Georgia Mountain Laurel - September 2015 by The Laurel of Northeast Georgia

A Note from Tracy If you know me, you know that I love Foxfire. I am fond of the folks that work behind the scenes to preserve the heritage of the southern Appalachian people. I adored all of the contacts, but especially those that I had the privilege to interview as a Foxfire student. There is just something special about a Foxfire student, they have heard the tales from generations gone by; they have seen the calloused hands and the laugh lines around eyes that sparkled while sharing their lives with us. We transcribed those interviews from cassette tape recorders when I was in the program; today I am sure it is done much differently as times continue to change. I have memories of sitting upstairs in a log cabin on the Foxfire property in Mountain City one summer listening to hours of tape and trying to figure out how to put down on paper the rich southern dialect. I sat in the living room of Ed and Martha Roane’s home in Tiger to talk about their lifetime spent running a general store and talked with Lester Baker about spring houses and my own grandmother Samantha Speed about recipes for the Foxfire cookbook. The people of the mountains were resourceful and wise people. They found ways to meet their needs when money was scarce. Mr. Roane talked to me about trading flour for eggs or sugar for fresh meat. He told me of families that he knew didn’t have any way to pay for the goods they needed to feed their children so he would let them GML Staff and Contributors take what they needed or trade sometimes for things he didn’t even need. He kept it written down but after a time he’d forgive the debt Publisher - Tracy McCoy - tracy@gmlaurel.com for the good of the family. There are life lessons in these interviews Art Director - Dianne VanderHorst that can’t be learned in today’s world. For this reason several years ago I decided to dedicate one issue a year in support of the Foxfire Fund, Inc. and the students and community of contacts. Foxfire was “born” in Eliot “Wig” Wigginton’s classroom the same year I was born, 1966. It has stood the test of time and continues to do the work that started there. I am both grateful and humbled by the program and my mountain roots. I love these mountains and the people who have walked through them for lifetimes. We know you will enjoy our Foxfire issue. The color is coming next month along with festivals, apples, pumpkins, hot cider and cool crisp mountain air! I am ready how about you? Be a blessing, Tracy

Office Manager - Cindi Freeman Copy Editor/Writer - Jan Timms Photographer/Writer - Peter McIntosh Marketing Executives (Advertising) Melissa Williams - 706.982.4777 - melissa@gmlaurel.com Cindi Freeman - 706.782.1608 - cindi@gmlaurel.com Contributing Writers: Jean Hyatt, Melissa Williams, Carla Fackler, Mark Holloway, Bob Justus, Jo Mitchell, Steve Jarrard, MD, Lisa Harris, Kitty Straton, Larry and Gail Allgood, David Darugh

September 2015

Volume Twelve • Issue Nine Copyright 2015 The Georgia Mountain Laurel is a publication of Rabun’s Laurel, Inc. Mailing: PO Box 2218, Clayton, Georgia 30525 Office: 633 Highway 441 South, Clayton, Georgia Phone: 706.782.1600 Website: GMLaurel.com E-mail: gmlmagazine@gmail.com Copyright 2015 by Rabun’s Laurel Inc. All rights reserved. The Georgia Mountain Laurel Magazine is published twelve times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to GML magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel magazine or any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. The Georgia Mountain Laurel maintains a Christian focus in their Faith section. Rabun’s Laurel, Inc. reserves the right to refuse content or advertising for any reason without explanation.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Julie Barnett

Leigh Barnett

Cell 404-697-3860

Cell 404-931-3636

REALTOR速

141 S. Main St. Clayton, GA

706-212-0228

www.lakeburtonhome.com for VIRTUAL TOURS FEATURED HOMES

The Meeting House on Lake Burton $5,900,000

The Adirondack Camp on Lake Burton $4,350,000

Journey's End on Lake Burton $4,200,000

Moon Hill on Lake Burton $3,950,000

Mountain Reflections on Lake Burton $2,595,000

Lake Burton Bliss $1,695,000

3+ ac. Lumbermen's Retreat on Lake Burton $1,675,000

Private 1.13 Ac. Lake Burton Lot $1,575,000

Charming Cabin on Lake Burton $1,495,000

Serendipity on Lake Burton $1,475,000 The above information is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted.

Home Port on Lake Burton $1,475,000

Belle Vue on Lake Burton $1,150,000

Quarter Moon Place on Lake Burton $1,150,000

Laurel Falls on Lake Burton $1,395,000

Charlie Mountain View on Lake Burton $925,000

Lake Burton Cottage on the Water $995,000

Cute Cabin on Level Lake Burton Lot $1,050,000

Trout Haven on Lake Burton $695,000

29+ Acres on the Soque River $795,000

The Shady Nook on Lake Burton $895,000

16+ Private acres in Persimmon $435,000

Timber Frame Lodge on 13+ Ac. with Views $489,900

3+ Acre Lot w/ Boat Slip on Lake Burton $165,000 Escape Hatch Near Lake Burton $175,000

The Lodge at Goldmine Falls $517,000

14 Ac. Mini Farm in Wiley $330,000

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

In This Issue

Yesterdays 8 10 12 14 16

The Foxfire Magazine Foxfire - Ann & Barry Echoes from the Hills Wheels - The Packard Explore Northeast Georgia

The Arts 20 24 26

Cover Artist - Kay Hibbard North Georgia Arts Guild Rainy Day Workshop

Great Outdoors 30 32 34 36

Foxfire - From Creek to Crock Adventure Out Mountain Nature Lovin’ th Journey - Short Treks

Faith 40 42 44 46

Foxfire - Bly Owens River Garden Life is a Blessing Bless Your Heart

Health & Wellness 48 52

Foxfire - Wart Conjouring Live Healthy & Be Well

A Taste 54 56 58 60

Foxfire - Sassafras Tea Uncorked - From Vine to Wine Bon Appetit Y’all Up and Coming Chefs

Affairs to Remember 64 66 68 70

Folk 80 82 84 86

September 2015

Foxfire - Mountain City Playhouse Walk with Me... for Alzheimer’s Cherokee Heritage Festival Event Calendar

Foxfire - Being Young in Olden Days Bob and Margie Bennett Appalachian Financial Group A Wedding - The Attaways

www.gmlaurel.com

Create or Revitalize!

RABUN builders, inc Kurt Cannon, owner of Rabun Builders, Inc., has earned the undeniable reputation of creating and revitalizing homes and boathouses with exceptionally high quality workmanship in Rabun County for 25 years as a general contractor. We are here for you now and will be here in the future. We use all local subs and suppliers that will also be here for you in the future. We support the local economy and we are licensed and fully insured to protect you the homeowner and your investment. References Available. More info available at www.rabunbuilders.com

706.490.1490 www.rabunbuilders.com â&#x20AC;˘ rbi@rabunbuilders.com â&#x20AC;˘ Clayton, Georgia

Foxfire The Foxfire Magazine by Jessica Phillips, Foxfire Magazine student

Foxfire is a program that enables its students to preserve their heritage for the world to see. The Foxfire Magazine dates back to the year 1966 at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. Students during that time were trying to find a way to combine the required English and Language Arts curriculum with stories that struck their own personal interest rather than demanded topics. This idea seemed to be appearing in numerous areas where students wrote magazines full of different kinds of stories. However, Rabun Gap’s students decided on a slightly different path. They began talking to their grandparents, relatives and friends about the breathtaking Appalachian history. The students realized the community was full of resources for interviews they were more interested in. Not knowing it at the time, those interviews were the ones to “kick off” Foxfire. Each of the students began wanting to learn more and applied the English skills needed for the curriculum. With no hesitation about it, the program went far above the teacher-student learning. This educational attempt turned into a national magazine that different cultures around the world still read today. Today, local students like me still go out and gather stories that strike their inquisitiveness. Being able to hear and record the words of loved ones is something that Foxfire students hold dear for the rest of their lives. It is an honor in itself to be able to talk, not just to people in the local community but also to people in surrounding communities about their experiences. Whether it is moonshining, deer hunting or cooking, the stories never cease to amaze readers. Foxfire empowers students to make connections and obtain experiences that they would not have had the opportunity to acquire otherwise. The program is now located at Rabun County High School and has been there since 1977. Facilitator Jon Blackstock aids student Senior Editors in their facilitated-teaching roles, directing and assisting other students. The Senior Editors put their training into action to help every fellow classmate in the struggles they might face, such as organizing their articles or with the layout process. Every summer, Foxfire conducts a leadership program at The Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center. The program lasts two weeks. This past summer, Logan Bettencourt, Heather Giovino, Stephanie Jones, Emily McCrackin, Tessa Vinson and me continued this Foxfire legacy for the 2015-2016 school year. The role of the editors in the training is to acquire and/or improve their own literacy skills and return to the classroom capable of accommodating the needs of and being able to train other students throughout the publishing process. Students have and continue to pursue the vision of Foxfire, taking their learning outside the classroom walls, publishing twelve collection volumes of The Foxfire Book series, countless anniversary books, numerous single-topic books and magazines. In addition, The Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center was created and built by the students who wanted to preserve and share the Southern Appalachian artifacts and buildings with the community and the world. Coming in 2016 is Foxfire’s 50th anniversary. The 2014-2015 Student Editors have worked hard in compiling and writing the 50th anniversary book. In this book, readers will see how the Foxfire organization has changed throughout the years, as well as how Rabun County has evolved over time. We are excited to share these heartfelt stories about our culture. We hope these stories help readers recollect some fond childhood memories of their own or spark an interest in preserving their heritage. Either way, this commemorative edition will be one that everyone will find valuable, as do we.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

OF RABUN

Sam Rumsey 706.982.9673

809 Hwy. 441 South - Clayton, GA 30525

706.782-7133 www.remax-rabun-ga.com

Chelsea Rumsey 706.982.9677

The Rumsey Team is Ready To WoRk FoR you ED DUC E R CE PRI

D UCE D E CE R PRI

Recently renovated 4BR/2.5Ba home. all new appliances, plumbing, heat pump, electrical and landscaping. Close to town in a well established neighborhood $159,000 GamLs#: 7508553

Recently remodeled brick home with beautiful yard. 3BR/2Ba, open floor plan, beautiful wood floors, new roof, fire-pit, fenced backyard & brick fireplace. all on one level & close to town. $205,000 GamLs#: 7469574

Great Location! This 3BR/3Ba home features heart pine, custom cabinets, granite countertops, claw foot tub & decks on both sides of the home with a mountain view! master is upstairs with space for offfice or sitting area. mLs: 7453998 $232,000

This superb 5BR/4Ba home is approx. 3,268 sf with a garage, 2 living areas, hardwood floors, large master on main, deck with mountain view, gas log fireplace. This home is in a prime location, yet secluded for privacy. mLs: 7348772 $299,000

home sits on 3.8 acres of private land. 4 Bedrooms game & media room with separate entrance. kitchen opens to living area & dining room with vaulted ceilings & fireplace.

Gorgeous two story home near Lake Burton! Fully finished basement. open floor plan on main level, beautiful kitchen with breakfast bar & island. Loft area. Porch overlooks pond. Two car garage with RV & boat parking. mLs: 7192396 $299,000

ED DUC E R CE PRI

immaculate setting that backs up to national forest on 5.99 acres with 2 ponds, 2 waterfalls and stream. 2 mountain cabins occupy this property as well as a third unfinished cabin. The pond is full of trout! situated in the Persimmon community. mLs: 7439172 $229,000

mLs: 7276211 $269,000

10.76 acres of highway BusiNess frontage. Beautiful mountain knoll overlooking Clayton. Perfect for hotel/restaurant, condos, etc. $199,500 GamLs# 7400796

4BR/3Ba, corner lot in kingwood Country Club. open living area, wood burning fireplace, granite counter tops, large island, walk-in pantry, master on main. separate living area downstairs.

GamLs: 7464793 $299,000

BoTh homes ReduCed $500,000 eaCh

Custom Built 5BR/4.5Ba lodge home on the soque River. stone fp w/ gas logs, wrap-around porches on both levels, huge river views, exposed beams, large covered carport, open floor plan, wormy chestnut walls, reclaimed red oak flooring, loft area w/ full bedroom & bath, master w/ sitting area on main w/ deck access & modern kitchen. Finished basement w/ rec room, 2BR, full bath. mLs: 7465217 $999,999

Rustic 5BR/5Ba cabin with modern amenitie. home features, full length wrap-around porch on top & bottom level, 2-story foyer, open floor plan, soaring beamed ceilings & stone fireplace. oversized windows, wet bar, modern kitchen, sprawling kitchen & master on main level. Lower level features walk-out entrance, gym space & entertainment room. Garden area & in-ground pool just a few feet from the soque River! mLs: 7465078 $999,999

Foxfire Preserving the Past, Enjoying the Present and Looking to the Future by John Shivers

oxfire. It’s a name synonymous with Rabun County, Georgia where, in 1966, a still-green high school teacher, desperate to channel his uninspired students, hit on an assignment where those students would chronicle their ancestors and generations past. Foxfire as a student-produced magazine was born. At that point, there was no grand plan or long-range goal, outside of survival. But along the lines of the old adage that says life happens while you’re making other plans, life happened to the Foxfire magazine. And what a glorious, rewarding and archival kind of happening it has been, this marriage of yesterday’s authentic reality and tomorrow’s technological possibilities. But for today, the general term Foxfire is a living connection between the high school students in the magazine program, which is now part of the Rabun County High School curriculum, and their heritage. Foxfire was built through interaction with their elders to document and preserve the stories, crafts, trades and personalities of their families, neighbors and friends. All of their efforts come together today high on a mountain west of Highway 441 in Mountain City, Georgia. From a backdrop of vintage log cabins and service structures, the tools that crafted yesterday, the labors of smiths and weavers, musicians and hard-scrabble farmers, pottery and soap makers, visitors to the Foxfire Museum can straddle the

centuries and come away changed in ways they only fully comprehend later. Foxfire is a name commonly used to describe bioluminescent fungi that grow on damp and decaying wood in places like the southern Appalachian Mountains during the warmer summer months. From these fungi, a dim blue-green glow can be seen during darkness hours, away from any artificial lights or even moonlight. From the beginning, the comparison and similarities between the fungi and the efforts of those first students has been intertwined. The past 49 years have been eventful in so many ways for Foxfire. From those humble beginnings, when $440.00 donated from within the community allowed Eliot Wigginton’s students to publish the first issue of Foxfire Magazine in 1967, comes The Foxfire Fund, Inc. Under the allencompassing umbrella of the Fund, a plethora of historic preservation and historic presentation activities flourish and continue to evolve. Publication of one issue of a student-edited magazine evolved into almost two dozen books highly-acclaimed “best seller” titles. Who could ever have imagined such? Along the way, there have been bumps and bruises and growing pains inherent to any organization struggling to find its niche and design its footprint. The Fund is governed by a board of directors who hail from a wide cross-section of local and national walks of life. A local community board is populated by volunteers living close to the Foxfire base, and acts

Barry Stiles Preserves & Promotes Storied Pasts

arry Stiles isn’t a Rabun County native, but his area roots run deep. While his birth certificate shows Washington, D.C. as his birthplace, his birthright through his mother’s family lines in Rabun County and his father’s lineage right next door in Macon County, North Carolina put him very much at home. He’s been back in Rabun County for 20 years and has been with The Foxfire Fund, Inc. as museum curator for more than six years. In mid-August 2015, he assumed the role of Interim Executive Director, pending future action by the board of directors to put into place a new, permanent staffing design and leadership structure suited to its future programs. Irony of ironies, his favorite Uncle Mac who lived in the Wolffork Valley, was interviewed and featured in a Foxfire magazine in the 1970’s; Uncle Mac died in 1981, but while the Foxfire Museum was being built, he brought Barry there many times. Barry primarily cares for the museum, the village of some 22 log buildings complete with appropriate era furnishings and equipment. He interprets the story the village tells to visitors and school groups who tour the historical setting. Through it all, he’s learned how people of his grandparents’ generation were truly amazing individuals. He marvels at how they could do so much with so little. He’s equally blown away with the amazing things students can accomplish when directed and guided. He loves preservation work, old buildings and photography, and finds that all three complement each other in most exciting ways. And he finds the reactions of visitors to the museum most intriguing. His goal is to make the museum experience as real and three-dimensional as possible. Barry works to improve the roads, trails, visitor comfort and more in-depth interpretation of the Foxfire story. Barry acknowledges that his exposure to Foxfire was through his family and grandparents. Or to put it another way, the students who are instrumental to the Foxfire story have helped to preserve his heritage and his culture. Barry’s just the curator of that preservation story.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

as a conduit between the Fund and the local area, always with an eye on future acquisition and preservation of artifacts. Guiding the day-to-day activities is Interim Executive Director Barry Stiles, who was until this past August museum curator and interpreter. He replaced Ann Moore, who had served as President and Executive Director for the past 15 years until having to step down due to health issues. Along the way, literally thousands of folks – those being recorded, those doing the recording and those exposed to the recordings – have been touched by the Foxfire brand and philosophy, which today is a multi-faceted program. While the name “Foxfire” is most generally associated with that initial effort begun in 1966, there are actually several distinctive and unique aspects that make up the Foxfire brand. First and foremost, Foxfire is the name that the 1966 English class selected for their fledgling publication. Other potential names included “ginsing”, “yellow root” and “bloodroot” all names of plants native to the students’ North Georgia home base. Playing off the magazine, “Foxfire” is also the name of a series of books which are anthology collections of material from the magazine. Other books, such as Aunt Arie, the account of one of the primary early

sources, add to the Foxfire legacy. As a result of the popularity of the books, and the money those sales brought in, Foxfire is also the name of the museum built outside Mountain City, Georgia. In this three-dimensional setting lifted directly from the past, students envisioned the 22 historic and replication log structures as a place where they could store and preserve their growing collections of artifacts. It’s a place to interact with the community that underwrote the initial Foxfire effort. Foxfire is also a method of classroom instruction that incorporates the original Foxfire mission, giving students the opportunity to make decisions about how they learn the required material, using as a resource the community around them. Lastly, Foxfire is The Foxfire Fund, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that supports and sanctions all those various elements that exist beneath the umbrella. That umbrella was first raised in 1996, when challenge-lacking students were inspired to look outside the walls of their lives and their classroom. The number of folks locally, nationally and even internationally who have been changed as a result, cannot be calculated. It’s kind of like the unending glow of nondescript lichen.

Foxfire Defines Ann Moore’s Life

hile Foxfire is the story of more folks than could ever be counted, there are also present-day folks who invest themselves into the preservation process, who keep the wheels turning. Ann Moore, who until recently guided the day-to-day activities of The Foxfire Fund, Inc. as its President and Executive Director is, by her own admission, a child of the Appalachian Mountains; a place that lives soul-deep inside of her. She has lived the customs and traditions that have been preserved throughout the pages of The Foxfire Magazine and Foxfire Book series. They were an integral part of her everyday life, and became a part of her. She still remembers her grandmother’s habit of saying, “Bless you!” a trait she somehow inherited and still exhibits today. “My family has lived here for hundreds of years,” she says, and goes on to explain how all these aspects have influenced the person she is today. She recalls with pride the life-long lessons that she learned by example from her mama. Things like caring for family, sharing what little you have with those more in need, respecting your elders and always smiling through adversity. She’s especially proud of her daddy’s work ethic that motivated him to work two jobs, constantly searching for a better way to provide for his family. She remembers with fondness growing up with her brother and parents, about living in various available homes on the Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School farm campus; of playing with other kids during the daylight hours and listening to home-grown entertainment at night. Even those times when heat was so scarce, because of a lack of money, that she and her family had to sleep in makeshift ways to stay warm, occupy a special place in her heart today. All of which made a difference in who she was and in who she is. The person she is today is someone for whom Foxfire has been a constant, although she was only ten years old when the magazine was born at Rabun Gap- Nacoochee School. She was in the eighth grade when she first discovered the magazine. She had just graduated in 1974, when she began working as Foxfire’s bookkeeper. Little could she have known then that she would spend her entire professional career executing a number of different responsibilities. She eventually became Director of Finance and Administration in 1994, then President and Executive Director in 2000, when that position became vacant. She has now stepped back into her former role in finance and administration. “I am proud of my heritage,” she says. “I’ve devoted my entire adult life to the work of Foxfire and the preservation and documentation by our Foxfire students of that same Appalachian culture.” She credits a number of individuals in her past and present for the job she’s been able to do. Among them are Margie Bennett, whom she considers her true mentor, Melba Huggins, her accounting teacher who recommended her for that first job and so many other staff members and volunteers who have supported her and worked alongside her. As The Foxfire Magazine celebrates its 49th year and Ann marks her 39 years with it, she admits she grew up with the organization. But she points out that staff members have come and gone, programs have changed, but during all those changes, one thing has remained constant: “Our belief in young people,” she emphasizes, “and their ability to have an active hand in their own learning by immersing themselves in their community.” During her high school career, when the opportunity afforded itself, she often accompanied students doing Foxfire interviews and often came away enriched as a result. She likes to share what Aunt Addie Norton told a student. “I tell you one thing: If you learn it by yourself, if you have to get down and dig for it, it never leaves you. It stays there as long as you live because you had to dig it out of the mud before you learned what it was.” Foxfire has stayed with Ann, and Ann with it, because she has dug it out of the mud of her past and that past is still viable and breathing in 2015.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Echoes from the Hills

“Ronald Vandiver, a remarkable life” by Bob N. Justus

met Ronald Vandiver after I retired from the Air Force in 1971. His parents were Eathel “Red” and Ruby Kirby Vandiver. From what I recall, Ronald’s forebears had been among the first settlers in the Tallulah Falls area. He loved this historical place and school and spoke up for its best interests. Ron attended Tallulah Falls, Young Harris College and Piedmont College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in public administration. He was an avid reader and had hundreds of books lining the walls of his living room. From youth Ron loved history, adventures, camping, hunting, fishing and exploring. He worked with his father building houses and buying land, and spent the fall and winter exploring the West, taking big game and learning Western lore and history. He also made trips to Alaska.

Wind River and still had a few horses and some acreage left of his ranch. Larry told interesting stories of pioneers in the area and especially of Butch Cassidy, whom he believed was not killed in South America. We visited Yellowstone Park and also the Buffalo Bill Museum at Cody. On these journeys I was amazed at Ron’s knowledge of the West and its people and history, as well as the local and family history in the Northeast Georgia area. In sharing a room in the Black Bear Motel in Dubois with Ronald on the last trip I noticed he was in some pain. He also had to see a doctor, which concerned us. We enjoyed breakfast at Daylight Donut Village Restaurant where local people and travelers mingled, ate and talked and soaked in the atmosphere. From a window we saw the sun’s rays highlight the peaks and creep down into the valley. One of my photos shows Ron in overalls, a fishing rod in hand, standing on a rock by a trout stream off Union Pass Road in the Wind River Mountains. Larry Miller promised on our next trip West to take us by horseback into the Wind River Mountains. It was never to be! Ron, stricken by cancer, was taken by his family to see Wyoming and the West one more time. He died on April 29, 2005. Ronald Vandiver, son of pioneers, mountain man, a lover of the softer Blue Ridge Mountains and the lofty, rugged peaks of the American West, I think of you walking along the beautiful River of Life, exploring a new world.

In life he had been a builder, contractor, historian, banker, county manager and investor. Concerned over a daughter’s health crisis he prayed and accepted Jesus Christ as Savior. He said, “I felt God’s actual presence and his dynamic power entered my body and soul. Whatever happens to me I am ready to go, but I’ll live as long as he permits.“ It is after his conversion I came to know Ron. After his conversion, he got rid of many guns and trophies. Recently a man told me Ron had been a dear friend and the most amazing man he ever met. I’ll always regret not having more time with him. I treasure my adventures with Ron! We shared two trips to Wyoming. He loved the upper Wind River area where he owned land and planned on a second home. He knew several residents of the area connected to the past. I love history and thus learned much from him on trips. With Ron, a group including Ralph Heddon, Brothers Ray and Ralph Reed and I went on journeys centered primarily in Wyoming, especially the Dubois area. We camped at Wiggins Fork in the Absarokas 22 miles north of Dubois and also in the Wind River Mountains. A retired rancher and outfitter named Larry Miller and his wife, originally from North Carolina, lived below Dubois on the

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

WHEELS

Bob Boydâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1952 Packard Patrician 400 by Larry and Gail Allgood

ob Boyd is a long-time collector of automobiles. He has owned 157 and has a picture book to prove it. Today, we met him and his wife, Pat, to get a look at his 1952 Packard Patrician 400.

When Bob was 17, his father purchased a 1953 Packard, and with the help of an internet-savvy friend, Bob found his own in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. It was a work in progress when he found it, but Bob brought it home to Otto, North Carolina in October of 2008, and by May of 2009, with the help of a long list of local friends and businesses, it was on the road. Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Packard Patrician 400 has a 350 cu in Chevrolet engine and a 350 GM transmission. He and Pat can be seen driving around the mountain communities of North Carolina and Georgia with their Cabbage Patch children in the backseat. If you see this unique vehicle parked on Main Street in Clayton, Georgia or driving around Franklin, North Carolina, stop for a few minutes and talk with Bob about his love for automobiles, his special Packard and his backseat full of children.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Built by the Packard Motor Company of Detroit, Michigan, the Patrician 400 was manufactured between 1951 and 1956. The Patrician 400 was available only as a premium, four-door sedan, outfitted with high-grade upholstery and chrome trim within. For the 1952 model year, Packard retained the services of noted interior decorator Dorothy Draper to bring a fresh look to the interior color scheme. Wilton carpeting and hassock-style rear passenger footrests were also included with the car. With a list price of $3,662 it also was the most expensive regular Packard offered. Power for all Packards came from their venerable in-line eight-cylinder engines. The 400 series engine had a displacement of 327 cu in, delivering 150 horsepower. And for unequaled smooth operation, its engine featured nine main bearings instead of five. Bob and Pat Boyd are both transplanted to the North Carolina mountains from Michigan and presently reside in Otto, North Carolina. Bob owned a television repair business in Franklin, North Carolina for many years and is now retired. They have three children.

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Exploring Northeast Georgia

Foxfire Glowing in the Dark by Kitty Stratton

n our, modern, fast paced world, we don’t spend much time walking through the forests at night. Native Americans were probably familiar with the glowing lights on the forest floor during spring on a moonless night. Whether they knew the origin of these lights, almost certainly they sparked myths and legends of spirits wandering the forests at night. Foxfire has nothing to do with foxes or fire and was sometimes referred to as “fairy fire”. Although no-one really knows for sure, the word “fox” may originate from an older version of the French word for false “faux”. False fire would have made a suitable name for a plant that glows like embers but is cold to the touch. Today we know that Foxfire is a bioluminescent plant, or more simply put, fungi that live and are nourished by rotting wood. As the forest floor heats up during springtime, especially in moist oak woods, the fungi grow and emit their eerie lights. So, why does Foxfire glow? Simply put bioluminescence is a chemical reaction that helps plants or insects (such as fireflies or glow worms) lure prey, attract mates or camouflage themselves. Foxfire might be any of several different types of fungi, but usually the honey mushroom. So, now that your interest is captured and you want to adventure out one evening to see the glowing Foxfire, here is a safe way to hike in the forest at night without getting lost or stepping on snakes! Anna Ruby Falls Park next to Unicoi State Park has a program in May and June at 8:00 PM on Thursday evenings. You will need to call ahead in April to make a reservation for this one hour hike up to the beautiful falls to see the glowing Foxfire. Hikes last about an hour and cost $5.00. Group capacity is 40 to 50 hikers. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and your camera!

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Splendid Mountain Properties from Richard Kelley LARGE LAKEFRONT HOME

EXTRAORDINARY HUGE HOME WITH MASSIVE LAKE CHATUGE VIEWS on 2.86 ACRE LAKEFRONT POINT LOT. This 7 Bedroom, 8 Bathroom Home Offers Spectacular Views of Lake Chatuge, a Large Covered Dock, a Boat Ramp, End of the Road Privacy, Wood Burning Fireplace, Large Screened Room, Large Great Room, Large Game Room, Just about Everything is Large about this Awesome Lake Home. If you are looking for room to spread out and Massive Lake Frontage then check this Home out. MLS# 250121 - $799,000 104 Cherokee Point

Exquisite Lake Access Home

Exquisite Post & Beam “Country Home” Overlooking Beautiful Lake Chatuge. This Spectacular 3BD/3.5BA Home Features Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar & Engelmann Spruce Logs, Granite Countertops, Mahogany Kitchen Cabinets, Stunning Fireplace in Great Room, Impressive Master Bed & Bath. The Lower Level Features Summer Kitchen, Living Area, Bed & Bath. Outdoors Enjoy the Large Deck, Stone Patio & Beautiful Yard Great for Entertaining. This Home is a MUST SEE to Fully Appreciate all it has to Offer with it’s Many High End Features & Upgrades. MLS# 246357 - $1,125,000 1664 Stonecrest Circle

Century 21 Scenic Realty 3680 Hwy. 76 - Young Harris, GA 30582

Call Richard Kelley: Office 706.896.8633, Mobile 706.781.5220 richard@mountainvalleyacres.com - www.mountvalleyacres.com

Splendid Mountain Properties from Richard Kelley and Century 21 Scenic Realty OďŹ&#x192;ce: 706.896.8633 Mobile: 706.781.5220 www.mountvalleyacres.com 49+ ACRE FARM/HOME HERE IS A 49+ ACRE PERFECT FARM, Great 5BD/5.5BA Home overlooking the Farm with Fenced Pasture, Pond, Barn, Woods and So Much More! Eat In Kitchen Features a 5 Star Double Gas Range with Warming Drawers, Double Ovens & Subzero Refrigerator & Freezer. Basement has a Full Kitchen & Exercise Room. There is a 3 Car Garage Downstairs & a 2 Car Garage Upstairs. Large Master Bath has Separate His & Hers Sinks, Large Tub with Separate Shower. Home also has Emergency Generator. There is another 3BD/2BA Home for Guest or Mother-n-Law Suite, Tenant Farm House on the Property. End of Road Privacy, Beautiful Long Range Mountain & Pasture Views. Too Many Features to List Them All!! MLS# 242453 - $1,200,000 WELLS RD

LARGE 230+ ACRE FARM

LARGE 230+ ACRE FARM with House overlooking Pond, Apple Trees & Beautiful Pasture Land. Home has Lots of Character and Plenty of Room for a Large Family. Upstairs Fully Remodeled & Expanded. Large Great Room Downstairs, Remodeled Family Room, Full Bath & 1/2 Bath Added Downstairs. Upgraded A/C Unit, Central VAC System, Great Deck for Entertaining, Large Gentle Yard and Great Garden Spot. Detached Garage with Workshop & 1 Bedroom 1 Bath Apartment Upstairs. Enjoy Lots of Privacy, Peace & Quiet, yet not far from Town, School, etc. Too Much to List!! This Property is a Must See!! MLS# 243747 - $2,750,000 OLD HWY 64 WEST - 3BD/3.5BA

LUXURY LAKEFRONT HOME Large 7BD/5BA Home with River Rock through-out; Plus Large Windows on Lake Side to Capture the Magnificent Lake & Mountain Views. 4 Fireplaces; One on Main Level-Living Room, One in Each of the Two Master Suites & One in Family Room Downstairs. Great Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances, Wine Cellar, Lots of Storage Space, Very Spacious Mud Room & Two Large Laundry Rooms. This Home can Sleep 20+ People Comfortably and is Fully Furnished including Two King Sized Murphy Beds. There are Three Heating and Air Units, Alarm System, Two Garages (One on the Upper Level & One on Lower Level each Plenty of Room to Accommodate 4 Vehicles), Large Decks, Plus Screened in Porch, Fire Pit, Boat Dock in place & Approx. 300 Feet of Lake Frontage. A MUST SEE. MLS# 229144 $2,450,000 LICKLOG RD

16+ ACRE MOUNTAIN TOP ESTATE SPLENDID MOUNTAIN TOP ESTATE on 16.96 Acres with Sensational 360 Degree Views. Home is located in Impressive EQUESTRIAN Community Featuring Great Barns, Stables & Gorgeous Homes. This Fabulous Home Features 3 Interior Fireplaces & 1 Outdoor, Tongue & Groove Oak Flooring throughout, Tumbled Marble Flooring throughout, Cathedral Ceilings, Fabulous Kitchen w/ Walk In Pantry, Cherry & Oak Cabinets, Granite Counter Tops, Top of the Line Appliances, Double Ovens, Super Master Suite Featuring 2 Large Closets, Sitting Area w/Fireplace, Master Bath has Radiant Heat Tumbled Marble Floors, Granite Countertops, Jetted Tub, Separate Shower & an On Demand Water Heater, Living Room has Floor to Ceiling Fireplace, Beautiful Stair Case, Lots of Large Windows, 3BR/3BA Upstairs with Game Room, Pool Table & Media Center, Mud Room w/Sink & Doggie Shower, Very Large Laundry Room, Large Covered Deck Downstairs and Covered Balcony Upstairs on the Rear of the House & Large Front Porch. Too much to list, this home is a Must See! MLS#: 248183 - $949,000 SHILOH OVERLOOK

Century 21 Scenic Realty 3680 Hwy. 76 - Young Harris, GA 30582

Call Richard Kelley: Office 706.896.8633, Mobile 706.781.5220 richard@mountvalleyacres.com - www.mountvalleyacres.com

Cover Artist Kay Hibbard A Paintbrush and A Calculator by Tracy McCoy

ay Hibbard has two college degrees, one in art and the other in math. That is an unusual combination but one that works for this Atlanta-born artist.

After college Kay worked as a computer programmer and an actuarial analyst, yet usually found time to draw or paint. An accomplished watercolorist, Kay currently paints primarily with oils. She prefers to paint from life rather than from a photograph. She enjoys plein air painting and the outdoors in general; a fact which is reflected in her art. In fact she has competed in plein air competitions and has taken first place more than once. Nature and its inhabitants find their way onto her canvases. You might find a mountain scene, a beach scene, a cow or people. Kay Hibbard paints life happening. While Kay has come to love the mountains she is a beach dweller at heart. She lived in Florida painting on the beach year-round. In winter Kay would sit in her car and paint the ocean. Somewhat shy and very analytical by nature Kay tells me that she would rather solve a calculus problem than read a book. Walking is a favorite pastime for her. She and her family enjoy travel within the United States and Kay likes to take photos. She indicated that if she didn’t paint she would probably delve deeper into photography. Her first visit to Rabun was as a child. Friends of her parents had a cabin on Lake Burton and that is where she learned to waterski. Years later she signed up to take a class from artist Nancy Dusenberry and Nancy invited Kay to her home in Rabun Gap to paint. They painted en plein air throughout the valley and Nancy introduced Kay to Annie Westermann. Annie is the owner of Annie’s at Alley’s in Lakemont, Georgia. Nancy’s art was shown at Annie’s and before long so was Kay’s. Today Annie’s Outpost houses local and regional artists. Teaching art classes and working one on one is a passion of Kay’s. She has taught classes at Annie’s and hopes to do more of that. She feels that she has a lifetime of painting and experiences to share with students. Kay is available for private lessons as well. She has taught art fundamentals, drawing and oil painting.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Today, Kay makes her home in Suwanee, Georgia. There she resides with her husband Gary who is enthusiastic about her art endeavors. Kay and Gary have one son David and a daughter-in-law Emily that they are crazy about. David and Emily are collectors of art with many of Kay’s pieces on the walls of their home. Kay calls herself blessed at this season of her life. She is thankful to get up every day and do what she loves. We are honored to showcase her art on our cover and we look forward to taking one of her classes. To experience more of Kay Hibbard’s art please visit Annie’s Outpost in Lakemont, Georgia or visit www.kayhibbard.com.

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Finding Art

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

NGAG featured artist Nannette Johnson:

pottery to make you smile by Jo Mitchell

verything seems so hard. Life is such a struggle. Ever felt that way? Sure, most of us have at one time or another. But what if we take everything too seriously—and forget to smile or laugh at life’s delightful gifts? If we will only open our minds and eyes and SEE. It doesn’t mean you need to grin like an idiot 24/7. Just take a break and infuse some lightness into your outlook. Nannette Johnson is an artist who knows this. Hers is also the secret of accomplished comedians: You have to be able to first comprehend the substance, the ‘serious’ value of life and its moments before you can distill the humor from it. And this Nannette does with supreme tongue-in-check aplomb: Pig-in-a-poke? Sure. But a purple pig in rowboat? Wonderful! A chubby little bird contemplating luxury accommodations with a ‘doorway’ on the small side—nice! So it goes and it’s no surprise to learn that Nannette gets her ideas from nature and the “ordinary” things around her, but looks at them “in a different way”. She may “visualize the cow as square, the pig as purple, or the chicken with a big red hair ribbon….exaggerating nature.” Nannette hopes people are pleased with her functional and “more artistic” pottery but she’s drawn more toward the whimsical. She wants people to enjoy the “ridiculous and childlike” element; likes to see them smile. What’s Nannette’s mindset while at work in her home studio, Valley High Pottery, hand building and turning on the wheel? She’s compelled by the moment, focused, all other thoughts excluded. She typically stays with a plan. But at times, the clay “will take me where it wants to go.” As the time she was simply “playing” with a small piece of clay that evolved into a “tiny lady’s wide brim hat.” Then the hat got a flower, and what’s a hat without someone to wear it? And thus the lady under the hat began her “pumpkin head” series: All sorts of hats with loveable little people under them. Nannette has always had an affinity for pottery and began collecting long before learning how to work with it. She’d wanted a creative outlet upon retiring. Painting, stained glass or wood carving just didn’t do it. But once she had her hands on the clay, she was a goner. Nannette studied ceramics at Piedmont College, North GA University in Dahlonega and participated in classes at John C. Campbell Folk School. She is grateful for her ‘wonderful’ teachers, including some talented local artists. She and her partner Lynne Schwab moved to Batesville 24 years ago. This artist holds dear the blue ribbon she earned with a small sculpture called “Brother John”: “a lovely old monk with a bird on his shoulder.” It is cherished still by her friend, Ruth, and was the first entry into a juried show. Nannette’s delightful work can be seen at The Center Gallery at SNCA in Sautee and the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Finding Art

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Rainy Day Workshop by Melissa Williams-Thomas

am so indecisive that my walls are completely bare. I have wanted to put pictures of the family around the living room, but I do not like standard picture frames. Re-purposing an old pallet seemed perfect for a picture collage. This project took less than thirty minutes to make and cost nothing, as I used items found in the shop. The pallet photo frame is a beautiful way to display my photos. The best part is that I can change the pictures everyday if I want to.

Materials needed: An Old Pallet Chicken Wire Nails & Hammer Wire Cutters Staples & Staple Gun Photographs Clothes Pins

Step One: Pry the boards off the pallet. Start prying in the center so the boards do not bust. You will need four boards for this project.

Step Two: Measure the boards with 8â&#x20AC;? of overhang. Using a square makes this step easier.

Step 3: Nail the boards in place. Use a few nails to secure it in place.

Step 4: Roll out the chicken wire on the back side of your frame. Cut to size.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Step 5. Staple chicken wire to frame, to hold in place.

Who would have ever dreamed that pallets would have so many uses. On websites like PinterestÂŽ you can find many projects from furniture to walls, home decor and projects for your pets, let your imagination run wild and let us know what you come up with. You can e-mail a photo of your pallet creation to melissa@ gmlaurel.com, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to see your ideas. We might even share them on our facebook page. Until next time...

Step 6: Use the clothes pins to attach the photos to the chicken wire.

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Downtown Franklin, NC

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Discover Franklin, North Carolina

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Foxfire Turtles—From Creek to Crock Adapted by Jessica Phillips from The Foxfire Magazine, Fall 1980 Issue

indsey Moore: You’ll find the cleanest mud turtles in a fishpond. Just about all of the ponds around here have them. [To catch one], you get you a chicken gizzard or fat meat for bait. You need to use what they call carpenter’s twine, and you want to use a tough hook. When you buy your hook and your line, you’ll have to make allowance for where the line goes through your hook, ‘cause if you don’t, you’re going to get your twine bigger than your hook eye. Now tie your line in the fisherman’s knot, on the end of the twine, and it ain’t going to slip. You run it back through your hook eyes, and then you pull it, give it a yank, and it ain’t going to go nowhere. Now you want to tie your line to something that gives like a limb, ‘cause when you hang a monster he’s going to yank real hard, and if you tie it to a tree, he’s going to break your line. If he is around a limb that gives, he’ll be there when you get there unless he chews that line in two or somebody cuts him loose.

Lillie Lovell: We had some men come here…and they drove up out there in the yard and said would we mind them a-goin’ turtle hunting in our creek. I was at the door; I said, “No.” Then Vergil come walkin’ to the door, and I said, “Verge, this man wants to go down and see if they can catch some turtles.” Verge said, “Go ahead, but I don’t believe you’ll catch anything there.” They went down the creek, and they come back with six! I don’t know how they did it. He said, “They’re under the bank. We know where they’re at.” They’d reach in under there with their bare hands. This man had nothin’ but his hand! I wouldn’t a’ put my hand down under there! There could’a been anything under there! You always want to hold that live turtle away from your body. They can bite you bad. That’s how come we cut the head off... First you have to cut the head off. You have to give ‘em a stick and pull their head out and get ‘em on a block or something. They’ll grab a stick. Just pull the head out and pop ‘em with the ax. That head’ll bite you, now, after you’ve got it off. Yes sir, the reflexes keep going. Mr. Moore: After you cut the head off, you want to dispose of it so the kids or you don’t get ahold of it. That head will bite you three hours after you cut it off. After you cut the head off, you

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

want to hang up the body or lean it up against something to drain all the blood out of the shell. If you do that, it will make [the meat] cleaner and better to eat. Mrs. Lovell: As soon as it quits dripping, I put it in boiling water to scald it. Have your water good and hot, and just set ‘em down in that water. When you scald ‘em now, they’ll move and crook their feet up and wiggle good...The hide comes off easy after you give ‘em a good scalding. Mr. Moore: When you first start cutting around the breastbone, you’ve got to turn the blade of your knife down. You want to keep that knife as sharp as possible. After you get it started, you want to turn the blade of your knife up to where you won’t cut your meat. Sometimes I keep that breastbone for a souvenir. My daddy always used to put it up above his door for some meaning, but I don’t remember what it was. I generally just throw them away. The tail of the turtle is good meat, too. A lot of people throw that tail away ‘cause it looks boogerish and mean. All you’ve got to do is clip those little ridges off and put that son of a gun in the pan. It’s the best eating you have ever seen. Now some of your turtles is dark meated and some is light meated. I believe the male is light and the female is dark. So if you think the turtle ain’t no good ‘cause the meat is dark, don’t worry. That’s just the nature of the turtle. Mrs. Lovell: When you get done cutting it up, you have a tail and four legs and a neck. The only thing you want to dispose of is the innards and the head. Next, I put all the pieces in cold salt water. Don’t use too much salt—just enough to draw the meat. It makes it good. They’ll move after you salt ‘em. Now I rinse it, put it in fresh water with more salt and a pod of red pepper. Then, I put it all on the stove and boil it till it gets good and tender. After it’s through boiling, I roll the pieces in corn meal and black pepper and fry them in about half a cup of grease. It don’t have to fry too long—just so it’s browned good. If the grease goes to poppin’, just turn the heat down a little. Now see, we’ve got a real pile of meat. What about that!

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Adventure Out Chattooga Cliffs Trail by Peter McIntosh n this adventure we’re hiking along the headwaters of the Chattooga River above the Bull Pen Bridge in North Carolina. This is a famous bridge among Chattooga River lovers. It’s an old steel trestle often referred to as the “Iron Bridge”. The view from the bridge is splendid looking north up the river into an area called the Chattooga Cliffs. And if you’re on the bridge you can look over the railing down to some remarkable water worn potholes. And if you want a closer look at this natural stone and water sculpture, you can access it via a side trail near the western end of the bridge. Do take time to check it out but please be careful; these rocks can be deceptively slippery. Now on to the trail. This somewhat rugged foot path follows the western side of the Chattooga River upstream intersecting a pair of loop routes. You could follow this path all the way to a parking area at Whiteside Cove Road but right now many spots along this section are blocked by fallen trees so we’ll save that for another day. On this trip we’re going to take the first loop option, which leaves the river and returns to Bull Pen Road just up the hill from the parking area. Sometimes this section is called the Chattooga Loop Trail. Starting out from the Iron Bridge, the trail is streamside with a lot of access points. This is a popular trail for tout fishermen and there are countless opportunities to scramble down to beauty spots along riverside. Soon the footpath then leaves the river and ascends a little way and then just a bit further returns to the waterway. In some places the river is flowing swiftly through rock boulders and at other times there are quiet still waters and nice sandy beaches. I have lots of favorite places along this trail. Not too far in you’ll come to the side trail on the left, leading uphill and away from the river, back to the road. You can explore a little more of the trail if you want, and you can also skip this loop trial and just go back the way you came in. I’ll bet you see some nice side spots you missed on the way in. And keep in mind that this hike is about the journey and you’re free to find your own special spot to stop and soak up the magic of the upper Chattooga Getting there: From the intersection Hwy-64/ N.C. Hwy-28 in River. Highlands, NC drive through Main Street until the road turns into Happy hiking. Horse Cove Road (just past Mountain Fresh Grocery on the right). Drive for 4.5 miles down into the cove via a series of hairpin A little side note: This September 18-19-20, marks the inaugural turns. Continue until you come to an intersection in the road Highlands Playhouse Classic Movie Festival. It’s going to be a with a wooden mileage sign. Turn right onto “Bull Pen Road” for great, so let’s all get out and support these folks. You’re going to be 3 miles to the trailhead at the Chattooga River and Iron Bridge. in the Highlands area anyway! There is parking along the roadside and at the trailhead. http://www.highlandsplayhousefilmfestival.org To see more of Peter’s photos or if you have Autumn winds mark Summer’s end, my September poem now a question or comment: begins: www.mcintoshmountains.com.

In North Carolina let’s go take a peak, Where the Chattooga River’s barely more than a creek. ‘Tis a riverside trail that really is quite groovy, Then back up to Highlands for a great classic movie.

And to learn more about how you can help protect the Chattooga River: www.chattoogariver.org.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Mountain Nature

Hawks Above our Mountains By Jean Hyatt

remember from childhood the sounds of geese flying overhead on cool September nights on their way South for the winter. Back then we were much more in touch with nature than we are now. Our nights were quiet - no TV, no electronics to numb our existence and the windows stood open in welcome relief from the summer’s heat. So it was not difficult to listen and learn some of nature’s ways. While I remember geese going South, I was not so observant of birds of prey. Or perhaps they took another route further west over the highest Ozarks. In either case, I had never really paid much attention to hawk migration until I read about the Hawk Watch at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. Birds of prey migrate from Canada and along the eastern seaboard to places such as Florida, Mexico and South America. These include bald eagles, golden eagles, kestrels, peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks and broadwinged hawks. (A group of circling hawks or other birds is called a kettle; did you know that? I didn’t.) While various river systems are used as visual guides in the beginning of their journey, the Appalachian chain of mountains is used by all raptor groups on their flight South.

Birds of prey use thermals to lift them in flight. Thermals are warm currants of air, heated by the sun shining in the valleys and on the southeastern escarpments. This heated air rises, lifting the birds higher and higher. When the air begins to cool at the top of the thermal column, they simply glide down to the next one, only to be lifted again. I read that on a good thermal day, a hawk can glide 250 miles without once having to flap its wings. At Grandfather Mountain (a NC state park since 2009), the broad-winged hawks are most numerous of all raptors. They migrate by the thousands and have been described by an observer as “a tornado of hawks”. Typically, the hawks are most numerous the second or third week of September, but sightings are normal anywhere from late August through November. Now in its fourth year, Hawk Watch at Grandfather Mountain is an officially designated count site for hawk migratory research. Visitors are encouraged to observe the raptors overhead and to talk with the counters to learn more about the hawks and the process of counting. The area’s rocky peaks and stone outcropping generate strong thermals, making it an excellent observation site. Hawks typically do not fly in fog, and they stay fairly close to the ground on windy days. So you have the best chance of seeing them more closely on a clear windy day. If you go, Grandfather Mountain State Park is about a 3-hour drive from Clayton. Take US23 to Asheville then follow I40 east to US221. Turn right onto NC183 to Grandfather Mountain. We’ll be happy to print out directions at the shop if you need them. Visit www.grandfather.com/hawk-migration for more information. Jean and her husband Richard own and operate Mountain Nature in downtown Clayton. They can be reached at 706.782.0838. ** Don’t forget to turn off your outside lights at night. Use motion detector lighting, shields, and IDA-approved lighting so you don’t impose your light on those who want to see the stars. I believe God made night dark for a reason. Please help keep it that way. **

Hiawassee, Georgia

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Short Treks

A part of Lovin’ the Journey by Mark Holloway

here’s something about Gatlinburg.

I suppose when you get so many people in one place and not a single tourist is thinking about work, the vibe is nothing but fun. Carol and I celebrated another anniversary here recently. Our first meal was at Jose’s Cantina, one shark bite away from the Aquarium of the Smokies. We were starving and opted for bar seating, bypassing the famished crowd. We devoured the fajitas-for-two and couldn’t finish the $20 meal. We then strolled like young lovers up and down the bustling evening streets, lined with fellow tourists shopping, gawking, eating and laughing. We wandered into the 1800s. A saloon with large circles of people gathered around wooden counters with bearded salesmen hollering something about free tiny shots of moonshine and “...have your picture ID ready.” The rubbing alcohol isn’t for me. I didn’t buy a $25 dollar bottle either. The moonshine houses are a relatively new attraction. There was an amazing live band Kodiak Brotherhood playing southern rock. The group featured two in-sync drummers and two lead guitar players and a bearded bass man. If you’re looking for a quick trip outta town, then this short drive into the Great Smokies promises a wonderful diversion. Gigantic snow cones, airbrush t-shirts, funnel cakes, and fake and real tattoos parlors compete for your attention and wallet. If you enjoy watching people, this mountain town offers the mother lode. I sometimes wonder if I’m the subject of people watching. We’ve stayed at the Park Vista Hotel high atop the town and in hotels along the Little Pigeon River which flows right through this tourist mecca. We’ve even backpacked and RV’d in the area. The Great Smokies National Park and Cades Cove are minutes away. So is Clingmans Dome, The Appalachian Trail’s highest peak. A lot of folks clearly come to Gatlinburg to be seen. Fancy cars and towering luxury trucks roll at sunset. The drivers and passengers seem to welcome your pointing and staring. This trip we walked up behind a grandfatherly looking fellow pushing a stroller through the sea of vacationers. We’re naturally drawn to the bundle of baby tucked inside. This guy was pushing a pig in his stroller. The toddler’s hair was jet black. He had a face only a mother pig could love. I’m pretty sure I heard the lil’ oink ask for more fudge. I shot you a YouTube video. (pig tourist)

You can be further amused. There are plenty of interesting and odd museum attractions too. You can see the world’s tallest man and the world’s smallest car in places like Ripley’s Believe It Or Not and Guinness World Records Museum. There’s even the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum. There’s also my favorite cobblestone village of shops called, well, the Village. Go at night. It has a certain romance about it. Make sure to visit the Day Hiker shop. If your bag is professional shopping, bungee jumping or go carts, nearby Pigeon Forge beckons. Parrot Mountain and Gardens has more tropical birds than Gatlinburg has bottles of hot sauce. Carol loves gardening AND birds. This parrot place was the perfect combo. Just watch out for the killer-attack-ninja macaws. Oddly, many of the free flying birds kept telling me “hello”. They were quite polite, I suppose. Except for one. He kept saying, “Polly don’t want no dang cracker.” Oh, and the bikers. They’re here too. They’re the folks with the real tattoos. You can get a henna tat, but I’d not show it off around the Harley crowd. You can see the country clubbers mixing right in with the carnival workers who got the night off. If you visit in the winter after a good snowfall, there’s also a ski resort here. You just won’t see as many sleeveless bikers. Speaking of tattoos. There certainly seem to be more of them these days. We watched a charming, tall, well dressed, model-like young lady fresh from finishing school stroll by with both legs permanently decorated. People watching. I’m tellin’ ya. You can avoid driving in the bumper to bumper traffic by catching the $.50 trolley. Late one night, a talkative four-year-old blond lad, clearly tuckered out, asked his parents sitting a row behind us, “Is it still today?” Good times. Of course there’s plenty to do here. If you’re needing a cardionature run fix, this area offers plenty of that too. See you on the trail!

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

EXPERIENCE Clarkesville, Georgia

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

RUTH CAMP 706.499.4702

ruth@ruthcamp.com www.ruthcamp.com

PO Box 519 - 132 E Waters Street Clarkesville, GA 30523 706.754.5940

VIRTUAL TOURS AVAILABLE

BILL CAMP 706.499.4720

bill@billcamp.net www.billcamp.net

WELL MAINTAINED! Traditional brick ranch home Daylight Terrace level w/finished rooms. 7 acre estate w/ beautiful views. $648,500

SOUTHERN LIVING! PRISTINE SHOWPLACE! Land- UNSURPASSED MOUNTAIN 4 sided brick "Crabapple scaping in harmony with nature! VIEWS! 4BR/4BA Craftsman Cottage" Plan, Scenic Mtn 4BR/3BA w/unfinished baseStyle Home sits on 5 acres, Views, 10 acre estate w/RV ment, granite countertops, formal backs up to National Forest. parking & barn. $799,000 DR, eat-in kitchen. $299,900 $699,500

EXCEPTIONAL LOG HOME! On Lake Nora. lake views from every room. Full finished apartment on terrace level. $669,000

SOQUE RIVER! Private, gated community. Over 3000 feet of trout filled waters. $699,000

PICTURE PERFECT JEWELL! On corner lot in The Orchard Golf Community. Partially unfinished terrace level. $349,000

SOQUE RIVERFRONT MOUNTAIN HOME!! Abundant trout fishing, Finished terrace level, steam bath. $839,000 (102261)

LIVE IN LUXURY! Tranquil Country Living! Brick and stone home on 5.3 acres. $449,000 (104358)

STUNNING! NO HEMMED IN FEELING WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL 5BR/5.5BA, gourmet kitchen, HERE!! Overlooks the 3rd hole DO! Two master suites on master on main, outside and 2 lakes, in The Orchard Golf main, 9+ ceilings, year round FP in finished room. Community, finished bonus room mountain views. Located in Skylake. $715,000 $647,900 (104281) over the 3 car garage. $525,000

INCREDIBLE SETTING! Own both sides of McClure Creek, a designated trout stream. $389,500

BATESVILLE BEAUTY! INCREDIBLE SOQUE RIVER UNIQUE LOG HOME! 3.4 acre lot close to Lake HOME! Lg deck & screen 3BR/3BA home sits 10 feet Burton. Separate garage/ porch overlooks river, 2 car from the Chattahoochee River workshop, house generator garage w/unfinished studio in Helen GA. All furnishing $220,000 above. $699,500 included! $399,000

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Foxfire Bly Owens, Southern Baptist Adapted by Jessica Phillips from Foxfire 7

“T

he Lord has not left the people; the people have left the Lord to a great extent. Well, in my day—if you go back sixtyfive or seventy years ago (I’ll soon by eightyf o u r years old) — there is just as much difference in the service of the Lord back then and now as there is in a sunshiny day and a dark night. Now that’s true. Well, they’ve got fashions and they’ve got forms. If you’ll show me — yonder lays two old King James Version X Bibles— if you show me a proper word in there, I’ll acknowledge to you. It’s all plain and common—recorded from Genesis to Revelations.” “The Lord said in the sixteenth chapter of Revelations that he would send hail upon the earth — every stone about the weight of a talent. Instead of repenting, they blasphemed the name of God and repented not to give Him glory; that’s God’s Word. Well, he poured out His bile upon the sun and the sun scorched men with heat, and they repent not to give Him glory. Last summer we were down on Savannah between Dillsboro and Franklin, North Carolina. Made two crops up there at the mouth of Betty’s Creek. There was some of the hottest sunshine; it was like fire heat — just like building a big fire you know. Well, then He said—the Lord spoke of the last war. There will be wars and rumor of war and earthquakes and famine in different places. We’ve had wars; we’ve had earthquakes. America never has had a famine, but it looks like it’s liable to come.” “It looks like we are living in the days of tribulation today. He said it would grow worse and worse until the end. Now that’s the Bible; that’s God’s word. Then you’ll find it in all of these gospels. Now the first two thousand years from the creation God looked down and saw man’s heart, and it was evil continually. There wasn’t but one righteous person and that was old Noah. He said, ‘Noah knoweth thou thy grace in the eyes of God?’ Noah walked with God. He said, ‘Noah, go build an ark. I’m going to destroy both man and beast, whom I have created, off of the face of the earth.’ It wasn’t anything his sons had done or wasn’t anything his

daughter-in-law had done, wasn’t anything his wife had done. They were spared through Noah’s righteousness. Noah went and warned the people that the flood was coming. They made light of him. Lot of people made light of the gospel, but when the waters began to climb to the highest peaks, they pushed the children up. They said, ‘Old Noah told the truth.’ It stood many feet above the highest peak.” “Well, at the end of the next two thousand years, God saw that He had to have a sacrifice whereby man could be saved. A person wouldn’t go to Heaven; they couldn’t be raised from the dead. The grave held the body. When He found the sacrifice, it was His only begotten son. It was the third part of the Godhead, which was in the Trinity. They crucified Him and He rose and went back and sent the Holy Ghost. He said to His disciples, ‘It is good that I go away. If I go not away, the Comforter will not come, which will teach you the ways of all truth and all righteousness and bring all things unto your remembrance, whatsoever I have told you.’” “And now we are coming upon the last two thousand years. There will be fires and vapors before the great and terrible day of the Lord; that you’ll find in Malachi. That’s the last book of the old Bible. An airplane going over — a smoker you know. You’ve seen them going over and leaving a very long string of smoke. The first time I saw one, I thought it was burning up and I came to the house and got my Bible and ran a reference on smoke. I found that we would have a sign in the sun and in the moon—there would be fire and vapors of smoke and before the great and terrible day of the Lord. That’s the Bible; that’s the Lord’s Word. We are getting right down, and we are liable to see that any time. Our Bible’s about fulfilled.” “I was walking the railroad when the Lord saved me. I could go there today. I was walking the railroad when Christ came down on the cross right in the prettiest light in front of me. It was a mile to the church. The first thing I knew I was in the churchyard. I can go back to that just as plain as it was when it happened. I’ve witnesses a lot right down through life. I’ve witnessed leadership of the Spirit down through life…I can smile at Satan’s rage today and move on. It won’t hinder me, no sir.”

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

“I am not sent but unto the lost tribes of Israel” Matthew 15:24 A place where new life springs forth out of despair, failure and death. A place where God brings physical, emotional and spiritual healing to you.

Lost Tribes of Israel Map by Shaun Venish

Who are the 13 tribes of Israel? Why are they lost? Where are the 13 tribes today? What is the purpose of their remembering who they are and their regathering? During the reign of King David, while Israel kept the Laws of God, prosperity was the result. A perfect social order existed wherein dwelt righteousness. So wonderful and glorious was the Kingdom that kings and queens came from all parts of the earth to see. But, Solomon, who succeeded his father David to the throne of Israel began to sin against God, causing the people of the 13 tribes to sin. As a result, the Lord made it clear to the 13 tribes of Israel that the result of continued sin would be removal from their land to be scattered throughout the nations of the earth, for 2520 years. But we have God’s word that even when they were in the hands of their enemies He would not cast them away. Even for all their sin, He would not break His Covenant with them. See Leviticus 26:44. It has been 2755 years since most of the13 tribes, totaling, over 7 million people, were taken captive from their land and brought to Assyria beginning in 745-700 BC. Very soon after their capture, Assyria was attacked and most of the Israelites were able to escape into the Eurasian Steppes that were beautiful grassy mountains filled with flowers, north of the Black Sea. They separated and fanned out over Russia and Europe to future lands of Germany, Denmark, France, Spain, Great Britain, Scotland, Ireland and Iceland. They also went as far eastward as India and the border of China. Most of the Israelites did not use their national or tribal names, but took other names over the centuries to hide their identities as they migrated. The people of Judah, numbering a million and a half, kept their name when they were taken into captivity by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. He nicknamed them “Jews”, no other tribes are called Jews. The first tribe of Israel to be conquered by the Assyrians was Manasseh in 745 BC. Exactly 2520 years later, America became a nation on July 4, 1776. The 10 tribes with Ephraim in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, fell to the Assyrians in 721 BC. Exactly 2520 years later, Great Britain became a Commonwealth on January 1, 1801. The last tribe to go into captivity was Benjamin, who had been “lent as a light unto Judah”. Exactly 2520 years from the exile of Benjamin, Iceland became an independent nation, at that time many members of their Parliament acknowledged they were of Benjamin. The nations found to definitely have beginning roots of Israel are Denmark-Dan, Holland-Zebulun, Germany-Judah, Great BritainEphraim/Judah/Manasseh, America-Manasseh, which means “To Forget”. Today the United States of America is comprised of all 13 tribes of Israel, according to historians.

Names used by the Lost Tribes from 710 BC were Khumri, Gimira, Cimmerians, Isaac’s Sons, Sakka, Scythians, Celts, Gauls, Galatians, German, Ashkenazi-Jews, Cimbri, Picts, Iberes (Gaelic name for Hebrews), Scots, Basques, Bretons, Anglos, Saxons, Jutes, Danes, Vikings, Gothic, Vandals, Lombards, Franks, Burgundians, and Normans. Supporting Facts: *Within 30 years after the crucifixion of Christ, Christianity was received in Britain. *Joseph of Arimathae, the rich man, who is uncle to the Lord Jesus and gave his tomb in which to bury the Lord, is entombed in Great Britain in a sterling silver coffin. *There is an ancient church in Scotland built exactly to the specifications of the Hebrew tabernacle in the wilderness, still standing. *Queen Victoria of Great Britain showed her family lineage to her priest, confirming her family line went all the way back to King David of Judah. *The mother of Prince Philip (Husband of Queen Elizabeth) is buried on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. *Ancient clay tablets containing Hebrew writings have been discovered in the states of Indiana and lower Michigan at the site of the North American Indian tribe named “Miami” now extinct as a tribe. “Miamin” Hebrew, meaning “right hand or south”. *North Ga native was told their blood type was Ashkenazi/Jew or American Indian. “For thus saith the Lord God: Behold I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. As a shepherd seeks out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day” Ezekiel 34:11-12 (see Ezek.34:1-31). Our Father God asks us to pray for the lost sheep of Israel all over the world, numbered over 7 million 2755 years ago, and now many millions more than we can count. They could be you and me. Pray for the Israelites to remember who they are, repent and come back to God for salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am not sent but unto the lost tribes of Israel.” And He sent His disciples out into all the world! The facts presented are from the diligent work of many archeologists and historians. Good books on this subject are available, call River Garden for details. RIVER GARDEN P.O. Box 112 Lakemont, GA 30552 706.782.5435 / 706.490.3063

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Bless Your Heart

What could be Better than Sweet Tea? by Lisa Harris

veryone called her ‘Sugah’ Queen. Sugah being all the white, granulated deliciousness she used as she canned everything from figs to vegetables. As you well know, in the South everything is sweeter. Queen was her last name, Maybelle Edith Queen to be exact, but from the time she was old enough to cook, the name Sugah stuck and no one ever heard her first name again. That was okay with her, except she did love her middle name “Edith”. Actually it wasn’t her given name; she just loved the name Edith and added it when she signed her name on papers. Her second daughter Barbara actually named her middle child Mary Edith. Sugah just chuckled to herself as she never did tell her it wasn’t her birth name. Oh, how she was proud to have a grandchild named after her. Sugah, now in her mid-nineties sat in her well-worn rocking chair on the front porch. She loved her porch, where she could sit and wave to the neighbors, ponder on their day and ask the Good Lord to bless them. Sugah would always have her glass of sweet tea and not worry about the extra sugar she put in her glass. She was ninety-five after all who cared if she had extra?

cotton her mother had purchased. Sugah was a pretty young woman, not beautiful like her friend Ester, but pretty enough to catch the eye of a man for sure. Sugah eyed the young man trying to figure out if she knew him. “Yes, that’s me,” she said with a skeptical look on her face. Floyd leaned back on one leg and crossed his arms. He knew he was instantly smitten with this girl, but he was a bit older and didn’t want to scare her away. So he smiled real big and said, “I thought I recognized a Queen girl. I’m Floyd Tanner, my dad Bobby worked with your dad at the old mill in town a few years ago. Sugah smiled as she recalled her dad’s relationship with his dad. “Oh yes, I remember your dad, but I don’t remember meeting you.” “Oh you did Sugah, but you were only about eight, and I was eighteen.” He waited for a response, hoping it would be a good one.

Sugah eyed Floyd with thoughts flying through her head. Handsome in a cocky, self-assured kind of way; medium frame with reddish brown hair with a few freckles splattered on his face. Had to be about twenty-eight and apparently not married On this particular day, September 05, 2015, she was just plum according to his left hand. Wonder what’s wrong with him? worn out from all the fried pies she’d cooked for the sick people Floyd saw the puzzled look on her face and wondered what in the church. They loved her fried pies and she didn’t want to she was thinking. disappoint them, so she fried until her arthritic hands could do no With a smile only Sugah could flash, she stuck out her hand more. She laid them on paper towels to soak up the extra grease, made her glass of sweet tea and headed to the porch. She needed and said, “Well, it’s nice to meet ya, Floyd Tanner.” to rest awhile so she pushed her rocker behind the oak tree so the And that was all it took, a look, a smile and love bloomed neighbors wouldn’t see her doing “nuthin”, what would they think instantly. One year later they were married, for better or worse, of her? She never wanted anyone to think she was lazy! they were husband and wife. It was after the, “I do,” that the worst Sugah eased herself down onto her rocker, loving the new brewed and boy, did it brew. cushions her daughters had bought for it. The thickness of the Floyd was a good man. He had a good name in the community cushions felt good on her bones. She had gotten so thin over the and was well respected. However, his mother was a difficult past few years; she didn’t have enough fat to cushion her backside. woman to say the least, a widow with a need to be number one at The Good Lord knew she was appreciative. Sugah leaned her all times. But, with Sugah now in her son’s life, she was pushed to head back after taking a swig of her sweet tea nectar and just number two and didn’t like it one bit. No siree, not one bit. “rested” her eyes a bit. The air had a coolness to it which felt good While the courtship was going on, Floyd knew Sugah was blowing across her face. “Just for a minute,” she thought as she the one for him, so he built a home on the family property. Not a shut her tired eyes and thought about her life. big home, mind you, but one that Sugah loved. Sugah was a doer *** and Floyd built her a store to run, just a small general type store that she adored. She made a nice amount to help out with the “Sugah?” he inquired, “Is that you?” family expenses, but from time to time, her money would come up Leaning over the watermelons at the roadside fruit stand, missing. At first, it was small amounts making Sugah think it was Sugah stood up quickly and brushed her coal black hair out of her a mistake in her figuring. But, after a while, it became clear it was eyes. Her dress was simple but clean, made from a blue calico not her figuring; it was someone stealing.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

But who would steal from her and Floyd? Sadly, she had her suspicions. The next Saturday when Sugah did her weekly total, her balance was $130 profit. She took out $13 for her church tithe, tied up the rest in a burlap bag and hid it under her bed. She only told Floyd but made sure his mother was within ear shot. Sunday morning Sugah reached under her bed and grabbed the burlap bag. She counted her money knowing less her tithe she should have $117 remaining. She did not…a twenty was gone. Her heart sank for she knew Eunice took the money. She knew Eunice didn’t care for her as it was evident in what she told others behind her back, but to steal from her? Heartbreaking. When she told Floyd, he didn’t believe her. He said her figuring was off. Sugah was devastated that he didn’t back her up. How could she manage to deal with Eunice and forgive her? And how would she ever convince Floyd and forgive him for not backing her? Thank goodness it was Sunday; she needed a good sermon to soothe her soul. Sugah slid into the back pew at exactly 11:00 AM, not wanting to speak to her friends at the moment. She was exhausted, not from her constant physical work, but emotionally she was drained to the core. “Lord help me,” was all she could muster in prayer. Tears ran down her young cheeks. “Why did life have to be so hard at times?” Sugah shifted in her seat and sadness seemed to saturate her body as she pondered over her relationship with Eunice. God knew how much she wanted a sweet union between them. They both loved Floyd, so why couldn’t they love each other? The strain was just too much and her heart too heavy to stay. She picked up her purse and left walking the half mile home. On her way, God prompted her to go to Eunice and talk with her. Sugah walked up the long rocky driveway and knocked on her door. Eunice opened with a grimace on her face. “What do you want?” “Eunice, could we talk out here on the porch?”

Eunice reluctantly nodded her head and sat on one of her porch rockers. Sugah stood figuring she could make a dash if Eunice became angry. “Eunice, why don’t you like me? I so want us to at least like each other.” Eunice just sat and stared. “Please say something Eunice,” Sugah pleaded. Eunice looked up and with tears in her eyes said, “You took my son away; I have no one to take care of me since his daddy died.” “You have him all the time and I have nothing.” Sugah’s heart sank as she thought, “God please give me the right words.” “Eunice, you haven’t lost him, he will always be your son, and maybe you could consider me a daughter?” “Did you take the money to make me look bad Eunice?” She nodded yes. “Well, it worked Eunice; Floyd didn’t believe you would do that.” “He took your side and not mine.” Eunice thought she would feel happy to hear those words, but it made her feel worse. “I’m sorry Sugah, can you ever forgive me?” Sugah bent down and put her hands on top of hers and said, “Of course, and the money issue will be our secret.” Eunice smiled as she went back in to fix Sugah a glass of sweet tea. It was the beginning of a new relationship that lasted until the day Eunice died. Even on her deathbed, she took her daughter-in-law’s hand and said, “I loved you like a daughter.” *** Sugah opened her eyes from “resting them a bit”, realizing had it not been for Eunice she may never have learned so many tough life lessons. The main one being forgiveness. She had to learn to forgive many a soul, but none were tougher than Eunice. But, the harder the lesson, the sweeter the reward…and Sugah knew all about the sweet.

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Foxfire Old Time Wart Conjuring in the Modern Day Adapted by Jessica Phillips from The Foxfire Magazine, Fall 1977 Issue

akley Justice: The boy who told me about wart conjuring was with me in the CCC camps over at Hot Springs, North Carolina. We was out in the woods working on a girdling outfit. I had a wart about threefourths of an inch high just above my left wrist…he told me to let him take that wart off me. I told him, “Alright,” but I can’t tell you what he done. If I was to, I might not be able to take them off anymore. Anyhow, he told me just to forget about it. So, first thing I know, the wart was gone. He told me how he done it and he showed me how he done it. He said he could only tell one person and that’s all he could tell. I’ve done it after he told

me, and I’ve took lots of them off. I told Varney Watson, but if I was to tell somebody else, it might not work. Now I can’t tell you how I do it, but I can tell you one thing of what I do. Take a knife, and on the wart you make a cross over the top. It works with the sap in the trees. If you do it before the sap comes up, it ain’t as long getting gone, or either when the sap is going down in the fall. If you do it pretty late in the fall, it ain’t pretty long going. If you do it in the summer, it may be fall before it leaves; if you do it in the winter, it will be spring before it leaves. That’s the way it works. If you do it when the sap is rising, it ought to leave; and if you do it before it leaves in the fall. If you do it in the summer or winter, the wart will be a long time leaving. I took one off Bob Harrell’s girl in Atlanta. He brought her over here one day. She didn’t have no faith in it, but her mother and Bob both came and said they did. So I told her just to forget about it. Well, that was in the spring. I don’t know how long it was a-goin’, but it wasn’t too long. Bob’s wife said that girl would come in every evening and her wart was still there and said that she didn’t believe in that. She told her she did, and one evening she came in and her wart was gone.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Varney Watson: I am told that I can conjure warts. I have taken several off of people. At least they said I did. I know that I did; what I am supposed to do to take them off and it’s worked on everybody I have tried it on. Sometimes, it hasn’t worked real fast. The longest took a year and a half. It depends on the time of year. Spring is the best time. In fall, the power is weakest. It has to do with the seasons. My uncle, Oakley Justice, told me how to do it. I think the way it goes is that I can only tell one person myself and so could my uncle. You can’t tell anybody else in your immediate family, but you can tell either the first son if there’s no second son, or the second son, who will have more power. It has to be a blood relative. It can’t be through marriage. This is how I got my power. Three months is the fastest curing time I’ve had so far. The worst case I ever had was when a friend of mine—her nephew came up from Atlanta and she had heard that I could conjure warts, so she told him. They came up, and really, he did have, I would say, around seventy-five warts. They were on his hands, and his arms, on his back, and really that was the most warts I had seen on anybody. I did my conjuring, and it was in the spring of the year, and it was when I was operating full force on this stuff. And I went out and did my conjuring on him and he went back to Atlanta, and she got kind of rushed on the belief. In about three or four months, she had some warts taken off his hands or his back—I’m not sure. Before she had time to have the others taken off, they were cured. The ones they didn’t take off were gone. Back in olden days, people didn’t go to a doctor to have a wart frozen or cut off. They had to have some way of doing it. I think, basically, this is where your conjuring came up. This is not something made up for Foxfire, or made up just to sound good. This is something people have been doing for years and years. It does work, and I’m probably as skeptical as anyone in the country. Don’t ask me why it works because I certainly don’t know, but it does work.

www.gmlaurel.com September 2015

Health & Wellness To insure good health: Eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life. -William Londen

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Live Healthy and Be Well

“Acetaminophen – how much is too much?”

by Stephen Jarrard, MD FACS

while back, I received a very nice hand written letter from Mrs. Carver, who lives nearby in Tiger. She has heard some recent news reports and has some concerns about different medicines taken for pain relief – mainly Acetaminophen, better known to many of us as “Tylenol”. She has noticed looking through her medicines, and it is true, that this drug is widespread in use. It can be taken by itself, but it is also included as a component in many other medicines taken for pain relief, and her question has to do with its effectiveness as a pain reliever, and also “how much is too much”? I think that Mrs. Carver’s concerns are valid, because Acetaminophen, called Paracetamol elsewhere in the world, is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the USA and the United Kingdom!

Acetaminophen belongs to a class of drugs called NSAIDs, which stands for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, although it is arguably one of the weaker members of that class. It does not seem to have a strong anti-inflammatory ability, but is used more as an analgesic (pain medicine), and anti-pyretic (fever reducer). It works by acting as an inhibitor of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). It is good for headaches, fevers, muscle and joint sprains and strains, and is a common ingredient in many “cold and flu” remedies. It seems to work better as a pain reliever when combined with caffeine. Also known as APAP, it is sometimes combined with narcotic pain medicines to enhance their effect (look for an article on this class of drugs in the near future). Although not a particularly strong pain medicine or anti-inflammatory by itself – taking larger doses to enhance effect is NOT recommended, as overdoses of this medicine can cause damage to the liver, sometimes temporary and sometimes permanent. Acetaminophen is broken down and processed (metabolized) in the liver upon ingestion. It is not the drug itself that hurts the liver, but some of the breakdown products that occur when it is metabolized. The main culprit of this process is N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI). This dangerous byproduct depletes the liver’s natural antioxidant glutathione and directly damages cells in the liver, which can lead to liver failure or at least damage and reduce liver function. Things that make this worse or increase the likelihood include excessive chronic alcohol intake, fasting or anorexia nervosa and the use of certain drugs such as isoniazid (a medicine taken to treat TB).

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Treatment is aimed at removing the Acetaminophen from the body and replacing the depleted glutathione in the liver – which protects and helps it to restore itself. Activated charcoal can be used to decrease absorption of Acetaminophen if the patient presents for treatment soon after the overdose. The antidote acetylcysteine acts as a precursor for glutathione, helping the body regenerate enough to prevent damage to the liver. Also, N-acetylcysteine can neutralize NAPQI by itself as well. In extreme cases of severe liver damage, a liver transplant is often required if the liver cannot repair itself in time, because “you can’t LIVE without a LIVEr!” Patients treated early have a good prognosis, whereas patients that develop major liver abnormalities typically have a poor outcome. So, given this background, the main thing we want to know is “What is a safe dose to prevent this problem?” Generally speaking, Tylenol by its various names used to be dispensed as a 325 mg tablet and a 500 mg tablet. To “take two and call me in the morning” would thus be a total dose of either 650 mg or 1000 mg, and was usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Because of this problem we are discussing, the 500 mg tablet has all but gone away, and those used to mix with other drugs went from the 500 mg to the 325 mg only. The accepted “safe dose” is 3 grams (3000 mg) or less a day. But, I like to put a little more “buffer” in that and say that about 2600 mg per day is safe. This would be the equivalent of taking two 325 mg tablets every 6 hours (four times a day). This dose could be taken on a regular basis safely; however, if after a while you are not getting relief from your symptoms – you should see your provider and try to treat the cause and not just the symptoms. Remember when I stated that Acetaminophen is sometimes better as a pain reliever when combined with caffeine? Well, this is the basis for a well-known brand of headache powders commonly sold and used here in the South. The version known as “extra strength headache powders” are sold over the counter and contain 520 mg aspirin, 260 mg acetaminophen and 32.5 mg caffeine, which differs from other similarly powdered products under the same brand name. So, there is not much Acetaminophen in these powders, and people do seem to get relief quicker by taking them in the powder form. I have noticed that, although these powders do not contain any narcotics, they do seem to be somewhat habit forming to people, who may “knock back” quite a few packets a day. Be careful about ingesting them on an empty stomach, as these type of medicines can cause gastritis (inflammation of stomach lining) or even lead to ulcer disease if misused. 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!

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Foxfire Sassafras Tea Adapted by Jessica Phillips from The Foxfire Magazine, Summer/Fall 1975 Issue

n unexpected visit paid to Pearl Martin might find her in the woods behind her house digging roots for tea â&#x20AC;&#x201D; most likely sassafras roots.

Sassafras is a wild plant that grows in the Appalachians. Left alone, this plant grows into a medium-sized tree with an irregularly shaped trunk. The spicy, distinct flavor of sassafras makes the tea a popular beverage, served hot or cold. It is also used frequently in the Appalachians as a diaphoretic and diuretic medicine.

Pearl not only makes sassafras tea, but she also uses the roots to make jelly. Mint and spice-wood teas, although not Pearlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialties, are also made in her home from mint and spice-wood plants she gathers in the woods. Pearl has a field behind her house that she keeps bogged down (cleared of brush) to allow her sassafras to grow freely. When the sassafras reaches bush height, she digs it for tea. Pearl told us that she could gather the roots any time of the year without affecting the taste of the tea. However, the roots should be gathered young, so they will be tender. The following is a step-by-step method for making sassafras tea. Making mint and spice-wood teas require a

After the combing the area, she locates some satisfactory sassafras bushes.

similar process. For mint tea, the leaves are washed and boiled and for spice-wood tea, the stems are used instead of the roots. It might be wise to experiment with these recipes to get the taste that suits you personally. Pearl also has her own recipe for sassafras jelly, which is made from the tea itself. To make the jelly, follow the steps for making tea and then mix one package of Sure-Jell with eight cups tea in a large saucepan. Bring quickly to a hard boil, stirring occasionally. Now add eight cups sugar and bring to a full rolling boil. Boil hard one minute, stirring constantly. Skim off the foam with metal spoon. Pour at once into jelly jars and seal with paraffin.

After the bushes are gathered, the roots are chopped from the plants.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

The roots are then washed in cold water. Pearl scrapes off the thin layer of bark.

She brings the roots to a boil in water. One can use the roots or the bark in the boiling process, but Pearl prefers to use the roots. The longer the roots stay in the water, the stronger the tea will be. One can also dry the roots out before boiling or use them green. To make a gallon of tea, Pearl boils four average-sized roots in a gallon of water for 15-20 minutes.

After the tea is strained, it is ready to drink. It can be sweetened with either sugar or honey. The tea can be made strong, then diluted before it is drunk (as Pearl prefers) or made to suit oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste without diluting. The tea can be served hot or iced, and can be refrigerated indefinitely for future use.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Uncorked – From Vine to Wine I

Harvest Season Begins with Véraison - Ends with Crush by Carla Fackler

n mid-July, as temperatures hovered in the 90s, our Malbec grapes began to ripen and the first splashes of purple appeared in our sea of green. Véraison! Time to install bird nets before our feathered friends swoop in. Learned that lesson the hard way as we approached our first harvest eight years ago. In the winery, Farmer/Winemaker Carl is bottling the last of our 2013 Cabernet Franc and setting up for the 2015 harvest. Hot temperatures and cool rains have produced early, abundant clusters ripening in the vineyards. Véraison (ver-ay-shon), French for changing of color, is the viticulture term for grapes that are ripening. During véraison, the vines slow down their growth of shoots and leaves and focus on ripening berries. Grapes contain natural acids, and as the green berries ripen and turn gold (whites) or purple (reds), sugars increase and acids decrease. This balance of sweet and tart establishes a wine’s body and finish, while ripeness of seeds, stems and skins influences tannins. Harvest can begin as early as six weeks post-véraison. In our North Georgia Mountains, grapes are generally harvested and crushed from September to October, with vineyard elevation and grape varietal playing a role. The timing of harvest is critical and depends not only on determining optimal grape ripeness for style of wine but the weather forecast, availability of harvest help and readiness of the winery to crush and process grapes while still fresh. How is ripeness determined? Taste is still the prime test. Just like early grape growers, today farmers walk the vineyards tasting berries for sweetness and acidity in the weeks leading up to harvest. Just ask our volunteer pickers who nibble as they walk the rows! Since the 19th century, growers have been able to measure sugar content with a floating hydrometer. Named for its inventor a German chemist Brix measures the percent of solids (mostly sugar) in a given weight of juice. Grapes store sugar as they ripen, which converts to alcohol during fermentation. Titratable acidity (TA) and pH values are also measured in ripening grapes. Winemakers will look at Brix to pH or Brix to TA ratios. All North Georgia vineyards harvest by hand, which allows pickers to select the best grapes and gently harvest for less damage to grape skins and less oxidation of juice. A small team of experienced hand-pickers can harvest 1-2 tons per day. Harvesters use small lugs to protect the freshly picked grapes and will begin harvesting in early morning to keep the grapes cool for a same-day crush. White grapes are then pressed and the juice pumped to containers for fermentation and aging. Red grapes will spend several days fermenting in bins with periodic punchdowns to extract color from the skins and, after fermentation, are pressed and pumped to oak barrels for aging. Heard it on the grapevine… Two farm winery tasting rooms held grand openings on August 1st: CeNita Winery, Cleveland, and Noble Wine Cellar, Clayton. CeNita originally opened as a wedding venue, while Noble offers wines from Noble, Crane Creek Vineyards and other Georgia vineyards… Blackstock Vineyards, Dahlonega, plans to re-open next year with a new name and a full schedule of events. Carla and Carl Fackler planted their first vines in 2005 and made their first wines in 2011. They produce wines on two labels: Stonewall Creek Vineyards (vitis vinifera grown in their vineyards--Petit Manseng, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Tannat), and Standing Deer Cellar (Norton and Petit Manseng grapes from The Stack Farm nearby). With a B.A. and M.A. in journalism, Carla has worked in public relations, magazine publishing and editing (non-profit newsletters and publications). Stonewall Creek Vineyards, 323 Standing Deer Lane, Tiger, Georgia 30576. 706.212.0584 / www.stonewallcreek.com

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

North Georgia Wine Country Harvest Events

utumn is the perfect time to visit North Georgia Wine Country. Crews are in the vineyards handpicking grapes and vintners are in the winery crushing and processing the day’s harvest. An added bonus is the fall foliage in full color. With more than 25 North Georgia vineyards to visit, there’s always something going on. Plan a trip this fall! September 5th Crush Fest –Yonah Mountain Vineyards, Cleveland: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Wine Tasting, Souvenir Wine Glass, Grape Stomping, Wine Festival (2 music stages, 75 local and regional artisans, gourmet food vendors & food trucks, horse-drawn wagon tour, “Kid Zone” bounce house). Adults $30.00; nondrinkers $15.00; under 16 free. www.yonahmountainvineyards.com. Grape Stomping Festival – Paradise Hills Resort, Blairsville: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Grape Stomping at 2:00 & 4:00, Music, Glass of Wine, Souvenir Glass & Food Ticket. Adults $20.00. Rain date: September 12. www.paradisehillsresort.com. September 6th Harvest Hoopla! – Serenberry Vineyards, Morganton: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Music & New Wine Introductions. Adults $7.00. Food & Wine available for purchase. www.serenberryvineyards.com.

Harvest Season & Picking – Sharp Mountain Vineyards, Jasper. See Facebook for information. www.sharpmountainvineyards.com. October Sundays Harvest Celebration Brunches – Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Dahlonega: Brunch & Music. $30.00 + tax & gratuity. Wine available for purchase. www.wolfmountainvineyards.com. October 24th Annual Harvest Festival – Crane Creek Vineyards, Young Harris: Lunch, Music, Hay Rides, Grape Stomping, Winery Tours, Wine Tasting, Souvenir Wine Glass. Adults $20.00; for ages 13 - 20 $10.00; for 12 and under free. www.cranecreekvineyards.com. October 25th Festival of the Vines – Montaluce Winery, Dahlonega, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Music, Local & Regional Crafts & Arts, Vineyard & Winery Tours, Grape Stomping, and Hay Rides. Admission free. Food & Wine available for purchase. www. montaluce.com.

September 19th-20th Crush Festival – Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM: Grape Stomping, Wine Tasting, Logo Wine Glass, Food, Arts & Crafts Vendors, Music. Adults $30.00 ($40.00 2/day pass). www.cartecayvineyards.com. September 26th Harvest Stomp! – Stonewall Creek Vineyards, Tiger: 1:00 – 5:00 PM: Grape Stomping, Souvenir T-shirt & Wine Goblet, Wine Tasting, Sassy Glassy Wine Cooler, Music. Bring a picnic lunch / food available for purchase. Adults $25.00. (Reserve T-shirt size ahead). www.stonewallcreek.com. Harvest Party – Tiger Mountain Vineyards, Tiger: For Wine Club Members & Guests, Commercial Partners & Media. Join Wine Club online. www.tigerwine.com. September & October Weekends SWine Wine Weekends – Three Sisters Vineyards, Dahlonega: Saturdays, September 12th – October 31st, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, & Sundays, September 13th – October 25th, 12:30PM – 5:00 PM; Music. Admission free. BBQ & Fat Boy Wine Tastings available for purchase. www.threesistersvineyards.com. Currahee Crush – Currahee Vineyard and Winery, Toccoa: September. 25th & October 3rd, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, & September 26th & October 4th, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Music, Vineyard & Winery Tours, Corn Hole, Wine Tasting, Wine Slushies. Admission free. Food available for purchase. www. curraheevineyards.com.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Bon Appétit

Gather Round and Let’s Eat

by Scarlett Cook ach year the Georgia Mountain Laurel dedicates an issue to Foxfire. In this September issue you will find many articles with folks remembering how things used to be. I’m sure that you have some recipes that have been handed down in your family just as I have. One of my favorite recipes is from my grandmother Mae. She made a pineapple pudding just as she would a banana pudding when she didn’t have bananas. She always cooked a large lunch and there was always some sort of dessert – my grandfather had a sweet tooth. I didn’t get her bread pudding recipe and it makes me sad that I don’t have it. (She usually made this in the dead of winter when all the canned and frozen fruit were gone.) She would make the typical bread pudding rich with vanilla, but then she had a sugar crust on hers that was like that of crème brulee. I can still remember the crunch when you put your spoon in it and how crispy it was in your mouth. So if you have a relative that makes something that you really like, don’t wait too long to get the recipe. I think about Mae and Mama Grace (my other grandmother) and how cooking has changed over the years. And not all of the changes are good. Here are some family recipes that I hope that you enjoy.

Apricot Nectar Cake 10 – 12 servings For cake: 1 Yellow cake mix 1 3 Ounce. lemon Jello 3/4 Cup vegetable oil 4 Eggs 3/4 Cup apricot nectar 2 Tablespoons lemon extract Combine all ingredients and pour into a well greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake at 350˚° for one hour. For Icing: 11/2 Cups powdered sugar The juice of two lemons Mix sugar and juice together. While cake is still warm, poke small holes in top of cake and pour icing over cake.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Banana Pudding 8 servings 3/4 cup sugar, divided 1/3 cup all-purpose flour Dash salt 3 eggs, separated 2 cups milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 45 Vanilla wafers, divided 5 ripe bananas, sliced (about 3 1/2 cups), divided Additional wafers and banana slices, for garnish Mix 1/2 cup sugar, flour and salt in top of double boiler. Blend in 3 egg yolks and milk. Cook, uncovered, over boiling water, stirring constantly for 10 to 12 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Reserve 10 wafers for garnish. Spread small amount of custard on bottom of 1 1/2-quart casserole; cover with a layer of wafers and a layer of sliced bananas. Pour about 1/3 of custard over bananas. Continue to layer wafers, bananas and custard to make a total of 3 layers of each, ending with custard. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form; gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff but not dry. Spoon on top of pudding, spreading evenly to cover entire surface and sealing well to edges. Bake at 350˚°F in top half of oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until browned. Cool slightly or refrigerate. Garnish with additional wafers and banana slices just before serving. To make a pineapple pudding, drain a large can of crushed pineapple and substitute pineapple in place of bananas.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes 8 servings 8 Ounces sour cream 8 Ounces cream cheese, softened Beat cream cheese and sour cream together. 8 – 10 Potatoes, peeled, cooked & mashed 1 Garlic clove 1/2 Cup butter, melted 1 Teaspoon salt 1/4 Cup chives Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into a greased casserole. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Cook at 350˚° for 35 – 45 minutes or until potatoes are steamy hot. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Up and Coming Chefs in the North Georgia Mountains Chef Charles Maddrey

by Chef David Darugh

hef Charles Maddrey did not start his career to be a chef – it just turned out that way. He attended the University of Georgia and double majored in English and Latin. He considered a career as an archeologist. But, in his spare time his interest drifted towards the culinary arts. At a college event he helped with a big dinner that was to include a whole pig roast. Chef Maddrey cooked the pig “Kalua Style,” an Hawaiian technique in which the pig is wrapped in banana leaves and then buried in a pit with hot coals. It was a great success, and after college he continued his pursuit of a culinary career. While growing up in Williamsburg, Virginia, his mother owned a catering company and their neighbor owned a French restaurant. As Charles said, he was often the “beard and muscles” behind the restaurant scenes. He learned a lot about food and catering, but mostly he toted catering bins, shelled beans and shucked oysters. After college he worked as an apprentice for the Waverly Hotel in Atlanta. He later worked for the Buckhead Life Group at two of their restaurants. Life in the kitchen is filled with many exciting experiences. Chef Maddrey recalls one frightening incident. One night one of his friends spilled an entire kettle of clarified butter across a hot cook-top and screeched out “Time Bomb”! All the burners were on as hot butter dripped into the cook-top. Everyone expected the cook-top to burst into flames setting off the fire suppression system – and shutting down the restaurant. The chef was not going to let the kitchen burn down on his watch, so he had everyone start dumping salt and baking soda all over the cook-top. When the immediate danger past – he ordered everyone back to work. He later had stints in Charleston including some time at both The Country Club of Charleston and The Charleston Place Hotel, and as a Sous Chef in New Orleans at the Pontchartrain Hotel. That kitchen was located underground in the basement and his role did not offer much creativity. About this time his brother told him he was moving to Seattle to open a brewery, so Charles joined him and together they purchased Gene’s Ristorante – a neighborhood fun place to gather and dine. It was a breath of fresh air for Chef Maddrey no stuffy hotel food. The kitchen was bright and offered plenty of opportunity for creativity. He learned how to cook wild salmon and fresh squid and enjoyed the Northwest ethic for fresh foods. Next he invested in the Fat Duck Inn – a restaurant, catering company and bed and breakfast located in the wine country of Walla Walla, Washington. There he specialized in regional farm to table cuisine and was written up in both Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. After a Christmas visit to his parents in Atlanta, Chef Maddrey re-connected with Jessica, an old friend from Athens – and now they are married with two young children. Jessica is a baker and pastry chef and owner of Bird House Bakery in Athens. Today she is baking and selling pastries and desserts with Chef Maddrey Catering in Clayton, Georgia.

Together they decided that big city restaurant life is too hard on a young family so they relocated to the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Their first stop was creating Hemlock Springs Farm near Hiawassee, where they planted and grew fresh produce and started Chef Maddrey’s Catering in the North Georgia Mountains. Last year Chef Maddrey had the amazing experience of being the Executive Chef at The Red Barn Café at Tiger Mountain Vineyards. He is currently in partnership with Rabun Manor in Dillard offering a wonderful Sunday brunch buffet as well as private dinners and events. www.rabun-manor.com At the present time Chef Maddrey is sharing space at Clayton’s local restaurant Grapes and Beans. On Thursday through Sunday he is operating the “Savannah Street Supper Club” featuring fun and casual dining in Grapes and Beans’ eclectic dining area. Each afternoon after Grapes and Beans’ lunch crowd leaves, you will see Chef Maddrey arrive to prep for his dinners. His focus is on using seasonal local fresh foods. Weekly menus are posted at www.hemlockspringsfarm.com and www.grapesandbeans.com. Chef Maddrey says he loves both farming and cooking, and this fits in well with Rabun County’s designation as the “Farm to Table Capital of Georgia”. He and Jessica both believe our area offers a wonderful place to raise children and share the land. They both see a neighborhood restaurant/bakery in their future. They want it to be affordable and delicious, but also a community place to gather, relax and enjoy not only good food but conversation as well. Jessica and Chef Maddrey also want to operate a family farm, perhaps 5 – 10 acres where their children can experience animals, learn about hard-work and the joys of growing what you eat. He said his parents are considering relocating to this area as well. He thinks his search for the long-term home has ended. We trust that is the case. www.facebook.com/charles.maddrey. Chef David Darugh, Beechwood Inn, Clayton, GA. “Best Chefs America 2013/2014/2105.” Named Georgia’s “Best Bed and Breakfast” by Georgia Magazine. www. beechwoodinn.ws

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Harvest Stomp! September 26 At Stonewall Creek Vineyards by Carla Fackler

ate September is the middle of Harvest Season at Stonewall Creek Vineyards with ripened grapes hanging on vines or fermenting in bins and stainless steel tanks. If you grew up watching “I Love Lucy” (television console with rabbit ears and broadcast in black and white), you’ll never forget Lucy’s iconic grape stomping episode. Thanks to the Internet, the program has generated millions of new and younger fans. Join us for our Second Annual Harvest Stomp! / Stonewall Creek Vineyards on Saturday, September 26, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Test your skills on our two-barrel Stomping Station and preserve your footprints as you step out of the barrel and onto your souvenir T-shirt. Add a souvenir wine goblet, wine tastings and a Sassy Glassy wine cooler made with our Glassy Red and created by Gail McDaniel. Local favorites Sweet Charity will play Southern Rock and Country Music and pass the hat for PAWS 4 Life no-kill animal shelter. Last year we invited canine friends but discourage it this year as the number of dog flu cases increase. Bring a picnic lunch and a camera and sit back and enjoy our vineyards and mountain views. Local food items will be available for purchase. Tickets are $25.00. To reserve your tickets and a T-shirt (Adults S-XXL), call 404.538.8542 or email gail@ stonewallcreek.com. Event will be limited to 200 guests.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

CLAYTON Downtown

Photo by Peter McIntosh - www.mcintoshmountains.com

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Foxfire The Mountain City Playhouse Adapted by Jessica Phillips from The Foxfire Magazine, Fall/Winter 2013 Issue Mary Elizabeth Law: “The Mountain City Playhouse was a dance hall where a variety of activities were held for the locals and tourists alike to come and enjoy themselves. Before they had a Mountain City Playhouse, we had square dances in the Clayton Gymnasium. The dances started when I was in high school; this would have been during the war. What is the present day Rabun County Civic Center was then the Clayton Gymnasium. This is where we had the dances on Saturday nights. It was fifty cents a person to get in.”

Mary Elizabeth Law a stage where the music makers were. It was hot as everything. It was true that the gentlemen brought extra shirts to change into after they danced. I didn’t know any, but I expect they did because it was hot. You can imagine what it was like when you get all the people in that kind of an area on a hot night. It’s pretty bad. “

The original Mountain City Playhouse “The original Mountain City Playhouse was on Cox Lake. It was like a hotel, and later, it burned to the ground. I don’t know how many owners there were because that was before my time. I don’t know any of the owners after it became the Mountain City Playhouse on the hill except for the American Legion. As far as I know, in all the years I went, it was the American Legion who owned the building. The building that burned was on the other side of the lake…It burned in ‘63 and they built a new building. It said it had seating for 800 to 1,000 spectators and a stage.” “One of my favorite memories was how my parents didn’t think that was a place teenagers should be going. Back in that time period, they thought there were strange things going on, but there really wasn’t. There was a little drinking going on outside, but other than that, it was clean fun. My parents thought I was not supposed to go, but naturally, what did I do? I slipped off and went. That’s the only controversy that I know of.” “The Mountain City Playhouse was very hot because it was a big ol’ wooden building with no air conditioning. The windows opened up, and they propped them open up at the top. It was like a big old barn really, with the wooden floor and

Square dancing at the Playhouse in 1961 “Back in those days, we didn’t have many places for kids to go for recreation. We didn’t have the Recreation Department. The activities the kids have today were not offered back then. At the dances, there was a live band that performed. There were several bands, but everybody didn’t dance. Some of them just came to watch what was going on. It was more like

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

The Mountain City Playhouse during the mid 1970s

entertainment on Saturday nights. The instruments that they played in the bands were a piano, a saxophone, three guitars and drums.” “’Down Yonder’, ‘John Henry’, ‘Alabama Jubilee’ and ‘San Antonio Rose’ are some of the songs they played at the Playhouse. A caller would tell you, ‘Georgia rang tang, do-si-do, right hand over cage bird; bird, high swing four hands across, shoot the star, four leaf-clover, right hand swing laid around the lady.’ Then Allen Taylor said, ‘Shoot the star’, four-leaf clover, birdie in the cage; bird hop out; crow hop in.’ Bird hop out was the woman and crow hop in is the man. Says here from an article by Carol Law Turner, one reporter in 1968 described the scene as ‘orderly pandemonium’. It was a lot of fun though.” Bob Prater: “I played drums up there in 1967, I guess 1967-1968, or somewhere during that time for a couple of years. Duncan Taylor was playing the steel guitar, the Hawaiian steel. We had a fellow from Habersham by the name of Ted Johnson who played the clarinet and percussion and stuff. Bill

www.gmlaurel.com

Scruggs played the rhythm guitar with Maude Ivie. Most of the time, Maude Ivie played piano. Sometimes, David Jowers played the piano. This was kind of the crew that was there. It was kind of unique in that the American Legion hired individual musicians; they didn’t hire a band. It was kind of a unique way of doing it, but everybody got along fine. It went really well. It was just a lot of fun. “We would play forty-five minutes and take fifteen minutes off. Matter of fact, playing the drums, I had an extra set of sticks because I knew I was going to drop at least one before the night was over. You had a towel there because you were going to be soaking wet before it was done. I mean, it was a lot of fun. We had anywhere from twelve to fifteen hundred people a night up there. There would be cars parked all around the building, down the driveway, and down the access road to 441. There would be cars parked up and down Highway 441 parked on the side of the road. This was every Saturday night. There would be people from Alabama, Highlands, (and the rest of North Carolina), South Carolina; I mean it was a big happening. It was a lot of fun.”

September 2015

Bill Cloud, Bible Teacher, coming to Dillard House Convention Center

ill Cloud is an author and featured speaker in venues throughout the country and has appeared with notable teachers such as Hal Lindsay, J.R. Church, Jack Van Impe, John Hagee, Grant Jeffrey, Perry Stone, Tim La Haye, Chuck Missler, the late Yacov Rambsel and the late Zola Levitt. He has also made several appearances on a variety of television broadcasts seen on TBN, Daystar, Inspiration, SkyAngel, WHT and TCT. Through Shoreshim Ministries, Bill and his family have launched an effort to re-introduce Christians to the Jewish Y’shua and to educate believers in the Hebraic roots of their faith. As a result of this information, disciples of the Messiah can more accurately interpret end-time events and better discern their role in these last days. The conference is free; a love offering for Bill’s time is requested. For more information, contact Jim & Anne Carrigan at: angelsrest01@hotmail. com. If you plan to attend, e-mail us so that we can have a head count for set up.

Speaking Schedule - Thursday 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Teaching Friday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM - Teaching 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM - Break 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM - Teaching 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM - Lunch 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM – Teaching

Saturday 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM - Teaching 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM - Break 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM - Teaching 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM - Dinner 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM – Teaching with Q&A

Annual Quilt Show Georgia on my mind October 3-31 at Bowen Art Center 344 Hwy 9N, Dawsonville, GA 30534 Tues-Friday: 10am-4pm, Saturday: Noon-4 for additional information call 706-216-2787 Free Admission

Friends of Tallulah Gorge State Park to present ‘Jail Tales Trail’ On Friday, October 2nd don’t miss ‘Jail Tales Trail’ Participants will walk from the beginning of the Shortline Trail to a bonfire at the suspension bridge where they will enjoy roasting marshmallows, music, storytelling and a hayride. The first walk begins at 6:30pm; the last walk will be 8:30. Bring your flashlight. There is a $5 parking charge or a state park pass. For more information call the park at 706.754.7970 or www.friendsofthegorge.com. 66

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

Join Rabun County in the 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s October 17th in Gainesville, Georgia

“H

ey, I’ve had a nice time with you but I need to go home, my Ma will be looking for me,” he said as he attempted to stand. His legs were shaky and his eyes looked lost. “I wish you could stay with me a while longer. I like spending time with you.” I said in hopes he would sit back down. “I know and you are a very nice lady but my Ma will be standing on the porch wringing her hands so I need to go.” he replied while reaching for the door. It was locked and confused he looked intently at the handle. “Dad, let’s wait a little while and then we’ll go, how about we talk a while longer?” I pleaded. Looking down and shuffling his feet he made his way back to his chair and sat down. “What’s your name?” he asked. “I am Tracy and I love you very much.” I said my voice cracking a bit. “You know ma’am I need to go home soon” he said again, looking out the window of his home, sitting in his favorite chair.

The paragraph above is a real conversation I had with my own father who battled Alzheimer’s for several years before he died in 2010. Alzheimer’s is on the rise. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 1 in 3 seniors die with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Of those 2/3 will be female. It is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States and it is the only cause of death in the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or slowed. The most startling fact is that every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops the disease. In my family alone I have lost my dad, my grandmother and four aunts and one uncle to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Every time I forget the date, lose my keys or forget what I am doing that fear becomes real. In memory of my family members and in honor of the 5.3 million Americans with Alzheimer’s disease I will join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. I have never signed up for a walk and may crawl to the end but I will do all that I can. To join my team and walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 17, 2015 in Gainesville, Georgia please visit our team page at http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2015/GA-Georgia?team_ id=278969&pg=team&fr_id=7414 where you can sign up to walk (must raise $200). You can make a donation of any amount there by credit card or you may drop your check by the Georgia Mountain Laurel office (made payable to Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter) to help put an end to this cruel disease. Why? Because mountain memories are too precious to lose. Take my hand and walk with me.

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Cherokee Heritage Festival in Historic Hayesville, North Carolina by Sandy Nicolette

istoric Hayesville will come alive with the sights and sounds of Cherokee Indians on Saturday, September 19th from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit. The festival, which is an annual event occurring the third Saturday in September, provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the Cherokee culture. Cherokee artisans will demonstrate basket weaving, finger weaving, wood carving, dart making, flint knapping, beadwork, pottery, blowgun, arrow making and stickball. Festival attendees will be entertained by the Oconaluftee Village Dancers, hear the majestic sounds of Cherokee flute music and learn about the Cherokee culture from well-known storyteller and artist Davy Arch. Cherokee linguist and artist Shirley Oswalt will demonstrate why she is held in high esteem by the Cherokee and 94 year old Amanda Swimmer will demonstrate why she is regarded as one of the premier Cherokee potters. You’ll want to taste authentic frybread with special toppings and purchase an original piece of Cherokee art. Children’s activities will be available. Some of the many activities and exhibits offered at this free event: - Dancing by: Oconaluftee Living History Village Dancers; - Flute music by: Dan Hollifield, member of the Cherokee Nation (who makes the flutes he plays); - Demonstrations of Cherokee arts and crafts: Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; - Cherokee stories and legends: Davy Arch of Oconaluftee Village; - Food by Reed Frybread: frybread with a variety of toppings, hamburgers, hotdogs and beverages; - Authentic Cherokee art: available for viewing and purchasing; - Children’s Activities: young people may make original Cherokee-influenced art and a blowgun replica; Across from the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit at the Cherokee Botanical Sanctuary, Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition Restoration Coordinator Tony Ward will provide native plant talks and information about how native plants have benefited people for thousands of years. You will have the opportunity to purchase a native plant to take home or donate one for our restoration efforts. The adjacent Clay County “Old Jail” Museum will be open for the day, and features Cherokee displays, local historical displays and local art. Art tents will be set up on the grounds of the museum during the Cherokee Heritage Festival.

The Cherokee Heritage Festival, sponsored by Clay County Communities Revitalization Association, is a free event held at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, 21 Davis Loop in Hayesville, North Carolina. Call 828.389.3045 or visit http://www.cccra-nc.org/ for more information. Visitors to the Festival are encouraged to visit the sites along the 2-mile Quanassee Path –A Cherokee History Trail: - Cherokee Homestead Exhibit: Replica of a 17th century homestead with winter house, summer house, food storage crib, gardens, metal disks depicting Cherokee legends and symbols, metal clan masks and informational kiosks for a self-guided tour. - Clay County Museum: Rare Cherokee baskets, quilts, masks and other carvings, displays, and an exquisite lifesize model of a Cherokee basket weaver are among the artifacts on exhibit at the museum which is adjacent to the Homestead Exhibit. - Cherokee Cultural Center: Informative displays, artifacts, books, historical maps, baskets, pottery, instruments, weaponry and clothing can be enjoyed at the center located in the Moss Memorial Library. - Spikebuck Mound/Quanassee Town Site: Site of the Quanassee Town council house and location of an important trading post along the route from Charleston, South Carolina to the Cherokee towns in eastern Tennessee is located at the Veterans Recreation Park. - Cherokee Botanical Sanctuary: Native plants used by the Cherokee and other people are labeled for easy identification along this part of the trail which connects Spikebuck Mound with the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit. For additional information please call 828.389.3045 or email mountaincabin2@frontier.com.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Mountain Happenings September and October, 2015

STEPHENS COUNTY September 2nd and each Wednesday and Saturday through October Farmers’ Market Stephens County Farmers’ Market Building, Toccoa Info: 706.282.3309 September 12th and the 2nd Saturday of the month through October Sage Market Corner of Pond & Tugalo Streets Toccoa Info: 706.282.3309 September 12th, October 10th Southern Gospel Jubilee Concert The Schaefer Center, Toccoa Info: 706.297.7121 September 19th “Pioneer Day” Traveler’s Rest Historic Site Toccoa Info: 706.356.4362 October 2nd - 4th Currahee Military Weekend Toccoa Info: 706.282.5055 October 3rd Currahee Challenge Currahee Mountain, Toccoa Info: 706.886.2132 October 30th Costume Parade Downtown Toccoa Info: 706.282.3309

September 26th 6th Annual A Taste of Clarkesville Downtown Clarkesville Info: www.tasteofclarkesville.com September 26th Shady Grove Baptist Church 5K Run/Walk Shady Grove Baptist Church Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654 October 2nd Friday Night Flicks - “Pitch Perfect 2” Pitts Park, Clarkesville Info: 706.778.4654 October 10th Big Red Apple Festival Downtown Cornelia Info: 706.778.8585 October 10th Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Downtown Awareness Walk Main Street, Cornelia Info: 706.778.4654

October 17th - 2015 Art Ober-fest

October 31st Trick or Treat on Washington Street Downtown Square, Clarkesville Info: 706.778.4654 WHITE COUNTY

September 4th / October 2nd First Friday Music Pickin’ Sautee Village, Sautee Info: 706.878.0144

Yonah Mountain Vineyards Cleveland Info: 706.878.5522 September 5th - Crush Fest 2015 September 5th - 6th and each Saturday and Sunday Tour de la Cave and Barrel Tasting September 5th and each Saturday Live Music Saturdays September 13th and the 2nd Saturday of the month Reserve Wine Tasting Unicoi State Park, Helen Info: 706.878.2201 September 5th - 6th and each weekend through mid November Visiting Artists Series

September 5th Folk Pottery Show & Sale Folk Pottery Museum, Sautee Info: 706.878.3300 September 10th - 13th September 17th - November 1st Oktoberfest Helen Info: 706.878.1908

September 18th Friday Night Live Downtown Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220

September 12th Fall Fest at BabyLand General BabyLand General Hospital Cleveland Info: 706.865.2171

September 18th - 20th, 24th - 27th “Prescription: Murder” Habersham Community Theatre Clarkesville Info: www.habershamtheater.org

September 19th - 20th, 26th - 27th Helen’s Alpine Village Arts & Crafts Show Main Street Park, Helen Info: 706.897.6179

October 31st Hallowine Fest Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards Sautee Info: 706.878.2056

September 18th - “Paint Out”

October 31st Twin Rivers Challenge Tallulah Falls School Tallulah Falls Info: 706.839.2024

HABERSHAM COUNTY

September 11th - 19th Chattahoochee Mountain Fair Toccoa Hwy., Clarkesville Info: www.chattahoocheemountainfair.org

October 10th Fall Celebration at Hardman Farm Hardman Farm, Sautee Info: 706.878.1077

September 15th History Program: The History of Wine Making in White County

September 1st, 4th Bingo Helen Chamber of Commerce Festhalle Helen Info: 706.878.1908

September 5th and each Saturday Soque River Farmers’ Market Hwy. 197, Clarkesville Info: 706.947.3474

September 26th 8th Annual Agri-Fest and 4th Annual Pottery Comes to Town Downtown Cleveland Info: 706.865.5356

Helen Arts and Heritage Center Helen Info: 706.878.3933

October 31st Martin Fall Festival Downtown Martin Info: 706.356.3573; 770.861.1955

September 5th Clarkesville Farmers’ Market Grant Street, Clarkesville Info: 706.778.4654

September 19th October 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th Swinging in the Vines Music Series Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards Sautee Info: 706.878.1056

September 5th and each Saturday until mid November Saturday Evening Music Concert Series North Georgia Zoo Cleveland Info: 706.348.7279 September 5th - 6th Sunset Tour September 8th Mommy & Me at the Zoo September 19th - 20th and each Saturday and Sunday through October Scarecrow Trail

September 2015

September 20th / October 18th Behind the Scenes Tour October 3rd - 31st Pumpkin Fest October 24th - 25th BOO at the ZOO Smithgall Woods Helen Info: 706.878.3087 September 5th and the first Saturday of the month First Visit Tours September 19th Youth Fishing Day at Buck Shoals RABUN COUNTY September 4th / October 2nd First Friday Fest Downtown Clayton Info: www.downtownclaytonga.com September 5th and each Saturday Simply Homegrown Farmers’ Market Covered Bridge Shopping Center Clayton Info: www.rabunmarket.com September 5th and each Saturday through November Bluegrass on the Square Main Street, Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.6040; 706.212.0241 September 5th 9th Annual JDRF Charity Car Show Clayton City Hall, Clayton Info: 706.782.3490; 828.371.1921 September 5th - 6th Outdoor Drama - “His Last Days” Tallulah Gallery, Tallulah Falls Info: 706.212.0241 September 9th 3rd Annual Moonshine n’ Mulligans Golf Tournament Waterfall Club, Clayton Info: 706.782.4812 September 10th - 13th “Annie” North Georgia Community Players Dillard Playhouse, Dillard Info: www.ngcommunityplayers.com September 12th - 13th WANNAGOFast.com 1/2 mile Shoot-Out Heaven’s Landing Clayton Info: www.WannaGoFast.com September 17th and the third Thursday of each month through November Rabun Trout Unlimited Meeting The TU/Scout Hut, Clayton Info: rabuntu.org September 26th Harvest Stomp Stonewall Creek Vineyards, Tiger Info: 706.212.0584 continued

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Mountain Happenings September and October, 2015

October 3rd Foxfire Mountaineer Festival Rabun County Civic Center Clayton Info: 706.746.5828 October 17th Sky Valley’s Annual FallFest Sky Valley Info: www.skyvalleyga.com October 31st Halloween Hay Day Clayton City Hall Complex, Clayton Info: www.downtownclaytonga.org North Georgia Arts Guild Artist Program Clayton City Hall, Clayton Info: www.northgeorgiaartsguild.com

TOWNS COUNTY September 5th and each Saturday Towns County Farmers’ Market Across from Georgia Mountain Fair Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4966 September 5th Music on the Square Town Square, Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4966

September 2nd and each Wednesday Bingo Haralson Memorial Civic Center Blairsville Info: 706.300.5722

Vogel State Park Blairsville Info: 706.745.2628

September 3rd and each Thursday Trivia at the View Union County Community Center Blairsville Info: 706.439.6092

October 17th - Fall Hoedown

September 4th and each Friday Friday Night Concert Series Old Courthouse, Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 September 5th - 6th North Georgia Gun Show Pat Haralson Civic Center Blairsville Info: 706.994.4405

October 24th Harvest Festival Crane Creek Vineyards Young Harris Info: 706.379.1236 October 25th 7th Annual Fall-a-Bration The Ridges Resort, Hiawassee Info: 706.896.2262

September 5th - 6th Mountain Heritage Festival Mountain Life Museum Blairsville Info: 706.745.5493

October 15th Alice Berg, Fiber Artist

Hightower Creek Vineyards Hiawassee Info: 706.896.8963

Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.7981

September 4th First Friday After Hours

September 6th, 27th / October 18th Sunday Evening Singing Shady Grove Methodist Church Blairsville Info: 706.781.2906

September 17th Chris Brooks, Woodworker & Director, Folk Pottery Museum

September 5th - 7th Holiday Gorge Floor Hike September 26th - Full Moon Paddle September 27th / October 26th - 27th Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike October 2nd - Jails Tails Trails October 31st Trunk or Treat for Halloween Hambidge Center Rabun Gap Info: www.hambidge.org September 5th and the first Saturday of the month First Saturday Gristmill Visit September 12th and the 2nd Saturday of the month Second Saturday Artists’ Talks September 19th and the 3rd Saturday of the month Nature Hikes October 10th Great ARTdoors Festival

September 5th and each Saturday Vino and Vibes September 6th and each Sunday Lazin’ and Jammin’ on a Sunday Afternoon Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4191 September 4th - David Allan Coe September 19th Taste of Home Cooking School October 9th - 17th Georgia Mountain Fall Festival October 9th - The Osmonds October 10th - Mickey Gilley October 11th - Isaacs, Jim Brady Trio October 13th - John Berry October 13th - Sammy Kershaw October 14th - Ricky Skaggs October 17th - Fiddlers’ Convention October 24th - Gene Watson

Rabun Arena Tiger www.rabunarena.com September 12th / October 10th Wayne Dutton Livestock Roping September 26th Wateree Cutting Horse Show

UNION COUNTY September 1st and each Tuesday Smoky Mountain Melodies First United Methodist Church Blairsville Info: 706.379.3836

September 11th / October 9th Writers’ Night Out Union County Community Center Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 September 19th and the 3rd Saturday of each month Cruize In on the Square On the Square, Blairsville Info: 706.897.2501; 706.897.5857 September 19th - 20th 3rd Annual Celebrate Autumn Arts & Crafts Show North Georgia Technical College Blairsville Info: 706.896.0932 September 26th - 27th St. Francis of Assisi Annual Fall Festival St. Francis of Assisi, Blairsville Info: www.saintfrancisofassisi.org October 3rd - 4th Indian Summer Festival Woody Gap School, Suches Info: 706.747.2401 October 8th - 12th Vietnam Veterans - The Moving Wall Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789 October 10th - 11th, 17th - 18th Blairsville Sorghum Festival Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.745.5789 October 31st Hometown Halloween on the Square Downtown Blairsville Info: 706.347.3503

September 2015

September 12th Mountain Music & Arts & Crafts Festival

Paradise Hills Vineyards Blairsville Info: 706.745.7483 September 5th and each Saturday Summer Concert Series September 6th Grape Stomping Festival October 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st Fireside Music Saturdays Union County Farmers’ Market Blairsville Info: 706.439.6043 September 1st and each Tuesday and Saturday Farmers’ Market September 1st and each Tuesday Farmers’ Market General Auction September 3rd - 4th and each Thursday and Friday Trash and Treasures Info: 877.745.5789 September 4th and the first Friday of the month through October Cruise in to the Union County Farmers’ Market Info: 678.773.5934 CLAY COUNTY, NC September 2nd, 9th Brasstown Farmers’ Market Old Hwy. 64, Brasstown Info: 828.360.2498 September 3rd and each Thursday during September Hayesville Evening Farmers’ Market Downtown Hayesville Info: 877.389.3704 September 4th and each Friday Night Friday Night Jam at Clay’s Corner Brasstown Info: 828.837.3797 September 5th, 12th, 19th Mountain Valley Farmers’ Market On the Square, Hayesville Info: 828.361.7261 September 12th 4th Annual Pet Celebration Historic Hayesville Square Hayesville Info: 706.896.1244 September 19th / October 10th Hot Summer Nights Goldhagen Art Glass, Hayesville Info: 828.389.8847 continued

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Mountain Happenings September and October, 2015

September 19th Cherokee Heritage Festival 21 Davis Loop, Hayesville Info: 828.389.3045

Peacock Performing Arts Center Hayesville Info: 828.389.2787

October 3rd 3rd Annual Wine Around the Square Historic Courthouse Square Hayesville Info: 828.389.2121

September 19th Boots & Bling 2

October 17th - 18th Punkin Chunkin Festival 811 Settawig Road, Brasstown Info: 828.389.3704

September 12th Song Writers’ Showcase

October 9th - 11th “A Sting in the Tale”

October 17th Art League of Highlands Fine Art Show Highlands Civic Center, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

MACON COUNTY, NC September 1st and each Tuesday in September Yoga in the Park Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

Licklog Players Community Theatre 34 Creek Side Circle, Hayesville Info: 828.389.8632

September 4th and each Friday through October Friday Night Live Town Square, Highlands Info: 828.526.5841

October 30th - November 1st “Let’s Murder Marsha” John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown Info: 828.837.2775; 800.FOLKSCH www.folkschool.org September 1st and each Tuesday Tuesday Night Contra & Square Dances September 4th Appalachian Saint Andrews Pipes & Drums September 5th Contra & Square Dance September 10th Rob Tiger & Lon Eldridge September 18th Steve and Penny Kilby September 25th Singing Tree October 3rd - 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th 42nd Fall Festival Eagle Fork Vineyard Hayesville Info: 828.389.8466 September 4th - 5th and each Friday and Saturday Nights Live Music September 19th Wine Under the Stars Twelve Gauge Persuaders October 17th Wine Under the Stars: Raven & Red

October 10th Town of Highlands Hometown Day Kelsey-Hutchison Park, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112 October 16th - 18th Leaf Lookers Gemboree Macon County Community Building Franklin Info: 866.372.5546

October 31st Trick or Treat on the Square Downtown Hayesville Info: 877.389.3704

September 4th - 6th, 11th - 13th “Steel Magnolias”

October 10th Highlands Own Arts and Craft Show Highlands Civic Center, Highlands Info: 828.526.2118

September 5th Saturdays on Pine - Charles Walker Band Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

October 17th Highlands School Fall Festival Highlands School, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112 October 24th 19th Annual Pumpkinfest Main Street, Franklin Info: www.pumpkinfestfranklin.com October 31st Highlands Downtown All Hallows Eve Celebration Main Street, Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

September 10th Rotary Club of Highlands Craft Beer Festival The Farm at Old Edwards Inn Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

Highlands Playhouse Highlands Info: 828.526.2695

September 12th Dazzling Dahlia Festival Highlands Rec. Park & Civic Center Highlands Info: 828.526.2112

September 18th - 20th Classic Film Festival

September 12th 9th Annual SMPCC Fundraising Banquet Franklin Covenant Church Franklin Info: 828.349.3200

Historic Cowee School Franklin Info: CoweeSchool.org

September 16th - 20th Macon County Fair Macon County Fairgrounds Franklin Info: 866.372.5546

September 13th Annual Cowee Baptist Missions Picnic/Pig Pickin”

August 27th - September 6th “End of the Rainbow”

September 1st and each Tuesday Cowee Farmers’ Market

September 19th Zonta’s Boots & Bling Fundraiser Bloemsma Farm Barn, Franklin Info: 866.372.5546 October 8th - 10th Autumn Leaves Craft Show Macon County Fairgrounds Franklin Info: 828.349.4324

October 12th Bolivian Mission Beauty Pageant

September 19th and the third Saturday of each month SEBA Jam September 19th Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues October 17th Tellico in Concert

Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts Franklin Info: 866.273.4615; 828.524.1598 www.GreatMountainMusic.com September 5th Steven Curtis Chapman September 10th Spice Up Your Marriage Date Night September 12th Stars of Center Stage September 18th - The Isaacs October 2nd - Travis Tritt October 8th - Open House October 17th An Evening with Jeanne Robertson October 23rd - Josh Turner Lazy Hiker Brewing Company Franklin Info: 828.369.5299 September 26th - Carolina Soul Band October 10th - Oktoberfest Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center Highlands Info: 828.526.9047 September 3rd - 6th Highlands Cashiers Players “Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike” Info: 828.526.8084 September 10th Highlands Male Chorus September 13th - Bel Canto September 19th “Will the Circle be Unbroken” Bluegrass – John McEuen with John Carter Cash and Family September 20th National Theatre Live: Everyman September 26th Broadway, Pop, Opera: The Three Tenors and a Diva Concert and Gala October 2nd Yesterday & Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience October 3rd MET Opera: Verdi’s II Trovatore October 11th Bolshoi Ballet: Giselle October 15th - 18th, 22nd - 25th Highlands Cashiers Players - “Over the River and Through the Woods” Info: 828.526.8084 October 17th MET Opera: Verdi’s Otello New Production October 31st MET Opera: Wagner’s Tannhauser

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

SERVICE Pros 76

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

SERVICE Pros

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Foxfire Toys, Games, Pastimes, Work, Raising Up (On Being Young in Olden Days)

Adapted by Jessica Phillips from The Foxfire Magazine, Summer 1974 Issue

ll of us had toys when we were small. We had dolls, red wagons, toy trucks and guns. You could name a toy and every kid in town had it. Now kids have every toy imaginable, and they get new toys every week, but back when our contacts were kids, they had very few toys and most of them were homemade. When they had any free time, which wasn’t very often, they invented games to entertain themselves. They enjoyed their free time much more than we do now. A great deal of the time, they were busy working in the house and around the farm. They worked hard and many weren’t allowed to play on Sundays, so playing was a special privilege to them. They had respect for their parents and had a close family relationship. Back then, children weren’t usually spoiled, but they never lacked anything they really needed. Maybe there are advantages in going back to their way of life. We might be better people for it. Thinking back, I know my childhood would have been much better if I had had a few more responsibilities around the house, had used my imagination a little more and used my talking-eating-sleeping-cryingwalking doll less. ~Kaye Caver Games Margaret Norton: I don’t suppose many of these things that we did when we grew up are common today, because people can go off on car rides and things like that. They don’t usually get together on

Margaret Norton

Sunday afternoons or Saturday afternoons and have a ballgame or horseshoe pitching or playing tag or something like that, that we used to do when we grew up. Tap Hand Julia Smith: Occasionally, we’d have a Saturday night to play. We’d get out and hold hands and make a big ring and play what we call “Tap Hand.” One would stay out of the ring and walk around and tap someone, and that one was supposed to run and try to catch the one that tapped him. If he didn’t, he had to run around the circle and get back to the place that he left. Pastimes Ada Kelly: Sometimes, the girls would go swimming, but they didn’t have much place to swim, just the creeks, and they weren’t too deep where we lived. We went into the water, but I never did have sense enough to learn to swim. We’d just wear what we had on—no bathing suits—and then come back and change.

Ada Kelley

Lola Cannon: We went all over the mountains to get pretty rocks and bits of moss to decorate the playhouses. We had whole families, and then somebody kept a boarding house and took in boarders. I remember those days real well, but I just wonder if today

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

of little rag dolls. Then we went somewhere—by the branch or somewhere and made a pond—and we baptized them all. We had them sitting upon the side. Some-body in the crowd was the preacher, and we sang, and then they’d baptize all these dolls. We had a graveyard where we’d burry the dolls. Maybe when we were together one time, we’d bury some. And then next time we’d go dig them up to see how they were. I guess we were checking to see if they were still dead. Work Buck Carver: I’ve got my pants dusted a many a time for playing when I should have been working! I’ll tell you, we didn’t have but very little time to play back in those days. Everybody worked from the time he was big enough to do anything. From the time I was four-five years old, I’d go with my daddy when they were clearing land and pick up sticks and brush, and it helped. When I was five, I had a little short-handled hoe to help hoe in the cornfield. If it rained, maybe we got to play a little bit, but usually when that happened I’d go out with my father, and we’d repair the fences. So it was very little time that we had to play. And at night, we had to work doing chores till dark and sometimes a little after. And we got our school lessons for the next day, those of us who were old enough to go to school, and those that weren’t had to be quiet so we could study. Raising Up

Buck Carver the children have the good wholesome fun that we had. And we liked to play dolls, then, in a game that we girls played. When we were right small, we made a whole congregation

www.gmlaurel.com

Leona Carver: When we went to church or anywhere, we were supposed to be back at a certain time. They wouldn’t let us go anywhere but to church by ourselves. Dad went with us to dances. We had to work and whatever they told us to do, we did.

September 2015

Dedicated to Changing the Lives of Students – The Bennetts by Tracy McCoy

“W

e’ve been together 64 years, and she’s still bossy!” Bob Bennett told me while grinning at his forever bride Margie. This couple was instrumental in the Foxfire program for many years, and many alumni still credit them for their work and the impact it had on their lives. The couple left professional jobs with big salaries to come to Rabun County to change lives and create leaders. Bob had worked with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and Margie worked as a Medical Technologist with Eggleston Hospital in Atlanta where they made their home. I asked how they ended up here and on the campus of Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School working in the Foxfire program. The story goes like this...Bob had worked with youth in the Atlanta area and both he and Margie loved children. Dr. Karl K. Anderson, the President of Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School from 1956 to 1984, had a vision for the students: a more interactive environment. And with the Foxfire program underway there, he saw that this concept was successful.

Dr. Anderson invited Bob to come for an interview in 1971. Bob did and he brought Margie with him. He was hired to run the field crew and farm. He was also asked to start an Environmental Outdoor Education program that included an outdoor club, running team, archery, shooting, climbing, rope courses and more. Margie had plans to begin work at the technical college in Clarkesville, but since being at Rabun GapNacoochee School she had been asked by Eliot Wigginton (Wig), the founder of the Foxfire program, to do some typing for him, which she did. In 1972, when he offered her the same pay as she would be making in Clarkesville without the drive, she came onboard working with Foxfire students in the classroom. Dess Oliver was hired as the Industrial Arts teacher at RGNS a couple of months after Bob and Margie, and he and his wife quickly became friends of the Bennetts. At the time there were 8 or 9 men managing the farm, but Dr. Anderson wanted the boys to be more involved in the day-to-day operations of the farm, asking Bob to create a program for the boys on campus that would give them a sense of ownership and responsibility. So Bob did, partnering with Dess to work as a team to rotate the 50+ boys through both programs. Mr. Malcolm Dillard with the Dillard House and Wilbur Maney County Extension Agent taught the boys how to drive the farm tractors for Bob. The gardens the students then planted and worked grew vegetables for the school and for The Dillard House to serve in the restaurant. The Bennetts’ son Bruce was enrolled at Rabun Gap as a student, and they settled in nicely, truly enjoying their newfound mountain lifestyle. Former Foxfire student and now Foxfire Board of Director Kaye Carver Collins had this to say about her experience working alongside the Bennetts: “I do not think I can adequately express how much those two people mean to the students whose

lives they impacted. Their genuine love and caring for each other and all their ‘kids’ is inspiring. I am honored to be one of their kids, and I try to pay forward all they have given me in my daily life.” Margie worked closely with the students in The Foxfire Magazine class. From concept to creation to production and distribution, the magazines were done in that classroom setting. Margie’s duties became greater and soon she was Wig’s right hand. She loved encouraging the students to creative levels never allowed before in public education. The studentdriven program proved to be a huge success; with students taking a keen interest not only in their writing but in the heritage they were uncovering through the local elderly folks (contacts) they were interviewing. Margie Bennett is a great encourager; she expected greatness from these young people and she got it. Meanwhile, in the fields and on the track, her husband was doing the same work. Running alongside the students, completing the obstacle courses with them or cheering them on from the side of the track, Bob was encouraging the students to develop their full potential, both physically as well as educationally. Bob Bennett, even now at 81, has an energy that is infectious. His broad smile and the sparkle in his eye draw you to him, and he has always been a true motivational force for students. Annette Sutherland was eager to share her feelings for the Bennetts and is a demonstration of the impact they had on so many of the Foxfire kids...”Bop and Margie Bennett are some of my closest friends. As I near 60 years old they have been like a second mom and dad to me all my life through high school until now. I carry them in my heart each day because they are so genuine and their love is shared by so many Rabun Gap children that were there in the seventies and eighties.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

My connection to Bob goes much further. His father and my father who were both deceased when we found out that they were best friends and served on the Atlanta Police Department together. My life has been so much better because of having them in it. I love them dearly.” In 1977 the Foxfire program and Margie Bennett were moved to the Rabun County High School when Rabun GapNacoochee became a private school. Around that same time, the environmental program at Rabun Gap was shut down by the state and Bob left RGNS and was hired on by Foxfire to create an environmental program there. Both Bob and Margie worked in the public school system with the Foxfire program, with Bob also working in the agricultural program for the school. Bob, like Foxfire, believed that students had the right to make choices that affected their learning, and so he created an opportunity for them to do so. Accepting that opportunity, the boys asked would Bob create a ropes course and a cross-country team for them. Principal Jack Short approved the courses and assisted Bob in getting a state grant to build the ropes course. Steve Cabe the agricultural teacher offered to assist in creating the cross-country trail. In appreciation of Bob having created those programs for them and for establishing a team structure with a senior as Team Leader and Assistant Team Leader to direct the programs, the boys presented Bob with a plaque of appreciation for being such a great teacher. Bob spoke of working alongside some exceptional folks at both schools and the students who were at the core of all the Bennetts did at both schools. He noted that those students deserved all the credit for their work! In the mid-to-latter ‘80s, recognizing Margie’s leadership skills, the new President of RGNS came to visit her, asking Margie to help him develop a middle school at RGNS. Margie accepted this challenge, stepped down from Foxfire, and served as principal of the school for several years when, in 1990, Bob was offered a job with the Jekyll Island State Park off the coast of Georgia. The couple moved to Jekyll when Bob took the job. A few years later, he found himself longing for the mountains again, so the couple didn’t stay there for long before returning to the mountains to live out their days. Ann Moore, after becoming Foxfire’s President in 2000, offered Margie a new position with Foxfire. Margie returned to the Foxfire she loved, and Bob did, too, as a volunteer. They are huge fans of the Foxfire program and could not say enough good things about Ann Moore, the fund’s current president. Margie had been Ann’s mentor for many years and, in fact, Ann had this to say about Margie and Bob: “My precious, loving mentor Margie Bennett is the Foxfire staff member who taught me so very much when I began at Foxfire in May 1976 as an 18-year-old and who was ‘Mama’ to so many young folks. She and her husband, our Daddy Bob, are so loved and so special to those of us whom they took under their wing.” Knowing Bob and Margie Bennett and having also been a student who was impacted and inspired by them has been my pleasure. I am thankful for the Foxfire program and all who have worked with former students, the contacts, today’s students and those who read the Foxfire magazines and books. Thank you Bob and Margie for a great visit and nice lunch, but thank you so much more for all you have done for all of us; you are loved!

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015

Appalachian Financial Group – Meet the Parks By Tracy McCoy

hen you meet Burl and Carolyn Parks your first impression is one of professionalism followed by “what a nice couple”. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Burl and Carolyn recently and I learned some valuable information about their business Appalachian Financial Group which includes insurance and financial planning. Buying insurance can be one of your most frustrating purchases but it doesn’t have to be. A knowledgeable agent can eliminate your frustration. Carolyn is well qualified, having earned her Certified Professional Insurance Agent, Associate Customer Service and is working toward her FLMI designation. Carolyn has completed LUTC courses offered by The American College. She will tell you that the first step has to be to determine what your needs are, whether you are covering a home, RV, boat or your teenager’s first car there are options and you want the most coverage for the best price. We are all looking to save money but the few dollars you might save with an “agent-less” policy could potentially cost you significantly more in the long run. Auto and home insurance offer options that require you to make informed decisions. Carolyn has your best interest in mind and because she represents the top insurance companies available, she is not driven to serve only one, thus ensuring that you are going to be placed in the best policy for you. That makes a difference. I was interested to learn that beyond life, home and auto this company also sells motorcycle, ATV and RV insurance and collectors’ insurance. Whether it is coins, guns, jewelry or other valuable treasures you have acquired you can insure them against theft or damage. I was also glad to learn that Appalachian Financial Group deals in both residential and commercial policies allowing clients a one stop shopping experience with over fifty of the nation’s top rated companies at their fingertips.

Small and large business owners or corporations seeking commercial insurance will find adequate experience and products to cover their businesses at Appalachian Financial Group. Burl is the commercial insurance specialist. He writes many types of commercial and business insurance policies including general liability, worker’s compensation and commercial or business automobile coverage. Since joining Appalachian Financial Group, Burl has successfully written commercial insurance coverage for one of the largest tourist attractions and has placed coverage on the largest commercial industrial building in Rabun County. When it comes to life insurance there are term, whole life and universal life policies and each has their own advantages and disadvantages. While Burl Parks works with clients to find a life insurance policy that fits their current needs, those needs do change during a lifetime and he wants to be there for your family to ensure you make informed decisions. The computer system at Appalachian Financial Group is specialized to their industry and is state of the art allowing them to provide instant quotes and ensure detailed and precise record keeping for their customers. Burl has a rich history in the financial services industry. He and Carolyn have career portfolios that include employment with giants such as ING, Jefferson Pilot, Columbus Life and Allstate. Burl holds three financial planning and insurance designations. They are ChFC, CLU and CSA. ChFC and CLU are designations earned at The American College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania by individuals who are educated, qualified, experienced and ethical. The CLU is widely considered to be the most respected insurance designation in the industry. It is traditionally pursued by agents who through intense training and education acquire in-depth knowledge on the insurance needs of individuals, business owners and professional clients. CSA is the leading certification for professionals serving seniors, and is a designation awarded to qualified individuals displaying the highest ethical standards for the benefit and protection of the health and welfare of seniors.

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

A knowledgeable financial planner can provide expert advice for individuals, families and businesses to ensure they have a solid financial plan. Burl can show clients how to reduce income taxes, increase your nest egg for later in life, increase investments and enhance the value of real estate. Your financial security is key to a successful retirement and it can ensure a stable future for you and your family. Burl Parks and all those holding a ChFC designation sign a pledge stating they will place your interests above all else to establish and implement your financial goals. He is dedicated to follow industry developments and legislative challenges to chart a steady course for you, while in all affairs adhering to a strict code of ethics. Burl has 34 years of qualifying professional service and is honored to be one of a select group within the financial services field to earn such esteemed designations. Burl is one of only two professionals in Rabun County to hold all three designations. Appalachian Financial Group has two offices to serve clients. Their Clayton, Georgia office will be moving from Savannah Place Shoppes to The Station House at 621 Highway 441 South, Suite 2. Look for Appalachian Insurance Agency in their new home before November 1st. Their Franklin, North Carolina office is located at 662B Highlands Road and in that office you will meet Rick Blanton, a Franklin native, who has over 30 years in the insurance industry. Rick holds a BSBA in management and he specializes in property and casualty insurance services. Burl, Carolyn and Rick can be found serving their communities in different capacities. Appalachian Financial Group dba Appalachian Insurance Agency has professional, civic minded people who are interested in businesses, families and children. You can find more information on their website www.app-ins. com. Give them a call today (Clayton office: 706.782.1900; Franklin office: 828.369.7158) or stop in today to talk with them about your insurance and financial needs.

www.gmlaurel.com

Celebrating 20 Years in Business

ebb’s Heating & Cooling is proudly celebrating 20 years of business. Owners Freddy and Vickie Webb are natives of Rabun County. Freddy worked for a local gas company for more than 20 years before deciding to further his education. In 1994 he completed the HVAC program at North Georgia Tech. In June of 1995, Freddy opened the doors of Webb’s Heating & Cooling on Savannah Street in downtown Clayton, Georgia. His wife Vickie and daughter Teresa Webb Bentley were both LPN’s at this time. In 1997, Vickie and Teresa decided to help Freddy with the family business. Freddy and Vickie purchased land in 2001 on Old Highway 441 North, approximately one mile out of town (across from the Habitat Re-store) and moved their office to the current location 1191 Old 441 North, Clayton Georgia. The Webbs attribute the success of their business to God and would like to thank the community for allowing them to take care of all their HVAC needs. At Webb’s Heating and Cooling they make sure their customers get the most out of what they spend. With years of experience, they will cater to all your air conditioning and heating needs. They service and repair customers with excellence work. Webb’s provides sales, service and installation and take pride in making sure their customers feel good at home or at their business. They are happy to provide estimates on new installations. With Webb’s Heating and Cooling, you can expect value and comfort. They specialize in new constructions, existing homes, replacements, heat pumps, dual fuel hybrid systems, zone systems, mini-splits, whole house dehumidifiers, indoor air quality and service of all makes. The office is open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information call 706.782.1703 or you can visit their website Webbsheatingandcooling.com.

September 2015

By God’s Hand – The Attaway Wedding

Mitchum Lee Attaway & Courtney Logan Watts by Tracy McCoy

hen God has a plan, He will use as many people as it takes to make it happen. Courtney Watts graduated from Rabun County High School in 2010 and went to Truett-McConnell College to continue her education. She settled in nicely at TMC in Cleveland, Georgia with aspirations to be an educator. One day after class Courtney’s Professor Vicki Beggs asked if she could speak with her after class. She asked if Courtney was dating anyone and when Vicki found out she wasn’t she asked if she could share Courtney’s number with her nephew Mitch Attaway; she thought they would make a good couple. Courtney agreed and left her number with Vicki. Meanwhile Courtney was doing part of her student teaching at a Hall County school and she met teacher Jennifer Lattanzi. It had been a couple of months since Vicki had taken Courtney’s number and Jennifer and Courtney were talking and the subject of dating came up. She told Courtney about a family friend and neighbor who she thought would be perfect for her. She thought that their personalities would match and they’d really like each other. After asking just a few questions it turned out Jenny was talking about Mitch Attaway. Neither, Vicki or Jenny knew the other was talking to Courtney. Later that week Mitch made the call but not recognizing the number Courtney didn’t answer and he didn’t leave a message. Jenny asked if he had called and Courtney said only one strange number with no message and Jenny verified it was indeed Mitch calling. Courtney called back and the couple played phone tag with neither leaving a message. Finally a text was sent and answered and a date was planned. On May 7, 2013 Courtney Watts was meeting her blind date Mitch Attaway at Longhorn Steak House in Cornelia, Georgia; neither having any idea what the other looked like. When Courtney arrived she sent a message to Mitch to let him know she was there. They both got out of the car and would you believe they were dressed alike! Blue gingham checked button up shirts and jeans. They laughed it off and went in to eat. Their server asked if they had been to have an engagement photo shoot, little did she know it was their first meeting. Well that date resulted in many more and both Vicki and Jenny were right it was a perfect match most definitely made in Heaven. When Mitch knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Courtney he planned his proposal carefully. Mitch and his family had “tent” camped at Mossy Creek Campground in Cleveland, Georgia for generations. It is a campground where church members from

September 2015

www.gmlaurel.com

surrounding churches come together for one week each year to visit, reminisce, enjoy fellowship and worship. It is almost like a Vacation Bible School for both adults and children that lasts 24 hours each day. It is a very special place to him filled with countless family memories. He knew that proposing there would be like combining all of the traditions and history he had there to the hopes and dreams of their future. So on July 11, 2014 under the arbor he knelt and asked Courtney to be his wife. She said yes! Plans began and a date was set for July 11, 2015. They choose the home of a family friend Corrine Grizzard atop Black Rock Mountain as the location for their wedding. Courtney selected as her Matron of Honor Kim Rogers, Bridesmaids: Carrie Beck, Ashley Blackburn, Chelcey Bleckley, Madison Clay and Hope Presley, Honorary Bridesmaids: Jessica King, Bethann Rogers and Jade Smith, Jr. Honorary Bridesmaids: Eliza Jane Glover and Emma Suzanne King. Her flower girl was Emma Grace Rogers, her ring bearer was Owen Rogers and she was escorted down the aisle by Matt Woodall. Mitch selected as his Best Man: Tim Attaway, Groomsmen: Clay Haynes, Dustin Hudgins, Chad Hulsey, Joe Kelly, and Zac Venable, Ushers: Payton Edge, Nic Haynes and Dylan Smith. To organize the wedding and make sure it went off without a hitch the Wedding Coordinator was Shanda Bartlett and the Wedding Director was Eileen Barrett. Dusty Rogers married the couple. Tara and Mackenzie York made sure that everyone’s hair was just perfect. Music was played for the ceremony by Taylor Beck and Colby Pendrey. At the reception music was performed by: Mark Jones, Joe Kelly, Jeff and Brandy Holcomb. The wedding cake was beautifully done by Vivian Green and a special treat of wedding cake ice cream was provided by Mountain Fresh Creamery. The flowers and arrangements were fantastic and artfully done by Kim and Jeff King with Courtney’s grandfather Frank Watts providing wooden platforms. The doors that were part of the décor were created by Rogers Family Designs. Courtney and Mitch’s photos were done by Lisa Hopper Photography and aerial shots were done by Scott Poss. Courtney’s and Mitch’s family and friends joined together to provide and prepare the food for the reception and served it as well. The décor was country rustic elegance with a farmer’s twist. The wedding was picture-perfect for this couple who makes their home today in Cleveland, Georgia. Courtney spends her days in the classroom at Mossy Creek Elementary School making a difference in the lives of 5th graders. She also coaches the JV Girl’s Basketball at White County High and serves as an assistant coach for the Varsity Girls. Mitch is the plant manager at Lanier Cold Storage and when he isn’t working he is in the field or the barn with his dairy and beef cattle at their farm. In her spare time, Courtney enjoys playing golf, loves outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. In closing Courtney told me that, “God had a plan for me, going to Truett-McConnell and looking back at our story I see it was a true act of God that brought us together. I’m so very blessed and I thank God every day for my many blessings, and for the man He brought into my life to be my husband.” What a perfect wedding story. We wish you a lifetime together and happiness always!

www.gmlaurel.com

September 2015