Laurel of Northeast Georgia February 23

February 2023

Volume Twenty

Issue Two

laurel of Northeast Georgia from

the publisher

“Who loves ya, baby?”

It is the month of love, when we recognize the one who makes our heart flutter. I loved Valentine’s Day when I was in elementary school. We decorated little brown lunch sacks and wrote our name on them. They hung in the classroom and at the appointed time we took the bag of Valentine’s cards we had filled out the night before and put them in the appropriate brown paper sack. If I was gutsy enough to write “I like you” on one I left my name off. It was fun to take that sack home and look through the cards you were given. I liked the ones with a box of conversation hearts attached, those were the best! My sweetheart is still the apple of my eye and I am determined to keep him. We’ve shared 32 Valentine’s Days and I pray we see that many more.

This issue is sweet with a focus on love and marriage. If you are planning a wedding this year, we’ve included a checklist for you so that everything goes off without a hitch. We’ve shared some love stories that started with a square dance. A wedding story is included with photos of the special day. In this issue you’ll also find all of the things you enjoy each month, like recipes. Our flashback article this month is from our friend Jean Emhart about her wedding. We sure miss her! Mark Holloway met a Blue Angel and who definitely “feels the need for speed.” Peter takes us to romantic overlooks and Liz Alley takes us down memory lane – downtown.

On our cover this month is a beautiful Dahlia grown by Tori, the farmer, at Firmly Rooted Flower Farm. She writes for us about growing flowers and caring for them. She has an “honor system” flower sale on the porch of her “garden shed” each week during the growing season. Firmly Rooted also offers flower subscriptions so you’ll never be without a bouquet for your table. Visit her website www.firmlyrootedflowerfarm.com for more info.

We are so grateful to put another issue into your hands and we hope you LOVE it, cause we love you. Visit our advertisers and tell them we sent you!

STAFF

Publisher/Editor - Marketing - Tracy McCoy

706-982-9197

Art Director - Dianne VanderHorst

Graphics - Lucas McCoy

Marketing & Office Manager - Cindi Freeman

706-982-0216

Assistant Office Manager - D’Anna Coleman

Sales Associate / Writer - Michael Detrick

512-771-0800

Writer - John Shivers

Photographer / Writer - Peter McIntosh

Happy V Day!

Tracy

Laurel of Northeast Georgia

Mailing: PO Box 2218 - Clayton, Georgia 30525

Office : 2511 Highway 441

Mountain City, Geo rgia 30562

706-782-1600

www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com

Contributing Writers:

Tori Carver, Lorie Thompson, Dick Cinquina, Liz Alley, Mark Holloway, Tricia Moore, Gabe Southards, Dr. Sue Aery, Flashback by the late Jean Emhart

“One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: that word is love.”

– Sophocles

North Georgia Arts Guild

Cynthia D’Angelo’s Tribal Trees Art

By Tricia Moore

The canvas for Cynthia (Cindi) D’Angelo’s beautifully unique three-dimensional paintings is tree bark, using bark mainly from the Eastern White Pine and the Yellow Pine. Cynthia states that in the creation of these lasting pieces of art she has two intentions. The first is to “honor the Cherokee heritage and their former presence on the land I now occupy.” The second is to “celebrate and emphasize our Creator’s Awesomeness by continuing the life of the generous spirit of the tree in a new form.”

Cynthia has been involved in artistic endeavors since her childhood, but her tree bark paintings trace their origin back to only four years ago when she relocated to the mountains from the coast of Georgia. Inspired by the natural beauty of the nature that surrounds her, Cynthia considered how she could best use natural materials in the creation of art. She was particularly drawn to the tree bark shed from aging trees and developed a method for painting durable scenes from nature onto them.

After moving to the mountains to enjoy a “full-time creative life,” Cynthia established Tribal Trees Art and began devoting her time to her tree bark paintings. The process Cynthia uses to create her paintings is complex and quite time-consuming. It took her two years of

Tricia Moore is a retired teacher, having taught both English and Art in public and private school settings. She is currently an active member of the NGAG and has held several positions on the board. With her background in both art and writing, she feels that writing the NGAG featured artist article in the Laurel of Northeast Georgia is a good fit and something that she will greatly enjoy doing.

experimenting to find out what would work. The bark, which she gathers from the forest floor, has to first be dried for several months. Then after it is sufficiently dried, Cynthia explains, “The exterior surface and sides are preserved with layers of polyurethane and the inside surface is primed with three or more coats of a white primer to make a less penetrable surface for painting.” The mediums Cynthia uses in her paintings include acrylic, oil, enamel, watercolor pencils and a poly-acrylic sealer, with the sealer being applied in between each medium used. Cynthia stated that the three-dimensional surface of the bark used dictates the design and how it is rendered and painted. With the 3-D nature of the bark and the 12–14 layers needed to complete a piece, as well as the drying time between the layers, these pieces take months to complete. The creation of this form of art presents a big challenge, but using her talent, ingenuity and artistic skills, Cynthia has proven that she is more than up to meeting that challenge.

Cynthia states that even though it takes three to six months to complete a piece, she can work on several simultaneously. She says that she does have a studio in which to work on the tree bark paintings, but she prefers to work outdoors when possible, as she loves the natural lighting being outdoors provides her and enjoys having the opportunity to observe the nature that is all around her while she works.

Cynthia has spent her entire life being involved in some form of art. When asked about influences in her life that led her to a life dedicated to art, Cynthia related a story from her childhood about her elementary school principal Mr. Flanders. She states: “I was already reading and writing when I started to school at the age of five and I was a very excitedly hyper child. Rather than torture my poor teachers, Mr. Flanders would let me sit and read to him in his office. He also suggested Mrs. Edwards and all those to follow allow me to draw or make bulletin boards in the hallway or stage performances for the PTA. That school is now a Montessori school in keeping with their belief in supporting educational initiatives through the interest of each child. “

Cynthia’s art – Tribal Trees Art - can currently be viewed at the Macon County Art Association’s Uptown Gallery in Franklin, North Carolina and at the Rabun County Chamber of Commerce. She can also be reached for questions or interest in purchasing her art at 706-970-0388. In addition to her art business, she also has recently started a catering business, which she named Catori. She laughingly stated that she never could be involved in just one thing at a time.

Mountain City Playhouse – Dance Hall Hill Sparked Many a Romance!

By Tracy McCoy and others…

First opening on the shores of Cox’s Lake, The Mountain City Playhouse was more of a hotel that hosted square dances. This beloved location caught fire. This was thought to be in the 1920s. The American Legion owned a building on the other side of the lake that they turned into the Mountain City Playhouse and in the 1950s it was the place for socializing in those days. Dancers came from far and wide including locals and visitors to Rabun, with Rabun’s numerous summer camps and the summer residents on the lakes joining in.

In early 1963, another fire destroyed the building but the American Legion Post 220 took the insurance monies collected, and with donations and loans were able to raise the rest to rebuild. The new Mountain City Playhouse opened in May of the same year. The dance floor was ample to accommodate the crowd the dance hall was attracting and there was estimated to be seating for 800+ spectators. A large stage was added for the musicians. Weekends saw the place full to the brim, with many nights hosting 1500+ in attendance! On nights when there wasn’t dancing, there were wrestling competitions, roller skating, and other fun events.

In 2021 local Suzie Nixon Flaherty, along with her husband, Steve, her aunt, Dorothy Welch, a former Mountain City Clogger, and cousin, Rob Hamrick, reopened the Mountain City Playhouse They host dance classes and square dance weekend/clogging events much like what was enjoyed so many years ago. You do not want to miss their 2nd Saturday on Dance Hall Hill event each month.

Suzie moved her gym, Blue Ridge Activity and Tumbling Center, or the BRAT Center, to the front part of the Mountain City Playhouse building where it has found its permanent home. Suzie, a former gymnast, opened the BRAT Center to provide a place in Rabun County where kids of all ages could attend classes in gymnastics, tumbling, ninja, competitive cheer, cirque, and other family-centered activities. She also bought a 40-foot bus, the BRAT TumbleBus, equipped with a small gym inside, for mobile tumbling opportunities.

“I always knew I wanted to move home after traveling the country for over 20 years as a military family. I wanted to come home to Rabun County and I wanted to do something for the community, particularly for the children in the county. I participated in many sports growing up, but I really loved gymnastics. I remember all of the programs and activities the county had when I was growing up and I wanted to help bring beneficial activities to the children and adults of Rabun County.

My two sons became competitive gymnasts and it benefited them greatly in any sport they chose to do. Buying and reopening the Mountain City Playhouse was a great way to make that happen.”

The BRAT Center also provides an Open Gym every Saturday evening and is open to the public. This is extremely helpful for those who want a “date night”, a little free time for shopping, or who want to attend one of the Mountain City Playhouse events on the other side of the building. I highly encourage you to visit the Mountain City Playhouse website, www.mountaincityplayhouse. com or the BRAT Center at www.blueridgeatc.com, or follow both on social media.

The Mountain City Playhouse during the mid 1970’s

– Photos Courtesy of Foxfire

The original Mountain City Playhouse

Square dancing at the Playhouse in 1961

Square Dancing & Love Stories

Peggy Pleasants meets Albert Thrasher

It was the summer of 1958. I was working at the Nicholson House with the understanding that I would be able to get off work early enough on Saturday night to go to the Mountain City Playhouse Square Dance. Albert was in summer school at Georgia Tech. I had danced and buck danced several sets and decided to sit one out. After all, I had been working since 6:00am! In walks Albert and heads straight to me asking me to dance. Even then, he was very persuasive! We danced the rest of the evening and for the next 60+ years!

Albert’s version was that he walked in and saw this “curly haired blue-eyed beauty with legs so long they reached her armpits”--I never did quite figure that one out! We had a wonderful marriage and life with Albert was always an adventure. Albert passed away in 2020 and it’s been difficult being without him, but when you’ve had a love that grand you hold on to those special moments forever. We had a son Al, Jr. and a daughter Julie and we have six incredible grandchildren. We were truly blessed and it all started on Dance Hall Hill!

Robin Whitney meets Steve Williams

My family has had a cabin on Lake Burton since 1957. In my early teen years a lot of the lake kids would bum rides to Mountain City. After a night of intense clogging and burned calories, Cyndae Arrendale’s mom would have LaPrades fry up a bunch of (Fieldale) chicken and we would gather at their house to replenish.

Originally we shared our cabin with three other families. At our annual Christmas gathering a women in attendance, who owned an Astrology Shop in Underground, Atlanta, boldly stated that she had “charted” me, and in front of God and everybody, announced that I was going to meet the man I was going to marry in JULY.

The summer between my sophomore and junior years I spent as much time as possible at the lake, never missing a Saturday night in Mountain City. One fateful night in JULY at MCP, this guy walked up and started a conversation, mistaking me for a girl that I had attended school with, I told him I was not. Turns out that he had roomed with some guys in college that I had graduated with, one of whom I had dated. The roommates had gone through our high school yearbooks and pointed out who all had cabins on Lake Burton.

That night my dearest friend, Cyndae, invited Steve and his buddies over to her house for the post-dance fried chicken. While Steve and I did not hit it off, someone took a picture of him and gave it to me. First impression was not good at all but I showed the picture to my roommate from Auburn and said to her, “I don’t like him much but I know I’m going to marry him”.

The following week Steve’s roommate from UGA came over to our home in Atlanta and said he heard that Steve and I had met. He asked if Steve’s girlfriend was with him? I was shocked, I had no idea. The UGA roommate came back over to my house a couple nights later and told me Steve and his girlfriend had broken up that summer. I didn’t believe it for a minute and I was right…for a while. Our senior year in college we started dating exclusively and I made many a weekend trip to Athens!

The rest is history. Steve and I are still in the same location on the lake but had to tear down the original cabin and rebuild. Upon retirement we decided to live there full time. We’ve been married for 46 years, four children (one deceased), four grandchildren and blessings in abundance!!

Terry Crane meets Danny Mize

Iwas in school with two of Danny’s sisters. His younger sister and I went to the Mountain City Playhouse to dance one Saturday night and she introduced me and Danny. He was playing in the band on stage which he started doing there in summer of 1969. He played bass for 17 years up there in what was the house band. We met in June of 1976, got engaged in September of 1976 and got married October 9th of 1976. It was definitely meant to be and a whirlwind romance.

He proposed when we left the playhouse one Saturday night. We got married in Walhalla, South Carolina at the courthouse, like so many others did. I think the Playhouse closed down in the early 80’s. We were at the Playhouse every Saturday night because of him playing there. I sure do miss those Saturday nights. We will have been married 47 years this year! We have one son and two grandsons and two granddaughters. It’s been a good life.

The Art of Planning Your Wedding

What Do You Do Now?

Straight out of the gate let us say that we highly recommend hiring a professional wedding planner if that is an option. They can keep you (from losing your mind) organized and make enjoying the process much easier. Most often their charge is so WORTH it!

Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of planning your own wedding (have control issues) and you are super conscientious and can handle it, if so, we’ve made planning your wedding with confidence a little easier!

We know that you want your wedding to be remembered as one of the best weddings ever and you want it to go off without a hitch (don’t invite the crazy cousins). Our wedding planning checklist will guide you through each stage of the planning process, helping you manage your time and your to-do list right up until you say “I do”. After all that is the most important part!

First Things First...

12+ months before your wedding

• Congratulations! Announce engagement.

• Choose a date.

• Talk budget and determine who is contributing what.

• Decide on a wedding style. Western, Traditional, Contemporary, etc...

• Choose wedding party: Maid of Honor and Bridesmaids, Best Man and Groomsmen, Flower Girl and Ring Bearer.

• Get engagement ring insured and consider purchasing wedding insurance.

• Take engagement photos.

• Begin compiling your guest list.

• Research ceremony and reception venues.

• Research wedding planner and vendors: photographer, videographer, caterer, a musicians.

• Research wedding dress and veil styles.

• Sign up for Pinterest and create wedding style/idea boards. Start pinning!

• Order Save the Dates.

10 – 12 months before your wedding

• Mail Save the Dates.

• Research florists.

• Choose bridal party attire and accessories.

• Book ceremony and reception venues.

• Book officiant.

• Book photographer, videographer, caterer, musicians, and planner.

• Purchase wedding dress and veil.

• Establish a fitness routine.

• Establish a skin care/beauty routine.

8 – 10 months before your wedding

• Research three hotels, B&Bs or Inns for outof-town guests.

• Finalize guest list.

• Set up three wedding registries

• Book a florist.

Ready, Set, Check...

6 – 8 months before your wedding

• Research Wedding Invitation designs.

• Research Favors and Thank You Cards.

• Research wedding day hair and makeup styles.

• Meet with officiant to discuss plans for ceremony.

• Reserve rentals: chairs, linens, lighting, décor, etc.

• Begin planning honeymoon.

• Choose cake style and schedule tastings.

• Choose groomsmen attire.

• Book ceremony musicians.

• Book transportation to and from venues.

• Purchase wedding bands.

4 – 6 months before your wedding

• Choose flowers: wedding party, venues, cake and attendants.

• Plan welcome baskets for out-of-town guests. We are glad to provide magazines for this.

• Schedule dress fittings.

• Prepare {play/do not play} playlists for DJ/ band

• Book honeymoon flights and hotels.

• Book room for wedding night.

• Order wedding cake.

• Order Wedding Invitations.

3 months before your wedding

• Plan ceremony and reception seating arrangements.

• Experiment with hair and veil with stylist.

• Finalize readers and readings.

• Book rehearsal dinner venue.

• Purchase: toasting flutes, serving pieces, guestbook, flower basket and ring-bearer pillow.

• Finalize reception menu.

• Order menu cards and other reception Items.

• Order favors and thank you cards

Crunch Time...

2 months before your wedding

• Mail Invitations.

• Develop system for organizing RSVPs.

• Begin writing vows.

• Review ceremony details with officiant.

• Lay out the content for wedding programs.

• Apply for marriage license: order 2-3 extra.

• Finalize wedding day timeline.

• Finalize seating arrangements.

• Finalize playlists with musicians.

• Finalize fittings and attire for wedding party and parents.

• Create “wedding day” schedule and send to vendors and officiant.

• Create honeymoon itinerary for family at home.

• Decide on “Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue.”

• Book spa and beauty treatments for you and bridal party.

• Book wedding day transportation.

• Purchase gifts for attendants.

• Order wedding programs.

The Art of Planning Your Wedding

1 month before your wedding

• Call vendors to confirm date, times and location.

• Final dress fitting.

• Confirm honeymoon reservations.

• Pick up wedding rings.

• Pick up marriage license.

• Pack for honeymoon.

• Write thank you notes as gifts are received.

Down to the Wire...

2 weeks before your wedding

• Follow up with guests who haven’t yet RSVP’d.

• Give final count to caterer.

• Update registries.

• Begin breaking in wedding shoes.

• Make arrangements for the caring of pets and plants while on honeymoon.

• Get final haircut and color.

• Get playlists to DJ/Musicians.

• Delegate wedding day duties: gift table, guestbook, etc.

• Delegate someone to return tuxes, rentals and tend to wedding dress.

• Send directions to wedding day limo/transportation driver.

1 week before your wedding

• Prepare final payments to vendors + cash tips for service personnel.

• Lay out wedding clothes.

• Give readers their scripts, if necessary.

• Give photographer and videographer your image and video requests.

• Get spa treatments for you and the bridal party.

The day before your wedding

• Deliver welcome baskets.

• Get mani/pedi/massage.

• Attend wedding rehearsal.

• Have fun at the rehearsal dinner.

• Get to bed at a decent hour!

The Big Day...

• Eat a good breakfast!

• Allow yourself plenty of time to get ready.

• Give wedding rings and officiant fee to the Best Man.

• Congratulations! Relax, smile, and soak in every incredible moment.

• Say “I do!”

Happily Ever After...

• Return tuxes, rentals.

After the wedding

• Get wedding dress to preservationist or cleaners.

After the honeymoon

• Send Thank You Cards as soon as possible.

• Get your wedding photos professionally framed, put on canvas or fine art paper.

• Enjoy your marriage!

Ryan and Chandler Houser – A Sentimental Love Story

When Eli Luke called his sister, to set her up on a blind date, he likely had no idea that his friend and coworker Ryan would end up being his brother-in-law. But, if he was good enough to date your sister, he must have been a pretty good guy. Eli gave Chandler’s number to Ryan and he called asking if she’d like to join him for dinner at Clark’s on Main in Clayton. “I walked in the restaurant having never laid eyes on Ryan Houser,” Chandler told me during a recent chat. “The date was a complete success but it was quite a while before we had another one.” she added.

They kept in touch and when Chandler began the process of remodeling a home, Ryan would come help out. As anyone who has ever done a remodel knows, this can be a long process. Their parents helped with the house. That was the beginning of the seamless blend of two families and when this romance began to snowball.

When Ryan decided to ask Chandler to be his wife, he chose a spot near and dear to her heart, the family home on Lake Burton. Her great grandfather, the founder of Reeves Hardware, had built the home on the lake a half century or more before. It is a gathering place for his descendants and Chandler grew up visiting the home. It was on the dock that Ryan presented Chandler with an engagement ring that was also a family heirloom. On bended knee he shared his heart with her and without hesitation she said, “Yes!”

The wedding would take place in the very spot that they got engaged with family and friends in attendance. It was an intimate wedding on June 18th, 2021. Chandler was a beautiful bride and Ryan a handsome groom. It was Chandler’s dream to drive away from the wedding in her grandfather’s Chris Craft. This not only happened, but her father, Jim Luke drove the boat. Friend and photographer Marissa Moore took the amazing photographs we are sharing with you.

Today the couple makes their home in Franklin, North Carolina. Chandler works at the Highlands School teaching 1st grade. Ryan works part-time at Reeves Hardware in Highlands but is dedicated to building his photography and cinematic videography business (watch for an upcoming Laurel cover). They are parents to a wonderful little boy named Olin, after Ryan’s great-grandfather. We thank Chandler and Ryan Houser for sharing their story with us.

A Taste of the Mountains

FLASHBACK to February 2010 Rabun Recipes – Here Come the Brides

By Jean Emhart

Istopped by the Laurel office to hand in my December article and I was telling Tracy that we had just returned from Florida where 20 of us attended my granddaughter’s wedding. Cassandra (Sandy) was married on the beach on Siesta Key which is off the coast of Sarasota. Her daughter Evangellan was her Maid of Honor. Her father, my son Steve, walked the bride up the aisle of sand to the altar. A circle of flowers surrounded the alter and rose petals were sprinkled within the circle. We all enjoyed a lovely dinner afterward at a restaurant suggested by Sandy’s friend who resides in Sarasota. I thought I would never feel the sand between my toes again and was so thankful that I could experience this once more. This beach is known to have the whitest sand along the Gulf of Mexico due to the quartz it contains. As I related all of this to Tracy, she asked about my wedding which took place in 1946 at the end of World

Jean Stevenson was married to Harry Emhart in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was Harry’s work as a dye chemist that brought them to Rabun County. While subsequent employment transfers took them elsewhere, it was to Clayton they returned when the opportunity arose.

War II. My wedding was formal and was held in my church as most were in those days when “Johnny Came Marching Home.” I was telling Tracy that we were still under some rationing in 1946. Many of our neighbors saved their sugar coupons so we could have our wedding cake made by our favorite Germany bakery – Spoenlines. They also passed their shoe coupons along to me so that I could complete my trousseau.

As I walked down the aisle on my daddy’s arm. Harry was waiting at the altar with his groomsmen and he mouthed the words, “Hurry up!”. He told me afterwards that he was afraid I would change my mind. But I guess that thought never entered my mind as we had 55 years together before he went to his heavenly home.

Our reception was held at Beck’s on the Boulevard in Philadelphia. Tracy asked about the menu and as best I can remember, we had salad, shrimp bisque, a relish tray, roast beef with potatoes and carrots, asparagus and hot hard rolls with butter. They were nice and crunchy and crumbled when you broke them apart – delicious! They were made by our favorite Jewish bakery, Bogoslafky’s. We, of course, had a beautiful tiered wedding cake.

After the festivities the bride and groom went home to change into our

“going away” outfits. I wore a royal blue gabardine suit which had puffed sleeves and was buttoned at the cuffs with pewter buttons. It was belted with a thin, red lizard belt. My shoes and bag matched and the bag was trimmed in tortoise shell. It was very formal.

Much to our surprise when we returned to the restaurant, everyone was walking around on chairs as the kitchen had started to flood. I don’t know how, but we took it all in stride and were glad it didn’t happen earlier. One of our friends remarked that it was the driest (no alcohol served) wettest wedding he had ever attended.

We spent our wedding night in a hotel in downtown Philadelphia and headed to Niagara Falls the next day. Since it was October, the weather turned colder during the night and we decided we needed to stop by our homes for warmer coats. Another friend saw us and he was coming home from the bakery with their breakfast rolls and asked if I was coming home to mother already.

We enjoyed all that Niagara Falls had to offer – Riding on the “maid of the Mist”, walking under “Dry Falls” and exploring the area. The falls were awesome and when we returned 40 years later we were surprised to see the erosion the falls and the weather had played on them. We purchased some china at The Rock Hill House on our honeymoon. I saved a sales slip for our album and it shows we paid $3.00 for two plates. Imagine! I still display them in my breakfront and wonder what they are worth today.

As I was coming our of our honeymoon cottage one morning, I tripped over a rock and tore a ligament. I couldn’t even put my hose on. Embarrassing? Yes!

Thank you, Tracy, for suggesting the material for this month’s Laurel. It was such fun reminiscing as I looked through our wedding pictures and relived the memories. Two entirely different weddings – both charming in their own way. I wish many happy years together for Sandy and Brian.

Now as you prepare your roast beef for your family, here a few twists to try…

Jean Emhart was a dear friend to the Laurel and to me. I enjoyed spending time with her. She was very poised, polite and gracious. She remarked to me again and again how much she missed Harry.When I was notified of her passing in 2013, I couldn’t help but think that she was not only in the presence of her Savior but reunited with Harry. Jean wrote the Rabun’s Recipes column for many years visiting in the homes of many Rabun County families to gather great recipes to share with our readers. She was a treasure to all who knew her and is missed by all.

Scalloped Asparagus Casserole

1 can or package of asparagus

Parmesan cheese

Butter

Salt to taste

I cup cracker crumbs

1 can frozen shrimp soup, thawed

½ cup milk

Place a layer of asparagus in a buttered 1 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle lightly with cheese; dot with butter. Salt lightly and sprinkle on a layer of cracker crumbs. Repeat layers until all is used. Dilute soup with milk; pour over casserole. Bake at 350° for 30-45 minutes. Yields 6 servings.

Apricot Carrots

2 ½ cups thinly sliced carrots

1 ½ tablespoons butter

¼ tablespoon apricot preserves

¼ teaspoon grated orange rind

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1/16 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt to taste

Steam carrots until tender. Drain. (Carrots may be cooked in microwave for 6 minutes or until just tender). Combine with butter, preserves, orange rind, lemon juice, nutmeg and salt in small saucepan. Heat until preserves are melted. Pour mixture over carrots. Serve immediately. (Recipe from Second Round: Tea-Time at the Masters® published by The Junior League of Augusta, GA, Inc.)

Crab-Shrimp Bisque

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons shopped green onion

3 tablespoons flour

1 ½ cups milk

½ teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon tomato paste

I cup heavy whipping cream

8 ounces crab meat

4 to 8 ounces small cooked shrimp

1 tablespoons sherry

Heat butter over medium-low heat. Add green onion and saute until tender. Blend in flour. Cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Slowly stir in milk, cooking and stirring until thickened. Add pepper, tomato paste, and heavy cream. Stir in the crab, shrimp and sherry. Bring to a simmer. Serve hot. Serves 4 to 6.

Family Table

By Lorie Thompson

Iam always searching for food trends and the hottest new internet recipe. Two recent finds worth sharing are Feta Baked Pasta and my adaptation of Mystery Rolls. Both recipes are easy to make and budget-friendly. Perfect for a “Meatless Monday Meal,” or add a pan-sauteed chicken breast for the full meal deal. Let me share the recipes with you.

Baked Feta Pasta

2 pt. cherry or grape tomatoes

3-4 Cloves of fresh Garlic, peeled and smashed

1/2 C extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Kosher salt

Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

8-oz block of Feta Cheese or 8oz of Feta Cheese Crumbles Sprinkle of dried thyme or a sprig of Fresh thyme

10 Oz pasta of your choice

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh chopped basil for garnish

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the cherry tomatoes in an 8x11 baking dish and toss in enough olive oil to coat them thoroughly. Add the smashed garlic cloves. Add a very light sprinkle of kosher salt and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. (Be gentle with salt as the cheese is very salty.) Add an 8 oz block of Feta Cheese to the pan’s center or 8 oz of Feta Cheese crumbles. Pour a little more olive oil onto the cheese. Add thyme on top of the cheese. Add fresh or frozen spinach if you like. Be sure to completely drain, and press the spinach as dry as possible. Roast the tomatoes and cheese for 40 minutes, turning the oven to broil for the last two minutes, allowing the tomatoes to blister.

While the tomatoes are in the oven, cook 10 oz of your favorite pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta reserving 1/2 C of pasta water.

When the tomatoes are blistered and soft, remove them from the oven and stir to incorporate the cheese into the tomatoes, adding the 1/2 Cup of reserved pasta water. Add the cooked pasta and lemon zest and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot.

Lorie Thompson is a REALTOR at Poss Realty in Clayton, Georgia. Her expertise in her industry is second only to her culinary talents. Lorie is a dynamo in the kitchen. Honestly if she prepares it, it will likely be the best you’ve ever had! Lorie and her husband, Anthony (Peanut), make their home in the Persimmon Community. She is the proud mother of Joe Thompson and Kendall Thompson.

Pioneer Woman’s cooking show recently featured a recipe for Mystery Rolls. She said her Mom made them in the 60s after the introduction of canned biscuits. The recipe calls for Blue Cheese Crumbles and two sticks of butter. She serves them with Marinara Sauce as an appetizer.

I adapted the recipe to serve alongside the Feta Pasta Bake using lots of garlic, parsley, basil, and Parmesan Cheese.

1 Can of Grands Flaky Style Refrigerator Biscuits.

1 Stick of Salted Butter

1 1/2 tsp of granulated garlic

Grated Parmesan (or cheese of your choice) parsley, basil, and red pepper flakes

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place an 11x17 baking sheet into the oven with a stick of salted butter for 3 minutes or until the butter is fully melted. Add the granulated garlic to the butter. Open the canned biscuits using the “Wampum” technique. Cut each biscuit into quarters. Roll each piece around in the warm butter, thoroughly coating them. Spread them out to bake. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they are brown. Remove from the oven and toss with lots of grated Parmesan and parsley, basil, and red pepper flakes.

None of my family realized they were eating canned biscuits. The Flaky style biscuit bakes into something similar to puff pastry. My bread-eating men love these!

Enjoy this easy-to-make feast at your family table!

Adventure Out

Romantic Overlooks - Blackrock Mountain State Park

By Peter McIntosh

Once again it’s Valentine’s Month, a time when I like to visit a romantic overlook. The destination this month has several stunning view spots to share with that special someone. The first observation platform you’ll come to when entering the park is the Cowee Overlook, a small deck offering views to the northeast. If it’s a clear day, one can see all the way to the Cowee Mountains, far in the distance in North Carolina.

Further up the road is the Blue Ridge Overlook, with views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, the line where the mountains meet the foothills. Alex Mountain and Pinnacle Knob are right across the valley and to the southeast are the foothills of South Carolina. This is a great spot to watch a moonrise. The full moon this month on Sunday, February 5th, but on the Saturday the 4th, you can see the almost full moon breach the horizon at 5pm. (Bring a camera and a telephoto lens.)

Up next on the Blackrock Mountain Parkway is the visitor’s center and the Blackrock Overlook, a sprawling rock face overlooking the lovely hamlet of Clayton.

The three view spots mentioned so far are easily accessible whereas the next point of viewing grandeur requires a little hiking. I’m referring to the Tennessee Rock Overlook on the Tennessee Rock Trail. I rate the trail as moderate, with one reasonably steep ascent along the way. This is an interpretive trail, ( a 2.2 mile loop ) with numbered markers that correspond with an illustrated trail guide available for one dollar at the visitor’s center. I strongly recommend you purchase this booklet so you can learn about the flora, the fauna and the geology you’re walking through. From the trailhead at the junction with the James Edmonds Backcountry Trail, the footpath follows along the northern side of the mountain. A bit further along, the trail begins turning to the left and ascending. This is the steep part of the hike but it’s not too bad, and the rewards are well worth it. There’s a stone marker marking the high point of the mountain, a good place to rest and catch your breath.

Peter McIntosh is an accomplished professional photographer. His photography is displayed in collections across the country. His passion for nature and the outdoors is what fuels his column. His work is available as fine art prints. Peter offers one on one and small group instruction on camera operation and photography. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website: www.mcintoshmountains.com

Tennessee Rock Sunset

Now we continue on as the best is yet to come. I’m referring to the Tennessee Rock Overlook, the most spectacular viewing spot in the park. To the north, you’re looking across Wolffork Valley into the mountains of North Carolina. Looking in a more westerly direction, you’re looking across the Germany Valley and into the mountains of Tennessee. From this overlook it’s a quick downhill hike back to the parking area. Bring a headlamp if you want to stay and watch a sunset. Happy hiking!

P.S. If you want to be really romantic, I suggest celebrating your adventure with a visit to Napa South in downtown Clayton. It’s just off Main Street on Oak Crescent Circle and is a great spot to sample some lovely wines and perhaps a charcuterie tray.

And now before I bid you adieu, here’s my poem for month number two: You can hike a little or a lot.

To get to one of many sweet viewing spots. These romantic overlooks are all oh so fine, Then maybe top it off with a nice glass of wine,

NAPA Wine

Getting there: From US 441 in Mountain City, follow the Blackrock Mountain Parkway into the park entrance. There is a $5.00 fee but I encourage everyone to purchase an annual pass, good at all of Georgia’s state parks, for $50.00. This gives the park much needed funding.

On the web: www.gastateparks.org/BlackRockMountain Phone: 706.746.2141

Napa South: www.napasouth.wine

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

Clouds over Clayton

Moonrise

Firmly Rooted Bloom Times

By Tori Carver

With nearly 80% of the flower industry leaning on imports, it’s no surprise that most of us haven’t the foggiest idea what season specific flowers bloom. We want dahlias in the spring, tulips in the summer, and peonies in the fall. This disconnect is especially evident at popular holidays and weddings. Take Valentine’s Day for instance. Did you know the United States buys more than one billion roses each year for Valentine’s Day from overseas?

Why? Because roses generally don’t bloom in the US in February unless their growing conditions have been altered (such as a tunnel or greenhouse). We’ve become accustomed to being able to obtain whatever flower we desire regardless of the season so we have no idea that peonies and sunflowers don’t naturally grow in November.

So for fun, I thought I’d share an abbreviated list of bloom times for some of the more popular flowers to help familiarize yourself with natural bloom times. A little disclaimer though, these times are based on USDA Zone 7 (which is our zone in Rabun County) and it does not take into account flowers that are grown in a tunnel or greenhouse to extend their normal season or those that are “forced” to bloom ahead of (or

Victoria (Tori) Carver is a flower farmer. From the thousand bulbs and plants that she puts in the ground each year she creates lovely bouquets. Many enjoy her flowers in their home each week. She has established a subscription program for her customers or a honor-system bouquet sales for random purchases. Tori and her husband and children make their home in Clayton, where they are a treasured part of the community. If you are interested in Firmly Rooted Flower Farm please reach out by email to firmlyrootedflowerfarm@gmail.com or phone 706-490-0041. You will also enjoy their website at www.firmlyrootedflowerfarm.com

behind) their normal bloom time (like Amaryllises or Tulips). Spoiler alert: if you are a bride and you absolutely have to have dahlias in your bridal bouquet, choose to get married in August, September or early October.

Here we go….

Allium - May, June

Anemone - March, April, May

Astilbe - June, July

Calla Lily - July

Lily - June, July

Lily of the Valley - April

Dahlia - July, August, September, October

Foxglove - May, June, July

Echinacea - July, August

Forsythia - February

Gladiolus - July

Hellebores (Lenton Rose) - February, March, April

Hyacinth - April

Hydrangea (Macrophyla) - June, July, August, September

Hydrangea (Paniculuta) - August, September, October

Narcissus/Daffodil - March, April

Peony - May/June

Ranunculus - March, April, May

Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan) - July, August

Sedum - August, September, October

Tulip - March, April, May

As previously mentioned, there are exceptions to every rule. For instance, Lilies and Calla Lilies can be “programmed” to bloom every single month of the year which totally blows my mind. Tulips can also be programmed (or forced) to bloom from January to June even though their normal bloom time is late March through very early May, depending on our weather. Again, mind blowing and intriguing.

So, in an attempt to get blooms to you ahead of the normal Zone 7 timeline, I am trying my hand at forcing tulips this year. It’s been a big investment of time (and money) but it’s been quite thrilling for my love-to-learn heart. I’m aiming for Valentine’s Day for my first batch of programmed bulbs and Mother’s Day for my last batch. It’s too early to say whether or not the inaugural year will be successful (or on time), but I encourage you to check out my Instagram and Facebook accounts to follow along. I think it’s going to be a real nail-biter. And who knows… if this actually works, no flower is safe from my clutches.

Mountain Treasure

Irealize that my good friend Peter McIntosh just did an article on Tallulah Gorge State Park in last month’s issue. But there is another reason beyond its beauty and magnificence, that our own amazing natural wonder, the Tallulah Gorge, is one of our most prized “Mountain Treasures.”

It’s obvious that Rabun County’s Tallulah Gorge State Park celebrates the splendor of nature, with its stunning views of sheer quartzite cliffs towering over the torrents of water falling over the rocks below. Also clear is the fact that hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the park each year to avail themselves of these spectacular views, unparalleled hiking trails, and world class white-water sports and climbing opportunities. And it’s generally known that the Tallulah Gorge and its waterfalls have been a tourist attraction since at least 1882 when the Tallulah Falls Railway was built, increasing the accessibility of the area to people traveling up from Atlanta and South Georgia. But it may not be as well-known that the park is also a testament to two Georgia women pioneers in environmental conservation, Helen Dortch Longstreet and Jane Hurt Yarn.

Known as the “Fighting Lady”, Helen Dortch Longstreet was an American social advocate who earned her nickname for being a champion of causes such as the preservation of the environment and civil rights. The second wife of Confederate general James Longstreet, she was the proprietor and editor of two weekly new publications, Vice-President of the Georgia Weekly Press Association, Secretary of the Woman’s Press Club of Georgia, and Assistant Librarian of the State of Georgia. She was also the leader of the movement to have the University of Georgia opened to women and was an advocate of modern industrial education. In 1911, Dortch Longstreet took up the cause of creating a state park at Tallulah Gorge to

Helen Dortch Longstreet

Tallulah Gorge Suspension Bridge by Peter McIntosh

protect the area from the potential impact of Georgia Power’s plan to build a series of hydroelectric dams along the Tallulah River. Although unsuccessful, her campaign was one of the first conservation movements in Georgia. When the Tallulah Gorge State Park was finally created in 1993, it was done in her honor and the trails in the park were named the Helen Dortch Longstreet Trail System in 1999.

Another “trail-blazing” woman, Jane Hurt Yarn was a pioneering conservationist and environmentalist who single-handedly helped save thousands of acres of wild land in Georgia and around the nation. Among her many accomplishments, she founded Save Our Vital Environment (SAVE), the first full-time environmental lobbying organization in the state, she received the American Motors Conservation Award in 1971, and was inducted in to the Georgia Women of Achievement in 2009. As a tribute to her efforts, Ms. Yarn was posthumously honored in 1995 with the dedication of Tallulah Gorge State Park’s 16,000 square foot environmental education and visitors center by Governor Zell Miller. According to Governor Miller, “No other single individual has done as much for conservation in Georgia as Jane Yarn.”

Today, as you marvel at the gorge’s splendor while hiking the rim trails or watching the kayakers brave the torrents from the swaying suspension bridge, remember that the everlasting beauty of the park is also a tribute to the vision of these two women, whose passion for environmental preservation helped ensure that the treasures of our mountains will always be here for us to enjoy. And we would remiss if we didn’t also express our appreciation to Peter and his students for doing such a great job capturing that beauty in their wonderful photographs so that others can marvel as well. There are so many treasures to be found in the mountains of Rabun County… come explore them all!

Tallulah Gorge circa 1894

Kayakers on a Water Release Day by Peter McIntosh

Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center by Sydney Poore

Gorge Visitors at an Overlook by Peter McIntosh

Triple H Youth Rodeo It’s a Family Affair

Aaron and Michelle Holt are the founders of Triple H Farms. Aaron team roped for many years and when he and Michelle had their son Josh they set up a roping arena at their home. People would come to their house to rope. It was then that they opened a tack and western store in Dillard called Muleskinner’s Tack and Western Wear. The Holts had brood mares and Aaron would take in other’s horses and work with them. This was the beginning of Triple H Farms and the year was 1992.

Aaron always believed if you keep kids on horseback you might keep them out of trouble! So when Josh married Maegan and their grandchildren came along, the couple wanted to offer their three and other kids in the area something to get involved in. Ironic how Triple H took on a new meaning. So in August of 2018 they held their 1st Youth Rodeo at Rabun Arena. This was the beginning of Triple H Youth Rodeo. They had four events that year and the following year they held a rodeo once a month, February to November.

Rodeo participants range in age from 2 years old to 18 years old. Many of the children have prior experience, but a lot of them are brand new. Michelle says, “They are all tough, gritty, determined and competitive.” Triple H judges will take a minute to offer pointers and words of encouragement for new riders and Aaron and Michelle can meet up with kids and their parents to offer direction. They hope to do actual lessons in the near future. Audience admission is free and a concession stand is open during the rodeos. All of this combined with entry fees and sponsorships by local businesses allows them to offer cash payouts to contestants. All contestants are eligible to win and some become members of Triple H. Membership allows contestants to

collect points throughout the season. These points help the children earn prizes at the year-end banquet.

“We are so thankful to be able to keep the sport of rodeo alive.” Michelle said. “The children and their families become like extended family to us and we are grateful for every one of them. We want every child to feel special and proud of their efforts.” It truly is like a family with great support for all of the kids. If you would like more information about Triple H Youth Rodeo, are interested in your child becoming involved or would like to become a sponsor, call Aaron or Michelle at 706-982-0553

“Don’t just tell your kids to be active and to get outside and play. Lead by example.”

Summer Sanders

Who Do You Love?

By Pastor Gabe Southards, Head of Tennessee Baptist Church

February is the month of love. On the 14th day of this month people will sometimes go to great lengths to show their wife, husband, girlfriend, or boyfriend how much they love them. There will be flowers, cards, gifts, candy, you name it, given to those significant others, all in the name of love! But, for every person that gives a gift of love, there will be many more who won’t. Either because they have “lost that loving feeling” as the song says, or, they don’t have anyone to give to, or they just forgot that it was February 14th! The end of all of this is that someone is happy, at least for a little while because of the gift they received, or they continue to be sad because they have nobody, or they’re in trouble because they forgot!

It seems that people, in general, really don’t understand what real love is. And I think that the reason for this is found in the answer to this question, “Who do you love?”

The Bible says in 1 John 4:19, “We love him, because he first loved us.” Also, in that same chapter in verse 10, it says “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins”. The word “propitiation” literally means “atoning sacrifice, or payment”. So, real love involves sacrifice…it involves a giving of yourself for another.

In John 3:16, the Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

You see, real love is sacrificial. It has absolutely nothing to do with any kind of gift you can buy at a store. You give of yourself. And that giving is not so you might receive something in return, but just because you love. The world’s idea of love is a “do this for that” kind of love. In other words, I’ll love you if you continue to do _____ for me. Well, that’s not how God meant for love to be. God is the ultimate example of love. As a matter of fact, the Bible declares in 1 John 4:8 that “God IS love…”, and His example of love is found in the fact that He gave His dear Son for you and me! The Greatest Compassion ever shown was the love of God that sent us a Saviour!

The Greatest Commandment ever given was to love God who sent us a Saviour!

And the Greatest Cause on earth is to promote the love of God and our Saviour, Jesus Christ!

The problem we have today in this world is that there are so many things that can captivate our minds and steal our hearts, that we don’t love the Lord as much as we should, and that is a tragedy! Oh, how it would teach us to love one another if we would only love God the way He loved us!

When someone mentions my wife, I think of my love for her. When someone talks about my children, I think of my love for them. When someone mentions the name of Jesus, I think about how much he loved me!

And I’m humbled when I think of how much he loved me, and yet how little I show my love for him!

Charles Spurgeon said I want to love Jesus Christ so much, that when I look up to heaven, and say, “Dear Jesus, I love you”, he’ll look down, and say, “Yes, Charles, I know it”.

The Apostle Paul said that the love of Christ constraineth me… It pushes me on… I love Jesus so much I can’t quit!

Do you realize that you won’t be in heaven one second before you will want to run to the Saviour and fall at his feet and embrace him! -- And you’ll wonder why you didn’t love him more while you were down here!

I wonder if you can say today, that come what may, ...

I will love him. I will serve him. I will not question him. And I will understand that He IS God, and above Him there is none else!

If we will love the Lord Jesus Christ the way we should love Him, We will love one another. We will serve one another. And we will do it all in the name of the love we have for Him!

So, who do you love?

Gabe Southards is the Pastor at Head of Tennessee Baptist Church located at 895 Franklin Street in Dillard, Georgia. Pastor Southards and his church are members of R4G (Rabun for the Gospel). He and his wife Misty and their children make their home in Rabun and when he is not working, you might find Pastor Gabe at work in the church, spending time with his kids or on the golf course. Head of Tennessee Baptist Church has an active youth program and is dedicated to “equipping the saints to make Jesus known to the nations!”

Life is a Blessing

I’ve warmed my hands by the fire... have you?

By Tracy McCoy

Iam a believer much like Peter, the disciple of Jesus. The first one to jump out of the boat in a rush to meet with his Savior and fully trusting Him that he would take off across the water without a thought of sinking. This statement does not speak boastfully of Peter or me but rather the reckless heart that might slice off an ear in defense of our King. Peter seemed to be one that would act first and think later... I am guilty. His heart was right even when he denied Jesus three times. In thinking about writing this month’s column and aligning myself with Peter who denied Christ I thought twice about it, but once I began to think about his passion for Christ and his willingness to follow him I saw in my mind’s eye Peter always front and center hanging on His every word, longing to be closer to His Lord.

Fiercely loyal, bold and unafraid. Perhaps we would call Peter an immature Christian. I see Peter on the front pew on the edge of his seat, tattered bible in hand, pen behind his ear. When the choir begins to sing, a Peter is singing with them... off-key. Hands raised, heart fully sold out for Jesus he would share his testimony. He would tell anyone who would listen about the water walking story and how important it is to keep your eyes on your Master. With widened eyes Peter would recount how he began to sink, with great animation he would take the listener with him as his knees felt the cold water of the sea... then with arms spread and voice deepening he would tell how Jesus called out to him and reached out to him and how He’ll do the same for you.

In the book of Acts the story is told about the day of Pentecost and how the Holy Spirit filled the disciples and Peter began to preach to the crowd and 3,000 souls came forward to receive Jesus as their Savior. His love for the Lord and the Holy Spirit that lived within him empowered him to spread the message of Christ, start a ministry, preach to the Jews and later the Gentiles and grow in the Lord. He was unafraid of arrest and persecution. Many scholars consider Peter the eyewitness source for the Gospel of Mark and he was the author of 1st and 2nd Peter.

Peter knew great fear and doubt. He sometimes let his passions rule him instead of faith in God. In Christ’s darkest hours Peter abandoned Him and denied him three times. After His resurrection Jesus took special care to rehabilitate Peter and assure him he was forgiven. I would say to you I would never deny my Lord in a million years... Peter said the same thing sitting right next to Him, only hours before He was arrested. I have never spoke the words “I know not this man of whom ye speak” like Peter did but countless times my actions have said those very words. In years past and even now the choices I’ve made have denied my affiliation with my Savior. Our actions almost always speak louder than our words. Have you ever turned your head when you should have spoke, warming your hands by the fire hoping no one would put you on the spot just like Peter? Even hid your Christianity because of fear you’d be rejected? I think that if you are honest you could remember a time and place when your actions didn’t reflect your knowing Jesus. So, maybe there is a little Peter in each one of us.

What came after his denial? He remembered the words Jesus spoke to him earlier and he realized his sin and... he wept. I bet it was more than wept I bet he sobbed. I have. There have been times in my life that I was so sorry. I could almost cry now reliving those moments. Peter was forgiven just as I’ve been, by a loving, caring Lord who gave His life for me and all the other Peters in the world.

“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were” 1 Peter 2:24

His forgiveness is free – paid for at the cross of Calvary. Jesus loves you and He longs to know you.

A life with Jesus in it is truly God’s greatest blessing.

What Does Wellness Look Like to YOU?

By Dr. Sue Aery

Do you ever really think about the word, wellness? What does it mean to you and what is your wellness story? Many of us speak a wellness language and we think we know its meaning for ourselves, but do we really? The definition of wellness is “the quality or state of being healthy in body and mind, especially as the result of deliberate effort. An approach to healthcare that emphasizes preventing illness and prolonging life, as opposed to emphasizing treating diseases.” (dictionary.com) So, how do we really epitomize wellness in our own lives?

What do we think about incorporating wellness into our every day lives? Exercise, hydration, self care, sleep and recovery, eating clean, being in alignment- how many of these specific activities do we do on a daily basis and are they intentional? Are we diligent in our actions and do we practice wellness? Getting a regular adjustment or a monthly massage, regular movement and meditation, daily walks - these are all ways that we can practice wellness. Strive for a good understanding of the dynamic process of being and staying healthy. Want the perfect picture of wellness to be yours? Dedicate yourself to your self, body and mind! Just do it!

“Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.” Napoleon Hill

Michael on the Map

By Michael Detrick

Take 12: Dillard, GA

Gearing up for my first adventure of 2023, ever-erratic Mother Nature was threatening the first snow of the season, but what she left behind was not a solid blanket, showcasing the bristly texture of the forest floor, juts of dark earth scattered throughout the winter white. It was a far cry from this exactly one year ago, when the heavens deposited over six inches here in Rabun County, rendering me homebound and without power for four cozy (claustrophobic) primitive days.

In any event, I planned this month’s excursion pretty close to home and landed just seven miles up the road from downtown Clayton. So, let’s load up, turn up some Tears for Fears, and take a little trek north! But first, some history.

The town of Dillard finds its origins when, in 1794, Revolutionary War veteran John Dillard drew a lot in the county’s lottery on the Tallulah River but decided to trade this parcel for 1000 acres in the area that would eventually bear his namesake. According to www. dillardhouse.com, “Legend says that Captain Dillard made peace with the local Cherokee Indians by trading a muzzle-loading rifle, a jug of apple brandy, one coonskin cap and $3 cash for all the land between the two mountain tops.” That rascal!

A stagecoach station was built thereafter, the town was officially incorporated in 1846, and when sixty years later the Tallulah Falls Railroad was extended north, Dillard was officially connected to the outside world. In 1917, Carrie and Arthur Dillard built a modest

inn for travelers, which would become the present-day sprawling Dillard House and grounds.

Having enjoyed the regionally famous restaurant in previous years, for these travels I decided to visit the Dillard House Stables for an afternoon of horseback riding, and I was really excited to saddle up. I couldn’t help but hum Echo and the Bunnymen in my head, “Bring on the dancing horses, wherever they may roam…”

With 36 horses featuring breeds such as the Quarter Horse, Clydesdale, Appaloosa, Mustang, and Norwegian Fjord, I arrived ready to see what I would get. I also took bets on its name on my way to the stables, but that was for naught as a “Rambler” and a “Hatch” were not among the lot. I ended up with a Quarter Horse named Joe, which is coincidentally my dad’s name.

Joe was a good boy; mild-mannered. My guide, Lexie Parker, took me on an hour tour through the pasture and down to the Little Tennessee River, which she shared is a “backwards flowing river” – moving south to north. We got into the river on horseback, but only in shallower water because of the season. In warmer months – beginning in April/May – the 1.5-hour tour takes you through deeper waters, offering another exciting element of adventure.

I asked Lexie – a Rabun County native who mounted her first horse with stables owner Pam Thompson at age six – what her favorite thing about horses was. Her response gave me pause, “I like their uniqueness. Horses are a great judge of character; they tell you about yourself. They have a broad outlook on life and are eager to please.” I’ll take it, Lexie.

In this series I will be traveling to the towns of northeastern Georgia and western North and South Carolina, sharing my adventures and discoveries as I meet the locals who make up the area. Hop in my Jeep and let’s hit the road!

I also got to chat with Pam, whose history with horses began at age 5. “Growing up in Rabun County, and particularly with horses as a hobby, a mode of travel for myself and my friends as youngsters, and the freedom to play in these beautiful mountains was undoubtedly the kind of childhood that most people only dream of! It truly was magical,” Pam said.

Pam, who has run the stables since 1989, continued, “Dillard House Stables is an extension of the deep, southern roots planted in the early 1900s by the Dillard family, and my goal has always been to offer an experience, from the back of a horse, that everyone who rides with us will not only treasure for a lifetime, but will share with their friends and family and come back year after year!”

Setting Pam’s operation apart from others in the business is the care given to, and the quality of their horses, as well as their incredible staff. I’ll be back in Spring for the full “wet” tour! But for now, let’s head elsewhere for a little whistle wetting.

Rufus Mathewson Rose got his start making whiskey over 150 years ago, making the R.M. Rose Distillery in Dillard the oldest registered distillery in the state. It was a bit confounding to learn that each 100-gallon vat of mash yields only 10% of usable product. The process is painstaking.

Georgia native and master distiller Dwight Bearden, who comes from a long bloodline of moonshining, walked me through the process in person, narrating along the way, “I’ll start off with 75 gallons of water, add 250 pounds of corn, bring the temperature up to 180 degrees, hold it there for an hour and a half, bring it down to 140 degrees, put my wheat on it and cook it for another hour, bring the temperature down to 70 degrees, and transfer it to the fermenter. We here then do what the old timers call ‘double and twisted’.”

And there’s more to it after that but qualified to write a tutorial I am not.

At today’s R.M. Rose Distillery, you will find the original recipe corn and barley whiskey, straight corn whiskey, a Blue Label Straight Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon, and multiple flavored whiskies. They bottle and label everything by hand, and everything is done right on site.

After a couple whiskey samples (both very smooth), it was time to close my day in Dillard with a bite to eat, so I set my sights on Marisol by The Hush Peruvian Kitchen.

Starting off with the shrimp ceviche, I am not exaggerating when I say it is some of the best I have ever had. Loaded with chilled shrimp, fresh diced avocado, tomato, red onion, thinly sliced radishes, and a touch of cilantro, this traditional Peruvian cold seafood salad was perfectly tangy, limey, and delicious. I then jumped countries with a Cuban sandwich, which also did not disappoint. Chef Alberto Rodriguez has succeeded in bringing his Latin culinary expertise right here to Rabun County.

Beyond my day’s forays, Dillard’s quaint “main street” right on 441 boasts 40,000 square feet of antique and collectible shopping, including The Dillard Market. Also be sure to check out Gallery 441, featuring pieces of varied mediums made by local artists, as well as offering classes and hosting unique events.

And with that, before I leave you with a song lyric as you have come to expect, I quote Pam once more, ”Travel the world over, and these mountains will still be a place not easily forgotten.“

And now, friends, in closing this entry, I present to you Tears for Fears: “High time we made a stand, and shook up the views of the common man |Sowing the seeds of love, seeds of love | Anything is possible when you’re sowing the seeds of love”

Rustic Luxury with a Coffee Sidecar

By Michael Detrick

Upon entering the lobby of The White Birch Inn in downtown Clayton, the care and attention to detail that interior designer Brenda Patterson has put into it since she purchased it in 2012 is instantly evident. She has transformed the original 1920s structure into a luxurious boutique bed and breakfast, paying homage to the past while cultivating a modernday experience.

The solid oak entrance doors were originally hung on the left side of the building but were removed and reworked by local wood crafter Dwayne Thompson and now greet the inn’s guests from its Savannah St entrance.

Once inside, after passing the stone fireplace and sitting area, you will find the focal point of the first floor: The 20-foot custom Inferno granite bar, that resembles petrified wood. Featuring white birch panels and local mountain laurel branches, find yourself perched upon one of the handcrafted hickory barstools as you enjoy a hand-shaken martini or refined bourbon on the rocks.

The White Birch Inn is rustic meets polished; warm, inviting, and a true beauty to behold.

Beyond the elegantly appointed lobby, guests will find themselves in one of six uniquely decorated rooms, lovingly named after indigenous trees. Each feature their own ensuite bathroom, and two boast gas stone fireplaces. Bringing the raw beauty of nature inside, authentic local white birch branches adorn the inn throughout.

Georgia native and hospitality expert General Manager Jenna Findley shared, “When the opportunity arose, I took everything I learned before and brought it here to White Birch. Working in this environment, made so beautiful by Brenda Patterson, has made my job so much fun.”

Other structural features include distressed wood beams and columns, and hand-applied faux finished stucco walls, all crafted by local artists Barbie White and Holli Phillips. Textural surfaces such as poplar bark shingles and Alderwood paneling complement the hand-scraped Acacia wood floors underfoot.

Original to the building are the upstairs hardwood floors, and the spectacular wood ceiling and beams in the lounge were reclaimed from a 100-year-old dismantled church.

“Everything about this place is absolutely stunning. The uniqueness of it is just amazing. I am so thrilled to be here,” Jenna said.

Brenda’s vision did not end with opening her boutique hotel.

Just a couple doors away you will find White Birch Provisions, which also offers downtown a unique customer experience. “After opening the inn, Brenda decided that Clayton needed someplace that had really good coffee, great quality baked goods, and be able to provide a lot of things that you couldn’t get here,” said White Birch provisions General Manager Ivy Million.

“Brenda was the main designer, and I kind of served as her assistant in getting it all started. And so, Provisions was born to go along

with the experience of the Inn. It was so much fun to help build this place from the ground up.”

Ivy, originally from Iowa, had already fallen in love with the mountains of North Georgia working for Brenda at the Inn when she approached her about helping her with Provisions. “She really let me take the reins,” Ivy said. “And it is my husband, Charlie, who changed the game with our baked goods.”

Jenna, who cooks breakfast 5 days a week at the inn, added, “It’s gone over so beautifully, incorporating their baked goods into our menu, with so many people saying we have the best breakfast in the area.”

What both White Birch Inn and Provisions don’t make in house, they try to source locally. “That’s very important to us, supporting the community,” Jenna shared.

The recently finished upstairs loft at White Birch Provisions might be the most unexpected place to enjoy a coffee, tea, or homemade pastry in the area. Once you have ascended the swinging staircase to the landing above, you can find your own nook in which to pass some time with your favorite latte, seasonal drink, and the everpopular cheese Danish or a cherry pie bar.

It is the vision and fulfillment of that vision that really sets The White Birch Inn and White Birch Provisions apart from other “big box” establishments. As Jenna said, “It doesn’t matter if it’s the 4th of July or Valentine’s Day. This is the culmination of the quintessential romantic getaway.”

With the winter months offering a wine and cheese hour by the fireplace, there is no better option around to reconnect with your significant other. And with the staff’s astute knowledge and appreciation of the area, the are your concierges for the duration of your stay.

Because everything the inn offers (including their bar, breakfast, and spa amenities), are exclusive only to inn guests, book your stay now to enjoy what all this beautiful place has to offer.

Check Mark Junk Removal is Your

New Best Friend!

By Tracy McCoy

Spring is the time of year that we think about cleaning up, dragging the stuff our of those closets, the basement, the garage or shed or wherever you hide your junk. Yes, junk! We all have it and we all hold on to it, just in case. Getting rid of it feels so very good! But, it’s a lot of work and that is why it has remained where it is. The solution is here! Check Mark Junk Removal is ready, willing and able to tackle that job for you and they’ll do as much as you want. You drag it out and pile it up and they’ll load it and haul it off or leave the entire job to them.

Building a home or remodeling and have a yard full of scrap lumber and building materials? Call Check Mark Junk Removal. Landlord with tenants who moved and left a mess? Call Check Mark Junk Removal. No matter where the junk is you can count on Mark and Jodi Purdue to be there to take care of it. You’ll be astounded at their professionalism, how quickly they get the job done and the clean site when they leave. I can’t say enough good about this family owned business because they did a job for me and I was beyond pleased with the experience from start to finish! Consider this a reference, but if you need more I am sure they can provide them. I invite you to visit their website for more details about the services they provide www.CheckMarkJunk.com. Be sure to follow them on social media @checkmarkjunk or go ahead and check that job off your list with a phone call to Mark or Jodi 706-982-3909, you can thank me later!

“Poster Child” for Home Sweet Home is Waiting

By John Shivers

There are times in a home search when the standard for everyone else just doesn’t quite cut the mustard. Whether it’s enough bedrooms to sleep an oversize crew, a layout that allows for a certain lifestyle, or a convenient location, there are always those “must-haves.” Finding everything you need all tied up in one package can be challenging.

Usually…

But not in the 3,918± square foot tri-level home at 917 Long Laurel Ridge in Lakemont, GA. This well-maintained home on an almost one acre sloping lot delivers flexibility and livability, and is priced right as well. If cookie-cutter won’t cut it for you and your family, you owe it to yourself to check out this ready-to-move-in home.

Nestled in the woods of south Rabun County, with breathtaking ridge top fourseasonal mountain views, you’ll find this exceptional home in the Long Laurel Community, where covenants against short-term rentals protect both your privacy and quiet enjoyment. What’s more, you’re in close proximity to Lake Rabun and Tallulah Gorge State Park. With a total of five oversize bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bath, this home is ideal for year-round living for a large family. It works equally well for the buyer who needs a special getaway retreat for themselves, with accommodations for extended family and friends. And the terrace level makes a great in-law suite.

While the lay of the land and the location affords great beauty and privacy, downtown Clayton with its dining, boutiques and art galleries is only a convenient fifteen minute drive north… close enough, yet conveniently remote. If you have school-age children, both Rabun County Schools and a prestigious private school are nearby.

Traditional style architecture, executed with horizontal siding and a composition roof, are the trademarks of this home that was built in 2006. Home maintenance is minimal, and there is comfortable parking for several cars, and is accessed by a paved public road.

The main level of this home features wide open spaces, vaulted twostory ceilings, lots of glass and loads of light, including clerestory windows on the second level. Spacious is one descriptor. Cozy and comfortable are two more ways to describe this living-dining-food prep area that takes up approximately two-thirds of this area. Real McCoy dark-stained hardwood floor runs throughout, and a wood-burning stone fireplace anchors the great room. A large kitchen allows the chef and helpers to execute their tasks and still be part of the action.

While the kitchen layout is the traditional U-shape, its generous dimensions make for comfortable cooking. Backing this up are the usual complement of stainless appliances, including dishwasher, microwave, oven/range combo and refrigerator, along with generous work and storage space, hard-surface counter tops, and an adjacent breakfast bar. A separate dining area will comfortably seat ten to twelve people. Double French doors open onto a covered deck that includes a staircase to the back area of the property.

Elsewhere on this level you’ll find the master suite, complete with generous closet space, and a comfortable-size bath with double vanity, separate tub and shower, and private toilet compartment. A laundry room with cabinet storage and a powder room complete this level.

Upstairs on the landing between two bedrooms is a built-in desk / home office space. On the daylight lower level, two more bedrooms and baths, storage space, a kitchenette and a spacious second living area open onto the covered lower deck.

Ready to discard the cookie-cutter concept and check out this phenomenal property? Contact Harry Norman, REALTORS® Luxury Lake and Mountain agent Sarah Gillespie for a chance to tour this exceptional home, GMLS#20086038. You can reach her at (cell) 404735-6157 or (office) 706-212-0228.

Escape and Retreat to Tranquility

By John Shivers

The waters of the Soque River, one of northeast Georgia’s most picturesque waterways, dance and flow and leap over the massive stones in its display of musical white mist, and come back together again, as they pass the home in the bend at 291 Tranquility Drive outside Demorest, Georgia. What an appropriately labeled address, because the rugged beauty of this location on the river paints a perpetual picture of peace, calm and simplicity. You understand why this one-of-a-kind riverfront paradise goes by the name Tranquility House. And it can be yours.

The name not only defines the physical address of this 6,500± square foot home, tranquility is also the inspiration for the home’s lifestyle, mere steps away from the churning waters that occasionally inspire rainbows. Their spirit is endowed on this entire 22± acre tract of pristine woods, grassy hills and rural venue, miles removed from the hurly-burley. Distinctive four-season views come as a part of the package.

The superb laid back lifestyle that reigns supreme begins on the expansive covered

porch that wraps the main level. Enjoy outdoor dining to the music of the river, or relax with a book in the swing, and maybe even take a nap. Or just use this outdoor living space to nature watch. You’ll find similar relaxation space on the terrace level, allowing the owner to enjoy world class fishing right from the banks of your back yard. A sitting area on the river bank is a great place to sit and unwind, and if a little more strenuous activity is more your speed, grab your kayak, put in right at your house, and enjoy the adventure that awaits.

The home’s outdoor style of stone, brick and rustic wood sets the tone for the ambience found inside this truly custom home. Massive wood marries with stone, color and style to create unbelievable home artistry that speaks to the creativity of the designers. Beautiful, dark-stained black walnut floors, gorgeous wood beams, vaulted ceilings, barn wood and tin paint a one of a kind canvas –a picture of gracious, comfortable opportunities for unforgettable living. Generous windows and other expanses of glass bring the outdoors inside, and give the home year-round light and comfort.

A massive stone fireplace and stone arches distinguish the main level, where a huge gourmet kitchen with furniture style cabinets, dual ovens, granite countertops and a gas range in the expansive center island create a chef’s dream. Two adjacent large dining areas help feed family and friends. The generous size master suite that opens onto the upper cover deck with views of the dam and overflowing waters includes an ensuite bath with tub, shower, double sinks, and private toilet compartment. A room-size master closet with custom-built organizers completes the suite. A second bedroom and ensuite bath complete this level.

The terrace level houses a family room and man cave with second fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen, wine cellar, sauna, game area and storage space. Use it for your family on a daily basis, or for guests, who can come and go at will through their own outside access. Habersham County Schools are convenient to this property.

A winding drive through the rolling hills leads one and all to this home and the extensive apron of laid brick pavers that surround the stunning view at the end of the drive. A four-stall separate garage provides ample vehicle space and storage. There’s also a separate storage building.

Nate Conkling with Poss Realty, literally has the key to tranquility, and is ready to show this spectacular riverfront paradise, MLS 10121057. Contact him by cell phone at 407-876-0242, via email at nate.possrealty@gmail.com, or at the office at 706-782-2121.

FIREFIGHTING IN CLAYTON BACK IN THE DAY Hand-Pulled Hose Cart, Gunshots and Dinner Bells

By Dick Cinquina - Photos courtesy of Rabun County Historical Society

Afire in a mechanic’s garage sparked a conflagration that burned the resort town of Tallulah Falls to the ground on a December night in 1921. The village had no fire department. Neither did any other town in Rabun County. If your house caught fire, it helped to have friendly neighbors, because that was the only available help.

As early as 1912, the Clayton Tribune chastised the city council for not establishing a fire department. “We think it high time for our town councilmen to organize their firefighting department, though we know they are the busiest men in town, but if a fire breaks out in our city, we guess they would be somewhat busier than they are, unorganized and nothing doing.”

Despite the newspaper’s prodding, nothing was done about establishing a fire fighting force until the early 1920s when a volunteer fire department was organized. The department’s original “fire truck” was a hand-pulled hose cart. Two wagon wheels were connected by an axel that held a reel of heavy hose. The cart was pulled to fires by two volunteers. State-of-the-art firefighting equipment it was not.

Hose Cart Rolled Past Fire

In a 2001 interview in the Clayton Tribune, Jadie Cannon, one of the city’s early volunteer fire fighters, recalled a fire at the Hamby Hotel. He said he and a fellow volunteer pulled the hose cart from its shed under the Rock House at Main and Savannah streets and headed down the hill toward the hotel. “That cart was a heavy thing. We got to going so fast, I didn’t know if we were pulling the cart or if it was pushing us…We ran right past the fire because we couldn’t stop that thing. We had to wait until it started up the next grade before we could turn it around and go back to the fire.”

Most buildings in Clayton were constructed of wood, providing ample fuel for fires. Once wood buildings caught fire, they often were destroyed before volunteers arrived with the hose cart. Volunteers sometimes would get the hose cart to a fire only to find there was no hydrant nearby, in which case they only could watch the building burn.

The water supply for Clayton came from two storage tanks on the slope of Black Rock Mountain. The gravity flow from the

Clayton purchased its first fire truck in 1941. It replaced the hand-pulled hose cart that had been used since the 1920s.

elevated tanks was said to provide adequate water pressure. The only problem with this arrangement was that the water tanks were supplied by mountain springs. During periods of little or no rain, low water levels in the tanks resulted in minimal water and pressure for home use…or fighting fires.

Gunshots at Night and Dinner Bells

Clayton’s early fire warning system consisted of gunshots and a dinner bell. A night policeman on patrol (think, “9 o’clock and all is well”) would fire his pistol to alert fire fighters. Unfortunately, this system was open to abuse. The Clayton Tribune wrote in a 1931 editorial: “On last Thursday night, following a serious fire of the night before, someone, with the idea of having a little fun, came to town…either firing a pistol or ‘popping their switch’ (horn) on their car, sounding like a pistol, along with the yell, ‘Fire, Fire, Fire.’ A number of people in town hearing the noise, alert to the fact that a fire was very dangerous because of low water (in the town’s water tanks), rushed over that way, only to find that there wasn’t anything at all to it, and were more or less on the bad end of a serious joke.”

In addition to firing pistols at night, the dinner bell on the front porch of the Blue Ridge Hotel on Main Street doubled as a fire gong. Jadie Cannon recalled, “They would ring that thing, and you could hear it for miles around at night. The fellows would come running.”

First Fire Engine in 1941

It was big news in 1941 when Clayton got its first fire engine as well as a firehouse siren. The Clayton Tribune extolled, “The Mayor and Council have kept up their reputation of keeping the City of Clayton right up with other cities of this kind and last Tuesday night

bought a modern LaFrance fire truck that will pump 500 gallons of water per minute…The machinery will be mounted on a Ford chassis and equipped with all the modern fire-fighting equipment. This is the same kind of truck that the city of Atlanta and other large cities have in operation…the pumper truck can put water on any building in the city.”

The newspaper went on to proclaim, “This is one of the most forward movements the city has taken lately and it is believed that the reduction in fire rates will soon pay for the outlay beside the satisfaction of knowing that we have some protection against fires which have been rather destructive in the city.” Clayton purchased a second fire engine in 1954 for $14,000. It was not until the 1970s that other towns and communities in Rabun County established their own fire departments. The last fire department was organized in Tiger in 1993. The county’s 13 volunteer fire departments are operated under Rabun County Fire Services.

Learn more about our history by becoming a member of the Rabun County Historical Society. Membership and complete information about the Society’s museum are available at www. rabunhistory.org. The newly renovated museum at 81 N. Church St. in downtown Clayton, which houses the Southeast’s largest collection of Tallulah Falls Railroad artifacts, is open ThursdaySaturday from 11 to 3. The Society is a not-for-profit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, making membership dues and donations tax deductible. Visit us on Facebook.

Dick Cinquina holds graduate degrees in history and journalism, making his work for the Rabun County Historical Society a natural fit for his interests. He is the retired president of Equity Market Partners, a national financial consulting firm he founded in 1981. In addition to writing monthly articles for the Georgia Mountain Laurel, Dick helped produce the Society’s new web site and is involved with the renovation of the group’s museum. After vacationing in this area for many years, he and his wife Anne moved to Rabun County in 2018.

Clayton purchased a second fire engine in 1954 for $14,000.

A devastating fire destroyed The Clayton Hotel on South Main Street in 1946.

Lovin’ the Journey

Top Gun: Maverick...the local story

By Mark Holloway

You will NOT be disappointed if you see Top Gun: Maverick. Frank Weisser could have retired anywhere he wanted. The 44-year-old Navy Commander and Blue Angel pilot consulted with his wife, and they picked Rabun County. He and Bethany had as many reasons to move here as there are waterfalls. But having a private airport in his front yard played a role. So, a few years ago, they and their kids, Kendall, Ben, and Caroline settled here.

Rabun draws amazing people.

Frank leads a slightly quieter life now...compared to landing his Navy jet at night on an aircraft carrier hundreds of miles from nowhere.

Top Gun happened in 1986. By 2010, Paramount was making plans for a sequel. But there were some obstacles. Tom Cruise didn’t want to do a second because the first was such a massive success. Would you do Gone with the Wind: Return to Tara?

I didn’t think so.

Frank’s got pilot buddies who have written scripts for a Top Gun sequel. No effort, not even from Paramount got off the ground. Again, the film star was agin’ it. Franks says something changed.

Frank was just a kid when Top Gun came out. He says the film affected and lured an entire generation of future Naval Aviators, including Frank.

But Tom Cruise was not going to appear in another Top Gun Frank and I had coffee at the White Birch in Clayton, and he told me, “What motivated Tom was the advent of camera technology that had changed so dramatically. Maverick had 800 actual IMAX camera hours of aircraft filming for a two-hour film, whereas in the first film most of the flight scenes were faked.”

Dewolfe Miller IIl was another obstacle. Just two years ago, he was the United States Navy Commander of Naval Air Forces, ‘the Air Boss’. Miller didn’t want to risk his pilots and aircraft to make another Top Gun film. But Frank says a skilled liaison convinced the Admiral that the Blue Angels were already doing the exact maneuvers the film would demand.

Franks explains, “The F18 aircraft is so maneuverable that at 200 feet above the ground a moment of inattention can have you into the ground right away. You are only allowed to look inside for one second. You can look at your nav display, radios, weapons...but for only one second, then your eyes are back on the horizon, back searching for obstacles and in your visual realm. And that’s at 200 feet. Our aircraft can rise and fall 50,000 feet in a minute. So, in less

than a second, you could crash and die. But for the movie, they wanted an airplane AT ONLY 10 or 20 feet off the ground. It was important to Tom Cruise and Jerry Bruckheimer that a couple of the scenes had to show this character, Maverick, could just do things the other pilots weren’t capable of doing. Traditionally, you wouldn’t fly an airplane that low over the runway or other people. With the Blue Angels, I flew it a thousand times. So, it was an easy thing for me, rather than someone who has no experience because the margin of error is so slight.

By now, Frank’s got my rapt attention, “The scene in the middle of the movie where they ride through that canyon and they come out over the desert at a really low altitude, that was all me and in some cases Tom and me together in the airplane. They’d put actors with navy pilots and have the cameras set up in the back seat of a two-seat F18 so it would truly look like they were flying the airplane. They were in the airplane, just not flying it. The scene of Tom upside down over Rooster was actually me flying the aircraft.”

Frank was a natural pick for the Navy. He was on active duty when Top Gun: Maverick filming got underway. in 2018, Commander Weisser had just successfully guided the Blue Angels into a new era, changing out the 30-year-old Hornet aircraft for the Super Hornets. It was a big project for the Blue Angel pro and his success drew the attention of his bosses.

I asked Frank how he met the hugely famous actor, Tom Cruise. “Well, he walked into a big briefing room and joined all of us at a u-shaped table in Fallon, Nevada at Top Gun School. Paramount treats Tom Cruise as the Navy treats a four-star admiral.”

I asked Frank, “Did you have butterflies?” He says, “No because as a Blue Angel, I flew celebrities all the time. If you are a jerk or an egotistical person, I don’t want to spend my day with you. But I found him to be a nice guy, a hardworking guy, a great guy to just communicate with. Our communication was simple and easy.”

I wanted to know what Frank was most proud of. “It is not the movie or air shows. It is none of that. It is the deployments I have done. The pilots defending, getting shot at, their stress level is lower defending against the missiles than landing on that carrier at night when they get back. What we do well is fight at night. We train more than our enemy. That gives us the upper hand. That means a lot of nighttime landings.”

A few side notes: Frank proposed to Brittany on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. I reckon she was in for a wild ride by saying ‘yes.’ Carol and I have some wonderful friends here, Tim and Diane Lytle. They introduced us to Frank. Now that Diane knows the real Tom Cruise, she has seen the film one more time...maybe :)

Franks says he told Brittany the movie’s impact on his family would be just a flash in the pan.

Wrong. He is booking speaking engagements into 2024.

As for now, the Weisser family wants to pour into our community. They are avid climbers and plan to explore our endless trails and Frank wants to get dirty mountain biking. See you on the trail.

Mark and Carol Holloway are outdoor adventurers and love the thrills of rock climbing and hikes to waterfalls and exploring all of God’s creation. They own PropertyStewards.com and are passionate about delivering excellent care to the homes and property of their clients. For More Information call 706-949-5937

Clayton Ain’t No Big Town

By Liz Alley

Iwas en route to my sister Lynn’s house on Lake Burton when my phone rang. I answered and heard her familiar voice asking, “Where are you?” I glanced to my left for a landmark, “The Pickin Parlor,” I said, “but I think I’ll turn on the old road and go by Alley’s Grocery and get a sandwich. Do you still want to meet at the nail place?” I asked. “Yes,” she said, “it’s across the street from The Chicken Coop,” “Okay, see you there.” This is the language of the natives of Rabun County; at least, it is for my people and me. With directions, landmarks and stores, we still call everything by its original name. On my last trip home to Rabun, I texted my friend to ask where she wanted to meet me. “CBC,” she said. (Clayton Baptist Church). When I arrived for our lunch date early, I decided to park at K-ram Way, or if I’m being technical, Food Land (The Dollar Tree) and shop. I could walk to CBC on South Church Street, right past Dr. Fowler’s first office, which is a house now. However, I got distracted by another event, so I texted Caroline and said, “Scratch CBC and meet me at the old gym. (The Civic Center.) She texted back, saying, “Okay, I’m just going by April Leigh’s (Grapes and Beans.) I feel a sense of pride when I walk down Main Street, perusing all the luxurious items offered there, not to mention all the restaurants. When discussing where we should go to lunch, Caroline, Lynn, Tina, and I decided to go to Hush which I’d never been to. “Where is it?” I asked. “Right across from Louie Talley’s old house where Mize Funeral Home was,” Caroline said. I still think of Wander as Dickerson Hardware, Crawford Art Gallery as Mr. Edwards Studio, and I can’t go into Fortify without thinking of Deal’s Drug Store, and in particular, Gifts from Debbie, where I purchased all of my Bonnie Bell lip smackers. KW Realty will forever be the home of The Clayton Tribune, and I can’t go into Cage Free Boutique or Main Street Gallery without thinking of Belk, where my mother bought me a rabbit fur coat. I can see us now, my ten-year-old self begging her for the blue rabbit fur and Mother telling me the blue one looked fake. Dogwoods will always be Cannon’s Furniture, and The Tree House will be Cannon’s Department store, where I got my first pair of boots to go with my gaucho pants. (Gaucho pants were trendy back in the day, and my first pair came from April Leigh’s.) And I’m still wondering where the basement went at The Tree House and am assuming Mrs. Sylvia Masters didn’t get boarded up down there bent over her sewing machine working on alterations. Claws and Paws will always be Harper’s Five and Dime, where warm nuts forever rotated on lit display cases.

The space next to Of These Mountains will always be Nancy’s Fashion Nook, and White Birch Inn will be The Sole Place. White Birch Provisions will always be Parker’s Laundromat, and Old Livery Street will be “The Sears” road, where we went to pick up our catalog orders. Clayton Paint and Flooring will always be Ed West Realty, and the health department building will forever be Rabun County Hospital, where I was born. Duvall’s will be the Wildcat theater and arcade, where I learned to play Pacman. U Save It will always be the Tastee Freez, and the liquor store will always be The Big D, where mama would take us on Sundays for a snack after we visited my grandmother.

The building has been updated, but Clayton Café remains, and I can still see my friend Judy and me with our cheeseburgers and cokes on Saturday for lunch. Just a few hours before that, we would have gotten our donuts from Kermit’s, where Madison’s on Main is today. The Dairy Queen (across from The Days Inn, which is really The Heart of Rabun) is the same; even that big tree that grows beside it is still there. Reeves has been on the corner for as long as I can remember. The Twenty Penny is still the Twenty Penny, but I’ll always think of Dale Galloway’s family as owning it. My sister’s storage building is on the road. Mr. Angel used to have his ceramic shop in Mountain City. When I turn on the old road coming from Mountain City, I think of my Uncle Roy’s old café building, Raco, and about a mile on the left after the turn is my Granny Garland’s home place. The old habitat building was my grandfather’s grocery store. My first cousin, Andy Hunter, owns Andy’s Market on the edge of town, but in my youth, it was Mason’s where all the cute high school boys bagged groceries.

I’m happy about all the new shops in Clayton and that we aren’t a dying town like so many in our country. I’m comfortable with all the ghosts that accompany me in and out of the shops and the memories that refuse to vanish in the updated brick-and-mortar. One day, my grandchildren may be talking about the stores they remember in Rabun when they are my age. For now, I’ll keep playing that old song in my head that Bill McClure wrote,” Clayton Aint’ No Big Town.”

Note: This writer acknowledges she may not have all the businesses in their proper places. She also believes that lousy memory is one of the keys to happiness.

Liz Alley was born and raised in Rabun County in the city of Tiger. She loves to write. She is an interior designer specializing in repurposing the broken, tarnished, chipped, faded, worn and weathered into pieces that are precious again. She is the mother of two daughters and has three grandchildren. She divides her time between her home in Newnan and Rabun County.