Julie Barnett
Leigh Barnett
Cell 404-697-3860
Cell 404-931-3636
REALTOR速
REALTOR速
141 S. Main St. Clayton, GA
706-212-0228
www.lakeburtonhome.com for VIRTUAL TOURS FEATURED HOMES
The Meeting House on Lake Burton $5,900,000
Rockmore Garden Estate on Lake Burton $5,100,000
Rustic Elegance on Lake Burton $3,300,000 Mountain Reflections on Lake Burton $2,795,000
Swept Away on Lake Burton $2,695,000
Family Fun on Lake Burton $2,150,000
Perched on Lake Rabun $1,995,000
Tucked Away Cove on Lake Burton $1,950,000
Lake Burton Bliss $1,695,000
Private 1.13 Ac. Lake Burton Lot $1,690,000
Historic Ogletree Farm, 60 +/- Ac. $1,650,000
The above information is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted.
Charming Cabin on Lake Burton $1,495,000
Serendipity on Lake Burton $1,550,000
Quarter Moon Place on Lake Burton $1,150,000
Laurel Falls on Lake Burton $1,425,000
Glassy Mountain Reflections on Lake Burton $995,000 Quaint & Rustic on Lake Burton $1,050,000
Serenity on Lake Burton $695,000
3 Ac. with Pond near Lake Burton $249,000
Laurelwood Cottage on Lake Rabun $1,650,000
Home Port on Lake Burton $1,475,000
Cute as a Button on Lake Burton $1,050,000
Trout Haven on Lake Burton $695,000
Charlie Mountain View on Lake Burton $995,000
Hiawassee Heart of the Mountains $369,000
Great Value on Lake Burton $549,000
www.lakeburtonhome.com
for a complete listing of properties and VIRTUAL TOURS Office - 706-212-0228 • Julie - 404-697-3860 • Leigh - 404-931-3636 The above information is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted.
141 S. Main St. • Clayton, GA • 706-212-0228
Habersham The Fine Art of Furniture Design
Mountain Happenings March and April, 2015 March 6th - 8th Folk to Fine Art Festival Commerce Info: 706.335.2954
March 14th
March 21st - 22nd, 28th - 29th Spring Wine Highway Weekends Georgia Wine Country Info: 706.878.9463 www.georgiawine.com
March 17th St. Patrick’s Day Double Bowling Tournament Clarkesville Lanes, Clarkesville Info: 706.778.4654
April 24th - 26th Bud Break Wine Tour Participating Wineries of North Georgia & Western North Carolina Info: 706.745.7483
March 28th Dancing with the Stars for Hope Habersham Central High School Cornelia Info: 706.776.3406 www.dancingwiththestarsforhope.org
STEPHENS COUNTY
April 17th - 18th Apple Blossom BBQ Festival Cornelia City Park Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654
Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220
March 8th Made in America Late Winter Concert Baptist Conference Center Toccoa Info: 706.886.8614 March 21st 2015 Parenting Event: Raising Healthy Kids in the Digital Age Toccoa Falls College Toccoa Falls Info: 706.779.5736 March 26th, April 23rd, May 21st Power House for Kids Training Darkness to Light Power House for Kids, Toccoa Info: 706.886.2290 Northeast Georgia Community Concert Series The Schaefer Center, Toccoa Info: 706.297.7121 www.negaconcerts.com March 19th - The Celtic Tenors April 9th - Fernando Varela April 28th - “Della’s Diners” HABERSHAM COUNTY March 7th 4th Annual Casino Night Fundraiser “Bootleg Bash, A Night at the Roaring 20s Speakeasy” Cornelia Community House Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654 March 13th 2nd Annual Color Me Green 5k and Fun Run Level Grove Elementary School Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654
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April 25th Baldwin Clean-Up Day Mitchell Gailey City Park Baldwin Info: 706.778.4654 Habersham Community Theatre Clarkesville Info: www.habershamtheater.org February 20th - 22nd, 26th - March 1st “Driving Miss Daisy” April 17th - 19th, 23rd - 26th “A Biddy Full Day” Mauldin House Gardens Clarkesville Info: 706.754.4216 April 4th Pictures with the Easter Bunny April 25th Magical Gardens at Mauldin Grant Street Music Room Clarkesville Info: 706.754.3541 March 7th - Chase Thomas Band March 14th Pepperland Music Camp for Kids Pre Saint Paddy’s Celebration and Fundraiser March 28th - Underhill Rose WHITE COUNTY March 6th Taste of the Town Black and White Masquerade Ball Unicoi Lodge, Helen Info: 706.865.5356
March 2015
March 21st - 22nd, 28th - 29th April 18th Swinging in the Vines Music Series Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards Sautee Info: 706.878.1056 March 28th 26th Annual Trout Tournament Chattahoochee River, Helen Info: 706.878.2908 April 3rd and each Tuesday and Friday through September 4th Bingo Helen Chamber of Commerce Festhalle Helen Info: 706.878.1908 April 11th Springfest 2015 Helen Festhalle, Helen Info: 706.878.1908 Helen Arts & Heritage Center Helen Info: 706.878.3933 www.helenarts.org March 28th “Spring Fever” Fashion Show and Luncheon April 21st “Preserving the Old Mountain Ways” North Georgia Zoo Cleveland Info: 706.348.7279 March 7th - 8th Bouncing Babies March 15th / April 19th Behind the Scenes Tour April 2nd - 5th Easter Festival April 6th - 11th Springfest April 14th Mommy & Me at the Zoo Smithgall Woods Helen Info: 706.878.3087 March 7th / April 4th First Visit Tours March 28th Women in the Shadow of Yonah
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Mountain Happenings March and April, 2015 Babyland General Hospital Cleveland Info: 706.865.2171 www.cabbagepatchkids.com March 14th St. Patrick’s Celebration March 28th Magical Easter Eggstravaganza
March 20th- 21st Frills & Frogs Children’s Consignment Sale Rabun Event Center, Clayton Info: 678.794.4395
April 25th Celebrate Clayton P.E.A.R.L.s 5K Ramey Blvd., Clayton Info: 706.490.1243
RABUN COUNTY
April 2nd Easter Egg Hunt Rabun County Recreation Department Tiger Info: 706.782.4600
March 5th - 6th / April 3rd Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.7981
April 4th Easter Egg Hunt Hillside Orchard Farms Tiger Info: 706.782.4995, 706.782.2776
March 19 & the third Thursday of each month through November Rabun Trout Unlimited Meeting The TU/Scout Hut, Clayton Info: rabuntu.org
April 19th Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo Main Street, Clayton Info: www.gfncs.com
The Licklog Players Present The Hallelujah Girls April 17 - 19 & 24 - 26, 2015
April 25th - 26th 2015 Celebrate Clayton Downtown Clayton Info: www.celebrateclayton.com North Georgia Arts Guild Artist Programs Clayton City Hall, Clayton Info: www.northgeorgiaartsguild.com March 19th Patrice Young - The Story of Painting April 16th Jennifer Moore - Graphic Art Design North Georgia Community Players Dillard Playhouse, Dillard Info: www.ngcommunityplayers.com March 6th - 8th, 13th - 15th “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” April 17th - 19th, 24th - 26th “The Last Roundup of the Guacamole Queens”
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March 7th First Saturday Gristmill Visit March 14th - Artists’ Talks March 21st - Nature Hikes TOWNS COUNTY March 14th First Annual White Blaze Shindig Top of Georgia Hostel Hiawassee Info: www.topofgeorgiahostel.com April 11th Plant Affair on the Square Hiawassee Info: 706.896.6240 April 19th - May 16th Rhododendron Festival Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4191 continued
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icklog Players, a community theater serving Hayesville and Western NC since 1978. In addition to spectacular shows on state, the Licklog Players also occasionally offers acting classes for adults and children. Coming up in April they will present The Hallelujah Girls, A Southern Comedy by Jones, Hope, & Wooten. The storyline will keep you laughing and begging for more: The action in this rollicking Southern comedy takes place in SPA-DEE-DAH!, the abandoned church-turned day spa where a group of girlfriends gathers every Friday afternoon. After the loss of a dear friend, the women realize time is precious and if they’re going to change their lives and achieve their dreams they have to get on it now! But with Carlene having buried three husbands already, Nita’s nerves shot from cer, Mavis wondering how she can fake her own death to get out of a stagnant marriage, and sweet Crystal singing Christmas carols with her own, hilarious lyrics, how will Sugar Lee, their high-spirited, determined leader, keep them motivated? By the time these ladies launch their new, improved lives, you’ve got a side-splitting, joyful comedy that will make you laugh out loud and shout “Hallelujah!” We urge you to make plans to enjoy this show and visit Hayesville for shopping and dinner before the show and certainly don’t miss “the Square”. For additonal information contact Licklog Players, 18 Creekside Circle, Hayesville, NC 28904 or call 828.389.8632 or visit www.licklogplayers.org.
Hambidge Center Rabun Gap Info: www.hambidge.org
On Stage at the Peacock Performing Arts Center...
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heater goers in the Hayesville, North Carolina area all know that attending a show at the Peacock Performing Arts Center is a must! What you will tain town. The theater comfortably seats 250 guests and center not only features community theatre and live music, but ballroom dance classes and children’s drama camps. Coming up in April is Sylvia - A Romantic Comedy April 3 - 5 & 10 - 12. After 22 years of child-rearing in the suburbs, Greg and Kate have moved to Manhata street-smart dog (Sylvia) in the park, who becomes a major bone of contention for the couple in this romantic comedy by A.R. Gurney. Tickets available online for Sylvia now. We hope to enjoy this play. Coming up in May and June is The you may contact The Peacock Playhouse & Peacock Performing Arts Center, 301 Church St., Hayesville, NC 28904 - 828.389.2787.
March 2015
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Main Street
Franklin, North Carolina
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Mountain Happenings March and April, 2015 Young Harris College Young Harris Info: 800.241.3754 March 1st - “The Mikado” March 3rd Community Band Concert March 17th An Evening of Irish Music March 20th - 21st An Evening at the USO March 20th March 26th Guitar Ensemble Concert March 27th “The Credeaux Canvas” March 27th - Earth, Moon and Sun April 9th - Acapalooza April 10th - 11th Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival April 11th Songs From a New World April 14th Piano Ensemble Concert April 16th Concert Band Spring Extravaganza April 17th, 24th Cosmic Concert Pink Floyd’s The Wall April 18th - Bach to Rock April 20th - Jazz Band Concert April 21st - Percussion Ensembl April 21st - 25th “Good Boys and True” April 28th - Musical Theater Revue Hightower Creek Vineyards Hiawassee Info: 706.896.8963 March 14th St. Patrick’s Day Celebration March 21st Vino and Vibes Spring Kick Off with Raven and Red UNION COUNTY March 2nd and Alzheimer’s Support Group Cadence Bank Blairsville Info: 770.789.2044
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March 2nd and each Monday through Thursday and Saturday Knitter’s Knitch / Crochet Classes Blairsville Info: 706.835.1078
Blue Ridge Community Theater Blue Ridge Info: 706.632.9223
March 3rd and each Tuesday Smoky Mountain Melodies First United Methodist Church Blairsville Info: 706.379.3836
March 13th - 15th, 20th - 22nd “The Secret Garden”
March 4th and each Wednesday through April 1st National Alliance on Mental Illness Education Program Union General Hospital Blairsville Info: 706.835.6649 March 4th and each Wednesday Bingo Haralson Memorial Civic Center Blairsville Info: 706.300.5722 March 5th and each Thursday Trivia at the View Union County Community Center Blairsville Info: 706.439.6092 April 11th Easter Egg Hunt Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.439.6074
March 1st “Brighton Beach Memoirs”
March 27th - 28th Roxie Watson Band April 9th - 12th, 16th - 29th, 23rd - 26th “The Moving of Lilla Barton” CLAY COUNTY, NC March 6th and each Friday Night Live Music Eagle Fork Vineyards, Hayesville Info: 828.389.8466 March 6th and each Friday Night Friday Nights at Clay’s Corner Brasstown Info: 828.837.3797 April 17th - 19th, 24th - 26th “The Hallelujah Girls” Licklog Players Community Theater Hayesville Info: 828.389.8632 John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown Info: 828.837.2775; 800.FOLKSCH
April 10th - 11th Writers’ Conference The Art Center Blue Ridge Info: 706.632.2144
March 6th - Barker Brothers March 7th, 21st / April 4th Contra & Square Dance March 13th - Barralon Brothers
April 22nd - 26th Blairsville Kiwanis Fair Airport Industrial Drive Blairsville Info: 706.781.6552
March 14th - Empty Bowl 2015 March 19th - Jim Lloyd
April 24th - 25th Mountain Home Show North Georgia Technical College Blairsville Info: www.mountainhomeshow.com Georgia Mountain Research Center Blairsville Info: 706.745.2655
March 29th Brasstown Concert Association presents Paul Neebe Info: 828.837.1863; 828.389.4210 Peacock Performing Arts Center Hayesville Info: 828.389.2787 March 14th Songwriters’ Showcase
March 20th Backyard Beekeeping
April 3rd - 5th, 10th - 12th “Sylvia”
April 23rd Growing the Great Pumpkin
April 18th Lon Eldridge & the 9th Street Stompers
March 2015
MACON COUNTY, NC March 14th Highlands Annual Chili Cook-Off Community Building Highlands Info: 828.526.2112 March 26th Richter-Uzur Guitar & Cello Duo presented by the Arts Council of Macon County Location TBA Info: 828.524.7683 April 4th Community Easter Egg Hunt Highlands Rec Park & Civic Center Info: 828.526.5841 Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center Highlands Info: 828.526.9047 February 19th - March 1st Mystery Dinner Theater “Murder Not Prohibited” March 8th Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet March 14th MET: La Donnadel Lago April 19th Bolshoi Ballet: Ivan the Terrible April 25th MET: Cavallenia Rusticana and Pagliacca Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts Franklin Info: 866.273.4615; 828.524.1598 www.GreatMountainMusic.com March 6th Mark Lowry and the Martins March 7th - Wade Hayes March 14th Natural Bodybuilding & Physique Federation Competition March 27th-28th Disney’s Aristocats Kids A Puuuurfectly Fantastical Musical April 25th - Don Williams
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Franklin & Surrounding Areas of Macon County, North Carolina
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Celebrate Clayton gearing up for 2015 By Michael Leonard
mittee members sitting in to provide advice and information as needed. As the chairmen of each subcommittee gave their report, it became clear that while there is still work to be done, things are shaping up for 2015.
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he calendar might say March, but there’s already an April buzz in the air as planning for the 16th annual Celebrate Clayton is well underway.
Celebrate Clayton is North Georgia’s premier springtime festival. Held annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of April on Main Street in Clayton, the event draws thousands of visitors and local residents into the community. It is the kick start to the tourism season in Rabun County, offering attendees great arts and crafts, delicious foods, music by area entertainers and the chance to support local merchants and charities. It will be held this year on April 25th and 26th.
Celebrate Clayton was steered by a core group of volunteers; many of whom either owned a downtown business or had close connections to them. Guidance has passed to a new committee for the event’s 16th year and going forward, with Clayton Rotary Club and North Georgia Arts Guild taking the reins. The new leadership met Thursday, with many prior com-
Members said two main needs at this point are more sponsors to help undergird Celebrate Clayton and provide the funds necessary for the committee to do its work, and continuing recruitment of exhibitors and vendors. Both tax deductible. Rotarian Burl Parks is chairman of the Celebrate Clayton Committee. He emphasized that Rotary’s involvement in the event is to both continue a great tradition for Clayton and Rabun County, and to raise funds for club charities, especially scholarships for local students. Clayton Rotary Club retired its long-standing Rotary Golf Tournament fundraiser several years ago and has not found a suitable replacement to fuel its local charitable contributions. The club is pinning its hopes on Celebrate Clayton. North Georgia Arts Guild’s Randy Sells said Celebrate Clayton 2015 will include a student art show, a children’s activity area and the festival’s customary blend of quality phasized the March 1st application deadline for exhibitors. “We will also be utilizing local students to provide entertainment in an effort to be even more of a community event,” Parks said. “We hope everyone will come out and support this event and spread the word, inviting friends to join us from far and wide.” Kathy Ford of the Arts Guild suggested those interested in learning more or signing up as an exhibitor or vendor visit the Celebrate Clayton website, www.celebrateclayton. com. Michael Leonard is the publisher of The Clayton Tribune, a Rotarian and chair of publicity for Celebrate Clayton this year.
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Three Exciting Brands Now Available at Christmas and More
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hristmas and More is pleased to announce the addition of three new lines to their store. First, they have added Spartina 449, known for uniquely designed handbags and accessories with captivating colors and fashion-forward designs. From luxurious linen to thoughtfully created patterns,
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inspired by their home base in Daufuskie Island, South Carolina. Spartina 449 offers an appealing brand for today’s modern woman. Christmas and More is excited to unveil Spartina 449’s newest inspiration from the sea islands off the southeast coast of Georgia, South Carolina,and Florida. Captivated by these coastal gems, they have created vibrant new patterns and posh shapes that evoke casual yet chic looks; bold combinations and soft hues that beckon for sand, sea and sky. Also new to Christmas and More is the Scout brand, a stylish line of tote and sport bags, storage bins, travel accessories, and coolers. The idea behind this brand is that life is made easier and more fun when you add something to it that is both useful and a conversation starter. Scout has just introduced their canvas collection which is equal parts functional and timelessly chic. These canvas bags are a go-to that is perfect for use in the city, on the boat or at the beach. The canvas collection
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joins the coated cotton and velvet lines that Scout has been producing for since 2004. Last but certainly not least Christmas and More has added Ginger Snaps Petite Collection. Ginger Snaps Jewelry is an interchangeable line of snap in button-like charms that you snap in and out of stylish bracelets, rings and more. Ginger Snaps has just introduced a petite line of charms that are 40% smaller isting jewelry pieces. The petite collection adds an impressive 100 new snaps that are, like all of their pieces, all about heart and soul, sweetness and sass and brazen individuality. Shopping at Christmas and More has never been a better idea with new things arriving daily. Christmas and More is located at 37 South Main Street in Clayton, Georgia and they can be reached for more information by calling 706.782.0051.
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North Georgia Community Players What’s On Stage This Year at the Dillard Playhouse
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he North Georgia Community Players have been entertaining show-goers in the mountains for many years. This year there are three upcoming events. In March the NGCP presents a hilariously funny play “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” by Craig Sodaro. The cast is made up of area teens and the show promises to keep you in stitches. The show will be directed by Kim Gurtler. Show dates are March 6th, 7th, 13th& 14th at 7:00 PM with matinees March 7th & 15th at 3:00 PM.
In April they will perform “Last Round-up of the Guacamole Queens” by Jones, Hope, Wooten directed by Sharon Purdy. Show dates for this production are April 17th, 18th, 24th & 25th at 7:00 PM with matinees April 19th & 26th at 3:00 PM. stage. There will be more details forthcoming about the April and June productions. All of the shows are on stage at the Dillard Playhouse located at 892 Franklin Street, in Dillard, Georgia 30537. The Dillard Playhouse is located right next door to the Dillard House. For more info/tickets: 706.212.2500 or www.ngcommunityplayers.com.
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Downtown Clayton
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Bless Your Heart
Moms Just Know - Part 1 by Lisa Harris
D
igging through the boxes Marci found the large, red hat box that her mama loved. Red was her color and large hats her signature. She was southern classy, and a little bit sassy. Just pulling out the hat and trying it on made her giggle as she walked to the mirror to catch her
face to frame her mass of blonde hair that she controlled with a side ponytail. For fun, Marci cut her dark syrupy eyes over at the mirror catching her her mother tugged at her heart. Yesterday had been a tough day at the Infusion Center where she received her next to last treatment. All the nurses loved Sylvia’s bodacious personality and losing her hair just gave her an excuse to buy more hats. But, this red hat was special, it was her celebratory sign for the last chemo session next week. No doubt her mom would enter and exit the center in true Southern sass…by sporting her red hat. Placing the hat back into the box, Marci tidied up the room and went to check on her mom. Sylvia was sitting up in her recliner, Bible in her lap, a hot cup of tea that was more for keeping her hands warm than for sipping. “Hey darling,” Sylvia smiled hoping the lightness in her speech covered up the discomfort. “Hi mom,” Marci smiled back but sensed rather than saw her mother’s pain. “How about a pillow behind your back?” Marci inquired as she grabbed the one on the sofa and stuffed it behind her. Sylvia smiled saying, “Can’t hide anything from you can I?”
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Marci laughed, “No mom and you could never hide it from Dad either.” “No, no I couldn’t, he knew me so well. I miss him every day,” her mother whispered while tears sprang into her eyes. Marci sat and held her hand until the moment passed. This was just so hard, and absolutely no manual to go by. Marci needed guidance, some sort of instructions on how to adjust to this new normal of caretaking. For now, she thought, ice tea and chocolate cake would help soothe her soul. After her weak moment with sugar, Marci made sure her mom was comfortable and went back to her bedroom for some much needed quiet. She grabbed her nail polish and gave herself a quick pedicure for her date tomorrow night. She didn’t even know what that was anymore. Marci sat there and thought back to the day she ran into Dr. Hutchins and his son ‘Hutch’ Hutchins, an intern in radiology. “Marci, Marci,” Dr. Hutchins bellowed from down the hall of the hospital. Turning around, Marci came to a complete stop and smiled. “Dr. Hutchins, how nice to see you again.” Marci gave her favorite doctor and close family friend a hug and stepped back. “Marci, you remember my son Hutch don’t you?” Marci looked at Hutch recalling the few times they played together as children, and not particularly liking him either. Marci nodded at Hutch and said, “Of course I remember; how are you doing Hutch?” Hutch gave a dazzling smile to MarBoy was his smile bright, she thought. Must have just used those whitening teeth strips that are all the rage. Marci grinned at the thought. But, she had to admit, he was not hard on the eyes at all. “It’s been a few years since we’ve
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seen each other hasn’t it?” he said. “Yes, it has been,” Marci answered. “Do you have time to have coffee with an old friend?” he asked. “Well…” she hesitated, “I guess Mom will be alright for a little bit.” “I heard from Dad that Sylvia is doing as well as she possibly can.” sure,” Marci replied. Marci kept glancing at him sideways as they walked in unison to the hospital cafeteria. It was almost crazy that they were so in sync with their steps. Marci paused in stride as Hutch opened the door to the cafeteria for her. They settled at a small table and Hutch got their coffee. Sipping slowly Marci noticed Hutch looking intently at her. She smiled and said, “Have I got something on my face?” Hutch grinned, “Nooo, to be honest I just don’t remember you being this pretty when we were younger.” “Seriously, Hutch did you just say that? What middle school kid looks good during puberty? If I recall you were no catch with braces and skinny legs.” “Whoa Marci, I didn’t mean to offend, what I meant and should have said was, you have become a really beautiful woman.” Marci grinned, “Okay, you saved yourself…truce?” “Truce,” he agreed. From that moment on they clicked. Same beliefs, similar goals and both loved the mountains where you could renew your spirit when the world got crazy. An hour passed in no time, and Hutch looked at his cell phone for the time and then checked one message. “I’m sorry Marci, I promised a couple of patients that I would come by and talk with their families; can we see each other again soon?”
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Marci smiled and agreed as he entered her number into his phone and promised to call. Two days later he called and they made a date for Saturday night dinner. Marci was in a slight panic of leaving her mom alone but Sylvia insisted she tion, Marci agreed. So here she was the night before the date painting her toes…and thinking about what to wear for their dinner date. Marci got off the bed and walked on her bare heels to the closet and with a quick hand pushed hanger after hanger checking out each item. Nothing, nothing, nothing, Marcia sighed to herself. What would she wear? It would be rather cool so maybe boots, jeans and this beautiful blue shirt her mother had picked out for her would work. The shirt was a deep sapphire blue with silver buttons, a great contrast with her coloring. Problem solved. Marci stopped her pondering for just a moment when she heard a slight thump. What was that, she wondered.
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Marci stepped out in the hall and barely heard her mom’s whisper, “Help me Marci.” With those words Marci ran to her mom and helped her back into her recliner. “Mom, what were you doing?” Sylvia gave an impish but apologetic smile. “I was tired of sitting so I thought I’d go lie down for a few minutes and get my strength up. I guess I underestimated how tired I really was.” For a moment she was frightened, she was not ready to lose her. Not now. Marci helped her mom to her bed and got her tucked in and safe. “Now mom, ring this bell if you need to get up again so I can help you.” “Now I’m no invalid honey, just don’t worry about me, I’ll be good as new in the morning.” Marci looked at her mother, really looked at her face and saw the tired lines around her eyes and mouth. It broke her heart to see her vibrant, feisty mother become quiet and withdrawn. “Mom, I know you’ll be good as new
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but until then…ring this bell or I’ll have to call the doctor to fuss at you.” Sylvia grinned at her daughter’s spunk…she was one proud mom of her daughter’s gutsiness, proof she came from good stock, southern stock that is. Marci turned going back to her haven of comfort and solitude and to makwas still concerned about leaving her mom alone right now. Marci mulled that thought over as she looked at her choice. Sylvia lay in her bed mulling thoughts over also; she was so afraid of being too much of a burden for Marci. to ease the pain in her hip that she had thought was arthritis but it wasn’t. Her prognosis wasn’t as good as she led Marci to believe, but it was her job as a mom to protect her daughter’s heart. So, she saved her tears for when she was alone but when Marci was around, the happy face came out as chirpy as ever. Look for the conclusion of Moms Just Know in the April issue of the Georgia Mountain Laurel
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On Stage at the Blue Ridge Community Theater Should Lilla Barton Stay or Go?
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lue Ridge Community Theater’s mission is to enrich the cultural life of residents and visitors through performances, productions and education of all aspects of contemporary and classic theater. Performers are offering theater enthusiasts a second chance to see The Moving of Lilla Barton by John MacNicholas
A kind word is
like a spring day.
Russian Proverb
In this dramatic comedy guests will be entertained by the humorous and touching tale of a southern Alabama town’s ethical, spiritual and political dilemma over how to get the widow Lilla Barton to move out of the parsonage her father built for she and her reverend husband. Include a pushy realtor, who wants the depressed woman out, a decent Southern gentleman, who thinks she should be allowed to stay, and an ex-Yankee newspaper editor, who cannot even begin to understand these mysterious Southern ways, plus a bishop who wanted to marry the young Lilla and you have an evening of great laughs and drama. A trip to Blue Ridge is always enjoyable so make a day of it and do some shopping in their quaint downtown, enjoy dinner and don’t miss the show! For additional information contact Blue Ridge Community Theater located at 2591 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 or call 706.632.9223.
Hiawassee, Georgia
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Bon Appétit by Scarlett Cook
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arch is blowing in and even though spring is just around the corner – we have had some wicked weather in March – good, warm Italian food will warm our hearts and souls. Italian food is that wonderful creation that just gets better when it is made early and allowed to sit in the fridge to be reheated and served. Or better yet, when you cook, make two batches. (I mean if you have to be in the kitchen, why not cook once and eat twice?). Chicken the Italian Way 4 Servings
Pasta with Mushrooms 4 Servings
8 Ounces uncooked linguine 4 4-Ounce skinless and boneless chicken breasts 1 Teaspoon salt 1 Teaspoon pepper 1 Tablespoon olive oil 2 Tablespoons minced garlic 2 Tablespoons chopped onion 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 Large tomato, diced 1 Red bell pepper, cut into thin strips 1 Green bell pepper, cut into thin strips 1/2 Cup sliced black olives, well drained 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried) 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried) 1/4 Cup chicken broth Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in 1 tablespoon hot oil in a large skillet over medium high heat 5 minutes on each side or until done. Remove from pan and keep warm. Sauté garlic and onion in 1 tablespoon hot olive oil until tender. Add tomato, red and green pepper strips, olives, thyme and basil and sauté just until heated throughout. Stir in pasta and broth; cook stirring often until thoroughly heated. Top with chicken to serve. This dish can be made 24 hours early and reheated in a Linguine with Cracked Pepper 4 Servings 8 Ounces uncooked linguine 1 Tablespoon butter 1/4 Cup minced onion 2 Cloves of garlic, minced 1 8-Ounce container sour cream 1 Tablespoon milk 2 – 3 Tablespoons cracked black pepper to taste 2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried) Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Melt butter in skillet over medium high heat and add onion and garlic. Sauté until crisp-tender – about 2 – 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Combine sour cream, milk and pepper. Stir in onion and garlic mixture. Toss with pasta and sprinkle with cheese and parsley.
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1 8-Ounce package spaghetti 5 Plum tomatoes 2 8-Ounce packages fresh sliced mushrooms 3 Garlic cloves, minced 3 Tablespoons olive oil 2/3 Cup dry white wine 3/4 Cup sliced green onions 3/4 Teaspoon salt 3/4 Teaspoon black pepper 1/4 Cup grated Parmesan cheese Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain. Cut tomatoes into chunks. Sauté mushrooms and garlic in hot oil in a large skillet for 4 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender. Add wine and bring to a boil; boil 6 minutes or until mixture is reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Stir in tomato, onions, basil, salt and pepper and cook until thoroughly heated. Spoon over spaghetti and sprinkle with Parmesan. Cherry Cheesecake Bars Yields 2 1/2 dozen 1 1/2 Cups uncooked quick cooking oatmeal 1/2 Cup butter 1 8-Ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 14-Ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1/4 Teaspoon almond extract
Line a 13” X 9” pan with aluminum foil. Lightly grease the foil. bowl and stir until crumbly. Take out 1 cup of the mixture and set aside. Press the remaining mixture onto the bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes. Beat cream cheese at medium speed for 1 minute or almond extract. Beat until smooth. with the reserved crumb mixture. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Cool pan on a wire rack. Lift cheesecake out of the pan using foil. Cut into bars and chill.
March 2015
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Linguine with Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts 4 Servings Can be made 24 hours early and refrigerated. Tomato and Basil Sauce 1 Small onion, chopped 4 Garlic cloves, minced 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1 Cup dry red wine 1/2 Teaspoon salt 1/4 Teaspoon black pepper 2 28-Ounce cans diced tomatoes 1/2 Cup chopped fresh basil leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried) Sauté onion and garlic in hot oil in a large saucepan until tender. Add wine, salt and pepper. Cook stirring occasionally 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Process half of the tomato mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth. Return to saucepan. Repeat with remaining mixture. Cook over medium heat and stir in basil. Do not make chicken mixture early as the basil will darken if using fresh basil. Stuffed Chicken Breasts 3 Ounces goat cheese, softened 1/2 Cup chopped fresh basil (or 2 teaspoons dried) 1/2 Teaspoon black pepper 4 Skinless, boneless chicken breasts 1/2 Teaspoon salt 8 large fresh basil leaves 8 Ounces angel hair pasta, uncooked Stir together the cheese, chopped basil and pepper. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy meat mallet (I use an iron skillet.). Sprinkle chicken with salt and place 2 basil leaves and 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture in the center of each piece of chicken. Roll up jellyroll style starting with a short end of chicken; secure with a toothpick (or toothpicks). Place rolls seam side down in a lightly greased 8” square pan. Bake for 30 – 35 minutes or until done. Let stand 10 minutes. Cut each chicken roll up into 1” slices. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Toss pasta with half of the warmed tomato and basil sauce. Serve chicken over pasta and top with remaining tomato and basil sauce.
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March 2015
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Notes de Vin
Shhh…The Vines are “Sleeping” Carla Fackler
Stonewall Creek Vineyards
As temperatures hover around freezing in the North Georgia Mountains, our grapevines are dormant, a necessary prelude to the growing season. Weather is on our minds. A warm March would bring an early end to their winter “sleep” and increase the chances of a spring frost destroying fruiting buds. While the vines are “sleeping” a major event takes place in the vineyards—dormant pruning. Grapevines are generally dormant between leaf fall and bud break and begin to grow again when temperatures average around 50 degrees. Grape growers prune to control vine growth (vigor) and fruit production (crop), affecting both the quality and quantity of grapes. To determine crop size, growers estimate the “balance” of fruiting buds left on the vine with how much fruit the vine can support and bring to full ripening. Too many buds and the vines will be “over cropped”, producing less sugar and skin pigmentation in the berries and not enough stored-food resources or energy to fully grow and ripen grapes—resulting in “green” or poor quality wine. Prune too severely and it will lead to less grape production and less wine (and sales) than anticipated. North Georgia vineyards primarily grow European Vitis vinifera (long considered the classic wine grape), FrenchAmerican hybrids (a cross between vinifera and American grapes bred to withstand the cold) and Norton (a hardy “native American grape”). Vineyard elevation is a major cold-tender vinifera varietals at risk in higher elevations.
When to begin dormant pruning will vary within our North Georgia region, with some 25 vineyards north of Atlanta. At Stonewall Creek Vineyards in Rabun County, we are trained on a vertical shoot position (VSP) trellis system, which promotes their natural tendency to grow upward dormant pruning, we prune or trim the previous year’s new leaving two to four buds. Trimmed canes are called spurs. Three to four spurs are left on each linear foot coming off the cordons (arms) along the lowest trellis wire. Dormant pruning for our vinifera will average 40 hours an acre. A late spring frost that occurs after bud break, when the vines come out of dormancy, is a constant threat for production. The past two years, we have “double pruned”, leaving twice as many fruiting buds as usual on the spurs. Once the danger of a late spring frost is over, usually early May in our vineyard, we’ll prune again to just two living buds. (A late spring frost in May 2012 took nearly all of our Malbec fruiting buds. “Double pruning” may reduce the risk of a total crop loss, but Mother Nature has the last word!) Some 80 to 90 percent of the previous year’s growth is pruned and dropped between the rows. Most vineyards will come through with a bush hog and turn it into mulch.
The Stack Farms
Retired winemaker turned winegrower Bill Stack and his wife Leckie grow both vinifera and Norton grapes at The Stack Farm in Rabun County. The Stacks use a divided trellis called Geneva Double Curtain, which Bill describes as “a telephone pole six feet high with four-foot wide crossbars”. Vines are planted in the middle with foliage on each side. Bill began his most recent pruning during the cold weather that followed Thanksgiving, but it varies from year to year based on varietal, location (sunlight, air direction and drainage) and weather.
Tiger Mountain Vineyards
At Rabun County’s oldest vineyard and winery, Tiger Mountain Vineyards, John Ezzard started to prune his 10 acres of vines in early January as usual and anticipates growers think the timing of pruning affects bud break. We have not found that to be true.” Wary of frost damage, he has been “long pruning” some vines (not the hardy Norton
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and usually not Petit Manseng) the past three seasons, with two buds. He adds, “The timing of the second pruning … is a judgment call regarding the end of any chance of frost.” His Norton grapes are trained on a Geneva Double Curtain trellis, while most of his vinifera are grown on an Open Lyre side and he winds the new canes upward. They are very labor intensive, especially in the spring.” For John’s wife Martha, “Winter pruning is a favorite time because it is so save only that which is truly necessary.”
12 Spies Vineyards
At Rabun County’s 12 Spies Vineyards, Mike Brown usually begins to prune in mid-February, “depending on the severity of winter to that point,” although he has started “as late as the second week of March.” He “double prunes”, based on “the propensity for a late frost at our elevation.” Mike has two trellis systems—lyre for reds and VSP for whites. He exposure, especially in August when we are prone to heavy morning fog.”
North Georgia’s signature wine event is held in March and features tastings at nearly 20 participating vineyards. Winegrowers Association of Georgia 10th Annual Wine Highway Weekend
Saturday, March 21 and 28, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday, March 22 and 29, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (www.georgiawine.com.)
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Foxfire Touring the
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he weather is likely a little cool yet, but if you’re the hardy type, or if you are planning ahead for the spring months, there is a truly unique destination tucked away on the eastern slope of Black Rock Mountain—The . Gathered by high school students over the early decades of producing The Foxlog structures and countless artifacts allow you to step back in time and visit the earliest communities of our mountain region. The museum recreates an Appalachian mountain community of homes, a chapel, a gristmill and other common structures (including the recently-comand tools of the pioneer era. There are two ways to enjoy this portrait of the past: self-guided tours for casual visi-
The Savannah House, built in the 1820s, is the oldest authentic log structure tour, this cabin and its simple, authentic furnishings represent the simple pioneers. tors and guided tours for school, family, community or other groups of six or more. For individuals, families, and casual visitors, self-guided tours of the muthe $6.00 admission fee (children 7-10 $3.00, 6 & under free) and receive a souvenir guide booklet and background
Stiles conducts guided tours of the museum, sharing the vanishing heritage of Southern Appalachia with visitors of all ages. Guided tours include access to some normallyclosed museum displays like the woodworking shop (shown here) and the folk art gallery.
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leads guests to each cabin along the 1/4mile mountainside trail. (Vehicle access is allowed for guests with mobility or endurance issues.) The guide contains information on the log cabins themselves, the way of life for settlers of this region and the tools they used to live and work. There are also traditional craftsfolk who demonstrate on the grounds at varying times during the year (call ahead for details). Highlights of the museum facility include the Savannah House (built in the 1820s, furnished with a rope bed and other vintage pieces), the chapel (everyone loves to ring the bell), and the Bell Gristmill (a water-powered corn mill— a favorite photo spot for visitors). The porch of the Carnesville House, home als, features two audio recordings—a Rickman discussing the storied 1932 Clayton Bank robbery and a few minutes from the countless hours of recordings of beloved Aunt Arie Carpenter, the
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If you can gather a group of six or more people (community or church groups, school classes of any grade level, home-school groups, friends, large families, etc.), guided tours of the museum offer an enlightening educational experience, covering almost every aspect of Southern Appalachia—from family life to occupations, gardening to raising animals and so much more. Simple toys and amusements, the tastes and smells of sassafras and sweet birch trees, the accomplishment of making a piece of rope by hand—hands-on, active learning is the foundation of the usually range from two hours for a bareminimum overview, on up to four hours for an in-depth look at Southern Appalachia with lots of fun activities. Although terial, principles of science, math, language and other academic disciplines Cross Street in Mountain City, Georgia; take Black Rock Mountain Parkway and, about one mile up, follow the brown signs. The museum is open for self-guided tours Monday—Saturday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (please allow at least a full hour or longer to see everything). For guided tour scheduling and rates, call 706.746.5828 or email org.
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Echoes from the Hills “A Creek ran Through” Bob N. Justus
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creek full of trout ran through Germany Valley where I grew up. Of
during my youth it stands at the top, but today is a pale ghost of what it was then. As I grew up beside it, my fascination for this stream that wound between clumps of willows, alders and birches interlaced by grapevines, with banks cloaked in brush, reeds and ferns, grew ever stronger. Today my memories of dark, cool pools lying under fern-fringed banks are still clear and appealing. Hole” because an ancient stump stuck up in the middle of the creek. Time after time on a balmy spring day a 12 to 15 inch rainbow would strike and do battle with a bare-foot farm boy with a cane pole and a Prince Albert can of worms.
Brown, Speckled and Rainbow, They Are Waiting On You and ends on October 31 to be exact. Many trout streams th
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in Georgia can be found in the Georgia Sport Fishing Guide which you can pick up at Reeves Hardware in Clayton. You can also pick up your license there and Anglers can purchase a lifetime license, multi-year licenses and new 2-year and 3-day license. Hunting & Fishing Combo Licenses can save money and stacking licenses is also an option. Three is also the Sportsmen’s other licenses tailored to your needs such as the Georgia to know about them in the Georgia’s Sport Fishing Guide or from the good folks at Reeves. The Georgia Sport Fishing Guide is a publication of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources through The guide can be downloaded on your computer by visiting . banks of America’s rivers and streams. He shares this he grew up.
produced plump trout year after year. Our creek was fed by many small rills that originated in high coves on Big Face Mountain or from lower springs that arose from the roots of the mountain ranges sheltering the valley. One side stream led back up a side valley to the weathered frame home of two dear people, Great Uncle and Aunt Dock and Lula Justus, which nestled against the foot of Elisha (Lish) Mountain. Small but delectable brook trout (speckled trout) once thrived in this cold rill. They were skittish but could best be sneaked up on during a day of spring showers.
Brook trout also swam in the cold headwaters at the head of the valley, from the homes of Virgil Justus and his son Henry up to where timbered slopes enclosed the head of the valley. One day on a side stream near its juncture with the creek, I discovered an open glade where tall ferns grew. hovered about in the air and lit on a sandy strand framed by the ferns and trees. It was a lovely, ethereal scene. Twice on occasions far apart in time and place I dreamed of this lovely glade. One dream occurred in Korea (1952/1953) and the other came to me in Vietnam (1965/1966). Much later on I decided to go look for this glade but it was no more due to the coming of new homes to the valley. Over the northern ridges lay a smaller valley called Little Creek. In those days brook trout –speckled trout to us – swarmed in it. At one time Dickerson and Justus ancestors lived here. One spring day a warm, drizzling rain fell from lowering clouds. I borrowed Papa Jesse’s rubber rain suit and boots, dug some worms behind the barn, then with cane pole in hand I went over a trail to catch brookies. The dark sky and rain permitted me to get close to the wily trout and I soon had about 7 or 8, a good catch! I went by my grandparents’ house to leave the rain gear and Mama Lela said, “Bob, you clean us a couple of trout each and I’ll fried them on her wood stove. Then she warmed two or three pieces of left over bacon and with gravy and biscuits from breakfast we sat down for a feast! Having great folks and living in Germany Valley has blessed me until this day.
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A Biddy Full Day back on stage at HCT by popular demand!
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he community supported Habersham Community Theater continues to amuse and entertain those in attendance each year. The theater which is located in downtown Clarkesville. Drama, comedy, musicals, dinner theatre, readers’ theatre, children’s productions, art exhibits, and special events are just part of what takes place there. So taken with these three sisters, the community demands an encore presentation of the play A Biddy Full Day. Mildred, Maude, and Myrtle Biddy invite theater goers on quite an adventure. Come and spend some time with the sisters as they deal again with their frustrating day gist, the hard–nosed IRS Agent, and the slippery young banker. Director Millie Adcox is also the playwright along with Jim Canon. The show will be presented April 17 – 19 & 23 - 26, 2015 and for more information please contact Habersham Community Theater, 1370 Washington Street, in Clarkesville, GA 30523 or call 706.839.1315.
Clarkesville, Georgia
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Wheels
Cosby Chastain’s 1974 Ford F-100 4WD pickup No longer an on-the-job truck‌ these days, a classic black show truck! By Larry and Gail Allgood
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ccompanied by our friend Tony Allen, we met with Cosby and Marilyn Chastain at their beautiful property near Lake Burton. Cosby and Tony are long-time friends and car enthusiasts and have shared many days building and restoring vehicles. Cosby is a multi-vehicle owner and allowed us a peek inside his garage. And, what we found was not just a couple of vehicles, but Ford Motor Company vehicles made more interesting because of their variety...an original restoration, a custom-built street rod, a classic pony car awaiting restoration, even a custom-built drag car. It was obvious that this is a family with a love for automobiles.
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Today, we came to see the 1974 Ford F-100 4-wheel drive pickup. When Cosby bought it in 1976, it was a one-owner vehicle and was purchased from a gentleman in Cornelia. It was Cosby’s work truck, driven every day, and over time, a work truck was transformed into a show truck. With the exception of the paint and bodywork, Cosby personally restored this vehicle using all original parts with the exception -
bic-inch engine with 410 horsepower and a four-speed transmission, it has seen lots of car show action and has brought home many trophies. It was our pleasure to photograph this black beauty and spend some time talking cars with Cosby, Marilyn and Tony. Cosby is the owner of Chastain Tree Service and Marilyn is employed by the city of Helen, Georgia. They have three children and one grandson.
706.499.4702 ruth@ruthcamp.com www.ruthcamp.com
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BILL CAMP
SOQUE RIVERFRONT BUNGALOW!! 3BR, 2BA cabin, w/fireplace, basement and loft. 399,000
March 2015
INCREDIBLE SOQUE RIVER HOME! 4BR, 3.5BA, 2 Car Garage w/Unfinished studio above. $699,500
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The Wedding of Mike and Lacey (Roberts) Koppin
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Date: October 12, 2014 Location: Currahee Vineyards
special letter from the bride to her guests:
I guess you could say I’ve been around the mountain and back again while planning my wedding. Through much prayer and following the peace Vineyard as our location. First, because of the beautiful orchard and in memory of my grandparents Papa George and Nanny Roberts, for you see they had their own orchard. My grandparents both worked very hard in the orchard and it brought a lot of joy into their lives. Secondly, because of the beautiful Currahee Mountain, also in memory of my grandparents. Papa and Nanny Brown, for you see, Currahee Mountain is home to the Brown family. I have a picture of my Papa Brown and his siblings, made in 1942, which reads “Children of Currahee Mountain”. In the photo Papa Brown was 12 years old and he was saluting the paratroopers as they marched by getting ready to run the three miles up Currahee Mountain. Last, but certainly not least, in honor of our Heavenly Father, for behold the beauty thereof. While I know this is unusual, I want to have a moment of silence now. A moment when guests and family could perhaps hear Papa George whistling while he gathered his peaches for the day or maybe they might hear Nanny Roberts singing as she picked her blueberries or praying those many prayers she prayed for her family. I know some of my Brown family could hear Mike Woody saying, “Come on! Jump in Lucille and let’s take a spin up Currahee Mountain.” Or maybe someone could hear my Papa Brown calling my mom while She’s gone on that four wheeler again, I bet she’s back up the mountain. That game warden is sure to catch her one
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of these days.” Maybe my family could hear my precious Papa say, ”There’s a lot of history and memories on that old mountain.” Papa was right, Currahee Mountain is home to all of us. During that moment of silence I urge our guests to give praise to God for only He can create such beauty and just maybe in this moment we could all hear that still small voice that only He can speak to all of our hearts. Lacey’s vow to Michael was: Michael, there have been a lot of children raised around Currahee Mountain since 1942 and I am one of them. Today, I choose to leave my home and become one with you as we make this covenant to one another and to our Heavenly Father. From this day forward my home is with you. I love you with everything in me and I can’t wait to be your wife.
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Award Winning Dealership and Salesman Make a Winning Combination
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abun County resident Seth Pitts has just celebrated his
my career!” Seth was voted friendliest in his graduating class at Rabun County High School. After beginning his job at Duvall Automotive he realized that he had found his niche! Seth has put over 100 people in their dream vehicles and being genuine and easy to talk with has certainly helped him do that. This is what Seth had to say about the company, “I am so glad to be working for such a great and unique business – family owned since 1956 and one of few dealerships in America with 6 brands under one roof. I sell Ford, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. This makes Duvall a one stop for new and used vehicles and the only dealership around that doesn’t charge any dealer or documentation fees. I am proud of that.”Seth Pitts also told us, “I never thought that fun and work could be used in the same sentence but after getting to know some of the employees here who have worked 10, 20 and even 30 years it is clear there is something very special about Duvall Automotive.”
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Call today to talk with Seth or stop in for a test drive... you know you want to! Seth can be reached by calling 706.212.2918 or 828.371.1083. Visit the dealership located at 809 Highway 441 in Clayton, Georgia.
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Food Bank of Northeast Georgia chosen as the 2015 Rhapsody Recipient
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he Rhapsody in Rabun board has selected the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia as the 2015 recipient of its annual fundraising gala event to be held on the evening of Monday, September 14 of this year, at the Civic Center in Clayton. This year’s proceeds will fund a special project: a teaching kitchen in conjunction with the new satellite branch of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia located in Athens. distributed nearly twelve million pounds of food. To meet the needs of our community, the district’s food bank’s network emergency shelters, childcare centers, food pantries, soup kitchens, and senior centers. The new teaching kitchen initiative of the Athens food bank and satellite branch is a forward-thinking, collaborative approach to end hunger in Rabun County. Many of our neighbors are hungry. Food recipients are suffering because of national and local economic issues: a cut in food stamps (WICS), a shortage of local employment opportunities, a rise in the cost of food. Furthermore, some Rabun County School students would not eat during the weekend if not for the implemented Food 2 Kids program (casually known as the “backpack” program). Approximately 150 of our primary and elementary children, Many local churches, agencies, and individuals are involved in various efforts to address the hunger crises in our county.
L to R: Karen Nasworthy - Rhapsody 2015 Co-chair, Rocky Ford Rhapsody President, Angie Cheek - Rhapsody 2015 Chair That’s the plan. We need the help of all members of our community (that’s YOU) in achieving this dream of ending the hunger of our neighbors. Many of us are so blessed with the means to make a difference. Tickets will be available soon. Furthermore, your friends, organization, company, or corporation could have a decided impact on the funds raised for this endeavor by purchasing a table for that night’s gala. Please join us in making a difference.
The new teaching kitchen endeavor, to be located in the empty Movie Time facility located next to the BiLo store in the Covered Bridge Shopping Center, will be an educational tool to improve the overall well-being of our community. The endeavor will include instruction in food preparation, preservation, and safety, as well as the principles of healthy nutritional choices. The program will also offer job training in culinary skills and professional development for kitchen/ cafeteria staff, as well as caretakers feeding children, the elderly, and the ill. The plan is to utilize local chefs, UGA Extension staff, and others, including the Food Hub, now regarded as a model for national food banks and food hubs. Also, the program will provide vegetable starts and hands-on teaching/learning sessions including information on planting and growing. A concerted effort will target low-income families referred by Head Start, Community Partnership, and other entities working with the needy in Rabun County. Funds raised by the Rhapsody event will purchase equipment necessary to create the kitchen: stoves, ovens, range hoods, coolers and freezers, utensils, stools, tables and chairs, as well as printed materials as resources for participants. Monies will also provide participants with reusable EarthBox Organic Ready-to-Grow Kits; local farmers and growers will aid class participants in the correct a lifetime.”
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Live Healthy and Be Well! “Get Prepared to Get Out” Stephen Jarrard, MD, FACS
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s I write this, Winter Storm Octavia is going on outside with freezing rain tonight and the threat of ice in the morning. We have not had our usual real winter snow/ice yet, so I guess this is part of the one or two we usually get up here in January or February each year. BUT, I know that soon we will again be blessed with the good weather we all love; that spring is around the corner, summer not far behind, the beautiful fall weather we have - and all the promises that these seasons bring. So, this column is written with that hopeful outlook in mind. We have talked many times that our degree of health and wellness is improved by regular activity. In this beautiful area in which we are blessed to live, we have many opportunities to get out and about. See other Laurel articles by my friends Peter McIntosh and Mark Holloway – who always give us good advice about things they have done that we can do, too, and hopefully in a prepared and safe manner so that we may fully enjoy them, but be ready to take care of any mishaps that may unfortunately occur. With this in mind, I was recently asked to comment on at the lake, to take on a hike or to a camp site. It is also a good idea to have such a thing around the house for those little accidents and such that happen while working on the house, in the yard or in the garage or workshop. Although there are many commercially available kits of this type, it would not be hard at all to make up one with a few basic supplies and some equipment easily obtainable around town (such as one of our and our hometown hardware store). I would start out with a small, durable box such as a continued
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Live Healthy and Be Well! “Get Prepared to Get Out”
small tool box or tackle box. You may even want to get a brightly colored box so that it is visible, and mark it well. For hiking, some type of durable “pack” would be better, so that it could be more mobile. You will want everyone in the family to know the location and be able to get it easand it will keep them organized, hopefully dry, and most importantly – all together in one place. aid kit. You may add to it as needed, or as your personal experiences dictate. Remember, the best way to stop bleeding is direct pressure with some gauze or dressing – if this does not work, the wound is deep or the bleeding is brisk, apply pressure and take the person to an Emergency Room. Likewise, if the bleeding from an injury to an arm or leg is heavy and pulsatile, apply some type of tourniquet between the injury and the heart and head straight to an ER. For simple cuts and scrapes – stop bleeding and clean the area well before applying a clean dressing. If the wound is more serious, or might need to be closed with sutures, go see a provider as soon as possible. A teta-
For cleaning and bandages: Alcohol wipes Small bottle of normal saline or sterile water (250 mL) Small bottle 3% hydrogen peroxide or Betadine (antiseptic) Small pack of “wet ones” Band Aids (various sizes) Roll of gauze Gauze pads (4”x4”, 2”x2”) Medical tape Basic Meds: Benadryl (both liquid and some topical cream) Ranitidine 150 mg (OTC “Zantac”) Ibuprofen/Tylenol 1% Hydrocortisone cream Silvadene cream/ointment (good for burns) Bacitracin/Neosporin type ointment Calamine lotion Equipment: Small tool or tackle box, or mobile pack Tweezers Small scissors Cravate or cloth rag (for sling or pressure dressing) Epi Pen (for anyone around with severe allergies) Coban wrap Ace Wrap
nus shot may also be needed if out of date. In the case of a serious allergic reaction, be it bee stings or contact with an environmental substance or medicine causing hives, lip swelling, swelling (“edema’) around the eyes – give some OTC Benadryl (25 mg), one of the Ranitidine (150 mg), Tylenol or Ibuprofen and apply some hydrocortisone cream to the area if there is time. If the person is known to have a serious allergy to what has happened, administer the Epi Pen as needed. These early steps may halt or limit the reaction, but do them ON YOUR WAY to the ER, Urgent Care and tell them about any treatments you performed before you arrived. from some ice to limit swelling, and Tylenol/Ibuprofen for pain control joint such as the ankle or an elbow, the Ace wrap compression will also supply some stability and relief. Re-
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fresh yourself on the Heimlich maneuver in the case of a choking situation. Get behind the person and wrap your arms around placing your doubled hands just under the breast bone and squeeze / apply pressure in and up to force air out of the chest and hopefully dislodge the item from the windpipe. While these basic tips are not all inclusive, and aid knowledge and a well supplied “kit” will help you in case you need them. We really do enjoy hearing from you with any questions, concerns, or ideas for future columns and/or health and wellness related issues for the Georgia Mountain Laurel. Please send an email to rabundoctor@gmail.com, or call us at 706.782.3572, and we will be sure to consider your input. This and previous articles can be now be found on the web at www.rabundoctor.com in an archived format. If you use Twitter, then follow us for health tips and wellness advice @rabundoctor. Until next month, live healthy and be well!
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Get Prepared to Get Out!
Health and Wellness
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Lovin’ the Journey A Time to Heal by Mark Holloway
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don’t think my mom actually lost her mind. It’s more like she faded away. Our minds are much like any other body part which can grow tired and retire after years of faithful service. That’s what happened to Sylvia Holloway who arrived on November 21, 1934. She lived a full and amazing life, and later touring the far reaches as a travel agent. Mom and dad lived to venture and embraced adventure, even as ski instructors in their 60s. On Thanksgiving Day 2006 Agent Orange. His body failed him while his mind was sharp, even as he pronounced a blessing on every single family member while returning thanks at my brother’s festive table. An hour later, he was gone. After a brief season of adjustment, mom decided to leave Florida and join us as new arrivals to these hope-giving mountains. We built a place for her next to us and mom reloaded and relaunched her life. Her renewed and joyous heart was glad to be back in the mountains.
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Mom and dad had enjoyed vibrant mountain living for years in the shadow of Sugar Mountain, North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Parkway became a member of the family. Mom plunged into life, becoming active in her Clayton Baptist Sunday school class, enjoying outings with the Second Milers, and even hiking with us to the top of Black Rock and descending to Stonewall Creek and back.
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explained the clear difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia. Mom didn’t have Alzheimer’s, which Steve explained is just one cause of many which can bring on dementia. I’m thankful for Mary Lou and Steve. I’m also thankful for my wife Carol who loved my mom like a daughter for 34 years. We are wired it seems, for the good
But soon she’d take some tumbles, a few quite serious. While my wife Carol assisted in recovery, we all remained optimistic. Then an unsettling trend developed. Mom began to withdraw. She seemed reluctant to leave her home, often sitting alone in the dark. We knew a chapter might be closing. Mary Lou Faulkenberry understands the elderly journey. She also passionately cares for folks in their sunset years. The Lord placed Mary Lou in our lives at a strategic time. She cautioned us to not wait too long for mom to consider assisted living. We all agreed, including mom, future caregivers deserved the opportunity to enjoy her personality in the event it were to ever fade. Mary Lou says some folks wait until their parent is absent mentally before making the transition, depriving caregivers the chance to know the real person. Her counsel proved invaluable. Her dementia diagnosis actually came after she moved to a local assisted living home. Mom’s decline came in chunks. She’d level off and seem to hold steady mentally and physically for a while. Mom became severely ill, going septic one morning. We rushed her to the local hospital where she spent seven weeks. We were told she was a wilting
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ter watering. The family was called in. But Sylvia Hillman Holloway wasn’t through living. She emerged from this latest assault and recovered at Lanier Village Estates in Gainesville, Georgia. Mom would live out her days at this amazing place. And yes, there was still enough left of mom’s elegance and charm to wow the workers. One nurse Frank became such a tender connection for mom, I even asked him to speak at her memorial service. Her dementia caused her to lose interest in eating, a sad irony for a gourmet cook. I’d began to ask her if she was ready to meet Jesus. She’d smile and say, “Yes, but not yet, silly.” That would change. Two days before she died I asked her again. She whispered, “Yes.” On October 20, 2013, a large group of us gathered around her, singing and worshiping over her. Two days earlier she was able to tell me she loved me. And now she was breathing her last,
The vibrant life mom lived seems to now mute the struggles of her dementia. In my world, the glass is usually three-quarters full. I always hope to walk on the sunny side of life. And maybe telling you about my mom will help you as it’s helped me. See you on the trail. (I’d like you to meet my new friend She thought it’d be healing for me to tell you about my mom. She was right.)
a long marriage, three children, many grandchildren, memories and stories often shared and relived. I sat down with my doctor Stephen Jarrard the other day to talk about mom’s passing, dementia and life. He
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Tales of Racky & Dil By John Shivers
“Y
ou’re just trouble begging to happen,” Dil hissed, and immediately jerked forward, thanks to a poke in his back. “Why do I listen…?”
guff and menacing voice of a man behind them shoved further comment into a far corner of the raccoon’s mind. “It’s not my…,” Rabun Racky started to say, but when a heavy hand punched a hole in his back, he fell strangely the safety of Rabun County. But he, too, remained silent and uncertain. Their day had started when the two boys left Northeast Georgia before daylight, riding in a big yellow school
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Illustration by Terry Sells
bus to the state capitol to see the legislature in session. It promised to be a trip to remember, and as he and Dil were marched throughout the catacombs of the massive building, Racky was certain he would never be able to forget what was fast becoming frightening. “You boys have any idea how much trouble you’re in?” Their interrogator was the uniformed Georgia State Patrolman, who had snatched them from the visitor’s gallery overlooking the House of Representatives. “But we were only…” The patrolman shook Racky’s shoulder. “I told you not to talk.”
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“But you ask…” Racky protested. “You do as you’re told.” I thought I was, Racky told himself, but quietly this time. He glanced sideways at Dil, who was stalking beside him just inches away. His brother’s entire body was seething with fury, and Racky suddenly felt totally alone, abandoned, with no one in his corner. The ride down had been fun, if a little long and tiring. But once they spotted the gold-domed capitol building, excitement overtook any thoughts of exhaustion. The class had soon unloaded and made their way through security, into the hall of the halls of Georgia government. The air fairly crackled with excitement and intrigue. “I could be a politician,” Racky whispered to Dil at one point. “Anybody could do this job.” “It is neat,” Dil agreed. “But you? Uh-uh.” “Yeah, me!” Shortly afterward, they deliberately dropped back from their class, when they stumbled upon a stash of homemade signs that had been discarded by one of the many special-interest groups inside the capitol. “Look!” Racky exclaimed, as he grabbed two of the signs, “Just a large marker on an unoccupied desk, and quickly lettered the two signs to read, “Vote for Racky”. He returned the marker, and the two boys ran to catch up with their classmates. “Don’t wanna get in trouble,” Dil pointed out. The boys were in the visitors’ gallery parading back and forth with Racky’s signs held high, when they were suddenly confronted by two blue-uniformed state patrolmen. It was quickly obvious these two men didn’t support Racky’s grassroots political campaign. One of the ofChamber. and then placed a call to the boys’ parents in Rabun Gap, Georgia. “Your folks are coming down to bail you out,” the of-
Racky looked at Dil, and the expression of fear he saw on his brother’s face caused his stomach to make a sickening lurch. “I don’t guess our folks are going to understand that I just wanted to be a politician.” “Duh, do you think?” Dil asked, and turned his body away from his brother, his disgust clearly evident. Even Dil won’t vote for me, Racky thought sadly, and suddenly the gold dome had become very tarnished. He was washed up in politics before he even got started.
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Turned Funny
Lying is Much Easier Than Turning Loose By John Shivers
I
promised myself that once our ished, my old, black everyday loafers wouldn’t move with us; I told Elizabeth, our son-in-law, as well as our daughter. My best friend Dale heard this vow more than once. We’ve been
pair suddenly became only children. I wore them almost every day, to the exclusion of everything else in my closet, determined not to allow them out of my sight. When they were on my feet, I knew where they were, which was both a solution and the problem. Fast forward thirteen years – they just
what? I lied. I made a promise to several people and I didn’t keep that promise. My word simply wasn’t my bond on this deal. It
was
my
blew my cover and exposed my sordid little deception. “If you’re so broke you can’t afford a new pair of shoes, Daddy, I’ll buy you a pair,” she said, after she spotted the shoes still hanging around. But she didn’t understand, couldn’t possibly understand just how deeply the matter runs. Call it sole deep. It wasn’t money that kept me in the run-down footwear; it was a connection from way back. But time, as time does, has altered the both of us. It was fall 2001 when this pair
at the store, an identical pair of black shoes also found themselves out for a test drive. In the end, I put the black pair back and walked out in the new tan pair. But I was so happy with my selection, a couple of weeks later, I went back to get the black pair. For whatever reason, the tan pair
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minutes almost every day. It’s like they’ve got their claws in my feet and won’t let go. They’re perfect to wear while walking Callum, when I’m digging in the disaster that is the garage and everywhere that I don’t want to wear good shoes. But there is a tradeoff. No longer are these boys even suitable for formal grocery buying functions. For that matter, I doubt they would
don’t make things to last these days! – and those shoes that were once so bright, shapely and proud, are somewhat down in the with their soles. condition almost two years ago. With ited the store where I’d found them, but styles had changed. Nothing compared, could replace my favorite footwear. I was somewhat relieved. Since then, I’ve set several deadlines by which I vowed to give those shoes a decent burial, even if no replacements were immediately in the wings. I lied. Not only are those shoes still very much a part of my closet population, but I still wear them at least a few
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market used shoe stall. The right shoe shows enough daylight where the crepe sole joins the shoe to be blinding – and extremely wet when it rains – and both shoes are grossly misshapen. The left shoe still sports traces of the copper paint overspray that assaulted it several years back, and there are various other stains and blemishes. Just call them age spots. Something tells me even if I would just sit in the closet, stiff from little use and totally unforgiving of feet that conform to their predecessor. These old shoes have seen me through many adventures and misadventures. Oh, the dirt they my spill if I dumped them unceremoniously. It really is hard to turn loose, because those shoes wouldn’t lie!
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