Georgia Mountain Laurel June 18 by The Laurel of Northeast Georgia

Black Rock State Park by Cover Artist Kyle Shook

From the Publisher

June 2018 • Volume Fifteen • Issue Six

ummer is here and it is beautiful. In this issue we want to encourage you to get outside to enjoy the mountains. We have compiled a list of regional Georgia State Parks and of course our highest mountain, a must see. There are many events on our calendar that offer a day or evening out. Peter always has a great idea for an adventure. The Lake Burton Fun Run is right around the corner and so is The Painted Fern Festival. We recently visited with professional fisherman Joe Thompson who is on the cusp of a career milestone. We continued our series on Reeves Hardware Company, looking at the second generation. Be sure that their 90th celebration on June 9th is on your calendar. It’s barefoot, tea sippin’ weather and it’s time to enjoy all that is the mountains! Happy Fathers’ Day to all of the dads and congratulations to all of our grads!

Georgia Mountain Laurel Mailing: PO Box 2218, Clayton, Georgia 30525 Office: 2511 Highway 441, Mountain City, Georgia 30562 706-782-1600 • www.gmlaurel.com

Publisher/Editor - Tracy McCoy Assitant Editor - Lucas McCoy Art Director - Dianne VanderHorst Graphic Designer - Nikki Dunbar Office Manager/ Account Executive - Cindi Freeman Account Executive - Melynda Hensley Photographer/Writer - Peter McIntosh Contributing Writers: John Shivers, Mark Holloway, Susan Brewer, Tracey Burnette, Kendall Rumsey, Joey Thompson, Lisa Harris, Vanessa York, Lorie R. Thompson, Steve Jarrard, MD, Emory Jones,

We are accepting applications for positions within our company. Please e-mail your resume to tracy@gmlaurel.com Copyright 2018 by Rabun’s Laurel Inc. All rights reserved. The Georgia Mountain Laurel Magazine is published twelve times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to GML magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel magazine or any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. The Georgia Mountain Laurel maintains a Christian focus throughout their magazine. Rabun’s Laurel, Inc. reserves the right to refuse content or advertising for any reason without explanation. We also want to state that all articles and ads do not represent the views of this magazine or its owner or employees unless otherwise stated.

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Julie Barnett

52 54 55 56

In This Issue Outdoors 12 18 20 24 26

A Taste

Park It This Summer Adventure Out Paws 4 Life Joe Thompson - Chasing His Dream Rabun County Sports Car Club

60 64 68 70

Cover Artist - Kyle Shook North Georgia Arts Guild Featured Artist

72 74 76

Bless Your Heart R4G - Pastor Joey Thompson River Garden St. James Episcopal Church

78 82 84 88 90 92

Mountain Happenings Event Calendar Lake Burton Fun Run

Lovinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Journey Notes from a Southern Kitchen By the Way

Mountain Home

Affairs to Remember 46 50

Live Healthy & Be Well Well Nourished

Life & Leisure

Faith in Christ 38 40 42 44

Bon Appetit The Family Table

Health & Wellness

Arts & Entertainment 30 34 36

Painted Fern Rhapsody in Rabun Dreams Come True Stables Chow Down for Kids

June 2018

Harry Norman Featured Home Be Safe - Hire Licensed Professionals ReMax of Rabun Featured Home Parker Ranch Reeves Hardware Company - Part II Miles Through Time Automotive Museum

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“Park It” This Summer In Seven Parks in Northeast Georgia article by John Shivers - photos by Jay Jones

ost people give winter 2018 a failing grade of F. Frigid temps and an abundance of “white winter wonderland” syndrome contributed to frostbite and endless cabin fever.

this mountain top with its observation area is the tallest point in all of Georgia. If it’s a clear day, you’ll probably be able to look down and see some of the other locations on your itinerary. How cool is that?

But summer’s here, and the bright sunshine will warm and the mountain breezes will entice. Where better to spend these days but in the great outdoors of Northeast Georgia?

Visitors will find exhibits, a video program and the 360° observation deck. Hike to the summit on the one-half mile trail, or take the shuttle from the parking lot down the mountain. Accommodations for handicapped individuals exist. There are facilities for picnicking and hiking, and the visitor center and craft shop are amply stocked with souvenirs to commemorate your trip to the top.

There’s a lot of outdoors to see. In the five northeastern counties – Habersham, Rabun, Towns, Union, and White – there are some 1,400 square miles to enjoy, and six Georgia state parks plus one U.S. Forest Service property, that just happens to be the highest point in Georgia. All seven locations are within two hours driving time or less from each other. Brasstown Bald Sometimes it’s best to go right to the top of a situation and work your way down. In terms of seeing the outdoors in Northeast Georgia, when you start with Brasstown Bald, you’ve gone as high as you can go. At 4,784 feet elevation, 12

Brasstown Bald Visitor Information 2941 Hwy. 180 Spur Hiawassee, GA 30546 706-896-2556 / 706-896-4137 Web site: https://cfaia.org/brasstown-bald-recreation-areavisitor-centers-in-georgia/ Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 7 days a week April through December, weather permitting $5.00 per person admission / Shuttle / Handicapped accessible

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Black Rock Mountain State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park

The 1,743 acres that make up Black Rock Mountain State Park are the highest state park lands in Georgia. Scenic vistas within the park offer some of the most outstanding views in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Spectacular views often up to 80 miles, are prevalent at several overlooks. Four hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small waterfalls, and lush forests. The park’s 17-acre lake is a favorite of anglers, and is encircled by an easy walking trail.

Tallulah Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern United States, runs some two miles long and is 1,000 feet deep. Visitors have the option of hiking rim trails to several overlooks, or a limited number of permits allow hikers to descend to the gorge floor at selected times and days. For those who aren’t that ambitious but still want see the gorge, a suspension bridge hanging some 80 feet over the bottom is the way to go.

Self-contained cottages, tent, trailer, and RV campsites offer comfortable overnight accommodations. For those who want to push the envelope, the park features walk-in campsites and back country campsites, as well as a pioneer campground. Two picnic shelters, a playground, and the summit Visitor Center and Gift Shop make just a stop for a picnic or a stay of several nights a great adventure.

A paved walking trail and a challenging 10-mile mountain bike trail offer still more options for outdoor enjoyment. Other highlights of this 2,739 acre property are a 63-acre lake, tent, trailer, and RV campsites, pioneer and back country camping spaces, a picnic shelter, a sand beach open during the summer months, and playgrounds.

The park is a special favorite of professional and amateur photographers, and geocaching enthusiasts will be right at home.

Inside the gift shop and the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, visitors can learn about the rich history of the former resort town, as well as geophysical exhibits about the area, snacks, and souvenirs.

Black Rock Mountain State Park Visitor Information 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway Mountain City, GA 30562 706-746-2141 / Reservations 800-864-7275 Web site: gastateparks.org/BlackRockMountain Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. 7 days a week March 16 through December 17, weather permitting $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored

Tallulah Gorge State Park Visitor Information 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive Tallulah Falls, GA 30573 706-754-7981 / Campground 706-754-7979 / Reservations 800-864-7275 Web site: gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge Hours: 8:00 a.m. – Dark 7 days a week $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored

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June 2018

Smithgall Woods State Park

Moccasin Creek State Park Moccasin Creek, from its location on the shores of Lake Burton, is a place where visitors can relax in the cozy, family-friendly campground, cast a hook in a clear mountain stream, or enjoy a boating excursion within the Chattahoochee National Forest. With 32 acres, the park offers shore-front access to 2,775-acre Lake Burton, where a fully-accessible fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to seniors age 65 and over and children age 11 and younger, as well as all ages with a Georgia Disability fishing license. Visitors will find tent, trailer, and RV campsites, a picnic shelter, boat dock and ramp, wildlife observation tower, hiking, geocaching, and ample accessibility for wheelchairs and large RV’s. Wi-Fi is available in the campground. The camp’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring the area waterfalls, mountain bike trails, art galleries, shops, restaurants. On the other hand, there’s also plenty of peace and tranquility, so take a nap or read a good book. Moccasin Creek State Park Visitor Information 3655 Highway 197 Clarkesville, GA 30523 706-947-3194 / Reservations 800-864-7275 Web site: gastateparks.org/MoccasinCreek Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. 7 days a week March 16 through December 17 $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored 14

Duke’s Creek, one of Georgia’s premier trout streams, runs through Smithgall Woods, and is an angler’s paradise for catch-and-release fishing. Access to the streams is limited to certain days with only a certain number of anglers allowed at one time. Reservations are highly recommended. But if fishing isn’t your thing, Smithgall Woods with its 5,664 acres, camping sites, cottages, and picnic shelters, has much more to offer. Five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bikers to lose themselves to nature. The Visitor Center, Discovery Room Museum, and the gift shop are popular stops. A number of area attractions are within easy driving distance, and offer the best of both worlds. The park is also an elegant mountain retreat, with accommodations for romantic getaways, small weddings, outings with friends and a chance to leave the rat race behind. Other things to see and do include archery, birdwatching, geocaching, hunting, picnicking, photography, and interpretive and educational programs. Some activities require advance registration or park approval. Smithgall Woods State Park Visitor Information 61 Tsalaki Trail Helen, GA 30545 706-878-3087 / Reservations 800-864-7275 Web site: gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods Hours: 7:00 a.m. – Dark - 7 days a week $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored

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Unicoi State Park

Vogel State Park

Unicoi State Park in White County is a slightly different style park, where visitors can elect to rough it or be pampered. And with a little advance planning, enjoying both ends of the spectrum is possible. Or as Unicoi staffers affirm, it’s the perfect recipe for a great escape.

Located at the base of Blood Mountain in Union County, Vogel State Park is one of the state’s oldest and most heavilyvisited parks. With 233 acres, cottages, tent, trailer, and RV accommodations, the site is a perfect family-oriented getaway location for just a picnic, or several days of communing with nature.

From the lodge, with its 100 stylish and cozy rooms to the slightly more rustic cabins and 82 campsites, pick your comfort level. Two on-site restaurants operate daily, if your idea of a vacation is to padlock the kitchen and leave. At Unicoi you’ll find plenty of reasons to go outside and explore the 1,029 acres that include the 53-acre Unicoi Lake, and hiking trails to nearby Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. The park is easily accessible to Helen, Dahlonega, Hiawassee, and Sautee Nacoochee. An archery and air gun range, zip line fun, fly fishing classes, Gopro rental, paddle board lessons, GPS scavenger hunt, kayak lessons, and fire pit stories and s’mores ensure there’s something for everyone. Unicoi State Park Visitor Information 1788 Highway 356 Helen, GA 30545 1-800-573-9659 Web site: UnicoiLodge.com Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. - 7 days a week $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored

The 22-acre lake is open to non-motorized boats and during the summer months, a white sand beach allows for swimming and cooling off. The park has several hiking trails with varying challenges, rustic camping, several picnic shelters and a lakeside pavilion. Miniature golf is always a popular activity, and bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and aquacycle rentals are available. Unique to this park is the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) Museum, where visitors can see firsthand how much of the early park was built during the Depression. A General Store, a playground, and Wi-Fi availability in certain parts of the park make it possible to never have to leave the grounds. Or if you’re looking to sight-see, several major attractions are within easy driving distance. Vogel State Park Visitor Information 405 Vogel State Park Road Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-2628 / Reservations 800-864-7275 Web site: gastateparks.org/Vogel Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. - 7 days a week $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored

So where would you like to go? There are those who consider anything less than 5-star resort accommodations as “roughing it,” while others want it as rustic, primitive, and backcountry as it gets. Others just want to hike, fish, swim or picnic, or bring their own beds with them in their RV’s. Within these six parks, you’ll find every variety of options imaginable for summer fun for everyone. Summer in the great mountains of Northeast Georgia is calling. Just choose your favorite flavor of fun and GO!

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June 2018

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Adventure Out~ Panther Creek Falls by Peter McIntosh

n this adventure we’re traveling about 3 miles south of our May adventure, the Short Line at Tallulah Gorge State Park, and hiking to Panther Creek Falls. This is a moderate hike with a few strenuous spots along the way. From the trailhead on Old 441, it’s 3.5 miles each way. It’s a fairly long trail, tough at times, but very beautiful with numerous small cascades along the way to a magnificent waterfall at the end. And this is not to be confused with Panther Falls located off of Lake Rabun Road. From the trailhead across Old 441, from the Panther Creek Recreation Area parking lot, the blue diamond blazes path enters the woods briefly before coming to the U.S. 441 overpass. The trail goes under the bridge, reenters the forest, and begins a gentle descent towards Panther Creek. After crossing under some power lines, the roar of vehicles on the highway is replaced by the gentle whisper of the cascading stream.

The creek will now be below you on your right. This section of the trail is easy with only a few rocks and roots to negotiate, but after ducking under a rock outcropping, keep your eye out for a tricky left turn. There is a double blaze with a left pointing arrow on a tree that’s easy to miss. But if you do, the trail dead ends soon after, so you can go back and find it. At this turn, the trail goes up through a rock crevice. This requires some scrambling and looks scarier than it is, but still be careful, especially if it’s wet. Now the trail drops down to the creek at an open and popular camping area and then crosses the creek on a nice foot bridge. Panther Creek is now on your left and the trail is nearly level for some time. At about 2.5 miles in, you’ll come to a beautiful cascade, well worth stopping for, but this is not our destination. From here the trail gets interesting as it heads up onto some rocky

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cliff sides with cable hand rails between you and the creek far below. And then, after a few more ups and downs, you’ll go way down one final time and emerge at a large open area and there before you is Panther Creek Falls, a big, broad and beautiful cascade. There is a huge pool at the base of the falls so this is a great spot to cool your toes. And there are plenty of nice rocks to sit on, have a picnic, and rest. And do rest, because now you have to go back up. It’s not too tough, but it is 3.5 miles each way. Take your time and take plenty of water. Happy Hiking! No need to swoon, here’s my poem for June: Under a bridge and down to the creek, Then along cliff walls that might make you go “eeek.” It’s nice roaring water falling into a pool, Panther Creek Falls, a good place to keep cool. Getting there: From Tallulah Falls (Tallulah Gorge Bridge) take U.S. 441 south 3 miles. Look for a sign on the right indicating the Panther Creek Recreation Area. Turn right at the next road, and right again on Old 441 to the parking area on the left. The trail is across Old 441 from the parking lot.

To see more of Peter’s photos or if you have a question or comment: www.mcintoshmountains.com

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June 2018

I Volunteer. I have been a volunteer at Paws4Life for the past 7 months. Initially, I went there with a desire to play with kitties, in hopes of finding two perfect cat companions for myself. Well, that happened about a month in, and yet I’ve stayed on as a volunteer, often going in at 8 a.m., before they open at 10:00, just to clean cat cages and cat adoption rooms! Why on earth would an otherwise busy, supposedly sane, retired person do such a thing? Well, hang in there with me, while I explain. I have owned multiple cats for the past 50 years of my adult life. When I suddenly found myself with no furry home companions, I turned to pet sitting for friends. But there was always something missing…So I thought maybe it was time to think of adopting another cat or two. Another animal loving friend, Linda, and I decided to venture into Paws4Life, with no idea of what we’d find. We’d always heard stories of poor animals left neglected and abandoned, and we went in somewhat fearfully, only to find, to our delight, that not only were we greeted warmly and welcomed as volunteers, but also that the dogs and cats housed there were gently and lovingly tended to with much love, care, and effort on the part of the staff. I found my niche there, helping to socialize and care for the many cats that are often abandoned or brought in pregnant, and even walking some of the dogs that are eager for attention, but in need of a little training to help them become used to walking on a leash, thus making them more appealing for adoption. Nothing feels better than seeing formerly unwanted pets, perhaps surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them, find a new, loving forever home. Knowing how having a pet makes a house a home, I hope to be able to help match people with new loving pets. Most days, when I’m there, you will find me sitting with the cats in one of the two adoption rooms. I personally have a heart for those cats that seem less likely to be adopted due to their advanced age, or some other “defect.” Kittens are everyone’s favorites, and we have an abundance of adorable newborns right now. But we have some wonderfully affectionate adult cats, too.

We have needs!

1. Pet lovers with forever homes! 2. Volunteers to show love. 3. Donations for the care of the animals and provide for them. 4. Supplies such as: Dry/wet adult & puppy food Dry/wet adult & kitten food KMR Puppy & Kitten Milk repacer Pill Pockets Puppy Training Pads Dog/puppy & cat/kitten toys Blankets/towels Wood pellets (for kitty litter) Grooming supplies Heating pads Leashes, harnesses, collars Pet beds Pet bowls Ziploc bags Humane feral cat traps 5. Office & business supplies 6. Cleaning supplies & paper goods Call or visit for a complete list!

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Two adult cats in particular have touched my heart: Mittens, a 15 year old female shorthair grey, with white paws, and Allie, 13, her almost look-alike daughter, who sports a white stripe on her nose. Both are declawed, which means they will always have to be indoor cats. They were reluctantly surrendered by an elderly woman who had recently gone into nursing care. The family was unable to keep the cats, and now Mittens and Allie wait in the adoption room, hoping that someone will come along desiring to give them a home in their final years. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a long shot, admittedly, and that breaks my heart. And yet, I am heartened knowing that they receive attention, love, and care from some of the staff members there at the shelter, and that rather than living in a cage, they are allowed to roam freely in the small adoption room. You can see them thru the picture window, when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not curled up in their luxury cat condo, or better yet, come in and visit. Petting is encouraged! I am still amazed and impressed at the level of attention and care that the staff members and other volunteers are able and willing to give these animals, to help make the best of a less than ideal situation, housing dogs and cats until they can be adopted. If I can do anything to lessen that burden, to increase the chances of a cat or dog being adopted, I find it my greatest joy to spend time there. I initially went for a love of animals, and was surprised to discover a love of people. It is one of the most truly fulfilling experiences of my life.

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June 2018

Joe Thompson - Chasing a Dream in a Really Fast Boat! by Tracy McCoy

rom the time he could dream, Joe Thompson wanted to be a professional fisherman. His dad, Anthony “Peanut” Thompson, had taken his son fishing since he was big enough to hold a pole. Peanut has been a bass fisherman, entering tournaments most of his life and when he could he took Joe with him. “I was taught to fish by one of the best, my dad.” Joe said when we sat down recently to talk about his fishing career. Laughing, he recalled that when he was little he would get inside the box if it started to rain during a fishing trip. He was competing with the adults by the age of 11 and while he might not catch the most fish, he usually caught the biggest. As a student at Young Harris College, Joe fished on the college’s fishing team. He was greatly encouraged when the team went on to the National Championship and he placed 4th. These good finishes kept this young man on course for the Costa FLW Series Pro Tour. He placed 3rd in the Southeast Region last year. Joe is not married, although there is a special gal in his life. Charli Palmer encourages Joe to follow this path. He feels that this is the time to achieve his goals before he settles down. He is moving through the ranks of a professional fisherman almost as fast as he moves from hole to hole in his Phoenix 920 boat. Joe Thompson just finished a tournament the day before we met and netted the third paycheck of the year. There is only one tournament and a few points standing between Joe and the Forest Wood Cup, a true milestone for any fisherman. This year’s Forest Wood Cup tour will take place August 10 -12 on Lake Ouachita in Arkansas. There are only 40 anglers invited to compete in the tour and if Joe can finish well in the Alabama tournament he will be among this elite group.

One must recognize how hard this young man has worked to achieve this standing. He has fished competitively for 20 years. Joe tells me that on a tour, he practices for three days, has a day off and then has two days to qualify. He fishes literally from daylight till dark sometimes 15 hours a day, often in extreme heat or weather. He has outran storms, dodged lightning, hid under bridges and watched funnel clouds come too close for comfort. Joe’s national sponsors are Abu Garcia rods and reels, Trilene fishing line, Berkley baits. Local businesses who sponsor Joe Thompson are: RE/MAX of Rabun (where mom Lorie Thompson works), Scott Ledford’s Metro-Site of Commerce, ImPRESSed and Troy Ramey Grading. He admits he has invested his life savings into his fishing career and that alone drives him to succeed. When he isn’t on a tour he is working with his dad at Thompson Construction or he is mowing yards or care-taking for a few good clients. Joe doesn’t find the time to fish much when

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he is home. He said he’d been to Lake Burton a couple times and Lake Chatuge once this year. All of the fish he catches are Bass, they are cared for while in his boat and they are released after the weigh in. When I asked about his technique and tricks, like any good fisherman all I got was a grin. No, seriously he explained how he has spent a lot of years studying fish habits, watching men like Brian Thrift fish, looking at yearly patterns, finding the perfect holes and it doesn’t always go well but this may just be Joe’s year! We encourage you to follow him on Facebook (Joe Thompson Fishing) and Instagram @ joe.thompson.fishing our support is important and I bet your like me and so many others, I am proud of this Rabun native chasing his dream!

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June 2018

Rabun County Sports Car Club Article by Wm. C. “Rusty” Russ and Tony Westbrook Photos by Wm. C. “Rusty” Russ

t is not unusual on any given weekend to see several car clubs of various marquees (Corvettes, Mustangs, Mercedes, Porches, Miatas, etc.) driving through Rabun County from other major metropolitan areas (Atlanta, Greenville, Asheville Chattanooga, etc.) as part of their driving tours through the famous back roads of North Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, which are often used by automotive magazines as test routes. Almost since the beginning of the automobile, likeminded owners have gathered together to enjoy their vehicles. They shared their vehicles’ technical aspects, created limited race competitions, and enjoyed a general sense of family camaraderie. Several years ago, Rabun County resident and Corvette owner, Doug Coomer, knew that there were not many Corvettes in the area when he embarked on his idea of developing a sports car touring group, so he began approaching other friends with various types of sports cars such as Mustangs, Porsches, Cobras, Aston Martins, Alfa Romeos, Miatas, Corvettes, and

more. It didn’t take long to develop a group of members that began meeting one weekend each month to tour various unique and fun locations. The group’s goal was to find interesting curvy back roads to tour for a few hours ending at a unique restaurant for lunch. Initially beginning with about ten members and their cars, the Rabun Sports Car Club has grown to around 50 total members, with over half attending their most recent ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway (Asheville) tour. The club provides the group with an updated calendar of upcoming event tours. As frequently as possible the road tours are established to coincide with other events such as the Highlands’ Motoring Festival, the Blue Ridge Car Show, and other auto-related events. For the past two years the Rabun Sports Car Club has been invited to participate in the Blairsville Christmas Parade. The Club’s involvement in this event has been coordinated by Tony Westbrook who coordinated with the Blairsville Chamber of Commerce. The Club usually has at least a dozen or more cars in the Parade, which is well attended by Union County and Blairsville residents. Club members bring lots of wrapped candy to toss out to the many kids who line up along the Parade route. Attendees enjoy the large variety of vehicles in the Parade from farm tractors and wagons pulled by dogs to decorated floats of several types and antique automobiles. It’s a great way for the community to begin the season in the Christmas Spirit! Sports Car Club members also participate in the Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day parades held in various locations, including the Rabun County event. Club member cars are

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used to transport Veterans in the Parade. The vehicles are typically decorated with US flags, flags for service members (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard) and a plaque with the service members name, branch, and service rank. Rabun Countians always show their great appreciation for all service men and women of all Branches. The group is always looking for additional members. If you might be interested in joining the group with your sports car

for some fun-filled time with other like minded friends, please contact Doug Coomer by phone or text at 770.539.4785 or e-mail him at bdcoomer@aol.com. Note: The Rabun Sports Car Club recently lost a member. Stuart Villars lost his battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis on May 12, 2018. Stuart was a fine man and enthusiastic member of the club. He will be missed by all. The club wishes to honor Stuart and send their sympathy to his wife Judy.

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June 2018

Downtown Clayton, Georgia

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Cover Artist Kyle Shook Photography - A Look Behind the Lens by Tracy McCoy

yle Shook remembers having a camera as early as 5 or 6. It was a simple Kodak 110 pocket camera. The film camera’s slim design was no doubt a perfect fit for little hands. A Rabun County native, he graduated from Rabun County High School in 2000, but it wasn’t until Kyle graduated from Truett McConnell College and North Georgia Technical College that he purchased his first digital camera. Kyle studied EMT and got a job as part time EMT and full time Dispatcher in Rabun when he returned home. He worked there from ‘03 - ‘08 when he went full time at Rabun County Sheriff’s Office. Kyle truly enjoys public safety and working in law enforcement was a nice fit for him. He is a quiet fellow, commenting that he learns more by listening than talking. Some might say Kyle is wise beyond his years. It usually takes a lifetime to learn that. In 2008, Kyle married Sonya Hendricks Stewart and gained two step-children, Miya and Aidan. The couple made their home in the Timpson Community and later added daughter Kyla to the family. When not working, Kyle is out with his camera. He, Sonya, and the kids enjoy riding in his 1974 Ford Bronco. Kyle grew up hunting and fishing 30

in the mountains and still finds time to do both. Kyle and Sonya are family oriented and often visit with parents and grandparents, realizing the value of those connections. Kyle is most certainly a self-taught photographer, learning much of what he knows from Youtube. Last year as a gift, his wife bought a training session with local photographer Peter McIntosh, noted for his rich landscapes and waterfall photographs. Kyle enjoyed meeting Peter and learning from him. Peter was impressed with Kyle’s skill level, expecting to be working with a more amateur student. Any great photographer will tell you that the photo quality and editing begins in the camera before the shutter is pressed. Kyle agrees with that statement and finds that his Canon 77D produces images that are more than pleasing to the eye. Using a photo editing software and toying with his images to produce fine art photographs is something he likes. This allows creative expression and compliments an already incredible image. Kyle’s career has evolved over the last decade. He became a night shift deputy working patrol for two years and then was given the privilege of working with two K-9s, Kilo and Paco. He was in that position for five years. Today, Kyle

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works under Sheriff Nichols as an Investigator and finds use for his camera in this position. He also works on the side as School Resource Officer for the Mountain Ed Charter School. This provides extra income for his photography “mad money”. It is also another way that Kyle can impact his community in a positive way. He loves his work in public safety and plans to continue on this path, saying that someday when he can retire he plans to pursue his photography and travel with his family. In the meantime, he packs the photography equipment and is out every weekend shooting images. Photography is an outlet for him and provides much needed stress relief. Kyle’s prints are available at Reeves Hardware (see ad on page 59) and are shared on his facebook and instagram pages (@ kyleshookphotography). Follow Kyle to enjoy his photography and if you see something you like you can contact him at kyleshook@myemc.net gmlaurel.com

June 2018

Finding Art

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June 2018

NORTH GEORGIA ARTS GUILD Sara Alyn Oakley: Sit, Listen, Learn

by Susan Brewer

ara Oakley lays down a small amount of dark color on her glass palette called Quinacridone sienna. She’s working on a detailed study of an iconic image of the Virgin Mary derived from a painting called “The Holy Family” that hangs in the National Gallery in Washington. Mary’s perfect sixteenth century face will soon emerge onto Sara’s modern canvas. Sara is taking what I would call a painter’s vacation, having just finished painting over twenty of her own works to hang in a

one-person show this summer in Brenau University’s Office of the President in Gainesville. “Bronzino has given Mary a humongously long nose,” she points out. As she talks, the soft scratching of the paint brush against the canvas creates a reassuring, touching sound. “I’ll put shadow under Mary’s brow now. Hmm, the eyes should be an eye width apart, and this is way further than that.” This classic tradition is part of the foundation of Sara’s own works, though hers are quite different. Hers are loose. She likes loading her surfaces with thick paint and strong color.

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Curious hidden raised ropes of paint de-flatten the surface that seems to resist calm and stillness. She continues: “There is such a thing as a ‘tell’ in poker. A ‘tell’ to a portrait artist is something that makes that person look uniquely like that person: a variation on proportion, how long the nose is, what the split of the lip looks like, how wide the mouth is – all of those things make it this person and not some other person. “But the same thing also happens with artists. If you look at Da Vinci, he was in love with the three-quarter profile. He would add to these a little bit of the other eye – he loved that. And almost always, the offset eye has a really fat eyelid – the angle’s and Mary’s – fat! A fat eyelid to me is a funny thing.” Asked if these details help balance a painting, she said, “You know, you don’t balance paintings; you unbalance them. Two perfect trees or two perfect columns would be too perfect – they would be the worst painting ever.” Her studio is in a shared studio space she runs in Gainesville called The Art Colony. There are rules and coffee, and no one tosses their opinions onto the lap of others. Sara offers private lessons and teaches a workshop series (these are meant to be taken together) in oil, liquid acrylics, watercolor, pastel, and drawing. Those new and returning to art are given exposure to the different media. As Sara puts it, “Get a little paint on your brush. See what happens. You don’t like it, do something different.” I know two of her students, both very talented artists themselves, Mary Beth Stager and Su Markulics. Speaking about Sara lights them up. They love being a part of what Sara and her Art Colony are about: strumming their creative spirits. But Sara also has a tough, curt side. There are rules about copying the work of others she explains to me in firm terms. Learn more about her work, the Art Colony, and classes by visiting her website at www.saraalynoakley.com or calling 770-530-1000. gmlaurel.com

June 2018

Featured Artist – Dal Burtchaell

by Tracey Burnette

al Burtchaell is a Southern Folk Potter, born and raised in North Georgia. He has worked from the ground up in the pottery field, first preparing the clay, stacking the kiln and firing the ware. In his spare time, he learned the craft and became a skilled potter. In his early production years, Dal made unglazed flower pots, strawberry pots, and outdoor planters. After years of making functional pottery, Dal began producing jugs, churns, and face jugs. These pieces were just the creative outlet that Dal was looking for and he immediately turned his artistic talents to the creation of a very unique style. His glaze recipes are custom mixed and very unique. His large unique face jugs can be found with whimsical eyes, interesting facial expressions, sometimes looking like the face jug is enjoying a stogie and glazed uniquely with a solid color followed by tobacco spit over glaze. A fabulous selection of Dal’s pottery can be seen at the ultimate folk art gallery, Around Back at Rocky’s Place 3631 Hwy. 53 East in Dawsonville, GA on Saturday 11 to 5, Sunday 1 to 5 and gladly by an appointment.

June 2018

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June 2018

Bless Your Heart All Sugared Up by Lisa Harris

arah heard her name in a loud drawl from the front porch, “Saraaaah,” her mother, Johnnie Sue, yelled again. “Yes mom? What do you need?” “Honey, would you mind bringing me a glass of sweet tea, lots of that wonderful crushed ice, and a sliver of lemon for it. Oh, and put in one of those red and white stripped paper straws to sip on. Tea is best when sipped slowly.” Sarah filled her mother’s favorite tea glass with crushed ice, sliced her a lemon, and poured the pure golden nectar in the glass, topping it off with a paper straw. Opening the door to the front porch, Sarah noticed the sun was already causing her mother to ‘glisten’ around her salt and pepper hair line. “Mom,” Sarah began, “you know that Doctor Bakker said to cut way down on your sugar. In fact, he said to cut it out entirely.” Johnnie Sue looked up at her beautiful, all grown up daughter and said, “Honey, I have cut down. I haven’t put sugar in my coffee for days, nor have I eaten any desserts except for a bite or two of chocolate. That is what I call purging sugar from my diet.” Sarah looked at her mom and had to laugh. “Mother, you put two heaping cups of sugar in your tea pitcher!” Sarah exclaimed with her hands in the air. “Well, sweetheart, surely the doctor didn’t mean to take the sugar out of the tea! I mean, who does that?” “Mom, your body doesn’t know it’s southern, and sugar is the enemy.” “Oh, for Heaven’s sake Sarah, I knew you should have been a teacher instead of an overbearing nurse.” Johnnie Sue looked down at her now empty tea glass and pretended to glare at her daughter. “See, Sarah, it’s empty and I don’t even remember sipping it because you were upsetting me about sugar. Now, would you please refill my glass before you leave?” Sarah sighed loudly at her mother and returned the glare. “I will but just know at your next appointment I am telling Dr. Bakker about this!” “Oh poo,” Johnnie Sue said under her breath, but out loud she said, “don’t forget the pretty straw please!” 38

Sarah poured another glass and stuck the straw in, she grabbed her purse as she headed out to the porch. “Here you go mom,” Sarah said. “I’m off to the hospital for my next shift. Oh, and Mom, don’t forget about the beauty contest tonight at the nursing home for Aunt Betty-Boo, she’s determined she is going to win this year!” “Okay honey, I won’t forget.” Every time Sarah said her Aunt Betty-Boo’s name, she smiled from the inside out. As a little girl her aunt would always play the peek-a-boo game with her, and when she’d stop, she’d beg by saying, Aunt Betty-Boo please, and of course she would. Now, at 93 and confined to a nursing home, BettyBoo was still quite the stitch! And this beauty pageant would show every bit of her personality! Johnnie Sue leaned back in her chair and sipped on her golden nectar addiction. Due to her wearisome health issues, she had to totally give up fried chicken, she couldn’t see worth a hoot, and because her knees were bad, she couldn’t walk around the block and reduce her busted can of biscuits waistline. So, to give up her sweet tea was sacrilegious… absolutely no way. Johnnie Sue finished her tea along with her slight pity party and walked into her laundry room and grabbed her cloth napkins. She loved using cloth napkins. It was a special tradition that her mother utilized, and she continued it. Sarah not so much. Once again Sarah fussed for not conforming to paper napkins. In her own defense, she was saving trees, so there. Slowly but surely Johnnie Sue got ready to go see her much older sister. Betty was 15 years older than she was. They always laughed because about every 5 years their parents had a baby. Betty was first born, and Johnnie Sue was last. She took her job as caretaker very seriously as Betty practically raised her. No one, other than Sarah, loved Betty as fiercely as she did. On second thought, not even Sarah. Even though she was a bit slow with her knees, she got to Betty’s room in plenty of time to see the commotion going on. Betty was sitting on the bed, but bent way over struggling.

June 2018

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“For Heaven’s Sake Betty, what are you doing?” said Johnnie Sue. Cheeks flushed and puffing like she’d been on a 1/2-mile run, Betty spit out, “I’m trying to get this dad-blamed girdle up my legs to suck in my waist.” Betty leaned in for a closer look, “Betty, this isn’t a girdle, it’s called Spanx, it’s what the younger generation wear. Don’t you know you’re not the younger generation?” Looking up at her sister, Betty laughed and said, “I guess that would mean your generation huh?” “Ha ha, no that would mean Sarah’s generation.” “Well, never you mind about which generation, just get over here and help me get this contraption on.” Johnnie Sue went over and tried pulling it up from her feet and got it to her knees. She then had Betty to lie down on the bed and they both pushed and pulled and grunted and laughed. Both were exhausted, sweaty, and thirsty. “This isn’t working Betty, what’s Plan B?” Betty-Boo took a swig of bottled water she had on her nightstand and tilted her head just a bit, almost queen like. “Well, I guess I’ll walk out with my flab swinging and my fanny singing!” “Betty! Southern women do NOT talk about such things, besides our backsides do not sing…they whisper, ever so softly.” Betty rolled her made-up eyes at her sister and said, “Yours may whisper in your head but I hear it sing quite loudly!” Johnnie Sue affectionally slapped her sister’s arm and told her to hush, but she knew that was a losing battle. In the meantime, Sarah finished her shift at the hospital and ran home to change. She didn’t want to be late to see her sassy aunt walk down the ramp. She just knew she would win! Changing into a new outfit of well fitted white jeans, a black shirt that hung slightly off her shoulders and some dangly earrings, she took a quick glance at herself and thought, “Not too bad.” Arriving at the nursing home, Sarah parked in the shade and walked in looking for her mom. From across the room she saw Johnnie Sue sipping on another glass of sweet tea and chatting up a storm with some guy. The Good Lord only knew what her mom was saying, and it didn’t take long to find out. “Sarah, honey, this is the new doctor on staff, Dr. Steve Lindsteadt, he just moved up from Valdosta.” Dr. Lindstead smiled and shook Sarah’s hand and said, “Your mom has told me you’re a nurse at the local hospital and that you’re single,” he said with a smile and a wink. gmlaurel.com

Sarah laughed as she glared at her mom who was quietly slipping away from the conversation, “Yes to both, my mom feels that I’m way past the marrying age…” “Not to worry Sarah, my mom feels the same way, they would get along quite well I would think.” Sarah smiled as they walked over to the seating area and sat close to the front. He was quite handsome in a boyish way, a stubble type beard and a completely bald head, wide shoulders, and quite fit in an athletic way. Glad she wore her new outfit, she thought. After exchanging a few words, the lights began to flicker, and the music started. The MC, Mr. Carry-On, as everyone lovingly called him because he never hushed, began the program. Aunt Betty-Boo was the fifth beauty contestant to walk out. At 93, she was still a looker. Beautiful white hair, olive skin, and bright blue eyes that danced all day. She looked amazing in the dress her mom bought for her in turquoise blue, that was beaded and bedazzled. Betty strutted as best as her legs would let her and the crowd clapped and whistled, including her and Dr. Linsteadt. Aunt Betty-Boo BEAMED. The time came for the announcement. Everyone held their breath. …and the winner is, “Ms. Ester Fields,” of Atlanta. Johnnie Sue and Sarah were stunned. In their hearts it should have been Betty, even though Ester was lovely also. After a while Betty swooped into the room and found her family. “Oh Betty, I’m sooo sorry you didn’t win,” Johnnie Sue said sadly. “Well,’ said Betty, I’m quite sure Ester won because she was in a wheel-chair.” “Betty! I can’t believe you said that!” Johnnie Sue exclaimed. “Well, it’s true, but that’s okay I’ll win next year.” “What makes you so sure?” “Well, I’ll be in a wheel chair whether I need it or not!” “Let’s go get some sweet tea Betty,” said Johnnie Sue, “we need to sugar-up that mouth of yours before any more words come out!” Sarah and Dr. Steve laughed over the entire conversation as they enjoyed sipping on plain ole’ black coffee at a nearby coffee shop. Sarah couldn’t help but think Aunt Betty-Boo would always be queen to her, and her mom would always be southern to the core. “What better heritage to come from?” Yes, it’s good to be southern and queen. And from the looks of Dr. Steve, he thought so too.

June 2018

Toughness, Dependence, and Living Water by Pastor Joey Thompson – Clayton Baptist Church

Matthew 4:1 - “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.”

love Rabun County. There is always something special about returning home. One of the things I enjoy about Rabun County is the water. We have it everywhere! One of the recent places that we just returned from was Israel. We took a group of 12 folks from Rabun County to the place that was promised to Abraham, conquered by Joshua, reigned over by King David, and where Jesus rose from the dead. This is the place where the church was born. What you learn while you are there is the incredible importance of water. Israel had no dependable source of water other than the Jordan River, which itself was dependent on precipitation. Of all the places that God could have given the Jewish people, He gave them the one place that did not have a major river like the Nile, Tigris, or Euphrates. In other words, they had to depend on God for the rain so that they could live. Now, the southern half of Israel is mostly desert. I want you to think of the desert. Perhaps, you have been to one. We put our family in the Family Truckster for vacation last year and drove across the country all the way to California. We had a blast! And we are all still on speaking terms! In fact, we talk about that vacation almost every day. One of the places we enjoyed the most was Arizona, which is another hot and dry desert. We are spoiled where we live in Rabun County! Water is everywhere. This is not the case in the desert. Takeaways I learned from the desert: 1. Grace: God chooses to put His hand on people. Just think 40

of some people mentioned in Scripture: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Ruth, David, Elijah, and Paul. These were all very tough people! No prophet, king, great man or woman of God would be considered a leader without a desert experience on his/her resume. God placed His hand on these people.

June 2018

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“Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life…”! Psalm 23:6 2. Toughness. Man or woman of God had to be brave and tough. How do we get tough? Not the means the world offers for toughness. By… 3. Depending on God. The way through the desert place is dependence on Him. Why? God wants for us to trust Him. He is cultivating a relationship with us. Not one that is passive, but active. We must actively trust and rely on Him every hour, every day. Our life, spiritually and physically, depends on it. Are you going through a desert? Rejoice! Your getting tougher by depending on God! James 1:2-3 “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Rabun has been a huge blessing to live in and a wonderful place raise our family for the last 11 years. The time has not been without its challenges. We have had our tough times and heartbreaks like any other family. One of those times has been with my oldest son, Aaron. He has had 2 knee surgeries, chronic stomach illness, several hospital stays, and a gall bladder removed in the last 3 years. He is doing much better now. This was a desert time in our lives. We learned more about God’s grace, toughness, and depending on God. It is all about relationship. But, there were times when we were all in danger of wearing out in our desert place. What helped us? 1. Jesus - Having a relationship with Him, every day, beginning in His Word. The Jews understand ‘living water’ as ‘the water that saves you,’ because it is so scarce. Make sure that you have a relationship through trusting Christ for your sins and receive this gift of an eternal relationship with Him. You will never regret it! John 7:37-38 Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” 2. Other believers - Do you have a crew, a squad, a tribe, a team? We call it the local church. Find one and get involved. (Not just casually attend.) What is going to keep us from wearing out? What does Rabun County truly need? We need Jesus, our Living Water! Thanks Rabun County! Love ya! Joey gmlaurel.com

June 2018

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June 2018

Flower, Garden and Liturgical Arts Festival

Come early and enjoy the morning demonstrations: Friday at 10:30, Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, Saturday at 10:30, Daylilies. The enthusiasm of each committee member, as they create their exhibit, is uplifting. They have a story to tell. To share the religions and the spiritual values celebrated around the world. To discover what translates beauty and calm to peoples in other nations. The influence of flowers in their culture. Each story will be told using flowers and other objects. Many nations will be represented. Our designers have much to offer. *Lebanon, the co-designer is of Phoenician/Lebanese heritage. The “Cedar of Lebanon” is the national tree and mentioned in the Bible.

arm days and cool evenings. It is summertime in the north Georgia mountains. Celebrate with us. It is our 12th annual “Flower, Garden and Liturgical Arts Festival”. Our theme this year is “Flowers & Faiths of Many Nations”. The festival will be at Saint James Episcopal Church, 260 Warwoman Road, Clayton, Georgia, Friday, June 22 and Saturday, June 23 from 9:30 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.

*Turkey, the designer lived in Turkey for two years near the Mediterranean Sea. *Singapore, exhibit is inspired by a visit to Singapore’s National Orchid Gardens. Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism are religions observed. *Netherlands, known for growing and shipping flowers around the world. This designer was born and raised by Dutch florists. Several exhibits will be presented by our youth. On display will be needlework by parishioners, pieces of art, music and vestments specific to seasons in the church year. The Gardens of Saint James will be on tour. They are planned and cared for by volunteers and considered sacred. We invite you to come share and be inspired by the love of Christ through our interpretations of Flowers and Faiths of Many Nations.

Promise of Hope

June 2018

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June 2018

Mountain Happenings June 8th - 10th Northeast Georgia Arts Tour 2018 Rabun, Habersham, White & Towns Counties Info: www.ArtsTour.org

July 21st “A Taste of the Good Life” Art Show & Wine Tasting Burton Gallery Clarkesville Info: 706.947.1351

STEPHENS COUNTY June 2nd and each Saturday, June through August Ida Cox Music Series Downtown Toccoa Info: idacoxmusicseries.com The Ritz Theater Toccoa Info: www.ritztheatretoccoa.com June 7th and each Thursday in June and July Summer Movies at the Ritz June 8th Southern Gospel Music: The Chuck Wagon Gang July 13th Southern Gospel Music: Cheryl Sumpter & Divine 3 with Clark Kaesler HABERSHAM COUNTY June 2nd and each Saturday through September Clarkesville Farmers’ Market Downtown Clarkesville Info: 706.778.9374 June 15th Friday Night Live: Live Music on the Square and Classic Car Cruise In at Old Courthouse Downtown Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220 July 4 Demorest Glorious Fourth of July Demorest Springs Park and Downtown Demorest Info: 706.778.4202 th

July 7th Lake Burton Fun Run LaPrade’s Marina, Clarkesville Info: www.lakeburtonfunrun.com July 7th Fireworks on Lake Burton South End of Billy Goat Island Info: www.lakeburtonfireworks.com July 20th Friday Night Live: Red, White & Tunes Pitts Park, Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220

Habersham Community Theatre Clarkesville Info: 706.839.1315 habershamtheater.org June 1st - 3rd, 7th - 10th “Anne of Green Gables” July 26th - 29th; August 2nd - 5th Musical - “Sweet Charity” WHITE COUNTY June 23rd Live Music The Cottage Vineyard & Winery Cleveland Info: 706.878.2181 July 27th Swing for the Hills Annual Golf Tournament 2018 Mossy Creek Golf Course Cleveland Info: 706.865.2277

July 10th - Anna Ruby Tuesday July 17th Arrowheads Through the Ages Camp July 24th - Farm Camp RABUN COUNTY June 1st an each Friday and Sunday through July Rock House Ramble Rock House Clayton Info: 706.212.0241 June 2nd and each Saturday Bluegrass on the Square Tallulah Falls Opera House Tallulah Falls Info: www.tallulahfallsgeorgia.org

July 14th Clayton Crawl Downtown Clayton Info: 706.982.1284 www.claytoncrawl.org

June 21st NGAG Program - “Sheep to Shawl” Keya Kuhn, Cedar Hill Farms Rabun County Conference Center Clayton Info: NorthGeorgiaArtsGuild.com

July 28th Garlic Festival Northeast Georgia Food Bank Clayton Info: 706.782.0780

June 22nd - 23rd St. James Episcopal Church - 2018 Flowers & Faith of Many Nations St. James Episcopal Church Clayton Info: 706.490.2867

Rabun County Music Festival The Rearden Theatre, RGNS Rabun Gap Info: rabunmusicfestival.com

June 25th - 29th July 9th - 14th Foxfire Summer Camp Foxfire, Mountain City Info: 706.746.5828 www.foxfire.org

July 7th - Evening in the Round

June 30th Rabun Ramble Road Race 2018 Lake Rabun Pavillion Lakemont Info: 917.903.8961 www.RabunRamble.com

Hardman Farm Sautee Nacoochee Info: 706.878.2077

June 2nd and each Saturday The Clayton Farmers’ Market NE GA Food Bank, Clayton Info: 706.782.0780

June 16th Live Music - The Welfare Liners Hatch Camp & Art Farm Clayton Info: 706.782.3747

June 30th Blackberries & Bluegrass Hillside Orchard Farms Lakemont Info: 706.782.2776 www.hillsideorchard.com June 30th - July 1st Speed Addicts Racing Heaven’s Landing Airstrip Clayton Info: 706.402.0262

June 23rd Atlanta Symphony Orchestra July 21st - Emile Pandolfi Tallulah Gorge Park Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.7981 June 2nd High Bluff Loop - National Trails Day June 16th Tempesta Waterfall Hike July 1st, 7th Gorge Floor Hike 12 Spies Vineyard Rabun Gap Info: 813.335.2886 www.12spiesvineyards.com June 9th - Blessing of the Vines July 4th, 7th, 14th Live Music

June 30th - July 1st Full Moon Party The River Campground Lakemont Info: 706.782.1625

Rabun Arena Tiger Info: 706.212.0452

July 10th, 17th, 24th Cooking Around the World Culinary Bootcamp (ages 6-12) Northeast Georgia Food Bank Clayton Info: 706.782.0780

June 9th; July 14th Junior Rodeo

July 14th - 15th Painted Fern Festival of Art Rabun County Civic Center Clayton Info: 706.982.9432

June 2018

June 2nd; July 7th - 8th M&K Quarterhorse Show

June 10th, 17th July 15th, 29th Barrel Racing Exhibition June 21st - 24th Southeastern Mounted Drill Team Competition June 30th - July 1st Bar W Rodeo

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TOWNS COUNTY June 1st & each Friday Night in June “Gazers of the Galaxy” Brasstown Bald Recreation Area & Visitors Center, Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4137 June 2nd and each Saturday in June and July Music on the Square 2018 Hiawassee Square, Hiawassee Info: 706.896.2203 June 2nd and each Saturday Saturday Night Music Mountain Home Music Theatre Hiawassee Info: 706.896.3624 June 9th - 10th Home & Garden Show Towns County Recreation & Convention Center, Young Harris Info: 828.321.2111 June 16th Concert - Doctor Paul Music Barn, Hiawassee Info: 706.970.2112 June 30th - July 1st Made in Georgia Festival Towns County Rec Center Young Harris Info: 706.896.4966 July 4th 4th of July Boat Parade on Lake Chatuge Spectators can enjoy the parade from the Old Towns County Recreation Center, Anderson Bridge and the Georgia Mountain Fair Campgrounds - Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4966

Crane Creek Vineyards Young Harris Info: 706.379.1236 May 4th and each Friday Friday Evening Tapas & Acoustic July 3rd Bulletproof Concert Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4191 georgiamountainfairgrounds.com June 30th Justin Moore Concert July 4th 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks July 13th - 14th Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruizin Info: 662.587.9572 July 14 Concert - Molly Hatchet and Atlanta Rhythm Section th

June 2nd and each Saturday through October 6th Cruise In to the Union County Farmers’ Market Old Smokey Rd., Blairsville Info: 678.773.5934 June 7th and the first Thursday of the month Shop Late Thursday Downtown Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 June 9th - 10th 15th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games Meeks Park Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789 June 16th and the third Saturday of each month Cruise-In on the Square Downtown Courthouse Square Blairsville Info: 863.414.5276

UNION COUNTY

June 21st Buy Local Extravaganza North Georgia Technical College Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789

June 1st and each Friday through October Friday Concert Series Old Courthouse, Blairsville Info: 706.745.5493

June 23rd - 24th 11th Annual Mountain Fling North Georgia Technical College Blairsville Info: 706.896.0932

June 2 and each Saturday and Tuesday through October Union County Farmers’ Market Old Smokey Rd., Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789, 706.439.6000

June 23 2nd Annual Allegheny Masonic Lodge Golf Tournament Butternut Creek Golf Course Blairsville Info: 770.833.76.90, 706.781.7903

July 20th - 28th Georgia Mountain Fair

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June 2018

June 23rd Corner Concert Betty & the Do a Lil Pickin’ Band Downtown Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 June 30th Lake Nottely Boat Parade U.S. Hwy 19/129, Blairsville Info: 706.745.3638 June 30th Mountain Roots Revival Grandaddy Mimm’s Distillery Blairsville Info: grandaddymimms.com July 4th Independence Day Celebration Vogel State Park, Blairsville Info: 706.745.2628 July 4th Independence Day Fireworks Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789 July 21st - 22nd 20th Annual Butternut Creek Festival Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: www.butternutcreekfestival.com The Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center, Blairsville Info: 706.745.2655 June 4th and each Monday (excluding holidays) Garden Tour July 18th Free Seminar: Backyard Milk Goats

Mountain Happenings Paradise Hills Resort Blairsville Info: www.paradisehillsga.com

June 16th, 19th, 21st, 30th July 7th - 14th, 28th Contra & Square Dance

June 2nd & each Saturday & Sunday Live Music

June 22nd Steve Hickman & John Devine

July 6 30 Year Celebration

June 29 - Just Us

Union County Saddle Club Arena Blairsville June 15th - 16th 2018 Blairsville Pro Rodeo Info: 706.435.8298 June 30th Sacketts Summer Sizzler Jackpot Barrel Race Info: 706.897.2292 CLAY COUNTY, NC June 2nd; July 14th Songwriters Showcase Peacock Performing Arts Center Hayesville Info: 828.389.2787 thepeacocknc.org June 7 and each Thursday through September 4th Hayesville Farmers’ Market Historic Courthouse Square Hayesville Info: 828.389.6305 rd

July 14 - 15 Festival on the Square Hayesville Info: 828.389.0129 th

July 15th - 29th Sacred Threads Art Quilt Exhibition Good Shepherd Episcopal Hayesville Info: 828.389.0850 John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown Info: 800.365.5724 folkschool.org June 5th and Each Tuesday Beginner Contra & Square Dance June 9th English Country Dance Series June 15th Boomchuck Swing Time

July 4th 4th of July Celebration Highlands - Various Locations Info: 828.526.2112 July 14th Appalachian Heritage Festival Downtown Franklin Info: 828.524.2516

July 8th Annual Shape Note Singing

July 26th - 29th 52nd Annual Macon County Gemboree Robert C Carpenter Community Building, Franklin Info: 828.524.3161

July 20th The Band Kelley MACON COUNTY, NC June 1st and each Friday through October Friday Night Live Concert Series Town Square Highlands Info: 828.526.5841

Cowee School Franklin Info: coweeschool.org June 16th and the Third Saturday of the Month SEBA Jam

June 2nd and each Saturday Night through October Pickin on the Square Downtown Franklin Info: 828.524.2516

June 16th Concert: The Clydes July 21st Concert: Carolina Blue

June 7 - 10 Highlands Motoring Festival Highlands Info: HighlandsMotoringFestival.com th

June 16th Taste of Scotland Festival Downtown Franklin Info: 828.524.3161 June 16th Low Country Shrimp Boil Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Highlands Info: 828.526.2112 June 23rd - 24th Highlands Village Square Art & Craft Show Kelsey-Hutchinson Park Highlands Info: 828.787.2021 July 4th 4th of July Parade Downtown Franklin Info: 828.524.2516 July 4th 4th of July Fireworks in the Park Macon County Veteran’s Memorial Park, Franklin Info: 828.524.3161

July 20th Mountains in Bloom July 22nd The Bascom Gala Highlands Performing Arts Center Highlands Info: highlandspac.net May 31st - June 3rd HCP: Rodger’s & Hammerstein’s Some Enchanted Evening, A Musical Review June 17th The Official Blues Brothers Band June 21st - 24th An Evening with Danny Kaye June 30th Tapestry: Music of Carol King July 6th HCMF: Sibling Rivalry triple Double July 8th HCMF: Songs of Norway

July 28th Contra Dance Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts Franklin Info: 866.273.4615; 828.524.1598 GreatMountainMusic.com June 8th Taylor Mason - Laugh-Out Loud Comedy & Ventriloquism June 22nd - 23rd, 29th - 30th The Leader of the Pack - The Musical Life of Ellie Greenwich July 6th - 7th The Isaacs’ Musication Nation

July 13th HCMF: Mentors & Protogees July 15th HCMF: Jazz Meets Classics Songs of Love July 20th HCMF: An Evening of Concertos July 22nd HCMF: An Evening of Concertos 2 July 27th HCMF: Best of Bethoven July 29th HCMF: Schubertiade

July 13th Mountain Voices July 26th Folkmoot USA

Highlands Playhouse Highlands Info: 828.526.2695

July 27th The Sock Hops

June 6th - Patron Party The Bascom Highlands Info: 828.526.4949 June 23rd The Bascom’s Family Day

June 2018

July 1st Annual Fundraiser - Starstruck July 27th 80th Anniversary

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June 2018

The North Georgia Arts Guild Presents

Painted Fern Festival of Art N

July 14th & 15th

orth Georgia Art Guildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature summer arts and fine crafts event is coming to town. Always the second weekend in July, the Painted Fern Festival of Art will be at the Rabun County Civic Center in downtown Clayton on July 14 and 15, 2018.

The Rabun County Civic Center is very accessible with abundant free parking, and air-conditioned comfort. Admission is free.

NGAG members and other fine artists and artisans will show their work: paintings, traditional and contemporary, landscape and abstract; pottery, functional and whimsical; fiber arts for fun, color, function; jewelry crafted of silver, copper, glass, and gemstones; photography; and glasswork. The range of art is as diverse as the creative talents of the 40 exhibitors at the Painted Fern Festival of Art.

We invite you to join us for an exceptional and popular show in a gallery-like setting. Meet the artists and artisans who are quite possibly your neighbors; learn how their creations came to be. Then at the end of the day, take home a unique piece of artwork and a story. Painted Fern Festival of Art begins Saturday, July 14 from 10AM until 5PM and continues Sunday, July 15, from 11AM to 4PM at the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah Street, Clayton. Visit NorthGeorgiaArtsGuild.com

June 2018

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June 2018

Rhapsody in Rabun and Rabun County Band Boosters Partner for Our Students music education. These studies include the band program and the impact it has on students. Studies show that participation in band cultivates social skills such as encouraging teamwork through peer interaction and communication. Ms. Cordell: I definitely agree with this. I remember Hannah’s first year in marching band and the family she seemed to make within drumline. The comradery and teamwork helped push her to do her best and strive to improve for the betterment of the band. I think that band enabled Hannah to be much less fearful when meeting and speaking to new people. For example, when she moved here this past summer, band was not only the thing that allowed her to get a taste of Rabun before the school year started, but it also gave her a stable foundation to build on when the school year started. Ms. York: Participating in band can help build self esteem and leadership skills. Ms. Cordell: When Hannah began going through the phase most adolescents go through when they are completely unsure of their identity, she would always resort to playing the drums as her outlet. On top of having an individual outlet, the people in band stuck with her and she continues to say that her favorite memories in high school thus far have been with band kids. Hannah has always been relatively headstrong and a natural leader, but being in band finally forced her to be a follower. The qualities that she learned from following ultimately enabled her to be a better leader. Her past and present band participation has helped her to have vision and goals for herself by helping out others, and I am so thankful she is able to lead and follow so much better simply due to band. Ms. York: Learning to play an instrument, memorizing music, or learning a marching show teaches children about delayed gratification. How has your child handled the many hours of practice to learn their instrument, music, and marching shows? How do you know when they’ve finally “got it?”

s. Vanessa York posed some questions to the mother of one of the Rabun County Band students to gain insight into how band participation impacted students. Her answers offered great insight to the positive affects the band program has on Rabun County students. In sharing the interview with you, our readers, we hope to demonstrate the priceless benefits of band membership. The Rabun County Band Booster program was chosen as the recipient of the 2018 Rhapsody in Rabun event planned for August 11th, 2018. The gala includes dinner provided by the area’s finest restaurants, live entertainment, and silent and live auctions. It is a night of charitable giving and demonstrates the heart of Rabun County residents, local businesses, and the community as a whole. The Rabun County Band program will benefit by way of new uniforms and instrument replacement or repairs for the students. Investing in our students is always a worthy cause. We thank the parents and families of students who support the band and the band students who continue to impress and represent our county well. Ms. York: Countless studies have been conducted on the benefits of

Ms. Cordell: The dedication and long hours of practice has physically broken Hannah. However, her love of marching band seems to pull her back in and is the sole motivation to heal her every time. She never seems to complain about the soreness, the weather, the time, the effort, or anything else because you can tell how much band has become a part of who she is. She always forces herself through the physicality. She will come home after practice and continue practicing the music even more on her own. As annoying as it may be to hear her tapping out the same thing over and over (or so it seems the same thing), when she finally gets it, you can tell because of the victorious attitude she holds after the fact. Ms. York: Please discuss any other points that you wish to about your child’s experience with the band program. Ms. Cordell: Band has been Hannah’s “go to” coping mechanism since we moved here following her freshman year. It allowed her to feel confident and make strong relationships. The difference band seems to hold over all the other programs she has been involved in, is the fact that band is not a team, it is a family. For information and reservations: www.rhapsodyinrabun.com 706-782-6110

June 2018

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Dreams Come True sTables offers

summer Horse Camp for KiDs & Teens

reams Come True Stables is open for business in Rabun County. Learning to ride a horse encompasses so much more than jumping in the saddle. It is important to learn to care for the horse, learn about tack, and how to prepare for the ride. This is all part of the training offered by instructor and stable owner Kristen Smith. She has spent her life on horseback and teaching others to ride is literally her dream come true. Kristen and instructor Maddi Church work together with children and adults who wish to learn to ride. The stable boards horses as well. This year they are pleased to offer Summer Horse Camp for kids and teens (7-17 years of age). The camp will be open from 8 am – 1 pm Monday – Thursday, beginning June 18-21, July 16-19, July 30 – August 2. Attendees will have riding lessons each day, enjoy games, crafts, and fun with friends. The cost is $300 per week. All skill levels are accommodated and bag lunches are encouraged. Dreams Come True Stables is located on Worley Creek Road in Wiley, Georgia. For more information or to register for Summer Horse Camp please call Kristen Smith at 706.982.1174.

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June 2018

Chow Down on June 23 and Change a Child’s Life by John Shivers

t’s not often you can have your cake and eat it, too! One of those rare occasions will happen on Saturday, June 23, when restaurants from Tiger to Dillard give you a chance to enjoy your favorite dishes on their menus, and also make a contribution guaranteed to make a big difference in a needy child’s life. On that Saturday a number of area restaurants have pledged to contribute up to 20 percent of their profits for that day only to Richard’s Kids, the local, grassroots organization that turns 20 years old this year. Working under the mission statement Answering Christ’s call to minister to the health, wealth, and self-esteem of children in need in Rabun County, the organization invests approximately $100.00 in each child served. Their purchases routinely include new, sturdy, appropriatelysized clothing, shoes, socks, and underwear. Sometimes a winter coat is on the list, and on rare occasions, even medical assistance has been partially-funded. These participating restaurants have recognized the value that Richard’s Kids delivers both to the children and to the community, and will be waiting with wide smiles and warm welcomes on June 23rd, when you arrive to dine and enjoy and make a difference. Between breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a late-evening snack, it’s possible to hit at least four different locations that day, and you can select from Chic-fil-A, Clark’s on Main, Cupboard Café, Dillard House, Fortify Kitchen & Bar, Fortify Pi, Goats on the Roof, Granny’s Kuntry Kitchen, Kingwood Restaurant, Oinkers, Rusty Bike, Smoothie Bar at Clayton Health & Fitness, Subway, Sunday Diner, The Wicked Pig, Universal Joint, Valley Café, and Zaxby’s.

Additional restaurants are still being recruited, so watch local media for updates. If you don’t see your favorite restaurant on this list, ask them if they’re participating. Richard’s Kids has been around long enough to establish a track record and make a difference. Testimony to the value of the investment made in the lives of these young children is perhaps most compelling when heard from the mouths of those children themselves. A first-grader who received clothes from Richard’s Kids in 1998 would be in his or her mid-twenties now. Richard and Sarah Powers consistently encounter people who thank them, sharing firsthand how the gift of new clothes changed their lives. Because the identities of the children receiving assistance are protected, most time these two angels do not even know these grateful individuals. Mighty oaks from little acorns grow, and such was the case with Richard’s Kids. What started as a one-time hand-up to a small boy who dropped his lunch tray while trying to hold up his wellworn pants that were too large, has grown in ways that Richard and Sarah could never have imagined. Now a 501 (c) 3 organization with a guiding board of directors, the group doesn’t hold annual fundraising events. It relies instead on concerned individuals and organizations to underwrite this ministry to children in Rabun County. “God has provided for us every year,” Richard said in late 2015. One of the ways God is providing in 2018 is through this restaurant fundraising event. It equates to good food for a good cause, and everyone loves to eat. Enjoy your meal and help Richard’s Kids.

June 2018

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June 2018

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June 2018

Bon Appetit

Hooray for Fathers

by Scarlett Cook

une is the month that we honor graduates, brides, and fathers. Since the chances are good that you will have one of the three, here is a meal that will celebrate any or all of them. And of course any meal that you can do ahead is that much more cherished.

Marinated Artichoke and Shrimp Salad

Serves 6

2 1/2 Pounds medium size fresh shrimp cooked 1/2 Cup mayonnaise 1/2 Cup sour cream 1/2 Cup chopped fresh parsley 5 Green onions, thinly sliced 1 Tablespoon grated lemon peel 2 Tablespoons dry Italian salad dressing mix 1 Teaspoon hot sauce or to taste 1 Large can marinated artichokes, well drained Peel and devein shrimp. Mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, onion, peel, dressing mix, and hot sauce and stir well. Stir in shrimp and artichokes. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Roasted Potato Salad Serves 6

2 Tablespoons olive oil 2 Pounds red potatoes, diced 1/2 Medium onion, chopped 2 Teaspoons minced garlic 1 Teaspoon sea salt 1/2 Teaspoon black pepper 8 – 10 Slices cooked bacon slices, crumbled 1 Bunch green onions, chopped 3/4 Cup Ranch dressing Preheat oven to 425˚. Place oil on cookie sheet with sides. Add potatoes and chopped onion, garlic, salt and pepper; toss to coat. Arrange potatoes in single layer. Bake for 30 – 35 minutes or until potatoes are tender. When done transfer to a large bowl. Toss with bacon, green onions and dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill until ready to serve. 60

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Stuffed Red Peppers with Cheesy Polenta and Green Chilies

Serves 6

3 Medium sized red bell peppers 3/4 Cup polenta 3 Garlic cloves, minced 2 Cups water 1 Teaspoon salt 1/2 Teaspoon garlic salt 1/4 Teaspoon black pepper 1/2 Cup whipping cream 1 7-Ounce can whole green chilies, drained and chopped 2/3 Cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 Cups (8 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1/2 Cup Parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 400˚. Cut peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Place peppers in a greased 13” x 9” baking dish. Whish together polenta, garlic, water, salt, garlic salt, and pepper in a large saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil. Cook stirring constantly 5 – 7 minutes until polenta thickens. Stir in whipping cream, chilies, cilantro and cheeses. Stir well. Spoon mixture into peppers. Bake 25 – 30 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Fruited Yellow Cake Serves 12

1 Package yellow cake mix 1/3 Cup water 1/3 Cup vegetable oil 3 Large eggs 1 11-Ounce can mandarin oranges, drained 1 15-Ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained 1 Small package vanilla instant pudding mix 1 12-Ounce container Cool Whip, thawed 1/2 Cup chopped pecans Preheat oven to 350˚. Grease and flour 3 8” cake pans. Beat with electric mixer the cake mix, water, oil and eggs together in a large bowl, until blended. Stir in oranges. Pour into prepared pans. Bake 25 – 30 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool layers in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove layers from pans and cool completely on rack. Stir together pineapple, pudding mix, Cool Whip and pecans. Spread mixture between layers and on top of cake. Chill at least 3 hours or overnight before serving. Store leftover cake in refrigerator. gmlaurel.com

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One cannot think well, love well, sleep well if one has not dined well. - Virginia Woolf

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June 2018

The Family Table by Lorie Thompson

y family goes camping each Spring. There are generally 20-30 people who camp in tents and under blue tarps strung along the lakeside. We fish, boat ride, and watch the children swim, but mostly we cook and eat! Supper each night is a big deal; featuring fried deer meat, fried potatoes, fried catfish, and fried hush puppies. Are you getting the picture? Lots of frying going on! All of this is great but the most loved meal of the entire weekend is breakfast! It always includes biscuits, sausage, bacon or ham gravy, homegrown eggs, and homemade strawberry preserves! My Mama made biscuits almost every weekend morning. I can remember being small enough to sit on the kitchen counter and allowed to make the “baby biscuit’. It was the last bit of dough, too small to cut out. Of course, since I was the baby, this was my very own biscuit. Mama used Crisco, ‘sweet milk” and White Lily Self-rising Flour. Her biscuits were thin and flaky. My husband likes a thicker, softer biscuit and so, I make mine somewhere in the middle of the two. Pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees. Using a large bowl, mix 2 Cups of self-rising Flour with 1/2 C of shortening. (lard, butter or Crisco) You can use a pastry cutter, a fork or your hands. Crumble the shortening in until it looks like small peas. It is okay to “work” the dough at this point but once the liquid is added treat the dough gently or you will have tough biscuits. Add 3/4 C of whole buttermilk and stir just until moistened through. Turn dough out onto a floured surface. (use parchment or your clean countertop dusted with flour) Knead dough 5-6 times with a bit of flour and then roll into a circle. Be sure to lightly flour your hands and the rolling pin. Cut out the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet. Knead together the remaining dough and cut out the biscuits again. Roll the last bit into your very own “Baby Biscuit”. Brush the tops with melted butter. Place the biscuits into a hot oven 10-15 minutes until biscuits are golden. My husband loves cream-gravy. You can make the gravy from the drippings of whatever kind of breakfast meat you are serving. My basic gravy measurements are 3T of drippings to 2 1/2 T of flour. You may need to measure in the beginning, but as you make it you will be able to adjust for larger or smaller quantities. Add the self-rising flour to the drippings and continue to cook over medium heat while stirring. The flour should cook until it is medium brown in color. After it is brown, turn off heat and allow the pan to cool. The darker you cook the flour, the less thickening power it has. If you like it very dark, add more flour. When you put your biscuits in to cook, turn the heat back on under your gravy pan. Add a 12oz. can of evaporated milk and 1 cup of whole milk to the pan as it starts to warm. Bring the gravy to a slow simmer while you are stirring. Cook for 4-5 more minutes while bubbling (keep stirring) and remove from heat. Salt and pepper to taste. I have a found a wonderful new way to cook bacon! Lay your strips in a cold pan. Cover with 1/2 C of cold water. Cook over medium heat until the water has completely evaporated. Turn bacon to crisp on both sides. The bacon will be crisp and lay flat. For really great scrambled eggs, splurge on good eggs! Homegrown if you can get them. Break eggs into a large bowl and whisk them, incorporating as much air as possible. Keep whisking! You want those eggs fluffy! Do not add milk! You want to taste the rich flavour of the egg, not diluted by milk. Cook the eggs in lots of real butter. 1 T of butter for every 4 eggs. Cook very slowly over low heat. I use a rubber spatula to gently move the eggs around as they cook. Don’t chop them up and make them look like milk curds. Keep them light and fluffy. Add salt and pepper to taste. I love to add 1-2 ounces of a really good mild flavoured cheese at the very end. Something like Gouda or Fontina. I believe having a happy life is all about enjoying the small moments of joy scattered throughout each day. Beginning your day with a home-cooked breakfast is one life’s great little moments. Cook some biscuits and gravy up for your family and enjoy the

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time together! Better yet, go camping together! 2018 camp-out laughs: * Brother Cannon was still sleeping a little past daybreak on Sunday morning while several of us enjoyed our coffee around the campfire. We could hear his rhythmic snoring. Suddenly, the snoring stopped and we heard “Uh, uh, uh”! We could see his tent jerking. It looked like he was doing jumping jacks inside! Suddenly, the entire tent collapsed and we could see the outline of him crawling around inside while looking for the zippered door. He emerged laughing and telling us about a massive muscle cramp that had attacked him. * Claudia was readying her 3-pound “killer” Chi-wow-wow for a walk. Before she could get him leashed, he escaped her and ran across the camp. He viciously attacked Pete’s 90 pounds, peacefully sleeping, German Shepherd. I think poor “Rossi the shepherd ” is still wondering were that Tasmanian Devil came from. *My cousin was changing her young son into a swimsuit when his “hurricane” baby sister rounded the corner and spied him in mid-change. She gleefully cried, “Mama, ‘C…’ has a tail!” Go camping with your family and laugh a lot!

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June 2018

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June 2018

Live Healthy and Be Well! “Statin alternatives and heart healthy supplements” by Stephen Jarrard, MD, FACS

his will be the third in the “Cholesterol and Statin” series we started back in the March issue of the Georgia Mountain Laurel. As with the two before, it relies heavily on a source I would recommend to you a book by Dr. Jonny Bowden, PhD (Nutrition) and Dr. Stephen Sinatra, MD (Cardiology). They have written much about these topics, but most relevant is a book called “The Great Cholesterol Myth” published in 2012. In the first two articles, we described what cholesterol is and what it does for you, and how you actually need a certain amount for proper function of your body’s cells, especially neural network cells in the brain and spinal cord systems. It seems to have gotten to be a part of our medical culture that high cholesterol from a fatty diet will lead to cholesterol plaques forming in your arteries, which will cause blockages which can lead to increased heart attacks and strokes. The accepted remedy has been to take a statin drug if you have high cholesterol, or even given to some with normal levels, the “normal” tag being somewhat arbitrarily assigned in the past as a level of 200. However, the literature in the past 25 years since statins have been used widely does not support that theory, and we find that statins can have significant side effects. As an aside, I recently received an email from a very healthy gentleman who had very normal (even envious) cholesterol numbers in the past. His doctor thought a statin drug might give him even extra protection as he was aging gracefully. He began to have problems with muscle and joint pains and had to stop the drug. It took several months for the effects to subside.

Red yeast rice is made from fermenting rice with a special yeast. It has been found to reduce cholesterol better than placebo. It is not naturally occurring in foods, but may be taken as a supplement without need for a prescription. It contains at least one of the substances found in statin drugs and works like those medicines. It may be suitable for those who wish to reduce their cholesterol slightly and do not wish to try a statin drug. However, because it does work like a statin, it works in the liver, and can have some of the same side effects, albeit usually milder, than statins. If you have very high cholesterol, liver or kidney disease, or difficult to control diabetes, this is not the best recommendation for you. We have written about the overall benefits of the Omega-3 fatty acids many times, but they may also be used to improve your lipid profile to a significant degree and are very protective and good for your cardiovascular system. Also known as “fish oil,” this may be the ultimate wellness supplement. A recent review of the effects of Omega-3 at the Harvard School of Public Health concluded that its consumption “…lowers

However, if you feel that you must control cholesterol, or if your numbers are very high, especially triglycerides, there are some alternatives to the statin drugs that have also been found to be quite useful. We will briefly discuss Red Yeast Rice, Omega-3, and Fiber as good examples. Also, to mention a couple of related supplements that have found to be very heart protective, Magnesium and Co-Q10 are worthy of consideration. 68

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plasma triglycerides, resting heart rate, and blood pressure.” It is also a well-known anti-oxidant, can lower cholesterol, and is also a good booster for your immune system. Recommended dose is 1 gram daily. But, be sure and check the label as 1 gram of fish oil is not 1 gram of Omega-3. Look for total Omega-3 on the label and that might mean taking 2 or even 3 capsules daily, but it is well worth it.

follow given your individual situation. This must be done with consideration of your family history, medical history, current medicines you take, allergy information, and always should include regular physical exams and lab work – and this is all done by your personal doctor.

Fiber is one of the original treatments for cholesterol, and some of the current medicines for cholesterol and triglycerides, known as “fibrates,” are fiber based. Fiber in your diet tends to absorb the cholesterol in your gut before it can absorb into the blood stream. We should all eat more fiber, which is reduced in modern processed foods, as it is also good for us in many other ways.

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!

There are a couple of other supplements worth mentioning that can be very protective and healthy for your heart and blood vessels. I have recently become more aware of the benefits of magnesium thanks to a reader who contacted me and even sent me an excellent book about it. Magnesium is also known as “nature’s calcium channel blocker,” and by this action serves as a “relaxer.” Calcium can be detrimental to your heart muscle, and magnesium serves to block that effect. Calcium is very good in your bones and teeth, but not good at all in your coronary arteries – a major cause of blockages (likely more to blame than cholesterol). Magnesium can help prevent and reduce this problem. It also helps to lower blood pressure by its relaxing effect on the arteries. And, one other great benefit of magnesium is that it helps manage blood sugar by decreasing insulin resistance, the cause of type II diabetes. Recommended dose is 500 to 1000 mg per day. Look for an article on this supplement soon, there is more to the story but not enough room this month. Coenzyme Q-10 (Co-Q10) is something we mentioned in the last article on this subject. It is produced along the same biochemical pathway as cholesterol. So, when statin drugs block that pathway, they also block the production of Co-Q10. This is a problem because this important substance is what helps turn fuel into energy for your cells. It is like a spark plug in a gas engine that helps turn the fuel vapor into energy to drive the machine. Remember, your heart is a muscle and needs fuel into energy to power the pump. If you are on a statin drug, you really must take a supplement of Co-Q10 as your statin is depleting your natural stores. Recommended dose for those on a statin is 100 mg twice a day, and for those not, at least 100 mg per day. Besides helping your heart work better, it also lowers blood pressure and is a powerful anti-oxidant. It should be noted that although over the counter here, it has been available as a prescription drug for congestive heart failure in Japan since 1974. In summary, consider the above information in your health and wellness plan. By all means, research for yourself, and talk to your doctor about what might be the best course for you to gmlaurel.com

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June 2018

Lovin’ the Journey: A Short Trek Bluegrass and Kilts by Mark Holloway

f you have any Celtic ancestors hanging out in your family tree, you most likely enjoy bluegrass music.

Music is powerful. I remember a college professor saying it’s abnormal for anyone not to like some form of music. I enjoy a broad spectrum. My ‘go to’ choice are the fine artists at Bethel Music. But you’ll also find jazz and Sinatra Sirius XM presets in my truck. But the Bluegrass channel gets lots of airtime in the cab of my F150. Years ago, Ray Hughes unpacked the link between humans, worship, and music. He goes so far as to say your DNA plays a big role in the music you are most drawn too. Your favorite music is entertaining, but songs that stir you deeply probably have roots in your soul. Bluegrass is the Celts gift to America. Listen to the two styles back to back and you’ll feel the connection. If any of your people caught a boat here from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, or England...you just might be moved by the sound of a fiddle and guitar. I bet the same is true about food. Since eating is sorta critical to the process, I bet there’s also a link between what we like and where we’re from. But back to Bluegrass.... I like to imagine one evening in the 1700s when some folks, fresh in from Dublin, joined some other folks from Scotland, and maybe

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some Native Americans. I bet they gathered around a warm fire and sent music echoing through our mountain hollers. By the 1920s Appalachian Bluegrass made it to radio in Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry. Most of America met mountain music for the first time. Recently Carol and I were in Dahlonega for a wedding. Our timing was perfect. The late afternoon event left us with lots of time Saturday. It so happens a festival was underway. At some point in the past, a bear wandered into town square. Dahlonega hosted America’s first gold rush. But the bear was probably up a tree looking for honey, not gold. Some smart folks decided to host the first Bear on the Square Mountain Festival 23 years ago. Smart move. Having a cool name helps. Bear on the Square works. Picturesque mountain hamlets are easy pickins to draw tourists. We meandered for hours. I even bought a handcrafted hickory long bow complete with a live demonstration by its creator to teach me how to string it. As a longtime bow hunter, I just might take this primitive stick into the woods next deer season.

Georgia. He was a fellow Louisville Kentucky Ironman. Go figure. Then there was Paul Shellnut from Anniston, Alabama. He buckdanced on a small board he’d carry from site to site, matching his feet to the rhythm of the bands. This April event is one of many mountain festivals. Tracy keeps us aware of them in this magazine’s calendar. But I kindly suggest you set your sites on Dahlonega in late April 2019. You most likely won’t see a bear on the square. You will however hear excellent mountain music. You may even see a man in a kilt. See you on the trail. Mark and his wife Carol are the owners of Fresh Start Property Stewards. A company dedicated to being your eyes, ears and hands when you can’t be. He is also our cover artist this month. Mark can be reached at 706.490.7060

But the music.....oh the music. The courthouse-turned-gold museum graces the very center of town. There were so many great bluegrass bands circling the courthouse, trying to settle on just one was impossible. Some of the musicians blended together like pecan pie and sweet tea. Other pickers just walked up and joined in seamlessly like they’d known each other’s talent since childhood. We toured the historic jail, held hands and strolled. I even climbed up in a tree to get a good picture of a large group of pickers and grinders. I met an upright bass player from Macon,

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June 2018

Notes from a Southern Kitchen Lessons from My Father by Kendall R. Rumsey

une is the month we celebrate our Fathers. Anyone who knows me well knows I had a pretty good dad. Ray Rumsey was a teacher, coach, husband, father, and grandfather. He taught many of the people who live in this county and coached hundreds of young men on the football field.

of Beck Funeral Home just before leaving for the Church. Sam gathered us in a circle, just the five of us. As he stepped into the role of family patriarch, we held hands and prayed, he spoke words of love and reminded us that together, as a team we would move forward. In that moment it was obvious that daddy’s life lesson of family team-work had come full circle. SLOW DOWN and THINK:

My daddy’s lessons stretched much further than those on the field and in the classroom. He taught us about life, love, and the challenges and triumphs we would encounter in life.

Daddy never got in a hurry. His words were well thought-through and deliberate. While it often seemed like his guidance rolled off the tip of his tongue, he usually knew what he was going to say before he ever broached a subject.

Our household was often filled with some of daddy’s “kids,” who may be struggling with challenges at home and in school, he always took time for his students and made them part of our extended family.

It used to drive me crazy when I knew I was going to get in trouble for something and the punishment wasn’t instant, it often came hours after the infraction occurred because daddy was in “deliberation.”

When I was younger, I was often jealous of the time my dad spent with others, but as I have matured I understand that he had an innate ability to share his life experiences with others without ever taking time away from my family.

In High School, my father was my 12th Grade American Government teacher. I was pretty good in history and enjoyed learning about what had come before.

Daddy taught me many lessons in life, but now that he has gone, there are three that stand with me and guide my life most. In recognition of Father’s Day and in my mind the best dad to have ever lived, I thought I would share those with you. TEAMWORK: As a Coach, my dad lived for teamwork. On the football field he taught his teams that nothing could be accomplished by individuals without the full team supporting the cause. Through life those lessons appeared repeatedly in our home. When we lost my brother, it took a team effort to get us through. When my mom was hospitalized for extended periods of time, we all had a role to play until she returned. These strong lessons of teamwork were woven into every area of our family life, from mundane chores (Sam emptied the trash, I cleared the dinner dishes) to roles that shaped the direction of our family through generations to come. When my dad passed, our small family gathered in the chapel

On the first test of the course, on the first question of the semester in a true-false format, the test read: “In the American Court system, a defendant is guilty until proven innocent.” Simple question that everyone should know the answer to. After we took the test, daddy collected them all and redistributed them to the class with each one of us checking the answers. As he read the first question, daddy said, “Now kids, did anyone miss this?” One hand raised up and out of the mouth of my arch nemesis the words came out….. “Your son.” My dad gave me one of those looks that I always dreaded, and I sunk down in my chair. When I got home that day, I went straight to my room, I did not want to have to discuss what had happened in class. Through dinner and into the evening nothing was said and then, just before bed, daddy yelled for me to come down.

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As I sat on the couch, all he said was, “Slow down, life is too short to speed through and when you do, you miss the simple stuff.” Lesson learned. Now that I am older, I realize the importance of that lesson. Life is too short to rush through, and when you do you miss the little things, that can make all the difference in the world. From a sunrise, to the intense conversation from a four-year-old about the adventures of Moana, just slow down and appreciate the moments we pass through. My daddy taught me to appreciate the big and little things in life and just slow down. Life creeps up quickly so enjoy every minute. LOVE IS ALL THERE IS: My dad showed love to my family and many others throughout my life, but his most valuable example came just days before his death. On a Sunday afternoon, in a room at North East Georgia Medical Center, my family was gathered in his room. We knew time was short and these moments were precious. That day, two cousins and my best friend had joined us visiting with daddy. The room was filled to standing room only and as we visited, daddy was in all his glory. That day, he told us stories I had never heard before. He told us stories from his childhood, he told stories about his days in the boxing ring, and stories about my brother and mom. We laughed, and all chimed in sharing our own special memories.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, I will remember those lessons and the man who taught them to me. Happy Father’s Day to all of you and to the greatest dad anyone could have ever known, Ray Rumsey. Catch some fish, cook a nice juicy steak, and love. You are missed today and every day, but the lessons you taught live forever in my heart. Kendall Rumsey is a resident of Clayton, GA. He is owner of imPRESSed, a custom imprint company and publishes the blog, Notes from a Southern Kitchen. www.impressedstyle.com www.notesfromasouthernkitchen.com

As we were talking, daddy suddenly interrupted the conversation and told us, “Just feel that, this is all there is….. love.” With those words the conversation stopped and that feeling of love washed over everyone in the room. That hospital room was filled with love that day and as daddy quickly approached the end of his life, he taught me the most valuable lesson there is: indeed love is all there is. Without love life isn’t worth living, the beauty of this single emotion brings it all into focus and makes everything worthwhile. I was fortunate to have a father who taught about life and led by example in all endeavors he pursued. My father’s life was an example of teamwork, appreciation for life, and love. I am fortunate to have had that example to follow.

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June 2018

By the Way…

When Pigs Fly Up a Trail by Emory Jones

hat the media are already calling “TrailGate,” all started when my pet pig, Cunningham, found a brochure advertising that new footpath from The Hardman Farm to the town of Helen.

When the day came, there were cars in the lot from as far off as Lula.

He was especially tickled because the brochure said the route ran along an old pig trail. Being part pig himself, Cunningham was in, well, Hog Heaven. That’s why he wanted to become the first pig to walk the new trail on opening day this spring. Even my wife, Judy, liked the idea because it got him out of the house.

We found out later that the airspace over the Indian Mound is restricted, even for the governor, but who knew? Certainly not the mayor because he buzzed it twice before he landed. Anyway, when Peach Force One correctly landed in a field across the road, it threw Cunningham’s timing off.

When Cunningham heard the governor was coming, he got so excited he couldn’t eat for an hour. He hoped to lead the governor and the other dignitaries up the trail, waving a little flag (American) as they went along.

When Cunningham learned the governor would arrive by helicopter, he assumed he’d land it on the Indian Mound there by the river. That’s where one of the mayors parked that ultralight he flew in on. So, Cunningham hid under the gazebo with his flag.

Plus, those cows in the pasture thought the helicopter was there to spread alfalfa pellets, so they lined up by the fence, making it problematic for the pig to cross the road. By the time he did, the governor was arriving from the landing-pasture across the road in a caravan of black vehicles. Cunningham inadvertently mistook that for a funeral procession. To show respect, he lowered his little flag. Regrettably, the men in dark suits misjudged his intent. In their defense, that little grommet on the end of the flag does look dangerous. Anyway, they flashed their state-issued Secret Service badges. At first, Cunningham thought they were his escort for the trail walk, but when one yelled “TAKE A HIKE!” through a megaphone, he tried desperately to comply by running up the trail as fast as he could. Most of the crowd thought a “flash mob” had formed and lit out for Helen like Friday night came early. Then, a rumor spread that a charity race had started, and with there being so many politicians in one spot during an election year, things got spirited. Luckily, a photographer sent up his camera drone to let the local radio station announce the race from the ground. At the finish line, they correctly called Cunningham—who ran like a greased pig—the winner by a nose. A photo finish for second wasn’t surprising; he’s never been for pig racing. Cunningham had no sooner crossed the finish line than one of the men in black picked him up and whisked him off to the helicopter. I imagine they’ll be wanting to use him for celebrity endorsements and such. In fact, last night I saw him on television with the governor at a cookout in Cordele.

June 2018

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Franklin, North Carolina

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June 2018

Lakeside Lifestyle Beckons on Burton

weeping views of Lake Burton, from its location on a point lot on sought-after Murray Cove Road, is one the first things you notice about this four bedroom, four and one-half bath home. But the views are only the beginning, because the interior, with its open concept floor plan provides for simplified entertaining and comfortable day-to-day living. Rich with character, the well-appointed great room offers a warm and welcoming ambiance with heart pine flooring, halfheart wainscoting, and true timber frame construction featuring Douglas fir posts and beams surrounded by pine paneled ceilings. The family room provides plenty of space for a group to gather comfortably around the stone fireplace and opens to a vaulted lakeside screened porch offering peaceful sunset views over the lake. An adjacent screened porch off the dining room offers a built-in grill and fireplace for fireside dining al fresco. The chef’s kitchen features honed granite countertops, a 5-burner Thermador® cooktop, single wall oven, warming drawer, builtin microwave, double refrigerator drawers, icemaker, coffee/ appliance garage, island, and a walk-in pantry. A powder room with poplar bark wainscoting is tucked away down a hallway off the kitchen, along with a laundry room with sink and entry from the 2-car garage. The private main floor owner’s suite offers lake views with bead board wainscoting, plastered walls, and shiplap pine-paneled ceiling with exposed beams. Doors open to a private lakeside deck from the master bedroom and bath perfect for enjoying quiet moments, reading, or relaxing. The master bath features separate vanities, a jetted tub, separate tiled shower, walk-in closet, and water closet. Set apart from the activity of the great room is a main floor guest bedroom with lake views, shiplap pine ceiling with exposed beams and en suite bath with tiled shower and separate water closet. Flagstone flooring introduces the terrace level with a family room featuring 11’ ceilings, a stone fireplace, billiards area, and

June 2018

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bar with dishwasher, icemaker, under counter refrigerator, sink, and built-in microwave. French doors lead to a covered patio for outdoor dining, complete with a built-in Green Egg and griddle. A terrace-level bedroom suite with lake views accommodates multiple guests with two sleeping areas and a full bath with double vanity, shower/tub combo, and walk-in closet. A second terrace level guest bedroom provides a full bath and access to a private lakeside patio. The beautifully landscaped yard offers a gentle grade down to the lake providing easy access to the two-story boathouse with a sunset view and a front row seat to the 4th of July fireworks on Billy Goat Island. Enjoy sitting by the lakeside fire pit on chilly evenings while gazing at the Milky Way and millions of distant stars. This luxury mountain lake home is the total package, offering fully paved access and all the amenities needed for perfect lakeside entertaining and perfect lakeside living. This home will also be on the Lake Burton Civic Association tour of Homes on Saturday June 27, 2018 from 9 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 pm. For a personal look at this fantastic residence contact Agent Julie Barnett with Harry Norman REALTORS Luxury Lake and Mountain, 404-697-3860 direct or by email to julie.barnett@harrynorman.com.

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June 2018

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Services

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June 2018

Be Safe: Use Licensed Building Professionals

Georgia Mountain Home Builders Says “Let Us Help!” by John Shivers

ou’ve decided to add that new master suite complete with a spa-like oasis bathroom onto your existing house. The plans are drawn, you’ve made arrangements for the financing, and you’ve selected the builder who will transform your dreams into reality. What could possibly happen to mar this wonderful, exciting time? It just seems you have so many more electrical devices these days; too many for the number of electrical outlets in your home. Thank you, technology! So you hire an electrician to run additional wiring and install more outlets. What could be more straightforward and simple? At the risk of bursting balloons here, the unvarnished answer to both questions is: Plenty COULD go wrong, particularly if you employ workmen who aren’t licensed and who may not even be proficient at creating that bathroom in quality and safe fashion. Electricity makes life so much easier, but using a less than qualified person who calls himself or herself an electrician can make life anything but simple. From shock hazards to a home that burns to the ground, the damage that can result from electricity gone wrong is nothing to gamble with. Be especially wary when a price sounds too good to be true. There’s usually a very good reason why that bargain really isn’t that great a deal. So how does Joe Average Homeowner protect new

construction and remodeling / renovation projects from going awry? How can someone with no background in the building trades protect themselves in situations like this? For starters, thoroughly check out the people who will be responsible for your project. Check not only references, those people who have previously employed these workers, but check their professional status. Check to see if they’re licensed. • Licensed tradespeople must meet certain skills requirements in order to obtain a license. Licensed individuals who act as contractors, whether they’re framers, plumbers or heat and air conditioning professionals will have liability insurance to protect the homeowner and themselves. • Permits are required for new construction as well as for many renovation or remodeling jobs. The contractor should be the one to pull those permits, but often cannot unless he or she holds a current valid license. • When the homeowner must take on responsibilities that rightfully belong to the contractor, this should be a gigantic red flag that perhaps the workers who are going to connect that new bathroom to your existing house isn’t as qualified or competent as the signage on his pickup truck or the slogan on his business card suggests. What’s more, when the homeowner accepts some responsibilities of the job, the liability that naturally accompanies that job can also transfer to the homeowner. This is liability that may or may not be covered by the homeowner’s insurance policy. So what if the particular tradesperson you need isn’t required to be licensed in your county? How can you be proactive? If you live in Rabun, Towns or Union Counties, you need look no farther than the Georgia Mountain Home Builders Association. The Association office is located at 151 Hiawassee Street (inside Bynum Insurance) in Clayton, GA 30525. The Association acts as a referral source for its members, all of whom must meet high standards. It works closely with state and local lawmakers to help bring about legislation that supports local economies without doing harm. GMHBA members are also members of the Home Builders Association of Georgia as well as the National Association of Home Builders. To learn more about how the Association and its members can help ensure you get a quality finished product, log onto gmhba@georgiamountainhba.com or call 706.782.9260.

June 2018

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Hire a Pro

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June 2018

Top of the Line, Top of the World Home

he year was 1972 when musical sensations Karen and Richard Carpenter released their award-winning song that began with the words, “I’m on top of the world lookin’ down on creation.” Everyone was singing the catchy lyrics. You’ll be singing them, too, when you wake up each morning and look down on creation from this custom home on Ridgepole in northern Rabun County. This immaculate, multi-level home has everything you need for quality living today and plenty of expansion potential already under roof. Your creative bent will have plenty to ponder while you’re already settled in to the good life on top of the world. From the outside, the home features an expanded Craftsman cottage look with access that comes right up to the front door, and the spacious garage on the front of the house provides easy entrance in all kinds of weather. In addition to the oversize garage that will park two cars and more, there’s ample parking outside for additional family and guests. Dormers that dot the steeply-pitched roof seem to wink at you, giving you the idea there’s more here than initially meets the eye. Here’s a hint: they’re right! The two finished levels of this light and airy home include four bedrooms and three and one-half baths. With its wide open floor plan, generous size rooms, and spaces that do doubleduty, the people who live in this house will feel as free as a bird, thanks in part to enhanced ceiling heights and vaulted ceilings. What’s more, this one-of-a-kind home is offered with much of the furniture in the deal, including several antiques.

This is definitely one of those you must see. Throughout the house you’re immediately captured by the warmth of the neutral wall colors, the contrasting wood tones that look like warm honey along with natural stone accents. The generous abundance of light, thanks to the great expanse of glass that looks out on the world below, and the clearstory windows and skylights, all work in harmony to capture the sun and bring the outdoors inside. Hardwood floors predominate on the main level, with carpet in the bedrooms and on the second level. The kitchen, which is conveniently-located within the floorplan, is a dream for those who love to entertain family and friends. Furniture-inspired rich wooden cabinets, granite countertops, geometric tile backsplash, generous countertop work space, and stainless steel appliances make preparing a

June 2018

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turkey sandwich or turkey and dressing for 20 Thanksgiving guests a piece of cake. A wet bar and wine rack between the kitchen and family room ensure convenient entertaining. So letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk turkey about the outside. Two covered porches large enough for entertaining overlook the view that grabs everyone. The house is clad with HardiplankÂŽ siding, painted a mellow sage green with cream trim, and dark stained shingles and dormers that serve to emphasize nicely the country cottage appearance. To find your way to the top of this world, sing out to RE/MAX agents Linda Durrence or Sarah Branch. Linda is available at 706-746-5962 or skyc21@windstream.net. Contact Sarah at 404-788-6884 or Sarahbranch428@gmail.com. This home is offered by RE/MAX of Rabun and is MLS #8341919.

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June 2018

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June 2018

Parker Ranch

Pavilion to Remember Jane Schnell by John Shivers removing much of the furniture. “The Barn,” a gathering place for the community, seminars, and celebrations, will provide seating for some 75 individuals, depending on configuration. Innkeepers Becky and Paula have been welcoming guests for about five years. When they acquired the property itself, Becky’s dream of some fifteen years was finally realized. The two, who are originally from Atlanta, first discovered their future B&B some fifteen years ago. At the time, they had a small cabin across from Lake Burton, which they used as a get-away place. Becky owned her own construction company, and Paula was a corporate financial consultant.

all it a barn or call it a pavilion, it matters not. But definitely call it a great addition to the grounds and amenities available at Parker Ranch, the north Georgia Mountains Bed & Breakfast located just a mile west of downtown Clayton. It’s been 111 years since the LeCraw Family from Atlanta built the sprawling, single-story wood-shingled lodge situated in a tree-shaded 14 acre cove off present day Highway 76 west. In the late 40’s, Bob and Eula Parker purchased the property and hung out their shingle proclaiming “Tourist Rooms” for rent, with home-cooked meals included to sweeten the deal.

Today, both Becky and Paula call Parker Ranch home. Becky’s dream has been realized, and they’re planning and building for the future. As they prepare to launch the new pavilion and begin to incorporate it into the guest services they offer, Jane Schnell will always be a part of everything they do, thanks to the new building honoring her memory. On June 23, a memorial service for Jane will be held on the site. From the accommodations themselves, to the 3,000 square feet of covered porches, Parker Ranch at 95 Parker Lane, has built a reputation for memorable experiences, where the guests’ only interruption may be the occasional sound of a screen door closing. The pavilion will provide one more memorable amenity.

Now a major new addition is becoming a part of this pristine setting that boasts sheltering trees and mountain breezes. When the last nail has been driven and everything’s in place, this multipurpose structure will increase the scope of options as the inn strives to meet guests’ needs. In addition to increased seating and meeting capacity for the various events, the space will allow for flexibility with the meetings and workshops that populate the Parker Ranch calendar year-round. But there’s more. The new structure will be dedicated to the memory of Jane Schnell, the woman who rescued and revitalized the declining property in the late 1990s. She preserved what can undoubtedly be classified as a basically unaltered example of exterior rustic southern mountain architecture. For certain, the footprint of the original house hasn’t changed. Then and now photos confirm that distinction. Jane died this past February, but saw and understood the dream that current owners Becky Hoover and Paula Jones have for the beloved retreat that Jane called Hillside Inn. It just seems right, Paula says, that this remarkable, multi-faceted woman, who retired to Rabun County after working with the CIA, be remembered for her love of the property. Currently, large gatherings, such as workshops and meetings, are held in the spacious great room of the lodge. While this room is warm and welcoming, seating is limited and often requires

June 2018

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Lakemont, Georgia

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June 2018

Reeves Hardware Company

The Second Generation by Tracy McCoy

he business that started in a mere 750 square foot location has grown to encompass most of a block on Main Street and four more locations. Reeves Hardware Company includes the main Clayton location where it all began, Reeves Building Supply, Reeves Feed & Seed, Reeves Hardware in Dillard, Georgia and Reeves Hardware on Main Street in Highlands, North Carolina. I have asked myself and many of the Reeves family members, “what would Lewis and Rubye say about the store today?” Would they be surprised at what their family has created? I think not, I believe that while technology would no doubt give them pause, they were fully aware of the abilities of their children and that the spirit of enterprise would be handed down from one generation to the next. In Proverbs, Solomon said “Train up a child in the way that they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it.” This wisdom applies to faith but it carries into every area, even doing business.

Lewis & Carol Reeves When the second generation took over management in the 50s Lewis Jr. was running the Clayton Store. He had married Carol Watts, his high school sweetheart. The couple started their family having first Lewis III, then daughter Chris, son Jeff and finally the youngest daughter Ann. Lewis Jr. put in very long hours and served as President of Reeves Hardware Company for over five decades. From the time he was 8 or 9 years old he was there helping and learning from his father. Some might say that his father groomed him to take management of the store when the time came. The store has evolved over the years adding merchandise and specialty items as the community expressed a need. The family has always supported local charities by giving when they could. Lewis Jr., like his dad, has helped many people and families during tough times or when they needed a start. He raised his own children in the store 90

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just as he and his sisters were. He instilled the same work ethic in them that was taught to him. Running a business is more than a full-time job. Early mornings, late evenings, few sick days and fewer vacations are expected and required. This couple has put that in and more. Today they have scaled back taking life a bit easier. The stores have been put into the hands of the next generation.

Barbara & Frank Hickox Barbara was the first born of the Reeves children. She worked as her father’s secretary before she and her son Frank Hickox III established the furniture department. They were instrumental in setting Reeves Furniture up in its current location, where the Clayton Post Office had been, next to the main store. The furniture department had been upstairs for several years before it was brought downstairs in the new department and inventory expanded. Barbara’s son Rodney followed in his grandfather’s footsteps studying finance and banking making that his career. Her husband Frank Hickox Jr. was running the building supply then called Tri-State. Barbara retired from the store in 1976 and she passed away in 2006. She has been missed by her family.

Lou & Joe Luke Lou Luke, second daughter of Lewis Sr., was managing the office with Carolyn Thompson, a long time Reeves Hardware employee hired by the store’s founder fresh out of high school. Lou had a business mind like her father’s and was integral in running the office for many years. Her husband Joe Luke Jr. was running the Highlands, North Carolina store which he did for most of his career. Joe later moved to Clayton taking over the building supply. The Lukes had four children, Joe Jr., Linda, Jim and Leslie, Jim, Joe and Leslie are now at the helm of Reeves Hardware on Main Street in Highlands. Linda and her husband live in St. Louis. Today Lou enjoys retirement after investing a lifetime in the family business.

Fran & Vaughn Rogers Fran Rogers, Lewis and Rubye’s youngest daughter remembers being just old enough to write her numbers and helping with inventory by writing on a notepad as store employees counted screws, bolts and nails. She worked with Carolyn Thompson, learning to “check up” the cash register. She helped each summer in the gift shop. Fran has many fond memories of growing up in Clayton. She and Jackie Brown who’s father owned Kermit’s Donut Shop on Main Street, were best friends. They enjoyed many evenings at the movies in town or at the Tiger Drive-In. The girls even had one grand adventure gmlaurel.com

when they attended New York School of Interior Design. An opportunity orchestrated by Rubye. Mrs. Reeves went with the girls to New York to find a safe and suitable place for the girls to live while they attended school. Fran and Jackie visited museums, Broadway shows, and art galleries during their time there. It was an experience she’ll never forget. Upon completing her education in Interior Design and Merchandising, Fran returned home and married her high school sweetheart Vaughn Rogers. The couple moved to Atlanta for a short time, Fran moved home while Vaughn attended UGA studying Real Estate and Insurance. Fran joined sister Barbara in the furniture department and after Barbara’s retirement, Fran took charge and even all these years later Fran still can be found in the Furniture Department at Reeves a couple days a week. Fran and Vaughn had three children, Vaughn Jr., Natalie and Preston. Vaughn Jr. runs Reeves in Dillard. Natalie became a teacher and has spent most of her career teaching in Habersham County. Last year she returned to Rabun and is teaching English as a second language (ESL) in the Rabun County school system. Preston works in the Highlands’ store with the Luke family, managing most of their building supply operations.

The Family Business In 90 years this company has seen five generations working in the family business. While not all family members work within the company, most do and they are proud to do so. In talking with different members of the Reeves family for this series celebrating the store’s 90th Anniversary, one common thread is their appreciation of the families and individuals who worked alongside them over the years. Reeves Hardware Company and each of the other stores have had some of the area’s most dedicated employees. They gave their entire lives to the store just like the family has. Many of the store’s employees helped train the children. Growing up in the store, every one of Lewis and Rubye’s children learned every job there was to do from ringing up sales, to unloading or loading trucks. The real key to the success of this business has been the relationships that were built with their customers. Lewis and Carol have forged friendships with some people that began as customers and became some of the closest friends they’ve ever had. Every family member agreed that their most valuable asset is the people who shop at their stores and their loyal employees. When the people who work for you are treated like family and are appreciated, recognized and valued, they stay with the company. That has been the case with Reeves Hardware Company. Publisher’s Note: Next month we will look at the Third and Fourth generations, the grandchildren and great grandchildren who operate the store today. We will share fond memories, talk about how the business has changed and what’s ahead. Meanwhile, we hope you’ll join Reeves Hardware Company at their 90th Anniversary Celebration on June 9. Come enjoy food, music, games, drawings and more from 4 – 7 PM on Main Street in Clayton.

June 2018

Miles Through Time Where the Pedal Meets the Past

he concept is genius! It’s three or more businesses rolled into one. Whatever it is to you, it’s a must see for anyone who loves cars and history. Miles Through Time Automotive Museum is the brain child of Sean Mathis, Larry Dodd, and DeeDee Arrowood. Each bringing something to the table when Miles Through Time was in the planning phase. Sean has marketing and a love for cars in his blood. Larry is a car owner, businessman, and all around great guy. DeeDee is a REALTOR® and a natural mover and shaker. The two gentlemen had a great idea for the old Ford dealership building that DeeDee was working to sell. The building was gutted, yet everything they could salvage was used in the remodel. Today the nostalgia of it remains. The vintage and antique auto related signage, the license plates, hub caps, oil cans, and car related items that are thoughtfully placed remind you of the previous business. The cars on the “showroom floor” range from Fords to Chevys with a Caddy here or there. Over 100 years of automotive history can be found inside the walls of the museum, all autos in tip-top shape. Each car belonging to a car enthusiast who finds the museum the answer to their storage needs. Climate controlled, safe, and affordable storage for the treasures they own. The third aspect of the business is the freshly brewed coffee, Coca Colas in small glass bottles, and room to talk that rounds out the “shop”. A car owners club, a storage solution, and a museum open to the public ($5 admission fee). MTT offers discounts for military or law enforcement officers. The automotive inventory is ever changing with some cars for sale (on consignment or FSBO), brought in for display, while others remain. The museum will celebrate their one year anniversary on Saturday June 9th, 2018 from 9 am to 1 pm. The celebration will include a car show with hundreds of cars in attendance. The show is free and will include food, entertainment, awards, giveaways, and more. The show is open to all makes and models, but car owners must register either online www. milesthroughtime.com/car-show/ or by stopping by the museum located at 876 East Currahee Street in Toccoa, Georgia. The car show offers sponsorship opportunities for local groups and businesses. For information visit them online or on facebook @milesthroughtime or call 706.886.0721. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday 10 to 4 during the spring and summer season.

June 2018

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