey mom, why don’t we turn in a little early tonight, I’m feeling really tired.” Sylvia didn’t argue like she normally did, she agreed. “Okay honey, goodnight.” Marci made a mental note to talk with Hutch about her concerns.

covered with ivory lace and pearls. Her blonde hair was a mass She wore her mom’s veil that matched her gown perfectly. him, it was a moment that he would remember forever. The entire day was a blessing. Marci wished it would never end but she was excited about the secret honeymoon he had planned. All he told her was to bring a little bit of everything for a week. Her luggage was packed and ready for whatever adventure he had in store. Sylvia glowed the whole time. So proud, so happy, so full of love for her daughter and Hutch. He was the perfect son-inlaw and she knew she’d be the perfect, non-interfering motherin-law…on that one she grinned. She would at least try not to interfere. kicking and screaming. That was the last thing she wanted to do. Fall turned into winter and the Christmas holidays were warm and happy. The winter chill came and Sylvia’s health took a downward spiral. Home health came around some but Marci insisted on doing for her mother. Hutch were by her side. They knew death was near and Marci overcome with grief leaned over to her mother’s ear and said, “Mom, it’s okay to go, Hutch will take good care of me, I love you so much mom, I love you so much. Marci kept repeating her words as Hutch held onto her. to her mother’s cheek. When Sylvia took her last breath, Marci pulled back and gasped...for on her mother’s pillow were her own tears formed in the shape of a heart.

The next day Marci texted Hutch to meet for lunch at the hospital cafeteria. It was the best place to catch him for a few minutes between patients or reports.

She just knew, as she rubbed her own swollen belly… It was a Mother’s heart.

“What’s up Hon?” he asked. “Its mom Hutch, she’s getting weaker and you know she’s had all the chemo her body can take.” Hutch leaned back in his chair as he rubbed his hand through his hair in frustration. He tugged at his lab coat trying to decide exactly what to say. Marci leaned over and grabbed his hand and with tears in her eyes she said, “I know.” “How do you know?” he asked. “She’s my mom, I just know.” No further words were needed, she felt comforted just being at his side. The days blurred as Sylvia grew weaker and weaker. Hutch proposed where he said he loved her giving Marci the ring of her dreams. Sylvia was ecstatic and just planning the wedding gave her a strength they hadn’t seen in a while. The wedding venue was in the mountains, the leaves were glorious in their color and fall was such a perfect time for Marci & Hutch to say, I do. Sylvia was in her element being dressed to the nines and bedazzled the masses with her gaunt but still

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April 2015

Main Street Franklin, North Carolina

April 2015

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Franklin and Surrounding Areas of North Carolina

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April 2015

n this adventure, we’re heading west just a bit to visit a lovely pair of waterfalls noted not just for their beauty

Adventure Out De Soto Falls

as well. Our destination is De Soto Falls, named after the legendary Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto. It is well known that De Soto explored this area in the late 1800’s and according to a sign erected near the beginning of the trail, a plate of armor belonging to him, or one of his men, was found near the base of the falls.

by Peter McIntosh

The trail begins at a parking area in the De Soto Falls Campground, located on Hwy 129, between Blairsville and Cleveland.. (this is a fee area - $3.00 per vehicle. And there is a restroom here.) From the parking area, we follow a gravel trail that takes us through a picnic area and back onto a road leading to campsites. It’s about 1/4 mile before we come to a footbridge crossing Frogtown Creek. After crossing the creek, we come to the historical marker and signs pointing to upper falls

April 2015

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and lower falls. The lower falls is okay and worth a visit but the upper cascade is what we’re here for. Turning right and following alongside Frogtown Creek, the trail is gravel covered and almost level with campsites in view across the stream. After about a quarter mile, the footpath gets a little more trail like and ascends gently. There’s a nice bench at the top of the hill if you want to rest. We descend little more steeply this time but it’s a small hill and there’s another restful bench at the top. (Actually there are lots of benches along this trail, just FYI.) We descend again and come to a footbridge and from here De Soto Falls comes into view on the left through the trees. Just a little bit further and we reach a nice observation platform with a spectacular view of this 200 foot cascade. And please heed the warning about climbing on waterfalls...don’t do it! I mentioned the picnic area at the trailhead. I suggest you leave your picnic in the car and enjoy a streamside snack after your hike. And do keep an eye out for wildGetting there: De Soto Falls is on Hwy 129 between Blairsville and Cleveland. It’s a few miles south of Neel’s Gap where the Appalachian Trail crosses the highway. There’s a big sign reading “De Soto Falls Campground.”

Happy hiking! Be of good cheer, my April poem is here:

To see more of Peter’s photo or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website: www. mcintoshmountains.com.

As we retrace the steps of a fabled explora. And preserve the moment by taking a photo, Of this lovely cascade named after Hernando De Soto.

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April 2015

Mountain Nature Quest for a Red-Head by Jean Hyatt

ecently, Richard & I went on a woodpecker hunt. I had heard that there were Red-headed Woodpeckers in the area, both in Georgia and North Carolina, but I had not seen one for several years. While they are considered fairly common in the piedmont of Georgia, they are uncommon in the mountains. Many people confuse the Red-bellied Woodpecker with the Red-headed. Both have red on their heads, but where the Red-bellied has color on the top and back of its head, the Red-headed is just that – red all over its head. The pictures show the difference. Once you’ve seen one, you can’t mistake it for any other species. This woodpecker’s numbers have been reduced drastically in the last 75 years, probably because of loss of habitat. It builds its nest in standing dead trees, excavating a hollow cavity in a bare space on the trunk or limb anywhere from a few feet to 60 feet above the ground. The nest site is sometimes used for winter roosting as well. Most Red-headed Woodpeckers live in small site, there may well be more nearby. The male does most of the excavating, but the female knocks on the limb nearby, supposedly to voice her approval of the site. She lays 4 to 5 white eggs, which she incubates by day and the male by night. The babies hatch in 12 or 13 days, and are fed by both parents, leaving the nest at 27-31 days. Red-headed Woodpeckers have only 1 or 2 broods per year.

common birds. They may be part of a colony, but we saw only the two. The male and female look alike, so we weren’t sure of their sex, but there was what appeared to be a newly excavated hole near where one was staying, so we thought they were probably a male and female. We observed them for a couple of hours and took a lot of photos; one bird stayed near a dead tree, while the other was seen in a few different trees. The one shown from the perch several feet then return. She (the sex assumed because of her proximity to cavity) would also hammer on the dead tree she always returned to. Their calls reminded me of Red-bellied Woodpeckers, but were raspier and more like a whistle somehow. I did not see the female make any call – it was always the one away from the base tree. This species does not seem to mind being around people. When we visited my daughter in college at Florida State University in Tallahassee some years ago, there were many of these beautiful birds inhabiting the canopy of trees on campus. Jean and her husband Richard own and operate Mountain Nature in downtown Clayton. They can be reached at 706.782.0838.

The Red-headed Woodpecker is one of only four species of woodpecker that actually stores food for the winter, and the only one to hide their stash by covering it with bark. They eat just about anything – fruit, seeds, nuts, worms, spiders and sometimes even tree bark. They eat by hammering insects and larva out of trees, by pulling worms from

** Don’t forget to turn off your outside lights at night. Use motion detector lighting, shields, and IDA-approved lighting so you don’t impose your light on those who want to see the stars. I believe God made night dark for a reason. Please help keep it that way. **

on the wing.

April 2015

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Rabun County Youth Community Garden

abun County Farm Bureau (RCFB) partnered with the Northeast Georgia Farm to School program to build a school community garden that will be used by the Rabun County primary, elementary, middle and high schools. With all of the Rabun County schools located together on Wildcat Hill, this provides the perfect opportunity for a centrally located educational garden shared among the schools. The garden features an outside classroom, arbor, muscadine trellis and raised garden beds. We are fortunate to live in a community with people who care about our youth. RCFB directors and members helping with the garden are, pictured from left: RCFB member Tammy Kilby, member Neal Williams, RCFB Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chairman & GFB 2nd District Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chairman Rhonda Williams, RCFB Director Steve Cabe, RCFB Director Dean.

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April 2015

SERVICE PROFESSIONALS

April 2015

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April 2015

Bon Appétit Y’all by Scarlett Cook

’m sure that just like the rest of us, you have many tried and true recipes. But let’s be honest – aren’t you just tired of them? I know that your family has favorites, but let’s break out of the mold and try some new recipes. And with new recipes, I don’t mean expensive ones, just some with a little different spin on some easily found and inexpensive ingredients. Green Beans with Basil Vinaigrette 4 – 6 Servings 2 Pounds fresh green beans, trimmed 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 Teaspoons dried basil 1 Teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 Teaspoon sugar 1 Teaspoon salt 1/2 Teaspoon pepper 1/2 Cup olive oil 1 Red pepper cut into thin strips 1 Small red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 Cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped Cook green beans in boiling water 8 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. Put beans into ice cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well. Put vinegar, basil, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper in blender and process until mixture is smooth. With the blender running, slowly pour oil through small top opening. Process until smooth. Combine beans, pepper strips and onion slices. Pour vinaigrette over bean mixture and stir gently to coat. Sprinkle with nuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Meatloaf Mexican Style 6 Servings

Oniony Mashed Potatoes 4 – 6 Servings

1 1/2 Pounds ground beef 3/4 Cup mild salsa 1 4.5-Ounce can chopped green chilies, drained 1/2 Cup bread crumbs 1 Medium onion, chopped 1 Large egg, slightly beaten 1 1/2 Teaspoons ground cumin 1 Teaspoon salt Salsa 1 Cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack or sharp Cheddar cheese

2 Pounds of Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 4-Ounce packages buttery garlic and herb spreadable cheese 2/3 Cup half and half 1/4 Cup butter 1/4 Teaspoon salt 1/4 Teaspoon pepper

Combine ground beef, salsa, chilies, bread crumbs, onion, egg, cumin and salt. Shape into 6 loaves. Place on a lightly greased rack on a baking dish. If time allows, chill Bake 40 minutes or until done. Spoon extra salsa over loaves and sprinkle with cheese.

Place potatoes in a large saucepan with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and reduce heat and cook 15 – 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and return to saucepan. Cook over medium heat 30 seconds to ensure that potatoes are dry. Remove from heat. Add cheese, half and half, butter, salt and pepper. Beat at medium speed until mixture is smooth. Put into a lightly greased 2 1/2 quart baking dish.

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6 – 8 Servings

2 Large eggs, lightly beaten 1 Small onion, diced Cup chopped pecans, toasted 1/2 Teaspoon salt Vegetable oil well. Pour oil to a depth of 1/4” in a large skillet; heat spoonfuls into oil and cook fritters 1 to 2 minutes per side. Place on a wire rack on a baking sheet in a warm oven to keep hot until serving. Chocolate Dessert Cake 18 squares 1 18.25-Ounce package German chocolate cake mix 4 Large eggs 1/2 Cup chopped pecans, toasted 1/2 Cup butter, melted 1 16-Ounce box powdered sugar 1 8-Ounce package cream cheese, softened Stir together cake mix, 1 egg, pecans and butter; press into a lightly greased 13” x 9” pan. Beat powdered sugar, cream cheese and remaining eggs at medium speed until creamy. Spoon powdered sugar mixture over chocolate batter in pan. Bake 1 hour. Cool and cut into squares.

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April 2015

Uncorked

by Van Hudson - Casual Connoisseur

can’t think of many better things to do on a pretty spring weekend than visit a winery to taste the latest vintages. Northeast Georgia adds a few new wineries and vineyards each year. There are quite a few grapes that grow well in and around Rabun County. The elevation, the climate and the soil contribute to growing grapes that make delicious wines.

some other grapes, so you don’t get as many pounds per acre. He shared that he strives for grapes that grow the best in Northeast Georgia and claims that Petit Manseng tastes better here than in other parts of the country.

Some of the grapes that grow well and are utilized for white wines are Petit Manseng and Traminette. If you prefer

dates back to 1965. It descends from the Gewürztraminer grape from Germany. In 1965 H.C. Barrett crossed Gewürztraminer with a grape named

Let’s start with Petit Manseng which sounds like the name of a villain in on old Pink Panther movie with Inspector Clouseau. Petit Manseng comes from the southwestern mountainous area of

Another grape grown and used to make white wine in Rabun County is Traminette. It is a hybrid which was

Seyvee, referred to as Joannes Seyvee 23.416. Mr. Barrett sent the seeds to Cornell University and it was planted there in 1971.

The name is derived from its small thick skinned berries. The owner of a vineyard in Middleburg, Virginia claims to be the pioneer in bringing Petit Manseng to the United States in 2002. The vineyard owner stated she was granted to label the Petit Manseng as a “primary name” for a varietal wine in America by the Bureau of Tobacco, Alcohol and

Creek Vineyards has experience growing this grape. He shared that Petit Manseng was introduced to Rabun County by John Ezzard owner of Tiger Mountain Vineyards. It was recommended by a vineyard owner in Virginia. Carl likes this grape because it has a thick skin and the cluster is loose. It grows well in a humid climate with abundant rainfall like Rabun County. It is also more resistant to fungal diseases than some other grapes. He has been growing Petit Manseng at Stonewall harvest was in 2011. He uses this grape to make his Boriana wine which is a dry full bodied white wine. Carl says one of the disadvantages of this grape is that it is a low producer compared to

April 2015

Mike Brown owner of 12 Spies Vineyards likes to grow Traminette for several reasons. He shared that the Traminette grape withstands the cold temperatures of Rabun County better than some other grapes used to make white wines. According to Mike, it also does well in higher altitudes such as Rabun Gap which is around 2,500 feet and doesn’t require the long growing season of Chardonnay or Viognier. Traminette can be made into a wine that is versatile; it marries the sweet wine more, he has found it also marries the red wine drinker and the white wine drinker. Mike’s Traminette wine is off dry and aside from his muscadine, it is his biggest seller. He has been growing Traminette since 2008. It took about 5 years before the vines produced good grapes and an abundant yield. Now for the fans of red wine; Cabgrape varieties in the world. It proband is well suited to conditions in the of two parents to Cabernet Sauvignon with the other being Sauvignon Blanc. It can be found in many of the top Bor-

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deaux blend wines. It ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon and is well suited for cooler climates. stands alone as a varietal. Some experts say that it adds hints of tobacco and dark spice when blended in Bordeaux style wines. Many consumers mistake acidity than Cabernet Sauvignon. He appreciates that the growing season is ideal, due to the fact that it ripens in the fall. It grows best with a twenty degree variation in temperature between day and night. In California the growing season is longer and hotter, so the grapes can tend to over ripen. On the other hand, Rabun County has cooler nights, so the grapes can be harvested in sons, Cabernet Sauvignon does well in California, but not as well in Georgia. Carl notes a disadvantage of the grape; it is not as well-known as other grapes used to make red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah. Also, the grapes are smaller and the clusters are not packed as tight. ReIn conclusion, if you prefer a dry bold white wine then try one made from Petit Manseng. If you off dry, then try one made with Traminette. If you like red wines with less tannins and more herbal

the kind of wine I am in the mood for, no matter

Wisdom doesn't automatically come with old age. Nothing does - except wrinkles. It's true, some wines improve with age. But only if the grapes were good in the Abigail Van Buren

following: Petit Manseng: cheeses.

seafood, light meats, and

Traminette: roasted turkey, roasted pork tenderloin, and Asian cuisine.

Remember to think globally and drink locally.

Van Hudson is a casual connoisseur and writes for 12 Spies Vineyards and Farm in Rabun Gap, Georgia. 12 Spies is owned by Mike Brown and Lisa Romanello and is located at 550 Blackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Branch Road just off York House Road in Rabun Gap, Georgia. For additional information please call 813.335.2886.

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April 2015

Foxfire’s Living History Day

ave you ever wondered what life was like back in the pioneer days here in Southern Appalachia? Not just what log cabins looked like, but the whole picture—what Mother looked like in ily home, what the younger kids were doing to stay out from underfoot while the older children carried out chores that helped the family scrape back through the centuries and experience the days of this region’s early settlers, brought to life for Living History Day. 20 log cabins (dating as far back as the 1820s) and hundreds of other artifacts of the days before cars, roads or electricity—things gathered by Rabun students working to produce over the reenacting the straightforward and strenuous lives of the hardy settlers that carved our home out of these majestic mountains.

Above: Last year, blacksmith Wind Chapman and former student David center of the museum grounds. Below: At the summit of the museum trail, the chapel is home to both preachin’ and teachin’ on Living History Day—just like in years long past, when an Appalachian community’s church also served as school, town hall, and more.

house classes, short church services, plenty of old-time kids’ games (everyone is invited to join in)—all of this and more, will be happening on Saturday, May 2nd in the past! The museum is located off of Cross Street in Mountain City, Georgia. Parking at the museum is limited, so if you don’t mind being away from your vehicle, please look for designated parking areas and take a 5-minute shuttle ride up the mountain to help reserve the museum’s parking for guests with mobility issues. Admission cost is the normal museum rate—$6.00 for adults, $3.00 for ages 7-10, and free for children 6 and under. Visit , call 706.746.5828, or email for more information.

pre-washing-machine laundry day with Living History Day visitors. The step where a wooden paddle is used to knock dirt loose from the wet clothes is quite a “hit” with the young crowd.

April 2015

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April 2015

Echoes from the Hills

“In Memory of Those who Served” by Bob N. Justus

n Saturday, July 10, 2004, the members of SCV Camp #1929, Clayton, Georgia, directed by Mike Cannon, Adjutant, conducted two Confederate Memorial Headstone Dedications in honor of Alfred Ervin Dickerson and William Loren Dickerson, two brothers who were Confederate veterans. A.E. (Uncle Erv) Dickerson’s grave is located at Mountain Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Germany Valley, while Lorn Dickerson’s grave is in the Blue Heights Baptist Church Cemetery north of Clayton, Georgia on US 441. Stone markers were placed at each grave. Harry Hurst brigade commander with the SCV ceremonially saluta salute with muskets. The ceremonies were moving and thought provoking on a bright and sparkling summer day. I feel honored to claim both brothers as my great-great grandfathers. William Loren (Lorn) Dickerson, a son of Wil-

Regiment, Georgia Inf., on March 4, 1862 at Clayton and went on long marches and fought battles. At Champion Hill, east of Vicksburg, aware, New York. After exchange he joined Co. C, 24th Georgia Regiment and fought on until at Saylor’s Creek, Virginia on April 4, 1865, he was again captured and released to go home on April 9, 1865. nd

Alfred (Uncle Erv) Dickerson, at age 17, joined Co. th Georgia Cavalry, formed of men from Rabun and horses, so Uncle Erv was well mounted as he began the war. After defending against local forays of lawless gangs, deserters and Union raiding parties, the 11th Cav., fought a losing cause against the merciless march of General Sherman’s large army across Georgia. Near Savannah Uncle Erv was wounded, recuperated in a hospital in South Carolina and then came home riding a horse. He was stopped by Union troops but seeing he was wounded and the war ending, they let him go on home. John Latty, historian from Gainesville, Georgia, wrote a history, “A th Georgian Cavalry Regiment. In closing, one other ancestor, James A. York, brother of Meriam Hadie and Rachel Zora - both sisters who married my great-grandfather James N. Justus - served in the 11th Georgia Cavalry. He was killed April 21, 1865, age 18, near the US 378/76 and SC 263 junction in South Carolina, after Lee had surrendered on April 9. He was thought to be the last Confederate killed in that state. John T. Coleman, a relative, and I attended a ceremoold home. We had the honor of pouring soil from the York by the Palmetto Battalion included several men in period

At this touching ceremony, a poem “The soldier’s Grave” author unknown, was cited. In part it read, “Tread lightly, ‘tis a soldier’s grave, a lonely mossy mound; and yet to hearts like mine and thine it should be holy ground. Speak softly, let no careless laugh, no idle, thoughtless jest, escape your lips where sweetly sleeps the hero at his shall come; for him, at night, no tattoo rolls its thunder laid beneath this sod, his ashes to his native land, his gallant soul to God.”

April 2015

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April 2015

Wheels

Larry Allgood’s 2008 Shelby GT-C By: Gail Allgood Shelby performance…Southern California style…

nly 215 Shelbys were made in the grabber orange color scheme with signature silver Le Mans stripes, and they were to be called Southern California Shelby GT-Cs (the C for California). While they were made for sale exclusively in California, a few were distributed to neighboring Western states. Larry had Hoover Dam, a sign announced that Kingman was only 75 miles away. We made the drive, found the dealership, asked about the car and it had just been sold! Disappointed… But, wait! The sister dealership in Bullhead City, Arizona still had one on taking the car out of the showroom and putting it on the road for Larry’s test drive. The deal was done. It was to be transported by private car carrier cross-country to our home (at the time) on Tybee Island, Georgia. There were weeks to wait and paShelby GT-C sees lots of car shows and meets many people who fall in love with its striking color scheme, its Carol Shelby heritage and its limited edition credentials.

April 2015

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Vegas, Nevada 4.6L 3-valve V-8 with 319 horsepower @6000 RPM, 333 lb-ft torque @4200 RPM TR-3650 5-speed manual transmission tower brace Specially tuned exhaust system with X-pipe and silver exhaust tips 18 x 8.5 inch 5-spoke polished aluminum wheels 235/5OZR-18 black sidewall tires Autographed by Carol Shelby Number 45 of 215 Larry and his wife, Gail, live in the Persimmon Community of Rabun County. He is retired from the Georgia Power Company and Gail is retired from Delta Air Lines. They are the proud caretakers of a cat named Rufus and photograph and write the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wheelsâ&#x20AC;? article for the Georgia Mountain Laurel.

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Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation. Robert F. Kennedy

April 2015

Exploring Northeast Georgia Chenocetah Tower

by Kitty Stratton

any visitors to Northeast Georgia may unintentionally bypass some of the area’s hidden treasures as they move rapidly northwards up the 441 corridor. Almost hidden away in a quiet neighborhood of Cornelia overlooking the area from an 1,830 feet elevation, the Chenocetah Tower is a surprising structure.

servation room that can be reached by those who have viewed the surrounding area from the observation room the panoramic views are spectacular. In June of 1984 the tower was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The tower has been protected and in 1985 the Chenocetah Conservation Corps was formed. The goal of the Corps is to “preserve and maintain the scenic beauty of the Chenocetah Tower area”.

time from 1971 to 1986 the tower was Commission to serve as the only stone The tower was constructed in 19371938, and built by local craftsmen, who er and entrance columns. Chenocetah Tower was constructed on top of Chenocetah Mountain located on a 472 acre tract of land. In 1820 the property had time Chenocetah Mountain was named wooden tower before the current stone tower and the mountain had once been named Tower Mountain. The inside of the tower is not open to the public but includes a wooden ob-

slate roof was replaced, along with windows and the stone structure was cleaned and sandblasted. I was fortunate enough to visit the tower on a beautiful cool, January Sunday when the sky was clear and blue and true to the meaning of Chenocetah, which means “see all around” in Cherokee, the views of the surrounding landscape and especially Lake Russell were truly awesome.

April 2015

According to information in the ry of Chenocetah Tower”, the tower area has one of the largest stands of Rhododendron minor in the nation and there is a Rhododendron Trail from Chenocetah Tower to Lake Russell. Thanks to a unique partnership bethe Chenocetah Conservation Corps the Tower and surrounding area are lovingly protected and maintained.

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A Thousand Roaded Ways

“W

hat road are we going to take this time?” Always driving a red Chevrolet while smoking a HAV-A-TAMPA Nugget, my grandfather twice drove this grandson from Kansas City to Dallas with the windows rolled up. Where he went I followed, while tracing our route on a folded gas station map, one little town at a time. On the other hand, Gramps could have taken any number of roads that went nowhere fast, since the Interstate system was only 5-years old in 1961.

way - ending 47,714 miles and 35 years later - and too late matter where we are going, we can now get there faster, bypassing every town on roads far less traveled - but some say the road less traveled remains the best of all.

A much faster trip was to the Piggly Wiggly conveniently across the street from Grandma’s kitchen, but traveling with Gramps was my favorite summertime trip. Piggly Wiggly patented the self-service grocery store ery item, aisles organized by food groups and departments, check out stands and shopping carts for kids like me to ride in. Piggly Wiggly also created the “Just-in-time” inventory system to assure promptly re-stocked shelves - a system that the automobile industry adopted a long time later, and I won“It is hereby declared to be essential to the national interest to provide for the early completion of the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.” With that June 29, 1956 decision, President Dwight D. Eisenhower triggered the construction of America’s interconnecting highway system. Legend would have you believe this was a Cold War military decision to transport tanks cross country in a hurry, but in fact, the Defense Department simply wanted to add its name to a “good for the public” project. Three months miles of concrete was laid on Missouri’s Mark Twain Express-

didn’t follow suite until 1904, when maps were given away by service station attendants to create customer loyalty and in answer to frequent, “How do I get there?” questions. Now replaced by digital systems, glove box maps are largely passé - but they are gaining popularity for their rich and colorful content. Which reminds me of another far better road map, full of rich and colorful content and how-to-get-there answers, in the midst of many roads that all lead somewhere. put it this way. “As there is one Face above all worlds, which to see is irrevocable joy, so at the bottom of all worlds, that face is waiting, whose sight alone is the misery from which none who beholds can recover. And though there seems to be, and indeed are, a thousand roads by which a man can walk through the world, there is not a single road which

“… for narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and .” Matthew 7:14 True, the trip can humble you, there are rocky crags and good missed turns along the way, but the road is sure and certain - the view is beautiful - and driving through life will never be the same again. Now where did I put those crayons?

April 2015

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April 2015

Live Healthy and Be Well!

“Good Nutrition is Key for a Healthy Lifestyle”

he active time of the year is just upon us, and we need to make sure we are properly “fueled and tuned” for this great time of year. Actually, this is important any time of year, but now is the best time to get started. Good nutrition is a key element in taking care of the wonderful machine of your body. Treat yourself well through good living, adequate, proper nutrition and a good balance of exercise, activity and rest and your body will be there for you for a long time. However, if you apply the opposite apof need, or that you will age more quickly and irreversibly.

Good nutrition is important to all of us in a situation of disease, illness or in recovery from an operation. Properly fed and tuned, the immune system will function at a higher state, wounds and incisions will heal properly and more quickly and your energy level will be up to any task you and ill more often, wounds will not heal well and unsightly scars may result and you will not be able to do the activities you have enjoyed in the past. It can even adversely affect your senses, your teeth and gums, your hair and contribute to a faster onset of joint and disk failure leading to arthritis, osteoporosis and overall decrease in your activities of daily living and quality of life. Good nutrition and positive practices will improve your overall health and wellness, which is the pro-active approach of prevention, and also certainly assist with slowing down the aging process. So, 40 and 50 may be the new 30 and 40…but only if you take care of yourself! continued on page 76

April 2015

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April 2015

Live Healthy and Be Well!

“Good Nutrition is Key for a Healthy Lifestyle” continued from page 74 Young people do seem more “invincible” to us, do they not? Realize when you were younger you could eat what you wanted and not gain as much weight. If you did, it was easier to get those few pounds off. You could go at life hard, burn the candle at both ends and get away with it. Remember those days? The onset of “middle age” is a shock to many as they begin to realize they no longer have the “slack” conferred by youth. Weight is easy to gain, pounds are harder to take off and activities we once found stimulating are now tiring, and we pay for them with soreness, stiffness and fatigue. Many use this as an excuse to slow down and become less active – which is not the right answer – exercise with wisdom, but stay active.

Good basic recommendations for nutrition include a cise/activity, fresh air and good hydration (coffee, cokes, and alcoholic beverages don’t count – they tend to dehydaily basis. This is not just for bowel regularity, but high passed out. Something such as Metamucil (or generic ders, there are capsules, wafers and even “power bar” versions also available. Take a good multi-vitamin with iron every day to ensure you get the essentials and trace elements. Realize that your body sees these vitamins and minerals as “chemical compounds” regardless of source. So, if it needs amino acids (proteins), it doesn’t really care if they came from alfalfa sprouts or some other source. Also, the body uses what it needs and discards the rest. So, taking large doses of expensive, “all natural” vitamins just helps you make expensive urine. More and more evidence is mounting that Omega-3 wellness. Not only do they seem to naturally reduce cholesterol, but they have also been implicated in the improvement of bone and joint health, reduction of high blood pressure, boosting immunity, wound healing and good for your heart and blood vessel system. Most folks source). But, they can also come from plant derivatives

Some solid nutritional advice for those who are middle aged and older is to realize the best way to stay healthy is to eat healthy and prevent illness. Don’t live to eat, but instead, eat to live healthy. And, don’t make the mistake of thinking if you have more fat or weight than you should, that you are in a state of good nutrition. We see people all the time that may be overweight on the scales, or even obese, but their actual markers of good nutrition (such as the amount of albumin, an important serum protein) are dangerously low. This means that while they may carry a lot of fat around, their minerals and substances that are essential for good overall health and wellness. Proteins are the all-important “building blocks” used by the liver to make the things you need to be strong, heal wounds, keep joints healthy, senses and thinking sharp and accomplish great things such as enjoying children and grandchildren.

are currently for 2 to 3 grams per day, depending on body size, and are available in easy to take gel-cap form. Last but not least, ladies need extra calcium to ward off osteoporosis and bone loss later in life. Start now, in your 30’s or early 40’s, and you can help this through prevention instead of reacting to the loss later on. Take an extra calcium supplement each day in addition to your multivitamin, and try to keep your vitamin D up as well, as this allows the body to better utilize the calcium properly. We really do enjoy hearing from you with any questions, concerns, or ideas for future columns and/or health and wellness related issues for the Georgia Mountain Laurel. Please send an email to rabundoctor@gmail. com, or call us at 706.782.3572, and we will be sure to consider your input. This and previous articles can be now be found on the web at www.rabundoctor.com in an archived format. If you use Twitter, then follow us for health tips and wellness advice @rabundoctor. Until next month, live healthy and be well!

April 2015

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Big, sweeping life changes really boil down to small, everyday decisions. Ali Vincent

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April 2015

Pediatric cancer---a Long Road Ahead for Survivors

ediatric cancer survivorship has been a real victory. Before 1970, very few child or adolescent cancer patients survived, and today, more than 80% survivorship is reported by many cancer centers including The ter in Seattle, Washington. Cancer is still the second leading cause of death in children from ages 5-14. An estimated more than 15,000 new cases and 2000 deaths from child and adolescent cancers will occur in 2014 (the American Cancer Society). The types of cancer differ in children and adolescents (ages 1519) from adults. Leukemia leads with 26% of cases, and cancers of the brain and central nervous system occur in 18%. Lymphoma follows with 14%. Many of these cancers arise from embryonic cells and originate in developing tissues and organ systems. These cancers include neuroblastoma, Wilm’s tumor of the kidney and medulloblastomas of the brain, rhabdomyosarcomas of the muscle and retinoblastomas of the eye (American Cancer Society). There are some cancers that are seen in adults (acute myeloid leukemia, melanoma and thyroid). Risk factors for pediatric cancer includes ionizing radiation from X-rays and CT scans during pregnancy and future cancers from radiation treatments for pediatric cancers. Radiation exposure is cumulative throughout a person’s life increasing the risk as a person ages. Those pediatric cases carry that burden for the longest. Accelerated fetal growth and higher birth rates are associated with an increased risk, as reported by pediatric oncologic researchers from the American Cancer Society. Smoking by a pregnant mother increases the risk of liver cancer (The Internal Agency for Research on Cancer). This agency recommends minimal exposure for children to toxic environmental hazards including lead, mercury, arsenic, pesticides, solvents and second hand smoke. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer and lymphoma for adolescents. Other interesting data includes that a girl’s incidence of cancer and mortality is less. The reason is not known. NonHispanic whites also have the highest incidence. Also rates nately, the survival rates continue to increase, and it is estimated there are 380,000 survivors from childhood cancers in the US in 2014. Pediatric cancers represent 1% of all new cancers, acCancer Society. Even though the percentage is small, there is nothing more devastating than a child with cancer. We

are blessed in this country with pediatric cancer centers throughout the country that are top-notch. Not only do these centers treat the cancers, they treat the “whole person” with surveillance for a host of problems that could arise in these survivors over time. These include side effects, recurrence, second cancers, fertility, growth and development issues and psychosocial challenges that coincide with puberty and teenage challenges. This requires special expertise from a host of specialists from Endocrinology to Psychiatry. There is also the issue of transition of these kids from adolescence to young adulthood and many of these survivors don’t want to be followed by pediatricians. This requires transfer of records to an adult oncologist and other adult doctors. This frequently does not happen and parents need to be aware of their responsibility to see to it that transition occurs with the doctors. Having surgically treated pediatric cancers in the head and neck during my 30 years of private practice, there is nothing more devastating than a young person being diagnosed with cancer. But the research in the last 30 years has given hope to every child, adolescent and their families. Support for these families is crucial for a child to face cancer. The strength of the family will never be tested more than at the time of diagnosis. Youngsters are much more resilient than we give them credit, and they need to understand what is going on and what they need to do to help the side effects and complications of treatment. As the course of treatment comes to an end, the work still must continue. The oncologists must observe the response to the treatment

April 2015

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and reported on 10 pediatric cancer key facts. 1 in 285: The chance a child will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20. 2,240: The number of brain and central nervous system cancers diagnosed in 2014 among children aged 0 to 14. This is second most common cancer in this age group and does not include the 730 cases of benign and borderline malignant brain tumors. 15%: The percentage of all cancers diagnosed in adolescents (aged 15 – 19) that is Hodgkin lymphoma – the most common cancer in this age group. 15,780: The number of new cancer cases expected to be diagnosed in children and adolescents in 2014. 1,350: The number of children aged 0 to 14 expected to die of cancer in 2014. 610: The number of adolescents aged 15 – 19 expected to die of cancer in 2014. 26%: The percentage of childhood cancers, among those aged 0 – 14, which are acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), the most common cancer in this age group. 64%: The 5-year survival rate for ALL – up from 57% for those diagnosed between 1975 and 1979. 1 in 530: The number of adults aged 20 to 39 who are childhood cancer survivors.

disabilities, the side effects and the adjustments to a new normal must be concentrated on. Most pediatric cancer patients do very well, but for those who struggle, or will in the future, need close monitoring so that these issues can be addresses quickly. Chemotherapy can cause pain, numbness, weakness, weight loss, hair loss, anemia, fevers, increased risk of infections, gastrointestinal upset, muscle pain, cognitive problems (“chemobrain”), headaches, vision and hearing problems, to mention just a few. These may take time to resolve or may persist. Radiation is also commonly used in solid tumors and can create serious side effects as well. The primary care pediatrician or family doctor should be kept in the loop throughout the cancer treatment. Com-

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munication between doctors is crucial to the success of this process. A survivorship care plan must be created by the oncologist so that a variety of issues can be monitored. With primary doctors, these patients are a real challenge, and they must be educated for them to be comfortable in accepting the responsibility of their care. Some of the vital information that needs to be included are the diagnosis, stage, and exact type of treatments, the current health of the patient, status of the cancer, what organ systems need to be monitored and how often. The oncologist must explain what the pediatrician should be on the alert that would prompt them to call the oncologist. The pediatrician is in the best position to know the pre-existing conditions the child has. Psychological counseling may be

April 2015

continued on page 80

Pediatric cancer---a Long Road Ahead for Survivors continued from page 79 necessary not only for the child or adolescent but the parents. Support groups and play therapy may be considered. itor for recurrence of disease and recovery. After that, the active survivorship phase begins. Usually after 3 years, the oncologist will lean even more on the primary care physician to perform routine checkups. This, of course, has to be agreed upon by both doctors. Although, there is no agreement, after 5-10 years, the late phase occurs and other potential side effects start to appear. In addressing the early, long term and late phases of survivorship, it must be clear that this will last the rest of the patient’s life. Although, injury from chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy (including biologic and targeted therapy) will cause problems from the beginning, it may take decades for many of the side effects to appear. Each cancer creates its own set of problems, but there is mine the special targets for surveillance and management. Pediatric cancer survivors are eight times more likely to have severe, life threatening or disabling chronic diseases, such as heart, lung, kidney and cognitive problems. They have recurrences, relapses, and second cancers (lung most common) that must be looked for. These long term problems related to childhood cancer and are more likely to have multiple conditions if they had bone, brain, central nervous system cancer or Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The Childhood Cancer Survivor Study compiled data from 26 pediatric cancer centers to study 14,000 survivors that were diagnosed from 1970 to 1986. Much of this information comes from that study. The Institute of Medicine created much of the information based on a landmark article entitled “Cancer Survivor—Lost in Transition”. This began the emphasis on creating survivorship care plans by some national cancer organizations, and now it is standard. In general, cancers of the brain and central nervous system create the most cognitive and learning problems for these patients, but any cancer or treatment can cause a host of side effects. Cancers of the blood create many problems with the bone marrow, liver, spleen and other systems. We now have evidence based research to form the

guidelines for survivorship care. Many of these guidelines have recently been published, and survivorship has taken its place next to the prevention, early detection and treatment phases of cancer care. It is this continuum of care that has created an ever increasing survival rate of these cancers. Many of the large cancer centers have survivorship clinics staffed by those specialists needed to confront the early, long term and late effects of cancer treatment. Whether in a special follow up clinic or not, all of these services must be available. This includes coordinated care and support plans, fertility, reproductive and puberty issues, genetic studies, psychosocial (behavioral) and cognitive (memory and learning) therapy services, follow up bone marrow transplant patients, peer support, nutrition, growth and development, hearing and vision monitoring, bone health, thyroid and sex hormone testing, cardiac testing for heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) and blood pressure abnormalities, pulmonary functions, orthopedic and occupational rehabilitation (prostheses), disability services and research. The problem is that many of these side effects may not appear until decades later. In summary, all of these issues combined create quality of life issues for these young people and will be issues for some the rest of their life. That does not mean these survivors won’t live perfectly normal lives, but being smart and on the outlook for problems is just part of their life.

References: American Cancer Society – www.cancer.org/cancer/cancerinchildren. www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@research/document/webcontent/acsp-042151.pdf. The American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology – www.aspo.org. American Childhood Cancer Organizations – www.acco.org.

April 2015

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April 2015

Lovin’ the Journey Someone’s Watching Me by Mark Holloway

pportunity is a beautiful gift. That is if you capture

seized. I remember a time I knew everything. Now with wrinkles and gray hair, I seek out those who actually do. My favorite mentors are those who don’t know they are. of character and purpose early on and then be willing to share. When I became a Christ-follower more useless stuff began to fall away over time and more helpful qualities There are days when we’re contacted by someone who’s life we impacted. Calls and visits from young men and women like those are deeply rewarding. But they’re also equally sobering. If I’ve been given some talent or gift and for whatever reason shove it in a hole, what a shame. That’s the sobering part. I must choose to always speak into someone’s life when the opportunity comes down the trail. If my life has value and a message, I’m must live motivated and eager to tell what I know. The other day I hiked along the Appalachian Trail from Unicoi Gap (north of Helen) to Dick’s Creek Gap. (I hope you know the world-famous, legendary AT meanders through Rabun County.) This particular hike was special for two reasons. Amanda Bridges is an insane outdoors woman. She spends her work hours high up the ladder managing funds at a large, famous and old institution of higher learning or rock face. She and I hiked 17 miles together in one day. We trekked, laughed, ascended and descended for 8 hours and invaded winter. We’d never hiked the AT that far in one day. What made the adventure equally special was simply being with Amanda. Carol and I met her as a teenager. Now in her mid thirties, she attributes her passion for exploring new territory, adventure and challenges to hanging out with us. We’re so thrilled to still be sharing Amanda’s journey. Hank Brady’s life blew up in his face. Really. Serving his country in a hostile land of bombs and chaos, his vehicle and men suffered violently. We reconnected recently during his recovery. He told me I’d played a large role in his early teen years. Again, I was deeply humbled by his unexpected and unsolicited encouragement.

Amanda and Hank are two former students among many who’ve reached back into their pasts to evaluate what’s brought them into a promising future. You may have met Jeanne Tillman. She understands the stable leaders with local middle school students wanting inspiration. She’s retired now, but I hope not from her dream. I never want to just take up space, breathe someone else’s oxygen or merely watch others walk in their destiny. Jesus talks about three investors. The one who did the least with his potential gets the most ridicule. I never want to be that guy. I’ll take every opportunity given me to encourage young people to be great and to embrace their God-wiring. Can any of us be sure we’ll leave a fortune behind? Charlie (at Wealthy William’s funeral): Pete, how much did William leave behind? Pete: Everything. I want to leave behind something better than money, fame and even legacy. I’d like to leave behind integrity, honesty and character, but in a way a protégé is credited as the mentor. I want my life to be reproducible. I don’t know any rock stars personally or world renowned painters. But I know normal. We emulate normal more than celebrity. old daughter Victoria and 21 year old son Garrett consider their upbringing as normal. Beyond being a mentor, I hold a father.

April 2015

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In the past I was paid to professionally mentor students and young people. Now Carol and I just do so as a life perk. Most of us rarely mentor someone formerly. We are usually watched from a distance. We have both been mentors in the school system. But people watch your life and imitate the things they admire Again, that’s sobering.

is. I’m most likely to encounter God’s marvelous, ever- developing plan for me if I’m out there in the middle of life. Staying on the sidelines comes at too high a price. The notion of missing a thrill

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or an adventure leaves me hollow. Impacting a young life who might be observing from a distance can be as simple as asking the Holy Spirit to cause your paths to blend. I promise you there’s an apprentice out there needing your guidance, godly character and ultimately, friendship. Don’t let the task intimidate you. If you’re breathing, there’s still time. Explore what treasures you have. Explore what treasure you are. Take inventory. I bet you’ll discover a hidden talent you can’t afford to bury. See you on the trail.

April 2015

getting the things you want out of life is this: Decide what you want. Ben Stein

Tales of Racky and Dil

“If We’re Not Wanted, We’ll Go” by John Shivers

t was the scream of a banshee in the dark of night that awakened Rabun Racky from as sound a sleep as anyone mired eyebrow deep in trouble could hope to achieve. He sat up, confused, frantic to discover in the blackness of his room if the boogey man was there to claim him. “Wha… what… what’s wrong?” he mumbled, all the while rubbing at his black-ringed eyes to try and get them open. “Ayeeeeeeeee!” Came a second screech. “Please don’t make me go,” an unseen voice pleaded from the other side of the room. Then, Racky understood. The source of the pre-dawn

Illustration by Terry Sells

audio performance was none other than his brother Dil, who was reacting in his sleep to the trauma of the previous day. A day that had begun with such promise and excitement, but had concluded with anger so great that it had precipitated great angst among two raccoons. They were in deep trouble and the outcome didn’t look promising. where he shook his brother’s shoulder. “Hey, wake up. You were dreaming and screaming.” Any other time, he’d have said, “Hey, I’m a poet and don’t know it.” But somehow, just at that moment, it didn’t seem totally appropriate.

April 2015

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“Huh? Whad iz hit?” Dil asked, as he struggled to sit up. “Why’d you wake me up for?” “You were having a nightmare, and you were screaming like one of those panthers on Germany Mountain.” “So? Last night was a nightmare, and nobody woke me up from that.” “I don’t know what you were dreaming, but it was bothering you bad.” By now Dil had managed to sit up and swing his legs over the side of the bed. “Just be glad you weren’t in the dream with me.” He wiped his eyes in a gesture of despair and surrender. “It was awful.” “It was if your screams are any indication. You scared me.” “The dream scared me,” Dil declared. “Remember that time before when the folks threatened to send us to military school, and we had to wear those awful uniforms and make like we were little soldiers?” Racky did recall the occasion several years before, when their parents had been the angriest the boys had ever seen. He could still picture them dressed in what was destined to become their “prison” uniforms, as they stood in front of their mirror and saw two uniformed boys they didn’t recognize looking back at them. It had been the worst of times, but nothing that would compare with the blood they had seen in their father’s eyes the previous day. When he’d come to the Georgia Capitol to bring them back to Rabun County in disgrace, it had been a most unpleasant ride. Then it got worse. “You boys convinced us once before that we should give you a second chance,” Mr. Nacoochee had thundered once they were home, as he reminded them of the earlier threat of military school. He was so angry, Racky remembered, the black circles around his eyes had turned grey. Just because they boys had made two campaign signs and were marching with them in the ure,” as they prepared for bed with heavy hearts and a sick feeling in the pits of their stomachs. They could well be sent far from the Rabun Gap woods they loved so much. “In my dream,” Dil shared, “we were in our uniforms, marching around the Capitol, and people all around us were holding picket signs that said, “Racky and Dil… Georgia Doesn’t Want You.” “We may not be able to persuade them not to send us away,” Racky consoled his brother, “but if we have to leave, we’re going where we want to go.” “How?” “We’ll run away. We’ll leave before they get a chance to ship us off.” “But how?” “Just you wait and see. It’s not long ‘til morning. If we have to, we’ll make our break then.”

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April 2015

Rabun Gap offers summer day and overnight camps

abun Gap-Nacoochee School is offering a variety of summer camp options,

Coed Tennis Camp

creating art projects themed around literary characters, to a variety of athletic camps to learning about circuitry in STEAM World of Circuitry camp, Rabun Gap camps provide children an opportunity to become immersed in fun and unique experiences with an opportunity to meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime.

Ages 9 – 12. 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost $60

Three reasons to attend Rabun Gap summer camp:

Ages 9 – 12. 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost: $60

Enjoy fun and adventure on the beautiful 1400-acre Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School campus. Immerse yourself in stimulating activities that engage the body and mind. responsibilities and challenges.

Coed Basketball Camp

STEAM Camp Science, Technology, Engineering, Ages 9 – 12 The World of Circuits Led by mathematics instructor Michael Lomuscio the Rabun Gap STEAM camp offers children the opportunity to work in teams to explore science and math concepts with hands-on problem solving projects that spark the imagination! 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost $60 + $15 supply fee

June 1st – 5th Literary Art Camp Ages 4 – 9 Create art projects themed around literary characters. 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Cost: $60 + $40 supply fee Sports & Activities Camp Ages 5 – 9 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost: $60 Baseball Camp Skills clinic Boys ages 9 -12 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost: $60

Softball Camp Skills clinic Girls ages 9 – 14. 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Cost: $60 + $15 supply fee Volleyball Camp Skills clinic Girls ages 9 – 14 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cost: $60 + $15 supply fee Literary Art Camp Ages 9 – 14 Create art projects themed around literary characters. 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Cost: $60 + $40 supply fee

April 2015

July 24th – 26th Family Camp Weekend Overnight fun for the entire family. Ages 5 – 12. Rabun Gap’s 3 day/2 night family camp is a great time to spend quality time with your special child, granding on a lake, bunking up and sharing stories into the night, or watching your child become comfortable with the idea of camp. ditional children. Register at www.rabungap.org/camp.

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is a fully accredited independent day and boarding school located two hours north of Atlanta, Georgia, an hour and a half southwest of Asheville, North Carolina and under two hours west of Greenville/Spartanburg, South Carolina.

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“Spring’s Arrival!” April 2015

April 2015