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Welcome
laurel of November 2023 • Volume Twenty • Issue Eleven
Northeast Georgia
from the publisher
T
his is my favorite time of the year for so many reasons. I have such great memories of fall growing up. I love Thanksgiving and the way it makes us stop and count our blessings. It is an honor to celebrate our Veterans on their special day. November kicks off the “holiday season”. Scents of pumpkin and spiced apple seem to be everywhere. My mouth waters as thoughts of turkey, dressing, gravy, sweet potato casserole, Mary Jane’s cream corn and green beans and pumpkin pie fill my mind. The gathering is what is most special and this is the month to gather, not for gift giving, just because we are thankful! In this issue we talk of Thanksgiving but we also give thanks to our Heavenly Father for life’s joys and even our trials. We choose this month to share our faith just a little more than usual. Never to make anyone uncomfortable, rather to share the love of Christ and the joy of serving Him. We hope you will enjoy this issue. We will take you in the doors of local businesses, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and beautiful mountain homes. You are sure to find some great recipes for your Thanksgiving table and enjoy anytime. Peter will take us on another great adventure and our friends at Explore Rabun will share why winter is a great time to hit the trails. We visited with Ronnie Ogletree of Appalachian Aging Resource Network and have some great info to share with your seniors. Remember that the Laurel comes to you compliments of our advertisers. They are some of Rabun’s best and appreciate your support and patronage. As you start to make your list for shopping that kicks off the end of this month we encourage you to shop local. There are many great opportunities to do so. Clayton in Christmas, the Holiday Art Show and Festival of Trees are happening on November 24th & 25th and that’s a great place to start. Mark your calendars for the Christmas Parade on December 2nd at 6 pm. Happy Thanksgiving to you all! Tracy
Laurel of Northeast Georgia
STAFF
Mailing: PO Box 2218 - Clayton, Georgia 30525 Office: 2511 Highway 441 Mountain City, Georgia 30562
Publisher/Editor - Marketing - Tracy McCoy 706-982-9197 Art Director - Dianne VanderHorst Graphics - Lucas McCoy
706-782-1600 www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com
Contributing Writers: Tori Carver, Jonan Keeny, Cliff Lewis, John Singleton, Dr. Sue Aery, Mike Nappa, Jan Timms, Lisa Harris, Kathy Malone, Emory Jones
Marketing & Office Manager - Cindi Freeman 706-982-0216 Assistant Office Manager - D’Anna Coleman Writer - John Shivers Photographer / Writer - Peter McIntosh
Copyright 2023 by Rabun’s Laurel Inc. All rights reserved. The Laurel of Northeast Georgia Magazine is published twelve times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to the Laurel of Northeast Georgia magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel magazine or any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. The Laurel of Northeast Gorgia maintains a Christian focus throughout their magazine. Rabun’s Laurel, Inc. reserves the right to refuse content or advertising for any reason without explanation.
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Contents Faith in Christ 10 13
16 18 20
R4G – February 2, 1988 Life is a Blessing
6 Ways to Pray for Peace in Jerusalem and Israel A Mother’s Love Never Ends Rivergarden – The Praises of His People
The Arts 22 30
34
Cover Artist – Terri Habershaw John Shivers Release 6th Christmas Book
Southern Fare 34 39 42
Bon Appétit – Blessings from the Kitchen Chef Brian & Christy Bring Fine Dining to You Small Town Famous for Good
Live Healthy and Be Well 48 52
Aging in America Biomechanical Compensation
Outdoors
58
56 58 60 62
Adventure Out – Chau-Ram Park Explore Rabun – Take a Hike and Chill Firmly Rooted – Spring Bulbs Rabun Paws 4 Life
Looking Back 66 68
Foxfire Veteran Feature – Why I’m Thankful When Good Men Do Something
Around Town 70 72 74 76
My World Travels – Feeling Contemplative... Ladybug Landing – Don’t Miss the Magic Ledford Works Living History Event
Mountain Homes
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78 82 86
Discover Highway 197’s North 40 Lodge RSVP Now for This Fantastic Lake Retreat Retreat from Rat Race on Carson Lane
Just Thinking 90
By The Way
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Faith
February 2, 1988 By Cliff Lewis, Associate Pastor of Worship and Music, Clayton Baptist Church
M
ost people reading this article will wonder to themselves, “What is so special about February 2, 1988?” Others will probably think it may have something to do with Groundhog Day. For me, and my elementary school friends, and the whole town in which I grew up, this day was an incredibly tense and terrifying day. It may be difficult for some to remember the days before school hostage situations and mass shootings like Columbine, Sandy Hook, Parkland, Uvalde, and this year’s tragedy in Nashville at the Covenant School, but there was a time when most schools didn’t have lock-down plans or metal detectors. It’s not that there were no incidents of violence in schools before that time, but it had not yet become a “normal” part of life.
For a 10-year-old 5th-grade student at West End Christian School in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, that rainy Tuesday morning seemed like just another day of school. The small elementary school annex building where my classroom was located was across the street from the main buildings of the K-12th grade private school. Soon after we had arrived in our classrooms, two men in ski masks, armed with pistols, a hunting rifle, and an AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle, along with 2,000 rounds of ammunition, came to the front doors of the building. After forcing their way in, they quickly headed into the 3rd-grade classroom. That room was directly beside my 5th-grade room, and when the 3rd-grade teacher, Mary Alice Blanton, saw the men with rifles and pistols, she let out a blood-curdling scream. That scream caused our substitute teacher to run to the front of our classroom and lock the door. She then had me and my classmates move to the back of the classroom behind her desk. That was around 8:30am.
James Harvey, the main hostage taker, was a Vietnam-era veteran who had been dealing with mental illness for many years. He had spent countless hours watching national news sources like CNN and C-SPAN and had worked himself into a frenzy about the problems he believed were plaguing the country. Harvey had convinced himself that in order to make his case to a national audience about things that needed to change in America, his best option was to take us hostage to give himself that platform. The morning of the event, Harvey had gone to the unemployment office early and had spoken to another man, who he essentially forced to help him breach the school. Shortly after the two men had gotten inside, our school headmaster, Dan Carden, and a couple of other men from the school office came over to confront the intruders. They were immediately met by Harvey, as he pointed a gun at them and instructed them to leave. Dr. Carden quickly contacted the police, and when they arrived, it became clear that Harvey had taken over 70 people hostage, most of us were children.
Cliff Lewis is the Associate Pastor of Worship & Music at Clayton Baptist Church, located at 87 South Church Street in Clayton, Georgia. He leads God-centered music each week, preaches on occasion and is an all-around great guy. Cliff loves his wife and kids, is a fan of the Crimson Tide and Narnia is his favorite movie.
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Over the course of the next 12 hours, local police, reporters, national media, and other first responders all descended on the area around the tiny school building to assist with the increasingly tense situation. Several key people, like then Assistant Police Chief Ken Swindle and local television reporter Dan Cates, all spent time talking to Harvey and seeking to gain his trust through the negotiation process. Without their calm and careful conversations with Harvey, the hostage situation could easily have turned into a horrific mass shooting like the ones we are so terribly familiar with these days. During the course of the day-long stand-off with police, James Harvey showed Assistant Chief Swindle that he was receptive to some forms of negotiation. Most often, if Harvey was led to believe that his demands to speak to national news organizations or to do sit down interviews on programs like “Late Night with David Letterman” would soon become a reality, then Harvey would grant a request from negotiators, like the release of some of the hostages. This was the circumstance that led to me and my 5th-grade classmates being released at around 2:30pm, after a few of the younger classes had already been released earlier that afternoon. Finally, at 8:30pm, after further negotiations and after Harvey was presented with a video-taped pardon from the governor of Alabama (which was under duress, making it null and void), Harvey exited the front of the building. He expected his exit would lead him to a microphone where he could begin addressing the American people and expound on his lists of cultural and governmental problems. Instead, Ken Swindle and several other law enforcement officers quickly wrestled him to the ground, put him in handcuffs, and ushered him away. Harvey has been imprisoned ever since that day and is now serving out a life sentence on multiple counts of kidnapping. So, that’s the end of the story, right? This possible tragedy had a happy ending. Well, yes, but there was much more going on behind-the-scenes than what these simple facts communicate. The part of this harrowing day that was not seen on national news and has not been revealed in most of the articles I have been able to access is what was happening in the gymnasium on the other side of campus. I want to shine a spotlight on what God was doing through His people on their knees in prayer that day. Before I tell you what was happening on that day in 1988, let me quickly take you to a day about a year ago here in Rabun County. John and Alice Taylor are members of Clayton Baptist Church where I serve as the worship pastor. They were actually living in Tuscaloosa during some of the same years I was there, but we had never met while in Alabama. Last year, as I was leading a prayer group that John and Alice are consistentcontinued on page 12 November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 11
Faith
Rabun for the Gospel – February 2, 1988 ly a part of, I brought up the time I spent as a hostage at West End Christian. They seemed surprised by the information, and their expressions changed. John and Alice said, “We were there that day; we answered the call to come to the gym and pray. We were praying for you.” I was struck with emotion as I came to the realization that these precious saints and prayer warriors that I had become so accustomed to worshiping with on Sundays and praying with for all these years, were the same people who were praying for my safety as a 10-year-old boy in that little classroom all those years ago. I spoke with Dr. Carden and his wife, Janie, recently and they shared some more information with me. Janie was on her way to a doctors appointment that morning but needed to drop something off at the school on her way. When she arrived at the school, she saw Dr. Carden and the other men with their hands up backing out of our elementary building. Obviously, she was alarmed. Soon after it became apparent that law enforcement would need to engage with the situation physically, Janie engaged spiritually through prayer. She told me that she was praying for the safety of me and my classmates, the teachers, the other students, and also...her own children. She and Dr. Carden had their two oldest sons in that building that day. Kevin was a first grader, and Chris
was in the 3rd-grade class. With so much activity at the elementary building and with law enforcement making it clear that only authorized personnel could be around the scene, the best option for parents of the children inside and others who were deeply concerned was to go to the gym. Everyone I spoke with while writing this article told me the same thing: the people who came to pray were not panicked and there was a spiritual peace and calm as they asked God for protection and resolution. Dr. Carden said they never set up a microphone and sound system that day to make it a “prayer service,” people just came and prayed together in small groups. It’s not as if these adults didn’t realize that there was a possibility that the situation could have ended with lives lost, it was simply that these Christians were praying to their heavenly Father and trusted that He was the one truly in control. So, as the negotiators were talking to James Harvey, and as snipers were being placed on the roofs of nearby buildings, and as reporters shared with their listeners the details of the situation, the people of God were gathering in that gym and in their homes and in places literally all over the globe. They were seeking to obey the command in Philippians 4:6-7 that says, “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Prayer is the greatest weapon the Christian has, because it causes us to humbly submit ourselves to the Sovereign God of all creation and trust that His will is perfect...no matter the outcome. If you look up “West End Christian School Hostage Situation” on the internet, articles, photos, news reports, and a few old videos will come to the top. And the statistics will say that there were no shots fired and no casualties through the whole ordeal, but what it won’t say is that the doctors appointment that Janie Carden was headed to that morning was a pre-natal appointment. Dan and Janie had recently found out that she was pregnant with their fifth child. They were excited and were preparing for his arrival. However, three weeks after the hostage situation concluded, Janie lost the baby. As I spoke with Mrs. Carden, I told her that it seemed clear to me that their unborn baby was actually the only casualty from that day. She agreed, but I also heard a confidence in her voice as she told me that even though they had to bury their son’s tiny body some 35 years ago, she knows that she will see him again in eternity. She and Dr. Carden made a deep and personal sacrifice because of the events of that day, but I am able to love my wife, kids, church, and community, in part, because of that great sacrifice. I am grateful for God’s protection that day and His sovereign love each and every day. The Carden’s can say as King David did when he lost his young son, “I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.”
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Life is a Blessing... indeed!
I
By Tracy McCoy
wanted to share my Laurel story. How did I, a hairstylist, become the Laurel lady? This is a question I’ve asked myself over the years. You’ve heard it said, “Be careful what you pray for.” This is that kind of story. In 2003 a book was recommended to me. The book was a small book written by Bruce Wilkinson. When I was told I should read it, I smiled politely and said “yeah, I’ll look for it.” My intentions were good but finding time to read was and still is something I find difficult. After the third person asked “Hey, have you read the Prayer of Jabez?” I went and bought the book. I had never heard of Jabez, much less his prayer. The book was a quick read and I was inspired to pray the same prayer that Jabez prayed. The scripture where you will find this fella’s prayer is 1 Chronicles 4:9-10. It is tucked in amongst a series of “who begat who” verses. The passage reads “Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, ‘Because I bore him in pain.’ And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, ‘Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!’ So God granted him what he requested.” Some speculate that Jabez was asking for prosperity, others that he was asking for a portion of land based off of God’s promise to Abraham, others believe he wanted to serve God in a greater way. For me the prayer had a different meaning. I love to share my faith, to tell you how good God has been to me. To tell you the difference that Jesus has made in my life. I had a busy salon and saw 15 people or more a day. If the opportunity arose I would stop halfway through a haircut, put my scissors down and talk to my client about Jesus. Nobody is going to get up halfway through a haircut and leave, or at least none of my people did. So I had a captive audience even if for just a short while. This salon, that chair and that client was my territory. So when I began to pray for God to bless me, enlarge my territory, that He would keep me from evil that I would not cause pain. I was asking God to give me more people to tell about His love and grace.
my friend Robin Welch had sold me ads for the salon. I knew the magazine worked because I’d advertised in it. She came to see me and we talked. I sold my salon, was hired to sell advertising and traded my scissors and comb for a clipboard and box of magazines and hit the road. For twenty plus years I had been in the shop for 10+ hours a day, I had no idea how many amazing places there were on backroads all across the mountains. I was good at two things, doing hair and talking. I rarely meet a stranger so this job was perfect for me. I had a strong belief in my product, and I still do. The Laurel is a wonderful vehicle to get your message out. One day when I told a potential advertiser that very thing it hit me…“ to get your message out”. I asked Janet if we could expand what was a list of churches to include articles from Pastors and other people. It was November of 2004 and I wrote an article titled Life is a Blessing about thankfulness. We added just a little bit here and there. I sit here with tears in my eyes when I think about the way that God answered my request to enlarge my territory. Now instead of an opportunity to share my faith in Him with 15 people a day, I now had the chance to reach thousands with the love of Christ. He has blessed me, not with money, but with people. He walks with me daily and He protects me. I wish I could say I’ve never hurt anyone, I am human and while I try to do good everywhere I go, I am sure that I have failed but if I have, please forgive me. I continue to be a work in progress. God is faithful, pray Jabez’s prayer and watch what God will do in your life. Life is a blessing as the Laurel lady.
I prayed Jabez’s prayer for almost a year. If God granted his request, maybe he would hear my prayer. I thought that I would stand behind that chair and cut hair until I got to old to do it or fell over. I loved doing hair, my customers were like family and I never saw myself doing anything else. Like a whirlwind, my family’s circumstances changed and I needed to make a change. My feet, legs and back hurt most days (tip your hairstylist well, because theirs probably do too by the end of the day). I called my friend Janet Cummings and asked if she was hiring at the Rabun’s Laurel. I had read the Laurel because November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 13
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Faith
6 Ways to Pray for Peace in Jerusalem and Israel by Mike Nappa
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.’ For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, ‘Peace be within you.’ For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity.” - Psalm 122:6-9 NIV
The Old Testament Hebrew word translated as “peace” in Psalm 122 is šālôm. (Today it might be spoken as “shalom” or “salaam.”) This unique word obviously speaks to safety and the absence of war but also carries significant meaning beyond simply that. In his Expository Dictionary of Bible Words, Lawrence O. Richards explains šālôm as encompassing “wholeness, unity, and harmony—something that is complete and sound … prosperity, health, and fulfillment.”
History is full of irony, and among the greatest of its pitiless jokes is this: the city of Jerusalem in Israel is NOT a city of peace.
This kind of hope-filled šālôm makes up the heart of the worshiper’s “fourfold wish” in Psalm 122:6-9.
It should be different, right? I mean, this is a place whose very name is often interpreted as “city of peace.” These hallowed streets once felt the sandals of the eternal Prince of Peace. And for thousands of years—since Psalm 122 was first sung on the steps of the Temple—nearly all of humanity has heard the appeal to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” And yet … Jerusalem, Israel, both today and in ages past, is practically synonymous with violence. Jesus described her this way, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you … Look, your house is left to you desolate …” (Luke 13:33-35 NIV). And Bible journalist, Stephen M. Miller reveals: “Perhaps no city on the entire planet has witnessed as much violence over such a long period of time as Jerusalem, conquered dozens of times, reduced to rubble no less than five times, and in recent years a frequent target for Palestinian terrorists trying to reclaim their land.” (Who’s Who and Where’s Where in the Bible, 194). What Was “Peace” in Ancient Jerusalem? In spite of this depressing history, Psalm 122 still calls us to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” What does that really mean?
1. Security from outside attackers (safety from war) (verse 6). 2. Unity and harmony among the residents of Jerusalem (verse 7). 3. Familial wholeness and health (verse 8). 4. Economic, religious, and political prosperity (verse 9). What’s sometimes overlooked though, is the catalyst behind the Psalmist’s impassioned call to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” That’s found in verse 1 (NIV): I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” This, it seems, is why it was (and still is) so important to pray for the peace of Jerusalem: When that city is in peace, the nations of the world can find honest freedom and fulfillment in joyful worship of the one true God. He alone is “Jehovah-Shalom,” a name coined by Gideon on the eve of battle (Judges 6:24), which means “The Lord is Peace.”
Mike Nappa is a practical theologian known for writing “coffee-shop theology” and Christian Living books. He’s a bestselling and award-winning author with millions of copies of his works sold worldwide. An Arab-American, Mike is proud to be a person of color (BIPOC) active in Christian publishing. Google Mikey to learn more, or visit www.MikeNappa.com. Find Mike Nappa’s bestselling book, Reflections for the Grieving Soul wherever books are sold. “6 Ways to Pray for Peace in Jerusalem and Israel” © 2019 by Nappaland Inc. First published on Christianity. com. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission. Visit Mike Nappa on the web at: www.Nappaland.com
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Praying for Peace in Jerusalem In our modern era, Jerusalem is a divided city with an estimated population (as of 2019) of 919,407 souls. Housed within only about 49 square miles, it’s actually smaller than Washington, DC—and crams nearly 19,000 residents into each square mile. A shortage of affordable housing also means that many more live outside the city and must commute to work inside. The people of Israel are identified primarily by their religion and ethnicity. The majority (about 588,000) identifies as Jewish and associates with Judaism to varying degrees. More than 312,000 identify as Arabic and associate with Islam, again to various extents. Only a tiny remnant, a 2% minority of about 18,000 people dares to be known as Christians. So, today we have in Jerusalem a city intensely divided by race, religion, politics, and economic status, its people forced to live in close quarters with others they’d regard as “enemies,” and constantly under the threat of military action both inside and outside of city walls. Peace should be easy, right? Of course not—particularly when our modern media seems titillated to report on, and sometimes fuel, new conflicts in the Middle East. BUT … Families still laugh and play in Jerusalem … Lovers still picnic by the sea … Children still learn happily at school … Friends still go to the theatre … Artists still create beauty … Worshipers still pray and sing, and … Life happens, day in and day out, in this lost city of peace. And best of all, it’s still true that prayer changes things (James 5:16) and with God, anything is possible (Matthew 19:26). That means we—right now, right here—are part of something greater than ourselves and our fallen world. Our meager prayers are a privilege of cooperation with God that only a few dare to dream. So when you next dream of peace for Jerusalem, consider mentioning these topics to Jesus: • Hope— for God’s Holy Spirit to remove bitterness and complacency from the hearts of Israel’s people; for them to believe that peace is actually possible in their city. • Security— for Christ to spread his powerful protection around this place, preventing even the empty threat of attack from outside enemies. • Harmony— for God to turn the hearts of people toward compassion and kindness; for children to lead the way in the rising up of a generation that longs to treat all in Jerusalem as brother and sister. • Family— for Jesus to knit families together in wholeness and health, in ways that repulse fear and hate in exchange for love and joy.
• Economy— for the people of Jerusalem to have ample opportunity and ability to provide for themselves and their families, to give generously to others, and to no longer be divided over who “has” and who “has not.” • Worship— for Christ’s Holy Spirit to be not simply present, but undeniably known in obvious ways within the hearts and expressions of His truly beloved people—Jew and Arab alike. A Prayer for Peace in Israel Heavenly Father, We come before You with heavy hearts, praying for peace in the land of Israel, a place of deep significance to many. Lord, You are the God of peace, and we ask for Your divine intervention in the midst of conflicts and tensions. We pray for the people of Israel and the surrounding regions, that they may experience the true peace that comes from You. Bring an end to violence, hatred, and discord. Replace fear with trust, animosity with reconciliation, and despair with hope. Lord, we ask for wisdom and compassion for leaders and decision-makers in the region. Guide them toward paths of justice and peace. May they work tirelessly to find common ground and lasting solutions that benefit all. We pray for the families and individuals who are affected by these conflicts, that they may find safety, comfort, and the assurance of Your presence. Protect those in harm’s way and provide for the needs of the vulnerable. Lord, let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, prevail in Israel. We entrust this prayer into Your hands, knowing that with You, all things are possible. In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.
Sources: • The Revell Bible Dictionary. (Old Tappan, NJ: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1990) 551. • Stephen M. Miller. Who’s Who and Where’s Where in the Bible. (Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Publishing, 2004) 194. • Lawrence O. Richards. Expository Dictionary of Bible Words. (Grand Rapids, MI: Regency Reference Library, 1985) 479. • The Interpreter’s Bible, Volume IV. (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1955) 652-653. • Names of God and Other Bible Studies. (Torrance, CA: Rose Publishing, 2008) 8. “ • Jerusalem Population.” (2019-05-11). Retrieved 2019-09-10, from http://worldpopulationreview.com/world-cities/jerusalem/
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Fait
A Mother’s Love Never Ends by Lisa Harris
A Moment The wind was blowing ever so slightly as the cool air seemed to float in on the deep red and gold-tipped leaves. The moment was familiar as she slipped on her garden gloves to pull a few unyielding weeds that seemed to appear year after year. Her garden shears came out of her back pocket to clip a few uneven areas of grass. She loved doing this by hand, it gave her much joy. She stood surveying what had been done and decided that a few yellow mums would add much-needed fall color. Her eyes traveled around surveying her work while she listened to the wind chimes sing and sway in cadence on the limb of an oak tree. After a few moments, she spread a blanket beside her daughter’s grave and gently wiped the dirt off the plaque that gathered between each letter. One by one she went over it with tissues as though she was wiping her child’s face. It had been years since she looked into her eyes and heard her voice say ‘Mom’. The pain was real, just not as sharp. It was mellow and tender and sacred. The sun was settling in for the night, and she leaned over and kissed the ground that her child lay tucked under. She folded her blanket, placed her gloves and shears back into her pockets, and walked away. Yes, that moment was familiar and always would be...because I am that Mom. In memory of Whitney One Last Time… Her eyes, once joyful, were sad as she stared at the two piles of laundry.
Life was hard.
Worried she would not have time to get it all done, she grabbed one pile and walked back to the laundry room dropping them in the wash.
She turned around and walked down the hall back to the second pile of laundry. This mound of clothes was not quite as big, but it had a familiar smell that made her bury her face in it. Her heart pounded as she took the wet clothes and placed them in the dryer and added a new load to the washer. It was with great hesitation that she did this, as the shirts would be clean, the familiar smell gone.
She turned to get the bottle of detergent accidentally tipping it over and spilling a bit onto the floor. Staring at the mess, she just repositioned herself around it and poured the correct amount into the small drawer inside the washer. Flipping the knob to the ‘normal’ wash, she stood there and watched the machine fill up with water through the glass top.
God NEVER promised life would be easy but…
The heaviness of the day drew a tiredness she had rarely experienced. She laid down and closed her eyes to escape life’s reality.
In the beginning, she thought it odd to have a top-load with a window…
Only a few minutes had passed when the dryer buzzer rang out and she reluctantly got up and switched out the clothes.
But today, it was soothing to watch the clothes suds up and swish around. Standing there she allowed her mind to wander and tears to flow.
She had to hurry.
Today was hard.
Setting up the ironing board she walked to the kitchen and filled a cup with water. In a few minutes, she would pour it into her iron and watch the steam spit and sputter letting her know it was ready.
Lisa Harris is a phenomenal faith writer, a mother and wife, and published author. She lives with her husband in Dallas, Georgia. Lisa speaks to women with an encouraging message of hope and purpose. Tony and Lisa have buried two of their three children and they value your prayers.
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Changing clothes, she took the hanger off the hook and got into the car with her husband. The silence was thick as they each tried to survive their emotions. Driving up, they parked the car and got out. After being greeted and ushered into a room, a woman with kind eyes turned and held out her hand. Tears flowed as she gave over her son’s clothes. The woman, a stranger, hugged her. For this was the last time she would do anything ‘motherly’ for her son. Her heart was crushed. Her emotions were raw. Decisions were made. A check was written. Her son’s clothes were taken to where he was. He was dressed. He was so handsome, so young, so very deeply loved. She leaned over and kissed his forehead. Trying to absorb every detail she could. She desperately wanted a hug, one more, “I love you, Mom.” One last time. After the agony of what to iron was made, she placed the t-shirt on the board and began to do what she had done for years. Love her family. Tears fell as she ironed the shirt and placed it on a hanger. She then picked up a favorite green plaid flannel shirt and begged God to stop the tears so she could see to iron. He did. It was ironed to perfection. She never ironed blue jeans, but today she did and hung them carefully on the hanger.
But, The casket was shut. Only by God’s sheer strength within her, did she turn around and walk out. Knowing she would never be the same, Ever. In Memory of Luke
Time was slipping away.
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Faith
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The Arts
The Art of Terri Habershaw of Rabbit Run Studios
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erri Habershaw fell in love with Rabun County almost twenty years ago when she moved here from Florida. Wildlife and animals are her passion but when she saw a photo taken and posted by local Realtor and photographer Scott Poss it grew her love for the glowing cross on the mountain, the flag and the Rabun County courthouse, which all should revere. Embracing this inspired this artist to create the painting featured on our cover this month. She is creating prints and has received requests for a large free-flowing painting of this scene and it is in the works. The piece has been placed at the Rabun County Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center, stop in and see it up close. Self-taught, Terri has been painting since a young age. She observes and studies the photos and paintings of her favorite artists and was mentored years ago by artist Gregory Graham Grant who created Art Quest School of Art. Mr. Grant’s art was very realistic and that is what Terri loved about it. She studied his art and his techniques, taking what she gleaned and applying it in her own work. She has restored old photographs and paintings and worked with Ormond Beach Historical Trust Society painting historic images of the town. She did many commissioned pieces for the residents and produced a color book for children. Terri paints on canvas, wood, metal, furniture and just about anything interesting that she finds. Recently she has been adding her art to beautiful wooden handmade fire screens with scenes on three sides. These hand painted pieces of art have become a new passion for her. They can be used as home décor for a wall, headboard, firescreen and many other options. She is such a gifted artist and has a genuine love for art, these mountains and life in general. In addition to her art Terri loves playing Pickleball. She met a wonderful man named Ed Townsend who also enjoys staying active and the couple were soon dating. A few months ago they became engaged and are planning a wedding soon. Terri says Ed is her best critic, art promoter and biggest fan. She has found true happiness and is so deserving.
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Terri lives in Dillard, Georgia where she has an art studio connected to her home. Lots of glass and a beautiful view inspires her paintings and fuels her creativity. She has a “micro” mini farm as she surrounds herself and her home with animals that are part of her family. Her love for animals is evident in her farm and in her art. She has many rabbits, chickens, guineas, goats and a miniature donkey. Oh and the cats and a gorgeous dog named Zack, who thinks he’s a goat. All of Terri’s animals are rescue animals and live a very good life on the farm. A visit to the gallery may well include an introduction to her furry and feathered family. She calls her studio Rabbit Run Studio and she would enjoy a visit if you’d like to see more of her art. You may schedule an appointment to visit with her by calling 706-982-4783. You are sure to find the perfect painting for your home or office, a gift or she does do commissions.
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Finding Art
in the mountains
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The Arts
Author John Shivers released 6th in His Christmas Series in Time for the Holdiays by Tracy McCoy Readers agree that what sets John apart is the way he puts the words together. He has had some say that if they began reading a manuscript with no author identified, they would know it was his by the way it’s written. This is a notable trait of any good artist, and writing is most definitely an art form. John’s abilities are truly God-given. When we talked for this interview, he said, “I love music, but God didn’t give me one single ounce of musical talent. He concentrated it all on my writing ability.” John pastors two Methodist churches in Calhoun, and I’m guessing his congregations would agree.
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ohn Shivers is an author with 26 books to his credit. More than that, he’s a very good friend, and I’m honored and excited to talk about this excellent writer, whose imagination will astound you. John has loyal readers who never miss a single book, give them as gifts, and are always itching for the next one to be printed. In 2018, one such reader suggested that John write a Christmas book. He brushed it off at first, but the reader persisted. John spent about forty days writing a Christmas book he was certain would be a one-time thing. Three Gifts for Christmas was embraced by all of his fans, and even resulted in many new readers. The consensus was that his Christmas series should be made into Hallmark movies. John jokes that all we need to do now is convince Hallmark of that. So, as the holiday approaches, so does the release of Kissin’ Kin for Christmas, his sixth Christmas novel. Each of John’s Christmas books are stand-alone stories. What else has he written? Well, it started with Christian fiction novels in 2003, with Hear My Cry in that genre. Next for this word-weaver was his Slop Bucket Mystery series, which includes five titles, and he’s written seven novels that aren’t in a series. John says when he is working on a book he writes each day, giving it between two and 10 hours a day. Then he may go weeks between books, before the idea for another one is given to him.
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I asked him to expound on the statement that books are given to him. He told me that he was riding down the road having a conversation of a political nature with his daughter. After he dropped her off, as he drove, the book Alive by Default was born from that conversation. He stopped the car, grabbed a brown paper sack from the back seat, and jotted down the outline for it. Another time, he was sitting on a bench in a shopping mall, when he inadvertently overheard a conversation between two women. The older lady was telling about her grandson, who she’d been raising. The child was taken from her by force on trumped up abuse charges that weren’t true. The boy was put into foster care, and she wasn’t allowed to see him or contact him. She was heartbroken and distraught that he didn’t know she still loved him. This was the inspiration for this year’s Christmas book. So what is next for this author? He tells me there are at least six books in synopsis form, and at any time, another idea could surface. I don’t foresee him letting his fingers rest for long, because writing is his outlet, his love, and what he is meant to do. If you love to read a good book or need a gift for any reason, any of John’s titles would be a great choice. His books are available directly by contacting him at jshivers1@gmail.com or through Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com. They are also available for Kindle and other digital readers. Email him to sign up for his email newsletter, and you’ll be notified of upcoming events.
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Southern Cuisine
Bon Appétit Blessings from the Kitchen by Scarlett Cook
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ovember is the time to gather family and friends and give thanks for all the blessings that we have received this year. The weather is beautiful and the trees are putting on a gorgeous show of color. And of course the most important blessing is that we live in this spot in Georgia where we really do care about our neighbors and friends and they care about us.
Maybe your Thanksgiving meal isn’t as traditional as your friends’ meal, but the important thing is that you are all together (Sometimes only in your heart; I know, I have to share my children with others but they are still with me in spirit.).
Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Salad Serves 8 – 10 1 Cup strawberry yogurt 1/4 Cup honey 4 Ounces cream cheese, softened 1 8-Ounce can crushed pineapple, drained Mix all ingredients together. Spoon into muffin tins and freeze. To serve, remove from freezer 10 – 15 minutes before serving. Honey Glazed Ham Serves 8 – 10 1 Fully cooked ham 4 Sticks cinnamon 10 – 12 Whole gloves 2 Tablespoons prepared brown mustard 2 Teaspoons lemon juice 1 Teaspoon ground cloves 1 Teaspoon orange juice 1/4 Cup dark brown sugar, packed 1/4 Cup honey Slowly boil ham with cinnamon sticks for 3 1/2 hours. Let sit in marinate for 4 hours. Remove ham and place in broiler pan. Slice criss-cross cuts on tops side of ham and stud with whole cloves. Mix mustard, lemon juice, ground cloves and orange juice. Stir in sugar and honey. Baste with 1/3 of the glaze and bake at 350˚ for 25 minutes. Baste with 1/3 of the glaze and bake another 25 minutes. Baste with remaining glaze and bake an additional 5 – 10 minutes. Let ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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Macaroni with Wine and Cheese Serves 6 2 Cups seashell macaroni 1/4 Cup minced onion 3 Tablespoons butter 3 Tablespoons plain flour 1/2 Teaspoon salt 1/2 Teaspoon pepper 1 Cup heavy cream 1/3 Cup dry white wine 2 Cups grated sharp Cheddar or Swiss cheese or a combination of both cheeses Preheat oven to 350˚. Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain well. Sauté onion in butter until tender. Stir in flour, salt and pepper. Slowly add cream and wine; stir until mixture thickens. Add cheese and stir until blended. Combine sauce and cooked macaroni and place in a greased casserole dish. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. *The dish can be sprinkled with bread or cracker crumbs prior to baking. Broccoli Stuffed Tomatoes Serves 6 6 Medium tomatoes 1/2 Teaspoon salt 1/2 Teaspoon pepper 1 10-Ounce package frozen chopped broccoli 1 Cup shredded Mozzarella cheese 1 Cup soft breadcrumbs 1/2 Cup mayonnaise 2 Tablespoons chopped onion 2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Wash tomatoes. Cut tops off of tomatoes; remove pulp leaving shells intact. Mix salt and pepper and sprinkle insides of shells with mixture. Invert on wire rack and drain for 30 minutes. Cook broccoli according to package directions and drain well. Combine broccoli, Mozzarella, crumbs, mayonnaise and onion. Arrange shells in shallow baking dish. Stuff with broccoli mixture. (At this stage, tomatoes can be refrigerated to be cooked later. Let dish come to room temperature before baking.) When ready to bake, sprinkle tops with Parmesan cheese and bake at 350˚ for 30 minutes.
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Southern Cuisine
Baked Corn Pie Serves 6 1 Small onion, minced 2 Tablespoons butter 2 Tablespoons plain flour 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar 1 Teaspoon salt 1/4 Teaspoon pepper 1/4 Teaspoon nutmeg 1 Cup milk 2 Eggs, beaten 1 15 – 17 Can whole kernel corn, drained Preheat oven to 325˚. Cook onion in butter until soft; blend flour, brown sugar, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add milk; cook until thickened, stirring constantly. In bowl beat eggs slightly. Add small amount of hot milk mixture to eggs, stirring constantly to prevent eggs from cooking. Gradually add remaining hot milk mixture, stirring constantly. Stir in corn. Pour into a 9” pie pan. Bake for 45 minutes. Sweet Potato Muffins Makes 12 muffins 1 Cup plain flour, sifted 1 Teaspoon baking powder 1/4 Teaspoon baking soda 1/2 Teaspoon salt 1/2 Teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 Teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 Cup chopped pecans or walnuts 1/2 Cup cooked mashed sweet potatoes – 1 large or two small potatoes 1/4 Cup sugar or honey 1/4 Cup milk 1 Egg 2 Tablespoons butter, melted Preheat oven to 350˚. In bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt cinnamon and nutmeg. Add nuts. In another bowl combine sweet potatoes, sugar (or honey), milk, egg and butter. Add to flour mixture and stir until well moistened. In muffin tins (lined with paper liners or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray) fill each 2/3 full. Bake for 25 minutes. After baking muffins can be frozen.
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Chess Cake Serves 12 1 18 1/2-Ounce box yellow cake mix 1 Egg 1/2 Cup butter, softened 1 16-Ounce box powdered sugar 1 8-Ounce package cream cheese, softened 2 Eggs Strawberries, blueberries or blackberries for garnish Preheat oven to 350˚. Mix cake mix, 1 egg and butter with mixer until blended. Press into a greased 13”x9” baking dish. Combine powdered sugar, cream cheese and 2 eggs and pour over cake layer. Bake for 30 – 40 minutes. Cool. Garnish with berries before serving.
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A Taste of the Mountains
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Southern Cuisine
Chef Brian & Christy Bring Fine Dining to You by Tracy McCoy
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hef Brian Legault has been in the kitchen for 23 years. He was hired as a dishwasher at a high end restaurant at 15 years old. He loved the excitement of the kitchen and worked his way up very fast. He moved quickly to the line, preparing salads and desserts, later becoming a saute chef. Brian says he worked alongside some amazingly talented chefs with varying temperaments, some easy to learn from and others a bit more difficult. He took from each experience what served him best in his pursuit to become the great chef he is today. Brian was a Chef by the time he was 20 years old. He talked of the intense super fast pace of a busy kitchen with excitement. He was hired as head chef of Aqua Terra Bistro, an upscale eatery in Buford, Georgia where he stayed for seventeen years. Classically french trained, he adapted this style when he moved to Georgia from his home state of Vermont. Brian’s philosophy in the kitchen has remained scratch cooking with locally sourced ingredients where possible. He believes that his patrons should never walk away hungry after enjoying a great meal. He adapted portion sizes to ensure that every guest leaves satisfied. When I asked what dishes he was most praised for in Buford, he told me hands down it was his seared scallops over orecchiette pasta with baby spinach, exotic mushroom truffle cream sauce and fried onion straws. A variation of this dish is on his menu today.
Like an artist needs fine art brushes and an architect must have drafting tools, a professional chef can’t complete their best work without the proper tools. I asked Chef Legault what tools he could not do without in his kitchen and his response was a Benriner mandoline, offset bread knife and squirt bottles for his sauces. Brian genuinely enjoys the whole process of procuring, preparing, cooking and serving food with an attention to detail that is evident in the presentation and plating techniques.
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When it comes to education, Brian credits the European chefs that he trained under, a culinary vocational course he took in high school and straight up hands on experience in some of the country’s finest restaurants. When living in Vermont, Brian entered a competition at the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, taking 3rd place. He also acknowledges that his wife Christy has been his greatest encourager since the couple met at Aqua Terra Bistro. Now parents to three amazing boys and having moved to Hall County, Brian tried to explore other career choices only to be drawn back to the kitchen. Living on Lake Lanier Brian began to explore Personal Cheffing. One private dinner led to another and he began regularly cooking in the homes of clients for small dinner parties. It was a hit in that lake community and his clients loved having the luxury of fine dining in the comfort of their own home. Chef Brian and Christy make an excellent team and together provided their services to the residents of Lake Lanier and surrounding Hall County. The opportunity to move to Rabun presented itself and the Legaults easily settled into mountain living. The couple’s youngest son attended Rabun County High School and played on the Wildcat Football team. Brian and Christy have established their private dining business in the mountains and hope to see it grow. He admits that he could not do what he does without Christy, stating that she is a huge part of their business. Imagine if you will, inviting an intimate group of friends or family in and simply enjoying the evening, knowing you have a professional Chef preparing your meal, which will be served to you and your guests by Christy who can also mix your drinks. Maybe you would choose an appetizer of Mahi and shrimp ceviche with cilantro, cucumbers, crema and tortilla chips to whet your appetite for an entree of Pan seared duck breast served with cheesy potato gratin, roasted carrots and Vermont maple jus. After dinner you relax with a cocktail or coffee before enjoying Pumpkin mascarpone bread pudding with a drizzle of pumpkin crème anglaise and caramel. Now you want to know the “icing on the cake”? When your personal chef and his wife leave for the evening, your kitchen looks as if they were never there. Meanwhile your guests had your full attention and it was a memorable evening.
I looked at reviews, because I feel like they are telling and this is what Chef Brian’s clients had to say about their experience. “Brian and Christy, words can not describe how very much we enjoyed every moment of our delicious dinner with you. The food was absolutely delicious and your presentation was beautiful. Being with you and Christy was like having a pleasurable evening with good friends. You are both a delight to work with! We have been at Lake Burton for over 30 years and our home here is called Dream Come True. Our perfect experience with you certainly fit that description as the best birthday present ever from our family! Thank you for a memorable experience. We look forward to working with you again. Fondly, Judy and Paul”. Another client wrote, “I have to admit it was a most enjoyable evening. The food was better than 5 Star and we were able to converse for hours while we received amazing service. I am already planning our next dinner party.” - Kurt and Cathy Cannon. Chef Brian admits that he enjoys bringing the restaurant experience to you and that creating very special food for very special occasions is his passion. While six guests are the minimum, Brian and Christy can accommodate up to twenty at an in-home dinner party, with ten to twelve being optimal. Chef Brian and Christy also offer catering and have a very diverse catering menu. In fact, they will be catering our Laurel Christmas gathering and we are over the moon excited! If you are interested in scheduling a private dinner I would recommend calling 404-394-5277 or emailing chefbrianlegault@gmail.com. Also you’ll want to follow him on Instagram @chefbrianlegault for the food photos!
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Southern Cuisine
Small Town Famous for Good
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he Food Bank of Northeast Georgia’s Mountain Branch is located in Clayton, Georgia. The mountain branch serves, Rabun, White, Towns, Habersham and Stephens Counties. Their mission has always been to address food insecurity by connecting people with nourishing food. The staff and volunteers at this location work together as a team to encourage a thriving community rather than one that is just surviving. Distribution methods are similar to the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia’s Athens Branch. Both branches work through on-site and mobile pantries, the member sharing floor, childhood nutrition markets and Senior Staples. The mountain branch is unique in that they also offer a teaching kitchen connecting community members to culinary education, and a commercial kitchen that encourages small business development. Investing in youth and the community is a staple in the Food Bank’s arsenal for combatting hunger and effecting change. Teaching children about healthy food choices and securing and cooking that food is achieved through their “Cooking Around the World
Summer Camps.” All of these classes are free and some include the adults involved in the child’s care. These three-day cooking camps are sponsored through the North Georgia Community Foundation. The Teaching Kitchen also offers regular cooking classes, again focusing on healthy food choices that can easily be purchased on any budget. Local Chefs, Dietitians and volunteers teach these classes and with the help of supporters, the Food Bank can offer many of them free to anyone in our community. The commercial kitchen hosts local restauranteurs, caterers and manufacturers providing a designated space to network and create. The cost involved in utilizing the kitchen are minimal and the benefit to the local and regional economy is substantial. The Mountain Branch of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia serves as a hub of community engagement for good. Two recent
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Open House at Deadwood Tables December 1 To Benefit the Food Bank
events hosted at the Food Bank’s Mountain Branch were a Recovery Resource Fair (Sponsored by the Recovery and Behavior Health United Network) and FAITH and BLUE, a food distribution event. This event was a combined effort by Rabun County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton Police Department, FAITH, The Lighthouse, MedLink, Community Partnership, Safe Kids Rabun County, Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and Faith Community. The Food Bank is hosting students working towards gaining their GED, they host a weekly Farmer’s Market (April-October) and they are an emergency food box location for neighbors seeking food. The incredible work for the good of our communities are due to the philanthropy and investment of many. Both the Mountain Branch and Athens Branch are united for one purpose: to see every neighbor with enough food every day. The individuals involved in the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia have a heart that longs to help others. Each one has a story worth sharing but we’d like to highlight the Executive Director of the Mountain Branch, James Brim.
When Craig Decker of Deadwood Tables learned about the work of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia he found a way to help. Craig is a master craftsman who has a strong reputation for the incredible tables that he creates in his wood shop in Hollywood, Georgia. He called me and said he’d like to donate a 9 ft by 35 inch custom Farmhouse Table made from a slab of blue pine wood. Tickets to win the table are easy to get. All that you have to do is bring a cash donation of any amount or non-perishable food items to Deadwood Tables, located at 107 Hollywood Church Road in Clarkesville, Georgia. The showroom is easy to find and open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 11am – 4pm and Saturday 11am – 2pm. An open-house event at the showroom of Deadwood Tables will be held on December 1st at 6pm with hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Tickets will be available that evening as well. Plan to attend this event hosted by Deadwood Tables and Laurel of Northeast Georgia to benefit the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia’s Mountain Branch. The winning ticket will be drawn at 7pm during the event. Table delivery is available for no extra cost within 30 miles. (The table shown is an example of the table donated.)
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James was born in West Virginia but moved at a young age to Mt. Airy, North Carolina, where he grew up. He attended college at Wake Forest on a football scholarship and went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings. When I asked how he got involved in the work he does today, he shared a very touching story with me. He told me that when he was in the 7th grade he took a job working in the school cafeteria cleaning tables and wiping trays. The position helped him make some extra money and that sounded good to him. He went to the cafeteria early to help get everything set up for the others to come to lunch at 11:30. Within a day or so of starting this job he noticed there were some kids who sat at the table with their heads down, not eating. He remembers asking one of the lunch room staff why those kids were not eating. She explained to him that those children didn’t have money to eat lunch. His response floored her, “Well give them some of mine.” James didn’t want any recognition for his efforts then and he’s the same way today. But the kindness of this young man did not go unnoticed. In fact the lunch lady and others in the school agreed and a fund was started to pay for the lunches of those who couldn’t afford to pay for their own. James told me that his college football team volunteered around the community and when he was playing professional football he and others looked for projects to help others. After his football career ended, James went to work for General Mills and later Kroger. When he heard that there was a position open with the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia he was very interested, applied and was hired. You will rarely find him sitting in his office at the Mountain Branch. He is energetic and motivated to make a difference and you’ll find him in the middle of the action, getting food loaded, unloaded, processed or prepared for transport. James is active in the community and always looking for ways to impact the lives of others in a positive way. We are blessed to have him here in Rabun County and applaud him and everyone working and volunteering at the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia for their efforts to help end hunger. I must add that for every dollar the Food Bank receives, they are able to distribute three balanced meals. If you are able to donate, please do so. For more information about the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia visit their website at www.foodbanknega.org or visit 46 Plaza Way in Clayton or you may call 706-782-0780.
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Healthy and Well
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Aging in America
he Appalachian Aging Resource Network was founded by Ronnie Ogletree to assist the aging population in the northeast Georgia region. Ronnie is a retired Fire Officer/ EMT with 33 years of experience. After retirement he was contacted by a company that wanted to get involved in the mobility arena and at that point he was in contact with the Athens Senior Resource Network and became President for that organization as well. “After moving to Rabun County, I saw the need to offer information and resources to this demographic. With 10,000 people turning 65 every day there is a need for our aging population to receive all of the available information that will assist them with resources that our membership offers,” Ronnie said. If you own a business that works with or has an affiliation with seniors you should consider joining the Appalachian Aging Resource Network. Their sole mission of AARN is to put your information in the hands of our aging community. We produce a brochure that acts as a resource guide that has our members contact information on it. They are distributed throughout the areas that we serve. Our coverage area includes the counties of: Rabun, Habersham, Stephens, White, Towns and Union in Georgia and Clay and Cherokee counties in North Carolina. Three of the counties listed above are in the top ten in the state with the largest populations of persons 65 and older. The two counties we serve in North Carolina are also in the top 10. Some call this the “Silver Tsunami.” There are several areas of concern for the aging population. 1. Affordable and adequate housing. Some in this aging category would like to “age in place”. This means that some home modifications need to be addressed to make their residences safe for them to live there with no falls and easy access into and out of their residence. There are many cost effective ways whether it is a stairlift, tub cutout, grab bars, or ramps. 2. Financial resources. Having a financial advisor that understands the needs of the aging person. Most people are living longer and outliving their financial resources. 3. Transportation is an issue within much of this region. Getting to their doctor appointments, getting groceries and medications are concerns for this group. 4. Elder abuse that is not reported. Children and grandchildren taking advantage of their relative’s physical, financial, and emotional well being.
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5. Dementia and Alzheimer’s is a growing concern for this group. There are several groups that address this issue. Training is very important to recognize the signs and symptoms of this disease. For the past decade, Ronnie has wanted to put the Virtual Dementia tour on the road. Take the training into the workplaces. All to often when caregivers get off work they have other obligations to take care of at home. Due to the cost of this program it has not been possible… yet. Florida has what is called the “Brain Bus” that they operate. Over 150,000 people over the age of 65 in Georgia are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Family caregivers are the ones that are responsible for caring for their loved ones with this horrible disease. It is difficult to understand what the dementia patient is dealing with and they are unable to tell you. The Virtual Dementia tour and the Brain Bus allow family members and caregivers an inside look at the difficulties the patient is facing. This knowledge lends itself to more understanding, patience and actually provides valuable information that leads to better care. Each person has their own perspective on how they would like to age in America. Working together to provide these individuals with resources and information is very valuable. Don’t wait until you get in a crisis situation to make these important decisions. PLAN AHEAD! We make plans to get groceries and go on vacations, so take some time to plan your life. It will make it so much easier on you and those who love you. Remember, knowledge is power. You may access the Appalachian Aging Resource Network’s brochure on our website www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com or by visiting www.appalachianresource.com. For more information call 706-202-1002
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Healthy and Well
Biomechanical Compensation Dr. Sue Aery
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iomechanical compensation can be a strong word and, often times misunderstood, when it pertains to body biomechanics. Let me explain. When we experience an injury to the body, we don’t always know what has happened, and before you know it, our body has already triggered the compensatory components to "protect" us. Further injury can be likely because the body has a mechanism to compensate for the temporary loss of function. A good example is a pelvic spinal injury, which usually involves the sacroiliac joint. When this occurs, the sacroiliac joint (connection between the spine and pelvis) becomes rigid and unmoving. This can be very painful and can cause a major imbalance in our movement. Instead of the sacroiliac joint taking all the forces of movement, it becomes out of alignment and changes the motion patterns. It also causes the pelvic area to be misaligned or crooked. Instead of magnifying this unbalanced situation and walking around leaning more to one side, the body creates a compensation to offload the damaged joint. This new force is usually taken on by the spine or sometimes the hip, knee and ankle. If this newly developed compensatory pattern is ignored, the body will embrace this new position, and can develop another functional problem as a result. Over time, this damage can be painful and debilitating. A chiropractor or massage or physical therapist can usually detect this abnormal position and pattern and, together, we can work to unravel the problem and compensation. This can allow the body to restore its normal function, removing the pain and healing the injury. This can take a few weeks, but in the end, it's so worth the time! Full function feels great and prevents injuries down the road. Be smart about the small aches and pains in the body and take care of them before they become big and unsurmountable pain patterns!!!
Dr. Sue Aery is the owner of Aery Chiropractic in Highlands, North Carolina and Elevation Chiropractic & Wellness in Clayton, Georgia. Hours and availability are posted on the website, www.aerychiropractic. com or by calling 828-200-4476.
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Outdoors
Adventure Out Chau-Ram Park By Peter McIntosh
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n this Adventure we’re heading to South Carolina to visit what many folks call one of that state’s best kept secrets, Chau-Ram Park. This little nature preserve is a county park in Oconee County, South Carolina, 23 miles east of Clayton, Georgia on Hwy 76. And since this park is at a lower elevation, relatively speaking, there should still be some nice leaf color to enjoy. The park is located at the confluence of the Chauga River and Ramsey Creek, hence the name. This is a family friendly place with lots of picnic tables scattered about at scenic locations, most of which come equipped with sturdy charcoal grills. There are also campsites available as well. There’s a pavilion if you have a large group of folks, a couple of gazebos and a nice playground for the kids. Of course, in my opinion, this whole place is a playground. There are over 3 miles of trails including two well maintained, easy loop trails and a very bouncy suspension bridge crossing the Chauga River. There are lots of rock shoals on both waterways and plenty of boulders to climb on and around. There are many beauty spots in the park and the first one you’ll see is Ramsey Creek Falls, which is right across from the lower parking lot. There is an abundance of swimming holes and a few sliding rocks to boot. I know, this is
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
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November and it might be a bit chilly for a dip in the water, but this is a great time to explore this park and think about returning during warmer weather. Explore the trail leading down river as it takes you along numerous beauty spots. Don’t be in a rush, take your time and enjoy this wonderful natural area. It’s easy to get to and lots of fun for kids and grown-ups alike. Happy hiking. Yes my friends, I did remember, here’s my poem for November: In South Carolina’s Oconee County, There’s a park overflowing with nature’s bounty. With falling water and rushing shoal, A backcountry beauty spot sure to restore your soul. Getting there: From Hwy 441 in Clayton, go east on Hwy 76, just over 23 miles to Chau-Ram Park Road on the right. This road dead ends at the park. There is a $3.00 per car daily fee. For campsites the fee is $20 per night for South Carolina residents and $25 for non-residents. The hours of the park are from 7:00 am until dusk. The gate is locked after hours. For more information, call: 864.888.1488 To see more of Peter’s photos or if you have a question or comment: www.mcintoshmountains.com
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Outdoors
Winter Waterfall Photo Credit : Explore Georgia
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Take a hike and chill!
e all know that great hiking and trails are a big part of the outdoor allure of Rabun County. We have countless trails for folks of all skill levels to get out in to nature, get some exercise and have an adventure. We have trails that lead to waterfalls, trails that lead to mountain-top vistas, trails that lead to rushing rivers and the depths of a gorge, and even trails that lead us back in history. But most people tend to think of trail hiking as a seasonal activity, reserved for the milder temperatures of spring, summer and early fall, when the birds are singing and the flowers are blooming or leaves are coloring. But hiking through the late fall and winter months can be just as, if not more rewarding, provided you prepare yourself accordingly. When those lovely leaves finally fall from the trees, the scenic views along the trails can reach that much farther and be that much more breathtaking. When there’s a dusting of snow on the ground, the sounds of nature are muffled and the silence is both inspiring and humbling. And wildlife in the winter is completely different, giving you a chance to see new and exciting things. While all that sounds and is wonderful, we wouldn’t want to mislead you and send you out in to the cool wild without making sure you prepared yourself properly. There are definitely things that need to be considered when hiking in cooler weather, both for your safety and your comfort. There are many websites which offer a wealth of information about how to prepare for cold weather hiking and we recommend doing a little homework before setting out. But some of the most basic things to consider are proper clothing, hydration and general safety precautions. Here is some common advice...
Tallulah Gorge State Park Hurricane Falls Suspension Bridge in winter
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Proper Clothing: Dress in layers. Have a base layer of wicking material to keep perspiration away from your skin, a mid-layer for insulation and a shell layer to keep moisture out. By layering, you can add or remove layers throughout your hike to stay warm and comfortable without overheating. Also, wear a hat, take sunglasses and be sure your footwear has extra traction in case of slippery conditions. For really cold days, take special care of your nose, cheeks, ears, fingers and toes, with extra covering. Hydration: Staying hydrated is just as important during cold weather as it is during warm. Perspiration is occurring even if you don’t feel sweaty. But the cold temperatures require a few considerations. Make sure your water bottle has insulation, so that your beverage doesn’t freeze. You may also want to bring along a hot beverage, a little extra warmth can go a long way. Winter view from Black Rock Mountain State Park
General Safety: Check the forecast beforehand and don’t go out if a severe weather condition is predicted. Know where you’re going and make sure you are up to it. Winter may not be the time to challenge yourself. Take a first aid kit along and even an emergency signal mirror or whistle. These small items could be essential if something unexpected happens. And always make sure someone knows where you are and when to expect your return. Preferably, don’t hike alone, go with a buddy. We should never take our safety, comfort or enjoyment for granted when hiking, no matter what season it is, but especially in the cooler months. For more information on cool weather hiking, check out some of the websites listed below. Or, even better, stop by one of our helpful outfitters, Outdoor 76 or Wander North Georgia, for some great advice and friendly conversation. They can get you fitted up and ready for your next great adventure. Start your adventure today by visiting ExploreRabun.com!
Bill Bennett of Outdoor 76 and family on a winter walk
Cold Weather Hiking - American Hiking Society (www.americanhiking.org/resources/ cold-weather-hiking/) Winter Hiking Tips - U.S. National Park Service (www.nps.gov/ articles/000/winterhikingtips.htm) Cold-Weather Hiking Tips & Clothing Guide | REI Expert Advice (www. rei.com/learn/expert-advice/cold-weather-hiking.html) Hiking trail in winter
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Outdoors
Firmly Rooted Spring Bulbs
by Victoria “Tori” Carver – Flower Farmer
Y
ou have heard the old adage, April showers bring May flowers, right? Well, I’ve got a new one for you… “fall bulbs bring spring flowers”. Or maybe, “bulbs planted in the fall bring spring color for all”? Admittedly, it needs a little work, but you get the idea. There are two subjects in the flower world I am very passionate about. The first is the wonderful world of dahlias. The second is planting fall bulbs. I think everyone should plant fall bulbs! If you want spring flowers in your garden such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinth, muscari (also known as grape hyacinth), or allium (just to name a few) you need to plant bulbs in the fall. This is because spring-flowering bulbs require a certain number of weeks of cold/below freezing temperatures, in order to bloom well. The best time to plant bulbs in our zone is in November and early December. Choose a location that has well draining soil and adequate sunlight. Plant bulbs 6” deep with the pointed tip facing up. Cover with soil and water deeply. Watering triggers the bulbs to start growing roots. For a full look, plant bulbs in groupings of five or more and space them 2” to 3” apart. For daffodils that are likely to naturalize, space them further apart. Did you know you can also plant fall bulbs in planters? I planted several large planters on my deck and porch last year with tulip bulbs and daffodil bulbs and they were absolutely gorgeous when spring arrived. I encourage you to give it a try especially if you have problems with moles or voles. For container planting, plant bulbs 6” deep in a circular pattern with ½” spacing between bulbs. Water thoroughly at the time of planting and water only lightly if needed until Spring. You can also layer bulbs when container planting. It is called “bulb lasagna”. The largest and latest flowering bulbs should go in deepest, then follow with the smallest and earliest bulbs in the top layer. Place the first layer of bulbs, tightly spaced, and cover with 2” of soil. Then layer the next set of bulbs. You can plant one layer, two layers, or even three and four layers. The emergent shoots of the lower layer bulbs just bend around anything above them. The last set of tulip or daffodil bulbs should be covered with 4” to 6” of soil. You
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
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can also plant muscari or hyacinth bulbs with your tulips and daffodils for a spectacular spring display. If you would like access to the specialty tulips and daffodils I grow, you are in luck! I have fall bulbs listed on my website at www. firmlyrootedflowerfarm. com and I will have a booth at the Of These Mountains Marketplace on November 4, 2023. In addition to tulip and daffodil bulbs, I will have a huge selection of Amaryllis bulbs just in time for the holiday gift giving season. I hope to see you there! In the meantime, happy fall bulb planting season!
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Outdoors
Paws4Life is Gearing Up for a Great Fundraiser with Fire Hydrants and a Happy Chair!
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f you know the joy that comes from being chosen, you will understand how excited the good folks at Rabun Paws 4 Life were when they were chosen to be the recipients of this years Festival of Trees at the Holiday Shopping Extravaganza for 2023. The proceeds from the sale of the trees, silent auctions and any donations made at this event will help this non-profit dedicated to caring for the dogs and cats who so desperately need their help. The cost involved in taking care of a shelter full of pets is substantial and often times donations are desperately needed. Every penny helps! At the event this year, tickets will be sold for the 1000th Happy Chair by local artist John Siegel. The chair was featured here in the Laurel last month and has been on display around the county for the past couple of months. In addition to raffling the chair, Paws 4 Life has been donated fire hydrants that will be painted by local artists! They are phenomenal! The fire hydrants will be auctioned off with all proceeds going to the shelter. The trees at the Festival are always outstanding! Decorated and donated by local businesses, groups and individuals, the trees are up for silent auction and if you’ve never attended the Holiday Shopping event you will enjoy shopping with the wonderful vendors and could certainly do all of your shopping in one day! So, mark your calendars and plan to attend Friday November 24 and 25, 2023 at the Rabun County Civic Center located at 201 W Savannah Street in Clayton, Georgia.
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If you are interested in any of these cats or would consider adding a pet to your family, please contact 706-782-5422 or email elampros@rabunpaws4life.com Hi my name is Lemmy. I’m a 3 yr old DSH black cat. I came to the shelter in April 2023 as a stray. I was found on the side of the road with a broken jaw. My friends at the shelter got me all fixed up and healthy. I’m shy at first but warm up fairly quickly. I dream of a home where I am loved and cared for. So if you are the family I am looking for, I’ll be waiting.
Hi my name is Spyder. I’m a 1 yr 10 month old DSH orange tabby. I came into the shelter in November 2022. I was one of the 43 cats that were found in an apartment. I’m very shy but warm up quickly after allowing me to sniff your hand. Then I love to be petted and lay in your lap. If you have room in your heart and your home for me, please come get me.
Hi my name is Raven. I’m a 4 year 4 month old DSH black cat. I came to the shelter in May 2023. I was owner surrender because my family couldn’t take me with them when the moved. I’m super sweet and very laid back. I would love to lay in your lap so I can take a cat nap. If you would like to come meet me and consider adding me to your family, please call or come by the shelter.
The Rabun Paws 4 Life building is located at 261 Boen Creek Road, Tiger, Georgia. For more information, 706-782-5422, rabunpaws4life.com
Clayton
Down t ow n
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MountainAire Cottages
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Looking Back
played with quite a few other people, too. I played in Bill Monroe’s band, so I would have to remember him better than anybody. We have backed up people like Chubby Wise and Mac Wiseman; some of them fellows was a real pleasure to play with because they was real entertainers.
By John Singleton
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hope you’ll take the following story with the grain of salt it merits, with special thanks to the original authors, Amy York and Erik Lunsford of Foxfire. Music, by essence, is one of the most adapting forms of human origination. Virtually every human culture has some reference to music as a part of its daily existence. Researching music’s origins quickly runs aground in the swamps of various academic disciplines, mirroring similar quagmires searching the origins of linguistics or ancestry . As the question of origins relates to Appalachia, however, it is relatively agreed upon that the roots of this music originated in Scotland, Ireland and the UK in the 1600’s. Later, it would further expand with additions from Africa (Blues and a gourd instrument that would become the banjo), gospel and other religious, oftenvocal influences surrounding Shape Note singing. Over a couple of centuries, these musical influences would converge to create a music that was instrumently-driven, vocallyunique and layered not only by harmonies but also by often-difficult cultural experiences shared across the mountains, particularly in and around Kentucky, West Virginia and the high mountains of the Southern Appalachians. When Bill Monroe emerged as the “father” of Bluegrass music in the early 20th century, it was less about him having invented a genre and more about his place in that genre’s field. And his presence. In my story, Bill takes back-seat to a local man, Curtis Blackwell, and as we are in the 21st century, also his boys—Cub, Victor and Shane. Bill and Curtis knew each other well—Curtis has the distinction of being in Bill Monroe’s band. If you know nothing of Bluegrass, it is still possible to understand Curtis’ level of talent at performing with one of the legends of the genre. For a deeper understanding of that, Amy and Erik’s article offers a much more in-depth experience. Speaking on his experience after playing at the Grand Ole Opry, Curtis said, “In 1965 we formed the Dixie Bluegrass Boys. I got my brother-in-law Sam Cobb, and me and Al Olsteen and Larry Jefferson. To begin with, it was just a four-piece band, until Randall Collins joined later on. One of the most memorable people that I’ve played with is Bill Monroe. He was one of the biggest stars I’ve played with. We have
I played with Bill for a little while. We had the Dixie Bluegrass Boys band, of course, and we played around where he was a lot. A fellow by the name of Lewis Olsteen mentioned to me why I didn’t take the job (permanently with Bill Monroe) when somebody quit so he called Bill and set me up a thing backstage at the Opry. I went and tried out with him. I didn’t even get to come home. I had to take my clothes and go on. Bill was real easy for me to work with. A lot of people kinda sorta had a different opinion of him. He was real good to me. He treated me like a son. Of course, I never will forget that powerful voice he had and the great mandolin playin’ he did. (Foxfire Volume 31; Issue 119, Spring 1997;” In the article Curtis goes on to talk about his experiences playing Bluegrass with his boys, and anyone who wants to read more about it can email me at john.singleton@foxfire.org and I’ll scan you a copy of the article. Only, there is still the grain of salt I’ve asked you to consider this with, and I need to share that now. Across the years, beginning in the mid 70’s with little league football and basketball and concluding in 1980, Curtis’ son Terry “Cub” Blackwell was my classmate. He was a good kid, with an even disposition and a quick wit with a story or a joke. Clayton, in those days, was small enough that everyone knew everyone’s business. If they didn’t, strategically listening on the Southern Bell party line would catch them up. Across all those years, hours upon hours of football practices beginning as early as 5:30am, bus rides across the mountains to compete, various school events and productions, dances, parties, hunting and the like, it never dawned on Cub to tell any of us that he was an accomplished mandolin player. If I am fair, it also never dawned on me to ask Cub what he did when he wasn’t goofing off with all us knuckleheads. One Saturday evening in the mid 1980’s, I looked over at the stage at Gary Keller’s grandfather’s boathouse on Lake Rabun (Hall’s) and there was my friend Cub, hammering the mandolin like he’d invented the genre. I was by no means an expert on Bluegrass but I knew enough to know that something important about modesty and human nature had been on display with Terry all those years. And by then I also recognized my own oversized ego, and it was humbling.
A former student at Foxfire, John is now Director of Education and Community Engagement at Foxfire. John has worked in Higher Education since 1996, working to assure the assimilation of international students to US universities and also providing opportunities for domestic students to engage in programs around the world. John’s work with Foxfire supports the organization’s long-valued focus on preserving Appalachian culture while promoting educational access for students with connection to this region.
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Clayton is not, perhaps, famous for its Bluegrass music. But if one looks closely at the ledger, folks like Curtis, Shane and Victor, or the Foxfire Boys (Filmer Kilby, Dean English, Tom Nixon, Wayne Gipson, Steve McCall and Mike Hamilton over the years) and their original mentor, George Reynolds all have contributed to keeping alive— and nationallyrecognized—a sound that is equal parts world-wide and 100% Appalachian. These days its possible to soak up a bit of that sound in Tallulah Falls, across the river in Oconee County or by paying close attention to local church and fire department fundraisers. Or, if participation is your thing, the boys from Foxfire have a foundation and a music school where many a local kid are being taught both the chords of Bluegrass and the cultural footprint from which that sound has emerged. For me, particularly when I was living in exile in Texas, the sound of Bluegrass was an easy, quiet way to travel back to Southern Appalachia, and to recall all the folks like Cub Blackwell who have left a mark on mine and so many other lives.
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Looking Back
when good men do something.
VETERAN FEATURE
As my grandfather jumped from his plane, on what was the final stateside training mission before D-Day, his parachute malfunctioned. By some miracle his partially opened parachute was caught in a tree canopy where he hung, badly injured, until he was found 24 hours later. He languished in a military hospital for the next twelve months.
By Kathy Malone
My grandfather didn’t make it to the shores of Normandy, but his unit, who jumped in the midst of flooded hedgerows were all killed that day, down to the last man. While my grandfather suffered terrible injuries, the men of his unit paid the ultimate price.
s Thanksgiving approaches, I’m tempted to dive head-long into the myriad traditions and distractions of the season in order to tune out the onslaught of bad news from around the world. And, if not careful, the Thanksgiving holiday may become less about giving thanks than creating separation between myself and a world that seems to be spinning out of control.
Each year, particularly on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, I take care to revisit the stories that remind me of the terrible battles endured and the sacrifices made by the members of our armed forces. This year, in anticipation of our National Day of Thanksgiving––a significant holiday which is uniquely American––I asked retired U.S. Army Colonel and Rabun County resident, Roger Glenn, to share his thoughts on why we should be thankful for our nation, our rights and freedoms, and for every generation that has served in our armed forces.
Why I’m Thankful When Good Men Do Something
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But gratitude is the very thing that would serve us best amidst this season of turmoil––gratitude for living in a nation founded on the Q: What’s so special about American freedoms and values that principles of freedom and justice for all, and gratitude for the sacthey merit this measure of sacrifice and service? rifice and service of the generations of Americans who have fought ROGER: Our Constitution and the intent of the founders is and to protect those freedoms. remains unprecedented, extraordinary, and compelling. While we As we consider how best to celebrate this national day of Thankscertainly have dubious moments and actions in our history, the giving, perhaps we should start by considering a well-known maxprinciples embodied in our Constitution and its Bill of Rights have im, attributed to Edmund Burke, that states, “the only thing necesstood the test of time as harbingers of freedom, a model for desary for evil to triumph in the world is that good men do nothing.” mocracies around the world, and enabled us to combat the forces It’s a provocative declaration that warrants serious thought particof evil when they reared their ugly heads. But the sacrifices aren’t ulalry given the state of our nation and the world. It reminds us of those of the service member alone. They are of the family, friends, our history, though imperfect, wherein countless Americans have employers, and others who filled the gap at home while they went served and sacrificed in defense of what is good and what is moral. off to enter harm’s way. Military service is a team effort, not only It also follows that there is a hefty price to be paid by those good among those in uniform but the legions that stand behind them, men (and women) who set themselves apart to do something––to inspire them, and give them the strength and courage to push on do what must be done to oppose evil. in the face of danger, adversity and sheer evil. There isn’t one of us When I learned that my grandfather, William Bernie Smith Sr., that doesn’t count the cost. And while we mourn the loss of those served in the 101st Airborne Division during WWII, I began reading who have given of their hearts, minds, bodies and sometimes souls books authored by WWII historian, Stephen Ambrose. As I studied for the benefit of others, we are even more so grateful that such the history of WWII and other wars and conflicts in which our nation extraordinary people exist, and were those we call brother or sister. has been involved, I began to understand the horrors of war which That kind of character and strength is something that others gravhelped me appreciate how heavy were the burdens for those who itate to, even if they don’t have the wisdom, courage or strength served. But what I learned, principally, is that evil does not triumph to do it themselves. There is no quit in us, and it is the resolve and Kathy Malone currently resides in Clayton with her dog Molly. After college, she entered active duty service in the United States Air Force where she supported the mission of the United States Air Force Reserve as a musician and publicity manager with the 581st AF Reserve Command Band. After separation, she worked as a performing artist and studio musician in Minneapolis and then in Atlanta. Delta Airlines hired Kathy as a performing artist in support of international sales and corporate events in Atlanta, New York and London. Kathy eventually entered into full-time ministry serving as a worship leader, and as the production and communications manager where she developed her technical skills in web and graphic design as well as video production and editing. Kathy employs herself as a web designer and a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers. And in her leisure she enjoys cooking, walking, reading, gardening, documentaries, and quality time with family and friends. 68 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - November 2023
responded with courage, service and sacrifice. I think we believed then, and I hope we still do––that liberty is so precious that it’s worth every last measure and that we have a moral obligation to use our strength and our blessings for the good of our fellow man, even if we have some differences of opinion. We are a nation of every nation, and therefore our roots are inherently global. Forces of evil oppose us, and seek to oppress others for their selfish gain. We have stood the watch for every generation, and Lord willing will continue to do so until the days of mortals are no more. A final thought. This Thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends to remember all the reasons we have to be thankful, let us also remember and give thanks that we live in a nation whose merits can be ascribed solely to the blessings and favor of God, to our founding fathers who painstakingly crafted the greatest governing documents ever forged in the minds of men, and for the sacrifice and service of courageous patriots willing to do something in the dreadful, inevitable face of evil.
resilience of the American fighting force that has resulted in our greatest victories more so than the superiority of our technology.
Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it. – Thomas Paine
Q: What would you say to Americans to help them understand why, over the last 200 years, members of our military have been willing to serve, at the risk of life and limb, to defend American freedoms and values? ROGER: Of course some military members were drafted ‘involuntarily’ and some volunteered, but I think our collective memory recognizes that our ancestors lived in rigid societies where liberty and freedom weren’t readily available. Immigrants came to America in search for more opportunity and to escape tyranny and oppression. Along the way, a nation was born and became the first great nation that was formed solely based on the appreciation of the precious nature of liberty. Our founders were keenly aware of the corrupting nature of power. We leveraged our faith to guide our moral behavior as a nation, and when threats to not only our way of life, but that of free people around the world presented themselves, we
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Around Town
My World Travels Feeling contemplative… by Jonan Keeny
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t’s fall y’all. Again. The leaves are changing colors, there’s a chill in the air, and high school football games on Friday nights once again feel like they should. By the time you read this, the local ghouls, ghosts, and goblins will have made their way through the area and they will have collected a Halloween haul of sweet treats that, at least for me many years ago, had to be all laid out in a pile to be revered and contemplated and celebrated. And the leaves are, well, falling. For as long as I can remember, fall has been my favorite season. So many happy memories…playing soccer for school, drumming in the marching band on Friday and Saturday nights (often extended well into fall/winter, just like RCHS!), and time. Things have always seemed to slow down as the weather turns colder. Perhaps I am the only thing that slows down, but I’ll take it! Now that I have a family of my own, I always look forward to what I perceive as a slowing down for us. And I tend to find more time to write. But enough about me… I had been hoping to make a trip to Hiawassee for quite some time, so one fall morning I headed that way. And while my best-laid
plans didn’t work out how I initially intended, I followed the path that presented itself. For reasons somewhat out of my control, I found myself sitting by Lake Chatuge with unexpected time on my hands. And what a glorious morning! Breezy but sunny, and chilly but warm, but what a sight! Simply taking time in nature to think and feel and write(!) was such a blessing. Since you asked, yes, I love tacos. Following Hiawassee Brew on Instagram frequently results in me experiencing FOMOOT: Fear Of Missing Out On Tacos. So, I opted to stop there for an early lunch. Presley (“spelled just like Elvis”), encouraged me to try the House Burger and a couple of the tacos, and who am I to argue with such a friendly server? Without getting too specific on my moves, suffice it to say that if you can get me dancing in my chair in the middle of a busy restaurant because of the amazing flavor of your burger, you’re probably doing something right. Another particular highlight was the Carnitas Taco. The combination of roasted pork, pineapple, pickled onions and various accoutrements is not to be missed. Chef John Woodrum is serving up some culinary creations destined to delight your senses and satisfy your hunger. Definitely give Hiawassee Brew a try!
Jonan Keeny was born in Topeka, Kansas, he got older in Berwick, Pennsylvania, and then he lived a bunch of other places. A lifelong learner and a full-time dreamer, the prospect of grand new adventures gets him out of bed in the morning, with some additional assistance from his two blonde-haired, blue-eyed alarm clocks, of course! Jonan recently rediscovered his passion for photography, which keeps him quite busy tromping around the woods, stopping at random places on the side of the road, and uploading photos to his website, www.myworldpics.com, and his Insta, @dude4disney. When he isn’t wrangling two little boys, he’s likely hanging out with his wife, Mary Lauren, reading a book to learn something new, or dreaming of life’s next adventure and Walt Disney World. Regardless of the activity, he’s probably participating in it while wearing funky socks and a cool hat.
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in the world. A few days after my Hiawassee adventure, as the Keeny family drove to the second installment of a Macon County Soccer Club doubleheader, we all looked out the car window and marveled at the beautiful setting in which we are blessed to live. Our quartet has an odd, meandering story as to how we were lucky enough to end up in Rabun County. And as I thought about it some more later, I was reminded of Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken”, particularly the last stanza:
A while back, the Towns County Veterans Memorial Park caught my eye. What an amazing place! Personally, I am not a veteran, but I have the utmost respect for all the folks who so generously serve/served our country in any branch of the Armed Forces. Those who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our great nation particularly deserve to be honored, and this little pocket of respect does just that. This is a wonderful place to sit and reflect and revere those who fought for all of the freedoms we are lucky to have. While I admit that I didn’t have enough time to read every single name on each tribute to the veterans of Towns County, it is obvious that the powers that be put a lot of time and effort into honoring the countless individuals who have given so much to make the United States the greatest country
“I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” I have frequently taken an unorthodox path through life, and the benefits are clear: An amazing wife, two wonderful little boy-men, countless other blessings, and surroundings that cannot be beat. Yes, I could have traveled a safer road, a more traditional road, but I chose another route. And indeed, it has made all the difference. I look forward to having more time to spend lost in thought on this, and many other topics, as fall continues.
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Around Town
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LADYBUG LANDING
hen you live your life in such a way that you follow God’s lead and know that many times His direction comes in ways you might never expect, you sometimes end up right where you need to be. I am going to share with you a story of direction and blessings that came to one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. “You have to meet Kelly!” was something I kept hearing. Kelly Blount is the owner of Ladybug Landing in historic Lakemont, Georgia. Finally after many prompts I made my way to this quaint village to visit with Kelly over a delicious lunch at Open Door at Alley’s. By the way their Quiche is very good and so is Margaret Dunn’s poundcake and it was a pleasure to see her. While we ate our lunch, we chatted and I learned that Kelly was born in and raised in Montgomery, Alabama and raised her children in Thomasville, Georgia. Her summers spent on Lake Rabun for the past 25 years led to her desire to live in Rabun County when she became an empty nester in 2023. As life does, it took its twists and turns and on fall break of 2019 one led her to the path of Ladybug Landing becoming her new life. In the summer of 2019, her beloved golden retriever, Ladybug crossed the rainbow bridge, but she believes that her precious Ladybug sent her a sign to guide her. During her sons freshman fall break, Valerie from Lakemont India Piper mentioned that the building next door had just been listed. They walked over to see it and unbeknownst to Kelly, the path of her life was about to change.
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Valeries granddaughter went to swipe a bug off of Kelly’s cheek as they stepped onto the porch of what is now Ladybug Landing, because that bug was...a ladybug! “Ok girl, I’m listening,” Kelly said in delight. When she returned to her car and found a ladybug on the paperwork of the listing, she did more than listen. Impulsively and more than a little naively, she made an offer and it was accepted. Kelly knew the building would be called Ladybug Landing but that was all she was sure of. Living 6 hours south of her new building and with no prior experience to give her direction, she was slightly
terrified by the leap of faith she’d made. She comes from a long line of strong women so she was determined to figure it out. The initial plan she came up with was to use the upstairs apartment as an Air BnB. The theme for it was “Notice the little things in life, because when you look back, they will be the big things.” From this theme the fairy garden designed and built by her life mentors, Tammy and Mack Kilby, whom have proven to be a true Godsend. The fairy garden has become a favorite tradition for many to leave their painted rocks for the fairies and gnomes while visiting Lakemont. The Air BnB became her home instead. Through yet another of life’s twist and turns, Kelly decided to open a Christmas market in the fall of 2020. She thought this would have her ready to open the nature inspired boutique by the following summer, she says, laughing at how every day she is still learning. Kelly’s youngest graduated in May of 2023 and she is happily in Lakemont full time. Betsy Elsas has become a part of the Ladybug Landing family. They are excited to be opening the 4th Christmas market November 1, 2023 and Kelly is so excited because her dear friend, Melissa of Harvest Moon Antiques, Garden and Art is opening her first Christmas season with live garland, and a wreath making station, making Lakemont even more of a magical destination for the holidays. To summarize what Ladybug Landing is in one sentence would be nearly impossible but if I had to try it might be this. Kelly’s store is an eclectic collection of things that represent her life, reflect her beauty, are gifts to all who enter and make you want to linger. You will find a wide assortment of hats, lotions and fragrances, handmade pottery, clothing, gifts, baby items, jewelry, art, cards, items that you can create, fairy garden supplies, home décor. If you or a special little girl are so inclined she’ll give you fairy hair for free! You must also ask about her favorite laundry soap, that she special orders in from England. Kelly says her best sellers are the coveted laundry detergent that has the most amazing scent, hats, hats, and more hats and of course all of the exquisite items locally made.
What is ahead for Kelly? Well she’s learned enough to know the saying, “if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans,” is true. She plans to expand her website to include online shopping. You’ll see more of Ladybug Landing on social media and she will continue to include local artists, and welcome makers for pop-up shops. Expanding the custom hats with custom Pyrography and hat bands are also something Kelly is excited about. She is excited to see what the future holds for Ladybug Landing and trust that all the little things will be the big things when she looks back...especially if it comes in the form of a little ladybug! Ladybug Landings Christmas market is open 11am-5pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday or by appointment. Look for them on Facebook and Instagram @ladybuglanding. lakemont. Call 706-982-2934 or best of all visit 8488 Old 441 S. Lakemont, Georgia 30552. I just have one more thing to say, “You have to meet Kelly!”
You’ll always find her with a hat, lipstick and a gorgeous smile. “When people come to my store, I want them to leave feeling better than they came in the door. I want them to feel welcome and appreciated. When they leave Ladybug Landing I want them to have fallen in love with Lakemont and to have found something they love to remind them of their time here.” She has created a little boutique with a big personality. The Christmas Market that she started with has become an annual event. She literally empties the store and transforms it. “I want to celebrate the most magical time of the year by creating the most magical place on earth at Christmas” Kelly said. Everyone agrees it is a must-see!
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Around Town
Caleb Ledford
Ledford Works – Caleb’s Dream Come True! by Tracy McCoy
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rabbing life by the horns is an understatement when it comes to Young Harris native Caleb Ledford. He has known what he wanted to do with his life since he was a young man. At 12 years old Caleb took an interest in knives, which is not all that uncommon but what is out of the norm, is that Caleb wanted to learn to make knives. He got on YouTube and the web and researched how to do that. His father worked with Caleb supporting his son along the way. The two would tinker in the families barn. This was something that Caleb truly enjoyed and he continued to hone his craft.
After high school, Caleb attended North Georgia Technical College studying welding. His intentions were to to use his education in this pursuit of knife making. By this time Caleb had pretty much perfected his techniques and become quite advanced. He found
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that what he loved more than making knives was teaching others to make them. Caleb grew up watching the History Channel show Forged in Fire. This is an American competition series that is produced by Outpost Entertainment. In each episode, four bladesmiths compete in a three-round elimination contest to forge bladed weapons, with the overall winner receiving $10,000 and the show’s championship title “Forged in Fire Champion”. Caleb wanted to compete so at 18 years of age he contacted the show and went through the screening process which includes multiple interviews, a documented production of a certain length blade. It’s not a simple process. He was accepted to the show, where he competed and was then asked to return some time later. This really helped him make a name for himself as a blacksmith.
The family had a barn that was more like a pole barn with hay and equipment in it. Caleb and his family framed the barn in and made a workspace that continued to grow until eventually Caleb’s shop encompassed the entire space. In late July of 2021 Caleb began blacksmithing and teaching knife making classes. He never expected that it would take off like it did and Ledford Works was born. His shop is incredible and a short two years later he is teaching two classes a day everyday. Caleb offers a basic knife making class that he has taught to a young man as young as 11 and a grandmother age 78. This knife is made from a railroad spike. The class is typically a few hours long and you leave with a knife that you have made that is ready for use. Ledford Works also offers more advanced multi-day classes for those who want to either learn more or who already have some skills in blacksmithing or knife making. This would make a phenomenal Christmas gift! Imagine what a great idea this is for that hard to buy for guy or gal who loves a challenge and exploring new endeavors. Caleb offers gift certificates and says he has hosted families, groups of friends, vacationers, couples and individuals. I asked if he sees people who “catch the fever” after one class and he said that he definitely has. In fact the 78 year old lady told him she’d be back! Caleb told me that without the support of his wonderful parents this would not have been as easy. I feel that Mr and Mrs Ledford have raised a young man who would have made it happen and hats off to them. Caleb is an impressive guy just living his dream! The website for Caleb’s business is www.ledfordworks.com is very easy to navigate. You can access more information about the classes, check the schedule, register for a class, contact Caleb, and even purchase gift certificates. November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 75
Mark your calendars for Friday November 17th for this Living History Event!
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allulah Gorge State Park will be hosting a tea party through time, starting at 4:30pm at the Interpretive Center. Learn about key moments in Tallulah’s history as you walk along the North Rim Overlooks. Meet historical characters who will share their experiences with you, as first person reenactments. Finally, after you’ve traveled through time, unwind at our candlelight tea party to mark this moment in history. For more infor or to sign up call (706) 754-7981 (8am - 5pm)
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Mountain Living
Discover Highway 197’s North 40 Lodge By John Shivers
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ighway 197 that connects Rabun County with neighboring Habersham County has long been a popular, heavily traveled route between Atlanta and the Lake Burton community. One of the established fixtures on that road is North 40 Lodge Bed & Breakfast, located in the extreme northern part of Habersham County, and only two short minutes from Lake Burton.
The inn at 15702 Highway 197 N, Clarkesville, Georgia, anchors 6.53± acres of mostly forested land, but with generous road frontage. The oldest portion of the sprawling accommodations that have played comfortable host to many down through the years, dates to 1947. Some have used the inn for vacation lodgings, while others have been short-term renters. And they keep coming back! When you’re the innkeeper at North 40 Lodge B&B, you’re selling more than a restful night’s sleep in comfortable circumstances; you’re also continuing a heritage of character and charm that is one of the reasons this accommodation enjoys repeat clientele. In total, with 3,538± square feet, the inn consists of four comfortable guest rooms, common space, an on-site restaurant with a professional kitchen and bar. Yearly rental income totals well over $100,000.00, not including food service and bar income. A covered and screened rear dining porch with wood-burning fireplace and TV, as well as a spacious, private open deck greatly expand the livability footprint. The four guest suites with front entrances and back porch access offer either full kitchen facilities or kitchenettes, some have fireplaces, and are as spacious as they are comfortable. Each suite includes private en suite full bathrooms and sitting areas that just make you want to put your feet up and relax. Guests may choose between king and queen size beds, and some suites have two beds, making it easy to house individuals, couples or families. While each of the suites is decorated around a different color scheme, throughout the property you’ll find colorful patterned quilts and comforters, overstuffed seating areas as comfortable as what you have at home, beamed ceilings and lots of warm wood, and moldings. 78 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - November 2023
An authentic log cabin immediately adjacent offers an additional one bedroom and bath, and only enhances the character and charm that permeates the entire property. A generator for basic back-up power when needed is also a part of the property. There’s even room for additional growth when business demands. There’s a spacious outbuilding that could easily be converted into an office or an additional guest suite. With the generous acreage surrounding the current inn, there’s also ample room to construct additional accommodations. Harry Norman, REALTORS® Luxury Lake and Mountain agent Jennifer Kyle can show you this profitable opportunity, GMLS #20142696. Her cell number is 706-968-2255 or you can contact her at the Harry Norman office, 706-212-0228. November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 79
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RSVP Now for This Fantastic Lake Retreat By John Shivers
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n a bend of the road, in a curve of shoreline on picturesque Seed Lake in south Rabun County stands a comfortable, inviting, twostory home. The invitation, “Come live here” is written all over it, and it doesn’t disappoint. When you’ve got the front door key to 3462 Seed Lake Road, about ten miles from historic Lakemont, Georgia, living doesn’t get much better. With 287± feet of lake frontage, faced by an attractive mountain stone retaining wall, you can almost sit under your own porch and dangle your feet in the water. Or drop a line from the top floor open deck and fish for dinner, without ever leaving home. This 1.02± acre Georgia Power lease lot #64, part of which extends across Seed Lake Road, makes this an ideal location. The 1,854± square foot home built in 1988 offers up four bedrooms and two full baths on two levels, with room to park multiple vehicles. Talk about versatility and possibility. Every aspect of this home screams comfort and convenience. An open deck off the side of the house and sliding glass doors make access to the kitchen with groceries a simple matter. From the split level front foyer, down a few steps, you’ll find a spacious great room anchored by a massive, stack stone wood-burning fireplace, and ceilings that soar the full two-story height of the house. An oversize dining area opens into the spacious kitchen that boasts slate blue Shaker style cabinets. A full complement of electric appliances make meal preparation easy and enjoyable. Be a part of the action while still serving up family feasts.
rooms and on the screened porch add to the comfort factor. The upper level opens to a huge second living area that overlooks the great room and the outdoors, thanks to large windows. The home’s other two bedrooms and shared bath, one with en suite access, are found on this level. Closet and storage space abound. Down steps from the open deck is a stone-floored patio and a grassy area leading to the boathouse and a small beach area. Lake Seed is a small, 240± acre Georgia Power lake. Thanks to a twostall boathouse, ideal to house all your water toys, you can enjoy daily use of these recreational waters right outside your door. Seed Lake Boat Ramp is less than a mile away. The memories that have been made in this home are too numerous to catalog. Now this versatile lake retreat is poised to welcome a new family that can enjoy its own special occasions, and make its own new memories. Live here full-time, enjoy it as a part-time get away, put it into a rental program, or combine the options. This property has so many possibilities. Penny Ramey, Associate Broker with Poss Realty, is the one to talk with about GMLS #10197599, and how it can mesh with your needs and dreams. Reach her by cell phone at 706-490-1610 or at the office, 706-782-2121.
Additional sliding glass doors open onto the screened porch, where many alfresco meals have been enjoyed in years past. What could be better than dining while watching the placid lake waters, overlooked by seasonal color changes? A second set of sliders in the main floor master also access the screened porch. Two bedrooms, one with access to the full bath with tub and shower combo, and a laundry closet – the washer and dryer stay – complete this main level. Durable hard surface flooring makes for low-maintenance living on the main level, while all the bedrooms and the upstairs living area have carpet. Ceiling fans in all the November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 83
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Retreat from Rat Race on Carson Lane By John Shivers
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etreat.” As a noun, the word denotes a location of removal and solitude. As a verb, you’re seeking that place of solitude. Which is why the property at 167 Carson Lane, Tiger, Georgia, so perfectly mirrors both definitions.
Located on 29.25± acres of heavily wooded south Rabun County landscape, some in pasture, this tract is an opportunity to acquire a buffer against the rat race. It’s the perfect prescription for a laidback lifestyle. There’s a secluded main house, a second guest cottage, and various outbuildings backed up against National Forest lands, tucked away at the end of a small, private road, guarded by two massive stone gateposts and wrought iron gates. Amazing is one way to describe this property. Breathtaking is another, along with extremely private. It’s about as far removed from any cookie cutter concept as you can get. Yet with its location immediately off Bridge Creek Road outside the quaint historic village of Tiger, you’re only minutes away from Clayton and Murray Cove Boat Ramp on Lake Burton. Alpine Helen is slightly more than a half hour west. What rural estate would be complete without a creek running alongside it? There’s also a pond with a dock crowned by a gazebo. In the great outdoors, this property more than delivers. However, after a full day outdoors, folks need a place to get some shut-eye. Once again, this property delivers. Anchoring this mini-estate is a three bedroom, two and a half bath log-sided house, with 1,800± square feet of living space. But as with everything else on this fantastic tract, the home is far from your stereotypical three-two ranch home. For starters, there’s the huge, covered, wrap-around porch, perfect for surveying your kingdom with your feet propped up. This space is already set up for outdoor dining. Inside, contained within a custom floor plan, you’ll find an over-sized U-shaped kitchen complete with generous expanses of hard-surface countertop space and a full-complement of appliances. A dining area is conveniently adjacent, as is the great room that’s great both in size and livability. A wood-fueled stove adds comfort and ambience, and the generous use of wood throughout the house only enhances the lodge feeling. Three oversized bedrooms and comfortably-sized bathrooms, and a large laundry room with sink and ample storage, complete the home. And then you discover the double garage that doubles in purpose. There’s room for your vehicle and a pool table as well! There’s even room for your boat, generous storage, and outside there’s space for your RV. Parking is convenient to the kitchen. Elsewhere on the property, a 625± square foot, one bedroom log cabin offers a number of possibilities. With a complete kitchen and a wood burning stove, use this for guest overflow, or make it available for long-term occupancy. The bathroom even includes a jetted tub, and houses the stacked washer and dryer. A covered rocking chair front porch completes the package. But there’s still more. A spacious covered, screened pavilion with an outdoor patio space adds yet another option for full enjoyment of this country estate. If you’re the designated host for your family reunion, you’re all set. All you need is the potato salad. Other structures on the property include a pole barn and a workshop. And there are roads already cut in to access other possible home sites.
Associate Broker Cody Stowers, with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Georgia Properties, is ready to introduce you to this unbelievable property, GMLA #10201564. Reach him by phone at 678-656-9062. The agency has offices at 37 S. Main Street in Clayton and in Clarkesville. The Clayton office number is 706-9601941. November 2023 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - 87
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Just Thinking
By The Way How to lose a cousin and gain a tent: A pig’s guide to hiking the AT
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s you may recall, my pet pig, Cunningham, has decided to become the first pig to hike the Appalachian Trail.
It was either that or take up painting again. But my wife, Judy, was bad against that. And she’s right—the pig is colorblind. Plus, the art world never warmed up to his innovative style of abstract expressionism. Whatever that is. But my hopes are high that he will become the first pig to ever hike the AT. Once the two of us got started, we hadn’t walked far before we unexpectedly ran into my cousin, Wayne, and his girlfriend, Viola Mae. What a surprise! They’d made camp about a hundred yards from where the trail starts. Wayne was happy enough to see us, but Viola Mae stormed out of the tent and slammed the flap behind her. “What’s wrong with Viola Mae?” I asked. “Is she still mad about that kayak incident?” Wayne nodded. Last winter, he took her kayak to the lake without permission. It was cold, so Wayne built a little fire in the bottom. Regrettably, that caused the boat to sink, which just goes to show that you can’t have your kayak and heat it, too. Well, I guess you can, but only once. Anyhow, it was a good thing we ran into them because Cunningham and I had failed to bring a tent. I had purchased one, but it was camouflaged, and well, to be honest, I couldn’t find it. So, I looked at Wayne’s tent with admiration. “Nice tent,” I said. “Can Cunningham and I spend the night with y’all? We’ve hiked enough for one day.” “Fine with me,” said Wayne. Which was good because Cunningham had already crawled inside to take a quick nap. The pig snores like a chainsaw, but I’ve gotten used to it. “What are you two doing on the trail?” I asked Wayne.
“Looking for Big Foot,” he said. “Viola Mae’s always wanted to take his picture. You know—get on television and all.” “Have you seen him yet?” “No, but the ranger said we probably will. And he warned us that, when we do, to be sure not to touch him.” “Why not?” “He didn’t say. But he seemed serious about it.” That night, three of us slept tight in the tent. Viola Mae elected to stay outside. I guess she wanted to keep an eye out for Big Foot. Plus, the space was pretty crowded. She must have gone to sleep, though. Because at about midnight, the tent flap opened, and there stood Big Foot in all his glory! It scared Wayne so bad that he raced outside, inadvertently touching Big Foot despite the ranger’s warning. Wayne grabbed the sleeping Viola Mae’s arm, and down the mountain they ran with ole Big Foot right behind, her camera flapping in the wind. As the old song says, they ran through the briars, and they ran through the brambles, and they ran through the bushes where the rabbits couldn’t go. But Big Foot stayed close. They finally got to Wayne’s truck. Luckily, it started this time. He finally left Big Foot behind once they hit the paved road. Wayne dropped Viola May off, went to his house, and pulled the covers tight. Then, just before sunup, he felt something standing over him. Sure enough, it was Big Foot. As Wayne lay trembling, Big Foot slowly reached down. Then, quick as a wink, he touched Wayne’s shoulder, yelled, “Tag! You’re it!” and raced out the door. I don’t think Viola Mae ever did get that picture, but at least me and Cunningham have a tent now.
Emory Jones grew up in Northeast Georgia’s White County. After a stint in the Air Force, he joined Gold Kist as publications manager. He was the Southeastern editor for Farm Journal Magazine and executive vice president at Freebarin & Company, an Atlanta-based advertising agency. He has written seven books. Emory is known for his humor, love of history and all things Southern. He and his wife, Judy, live on Yonah Mountain near Cleveland, Georgia.
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