400 Edition W h a t ’s
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N o r t h
APR/MAY 2009
G e o r g i a
Back to Basics
From Field to Fork
Whitestone Farm and 61 Main are keeping good food fresh!
FREE
April/May 2009 Carole Lee, Founder/Creative Design Linda Merritt, Founder/Sales/Executive Editor Beth Snider, Founder/Sales/Creative Design Rhonda Bailey, Associate Editor/Sales Will Dunne, Sales/Distribution Sarah Mansfield, Sales/Distribution Kim Maples, Inside Sales Bob Merritt, Sales/Distribution Brooke Morris, Creative Design Cindy Proctor, Sales/Distribution Sharon Waldrop, Sales/Distribution Nancy Wright, Proofing
Contributing Writers: Anne Amerson
Steven Leibel
Charles Cook
Dr. Joyce Nations
Clay Cunningham
Donald Pruitt
Dr. Mark Feinsilber
John Roberts
Nancy Forrest
O’Connell & Sanders
Robin Toms Grier
Linda Ragland
Bill Hutcheson
Dawn Rowley
Martha Hynson
Patrick Snider
Sharon Keating
Staff Writers: Rhonda Bailey
Bob Merritt
Carole Lee
Linda Merritt
Jim Leeds
Beth Snider
Nancy Wright
400 Edition is published monthly in Dahlonega, Georgia, with distribution in seven counties. Viewpoints expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the publishers, staff or advertisers. 400 Edition is not liable for inaccurate or erroneous information posted in advertising or event submissions. Ads must be submitted by the 28th of every month, unless arrangements have been made in advance. Content and presentation of advertisements is subject to editorial review and modification. Ad dimensions and pricing may be obtained by calling 706-867-6455 or 866-867-7557. These specs may also be viewed at www.400edition.com. Writers may submit material to editor@400edition.com. Submissions are subject to approval by the editor and may be edited for space, requirements, and style. The deadline for submissions is the 20th of each month. Contents of this publication become the property of 400 Edition and the original author and cannot be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. This publication is printed by Walton Press in Monroe, GA.
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420 Wal-Mart Way, Suite 171 Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 Phone: 706-867-6455 Toll Free: 866-867-7557 Fax: 678-623-0605 www.400edition.com info@400edition.com
From the Editor...
W
elcome to our April/May issue. Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. As I write this, the dogwoods are starting to bloom out, the Bradford pear blooms are gone, the redbud trees are still beautiful, and the leaves are coming out on most of the trees surrounding our home. Don’t you just love this time of the year? Everything seems so clean and fresh. We’ve had lots of good rain which we needed badly and I’m sure our water levels have come up. Bob has planted most of our garden, and some plants are breaking through the ground. If you have a garden in your plans for this year, you may want to get started on it. If you don’t have the time, or a green thumb, you may want to start visiting your local Farmers Markets. I found a good web site to help locate your nearest market. Go to www.localharvest.org and search using your zip code or state. There are markets all over our state of Georgia. I have been to the market in Jasper and they have a good variety of good things to eat. It is also fun to just visit with the folks bringing their wares to you. You can usually find some good flowering plants for your yard and deck. We will celebrate Mother’s Day on May 10. We hope you enjoy our tribute to mothers in this issue. Thanks to you folks who sent pictures to share with our readers. I always want to put into words what my mother meant to me but that’s a hard thing to do. She was the best mother anyone could have—we all thought so, and so did our friends. She made the time to teach me all the important things in life, like taking
me to church every Sunday and making me behave like a lady. I’m not sure she succeeded with that but honey, you will never see me wearing white shoes before Easter! Best of all, she instilled in me what a mother should be and I tried to raise my daughters using those same ideals. She would be proud of all of them and the way they are today. Unfortunately she died before they were out of their teens, but I believe she knows what fine ladies they are. For most of our lives we have listened to people warning us to take care of this Earth that God gave to us. We haven’t done a very good job. Our oceans, rivers, streams, and lakes are polluted to the point you really don’t want to eat fish or seafood. We’ve used so many pesticides that fruits and vegetables are iffy too. So—we haven’t been good stewards in those areas. We think those areas are far away from us; but have you driven any of the highways in North Georgia and seen all the trash thrown on the sides of the road? How can people just throw trash out their window? We can’t change most people, but at least we can do our part to keep the Earth a good place to live for our children and grandchildren. So until next month…stay happy.
On the Cover H
ow often is it that you actually see a chef in the garden? Through Community Sponsored Agriculture (CSA), Whitestone Farm grows it and 61 Main loads it onto your plate—fresh from Russell and Kristina Cutts’ farm, with loving preparation by chef Jenna Schreiber. 400 Edition applauds their efforts to go back to the basics of fresh, local products provided in an earth-friendly way. Whitestone Farm provides garden favorites like mesclun salad, tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, peppers, carrots, winter greens, and such. They cultivate indigenous plants such as Jerusalem artichoke, blackberries, blueberries, mushrooms, woods-violet and wood-sorrel. Naturalized mustards and lambsquarters grow alongside starts of spinach, tatsoi, beets, and cabbage. Their herbs are predominantly heirloom varieties such as garlic chives, Egyptian walking onions, lemon thyme, and chocolate mint. Annual membership in the CSA is $50.00 and members get 10% off of all marked products. A visit to the Whitestone Farm Stand just north of Jasper on Highway 515 is well worth the trip. See their web site, www. whitestonefarm.biz, for directions and more information. As much fun as the farm experience is, one of 400 Edition’s favorite ways to enjoy these fresh products is by ordering them at 61 Main in historic downtown Jasper. 61 Main’s 100% commitment to the concept of farm-to-table is inspiring, especially since they serve it up in such a tasty fashion. If you haven’t eaten there yet, we can’t wait for you to see how delightful freshfrom-the-farm dining can be. You can read all about our recent dining experience in Good Eating on page 23. See www.61Main.com to get more information about Jenna and her team. This month’s issue provides other examples of folks who are keeping things simple. No need for shrink wrap, or packaging that requires a chainsaw for removal. By sticking with the basics, we consume only what is necessary and support local suppliers. Don’t hold back; tell us how you really feel about 400 Edition. We love receiving feedback from our readers and advertisers. Call us at 706-867-6455, toll free at 866-867-7557, or send an email to info@400edition.com.
April/May 2009 Volume 6, Issue 2
Contents
Jasper Farmers Market, page 9
Back to Basics
Columns
10 To Your Health
4 400 Edition Goes Back to the Basics
5 One Community, One Spirit 9 Jasper Farmers Market
9 Sautee Nacoochee Annual Pig Out
11 Making a Difference in Ellijay
14 Fun by 400 15 Comma Momma 16 Mind & Heart 22 Knowing Wine 23 Good Eating—61 Main 23 Real Men Cook—Delmonico Potatoes
A list of major distribution points in North Georgia can be found online at www.400edition.com.
400 Edition Goes Back to the Basics
by Beth Snider, Linda Merritt, and Carole Lee
ou hold in your hands what has Yeconomic become a leading indicator of conditions in North Georgia—an issue of 400 Edition. When the housing market was in full boom, 400 Edition was 144 pages. You might remember that one—it had Bo Bice on the cover to promote his appearance at the Cumming Country Fair, and we still see it from time to time at various advertisers, or on the coffee tables of dedicated readers. This current issue, alas, is our second one of 24 pages—the first one being two issues ago for February/March 2009. When the three of us and Bob Merritt sat in the Merritts’ living room and molded the idea of 400 Edition, none of us could have anticipated the incredible success that has been enjoyed by our publication. It is truly an example of the American Dream—work hard, do the right thing, and you can achieve success. 400 Edition is also an example of God’s faithfulness. We have committed our publication to being run on biblical principles and He has protected that mission at every turn. Part of staying FREE to our loyal readers is that advertising revenues support the number of pages printed, the number of copies we produce, and the areas to which we distribute. No one is more disappointed than we are when our advertising sales simply cannot support the fantastic and diverse content we receive each month. It is still thrilling when readers approach us on the street to say how much the magazine means to them. We know that this publication is one of the best things we have done in our lives. It has truly never been a job for us, and our entire staff participates each month in giving the gift of a new issue to our advertisers and readers. Much of the success of 400 Edition is due to the staunch support of our consistent advertisers. Organizations like Northside Hospital, Big Canoe Company, Lakota Cove, America’s Home Place, United Community Bank, Blue Ridge Cedar Homes (Lindal), Doodad’s, Bowen Classic Realty, Trinity Custom Homes, Chestatee Regional Hospital, The Cumming Playhouse, Duke Electric, Fred’s Beds, White Interiors, Cottonwood Village, the Holly Theatre, and the City of Cumming Fairgrounds have been in it for the long haul. Blue Ridge Cedar
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April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Homes has been in every issue we’ve published since our very first in March/ April 2004. Not only have these advertisers been loyal to our mission, their businesses have seen the benefit that consistent print advertising in a strong medium provides. This support has helped us grow over the years, from distributing in five North Georgia counties to thirteen at one point, including some counties in North Carolina. We still receive requests to provide distribution from all over the state and beyond. We have gone from printing 10,000 copies to 35,000 copies a month. The knowledge that we touch so many lives makes it difficult for us to make tough decisions like limiting our distribution, but those decisions have to be made in order to maintain our commitment to the presence of 400 Edition in those readers’ lives. So echoing the message of this issue, we are going back to the basics. With this issue, we will limit distribution to seven counties: North Fulton, Forsyth, Dawson, Lumpkin, Pickens, Gilmer, and Fannin. We expect this to be temporary and hope to be back to our full-strength distribution within the next few issues. So if you are in one of the counties that will no longer be enjoying 400 Edition in your neighborhood, we encourage you to let those you do business with know that they can help make it easier for you to pick it up locally by placing an ad. Along with that show of commitment, they will also enjoy prosperity for their business—advertising in 400 Edition really does work! We encourage you to take the traditional-media blinders off and see things for what they are. Much of our current recession is the result of scare tactics and a glut of bad-news reporting; but many businesses are flourishing today. Make today the day you choose not to participate in the recession, and support your business and your community by continuing to market. We also petition those past advertisers who have outstanding balances with us: Take care of your obligations, just as we fulfilled our obligation to you. The current economic landscape is temporary, and we intend to be here for the long haul!
One Community, One Spirit
by Sharon Waldrop
part of the ongoing Athe scommunity effort to assist people of Fannin County, a
program called “Feed Fannin” has been started. Feed Fannin is comprised of over 50 volunteers who are dedicated to feeding the hungry in the area, by means of a community garden that will benefit the Family Connection’s resource center. The garden groundbreaking, on land donated by Davenport Wood Yard close to downtown Blue Ridge, took place on March 10, and volunteers are in the process of fertilizing the soil in preparation for planting. Taking their cue from Cartecay Missions Garden in Gilmer County, they hope to be able to produce over 700 pounds of vegetables their first year. The Gilmer Project was able to triple its output in four years. Blue Ridge is blessed with a cannery facility, which will be utilized to preserve the garden’s output for use throughout the year. In addition to this effort, the Blue Ridge Fresh Market was started on May 31 of last year. They started with eleven vendors, and by peak season had over 40 vendors offering an array of fruits, vegetables, honey, fresh eggs, freshly caught trout, and canned goods, as well as beautiful handmade crafts. During the summer they learned that there were families who needed help, and they began to collect food from the local farmers at the end of the season to give to Americorps, the local food bank. After a very successful first year, the market needed another location in order to accommodate a larger number of vendors and patrons. Beginning May 22, they will be located off Hwy. 515 at the Cohutta Feed and Seed Complex. As a part of the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project community, they have brought together a few of the best reasons to support
your Farmers Market.
1. Eat Fresher, Healthier Foods
When produce is shipped hundreds and thousands of miles, it loses crispness, flavor, and nutrients. Foods grown to be shipped may be picked before they ripen and treated with chemicals. If you are buying at a Farmers Market, the produce was most likely picked that morning.
2. Support Your Farming Neighbors
Fewer and fewer farms are able to stay in business. Faced with increasing costs and competition from corporate farms, it is getting harder for farmers to make a profit. Use your food dollars to support a family you know, not a big business based elsewhere.
3. Sustain Rural Heritage & Lifestyles
Farming has long been a way of life in this area, and farms have been passed from generation to generation. Family farmers are a central part of our community.
4. Encourage Sustainable Farming Practices Benefiting Human, Animal, and Environment
Family farmers value their water and land, as they must maintain these resources to continue farming. Family farms often use less fossil fuel and fewer chemicals than industrial farms and are also more accountable.
5. Keeping Farming Skills Alive & Farmland Available
The numbers of farmers are rapidly declining. We must insure that the essential knowledge is passed on, and make staying on the farm a good option for our young people.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
In Memory of Father and Mrs. Christmas by Jenni Jackson
F
or the past five years, Christmas in North Georgia has been enhanced by the presence of Father and Mrs. Christmas. Tony and Ann Ianuario have spread their magic, dressed in robes of tapestry, leather, and fur, handmade by Ann. They have brought joy to children and adults throughout the area, touching the hearts of everyone they met. Sadly, that very wonderful part of Christmas has come to an end, with the insurmountable loss of Tony and Ann in a tragic auto accident on March 6, 2009. Tony and Ann had been inseparable for many years, having rekindled a high school relationship while attending their 20-year class reunion in Augusta, Georgia, in 1986. They shared many interests, including music, storytelling, and their love of children and of their friends and acquaintances. Tony and Ann treasured the moments of their portrayal of Father and Mrs. Christmas. Not only did they greatly enjoy their times on the Dahlonega Square, but they were also devoted to participating in the timeless, magical photography with children through the Frog Hollow Gallery. They were “the real” Father and Mrs. Christmas, not only in Dahlonega, but for miles around. Tony and Ann will be remembered too for the many other interests in their lives. Ann’s dream was to become a writer, and she had recently had several articles published. One of her favorites was called “The Wreck of the Old ’44,” which was the story of how Tony rebuilt the remains of a 1944 Gibson guitar, restoring it to nearly new, but looking in “old” condition. Ann was also a great storyteller, and was, in fact, headed to Habersham County to do a storytelling for children when their fatal accident occurred. A neighbor related that Ann was dressed in one of her home-made, old-fashioned outfits, complete with bonnet and ribbon and her effervescent smile, as they left their home in Jefferson that day. Family history, complete with old family recipes, was really important to Ann, and she had spent the past few years delving into whatever she could find and document. The only thing more
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April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
important to her was her Tony. Tony also left his mark as a luthier (a person who repairs or makes stringed instruments). But Tony was much more than a luthier. He made by hand numerous mandolins and a few fiddles, repaired stringed instruments for hundreds of people, and left his mark on thousands. He restored many stringed instruments that anyone else would have declared “unfixable.” His talent was mindboggling. One of his handmade mandolins rests in the Smithsonian, a continuing memorial to him. He also enjoyed life to the utmost when he was playing an instrument, whether he made it or fixed it, and was seen many a time dancing around a room as he joyfully played, grinning his delight. Tony will always be remembered as “the real Santa.” He looked the part, acted the part, and WAS the real Santa. He wouldn’t drink a beer in a restaurant, because he didn’t want children to see Santa drinking. He carried jingle bells in the pockets of his overalls—worn of course with a red shirt—year round. He drove a bright red Dodge Magnum, which he called “the red sled.” When children approached him in public and asked him if he was Santa, he would say, as he peered over his rimless spectacles, “Yes, but sshhhhh, I’m on vacation.” Tony always had a special “Santa” answer for every child’s question, and always left them beaming with joy. In the minds of so many people, Tony and Ann will be way up there on their mostunforgettable-characters list. They will be remembered in our hearts, our photographs, our personal memories, and in the just-goingson of our everyday lives.
Antiques
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Fred’s Beds & Furniture With a great mix of new, used, and consignment furniture, Fred’s Beds & Furniture offers bargain hunters amazing deals on just about anything you can think of! Fred’s also offers many choices of Simmons, Golden and RestMaster bed sets at well below suggested retail prices and backs up its claim to have “The Best Mattress Prices!” It’s worth the trip! Open Monday thru Friday 10:00am to 6:00pm and Saturdays 10:00am to 5:00pm. Closed Sundays. Located in the Old Matt Schoolhouse at Hwy 369 & Bannister Road in North Forsyth County – 5 miles West of Hwy 400. 5710 Namon Wallace Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Phone – 678-455-1190 FAX – 678-455-1191 www.freds-beds.com *See our ad on back cover.
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Cottonwood Village Antiques 10,000 square feet of merchandise: collectible firearms and militaria, fine art, period estate furniture, glassware, china, tools, pottery and linens. Visit the Country Store for handmade herbal soaps and lotions, soy candles, homemade jams, jellies and vegetables, Nora Mill whole grains and fresh local produce. Buy-Sell-Trade. 4300 Dawsonville Highway
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(Highway 53) 770-205-7800 www.cottonwoodvillage.net *See our ad on page 5. Fran-Tiques Located less than 2 hours from Atlanta, in scenic Union County. Something for everyone—fabulous, unique finds in every nook and cranny. True antiques to collectibles, including furniture, glassware, silver, china, books, vintage clothing, jewelry, linens, and lace. Open 7 days a week. 505 Cleveland Street, Blairsville, GA 1/2 mile from the Square on Highway 129. 706-745-1705
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Yonah Mountain Treasures One of North Georgia’s most unique stores, Yonah Mountain Treasures features the work of more than 75 area artists, potters, woodworkers, and others. This store is a museum, art gallery, book nook, and country store all in one. In addition, Yonah Mountain Treasures has wonderfully unique items that will add to the décor of any mountain home or cabin. Here, you’ll find original paintings by Judy Bynum George, Susan Hage, Cornbread, Jack DeLoney, and John Kollock. They have wooden creations, custom picture framing,
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April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
imported jewelry, and even old photo restoration. And at Yonah Mountain Treasures, candy is always “A Dollar A Dip!” Highway 75, two miles north of Cleveland, GA, next to the Yonah Burger. 706-348-8236. *See our ad on this page. Iron Accents Owner Valerie Kirves & designer Terri Winans (previously of Endless Treasures) have merged the worlds of iron, architecturals, antiques & design to create a wonderfully eclectic mix of old and new. Shoppers are sure to enjoy browsing the various vignettes throughout the store that feature unique handcrafted pieces including new & vintage furniture, home décor, garden accessories, architecturals, seasonal florals, and gift items. Located in Clermont, Georgia, on the corner of highway 129 and Oxford Road just 8 miles south of Cleveland and north of Gainesville. 6415 Cleveland Highway Open Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm to 5:00pm. 770-539-9093 www.ironaccents.com *See our ad on page 11.
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Jasper Farmers Market
his is the 10th year Toperating. the market will be The market
will be open on Saturdays from April 4 until October 31, 7:30am to noon; and on Wednesdays, June 17 through August 26, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Vendors will sell fresh vegetables and fruits in season, many different types of plants, herbs, shrubs, trees, and hanging baskets, honey, farm animals, eggs, wooden crafts and arts, pottery, artwork, jewelry, yard art, soaps, and more. Thirty vendors are expected at the beginning of the season, swelling to about 70 by mid-season. Free admission and parking. Directions: Take 515 North to Jasper; turn right (east) on Hwy 53 toward downtown Jasper. Go 1 1/2 miles and look for the market on the left in the Park & Ride Lot, near Newton Park. The market is sponsored by Master Gardeners of Pickens County and Pickens County Extension Office. For more information, go to www.pickensmg.com or call the county extension office at 706-253-8840.
Sautee Nacoochee Annual Pig-Out T
his Memorial Day weekend will mark the 20th anniversary of the Sautee Nacoochee Volunteer Fire Department’s annual Pig-Out fundraiser. Proceeds from the event go to help SNVFD make the community and the surrounding area a safer place to live, work, and raise families. Make your plans now to stop by the Sautee Nacoochee Community Center on Hwy. 255 North near the Hwy. 17 intersection on Saturday, May 23. Serving begins at noon and continues until 6 p.m. or until the food gives out. There’ll be pork, chicken, and Brunswick stew, plus firehouse beans, slaw, and Texas toast. An adult plate is $10; children under 12, $5. Look for music, fun, and a lot more. And don’t miss the fire department Auxiliary’s bake sale. Proceeds from previous events have been used to purchase lifesaving equipment. Last year, for example, Station Three purchased a state-of-art automated electronic defibrillator. Proceeds from other years have been used to buy a thermal imaging camera that allows firefighters to scan a structure to check for persons who may be trapped inside; a Rescue Randy, a fully-articulated dummy used in
by Allen Hauck
training exercises; and a computer software program that helps locate lost individuals. This year, SNVFD hopes to offer free CPR and First Aid courses. The Pig-Out is a community project. Out beside the Center and the Folk Pottery Museum, firefighters and friends begin tending the charcoal fire the evening before, and lay out cases of pork butts on the 20foot grill when the coals are just right. Hours later, when the pork is being pulled and chopped, the chickens get their turns over the embers. And while cooks are tending to the meat, wives and friends are stirring together the ingredients for gallons of spicy Brunswick stew. In 2008, more than 700 meals were dished up. With assemblyline efficiency, the lines move fast, allowing you plenty of time to sample the treats of the White County Fire Department Auxiliary’s bake sale. Eat in or take out. While you’re there, check out the Pottery Museum and visit the expanded Center art gallery and shop. For additional information contact Capt. Roger Williams at 706-878-9349 or SNVFD@windstream.net.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
Northside Hospital
Free Stroke Screenings As part of a continued commitment to community health, Northside Hospital is offering free stroke screenings in May. Participants will learn their current risk for stroke and how to reduce risk factors. Saturday, May 2 9:00am-12:00pm at Northside Hospital Outpatient Center Meridian Mark 5445 Meridian Mark Road, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30342. Pre-registration is required. To make an appointment, call 404-845-5555 and press “0.”
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To Your Health
Every Second Counts - Learn The Signs And Symptoms Of Stroke
W
hether you are a man or woman, a Caucasian or an African American, in the prime of life or enjoying your golden years, you may be at risk for a stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the third leading cause of death in Georgia. The best protection for you and your loved ones against this potentially debilitating and life-threatening event is to know the warning signs and symptoms of stroke and receive prompt medical assistance when they appear, because every minute counts.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the brain’s blood supply is suddenly obstructed, cutting off the flow of nutrients and oxygen needed for the brain to function, and resulting in the death of brain cells. It can be brought on by a blockage or clot in the blood vessels that lead to the brain (ischemic stroke) or, less commonly, when a blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).
Warning Signs & Symptoms
Stroke is a life-threatening emergency and should be treated with the same urgency as a heart attack. The good news is that when medical attention is sought within the first three hours of the onset of symptoms, treatments are available to reduce disability and save lives. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following warning signs and symptoms, call 911 immediately.
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Sudden trouble seeing with one or both eyes • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination • Sudden severe headache with no known cause
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Northside Hospital Stroke Care Program
Suffering a stroke can be a difficult and life-altering occurrence, but Northside Hospital wants you to know that you are not alone during this challenging time. Northside Hospital’s Stroke Care Program, in Atlanta and Forsyth, is an Advanced Primary Stroke Care Center of Excellence, certified by the Joint Commission. The program provides state-of-the-art care using advanced radiological techniques for diagnosis and treatment and has an interdisciplinary stroke team to help reduce the impact of a stroke, while optimizing patients’ recoveries. The Stroke Program also features a dedicated unit, a comprehensive education packet to help guide a patient through their treatment, 24/7 neurosurgery, and a 24/7 special stroke call team of board-certified neurologists. For more information about stroke and Northside’s Stroke Care Program, call 404-845-5265 or visit www. northside.com.
Making a Difference in Ellijay!
by Sharon Waldrop
Sustainable Movement was started Tweinhedo2001 in California. Today, however, not have to travel far to encounter the same goals. Here, in the North Georgia mountains, more specifically the city of Ellijay, we have an organization that provides us with that same direction. Through the dreams and hard work of JoAnn Adams and Rick Lucas, this concept has been delivered to our mountain area. Only an hour’s drive north of Atlanta is a jewel known as the Martyn House, an 18-acre estate devoted to bringing nature and community to the people, with an incredible atmosphere designed to inspire creativity through the arts. The Martyn House opens its doors throughout the year to host Sustainable Dinners, Artist Retreats, and Artist Studio Tours. The property has been thoughtfully designed, and is equipped for hosting
special events such as weddings, receptions, workshops, music, dancing, and theater events. The Sustainable Dinners are part of an effort to raise awareness of locally grown and produced foods and to celebrate local organic farmers, food artisans, and winemakers. All of these are highlighted as a local chef presents a multi-course dinner for guests. The Sustainable Dinner commences at 5:00pm when guests are greeted with refreshments before they proceed on a self-guided tour of the property. They then gather outside at long linen-draped harvest tables, where they are served family style, in the old southern tradition, with the stars as their roof. In the event of rain, elegant tents imported from India can provide shelter. The largest “tent,” The Buckingham, is equipped with a movie screen, projector, and complete sound system. If guests choose to stay overnight, they’re accommodated in one of the beautiful luxury cottage sleeping tents. Each cottage tent has a covered veranda, a large living/ sleeping room, and a full ecobathroom. For more details on this creative experience, you can visit their web site at www.themartynhouse.com, or phone 706-635-4759.
11th Annual Rubber Duck Derby
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ne rubber duck is good for a few laughs—but thousands of ducks? Now that’s a party the whole family can enjoy! On Saturday, May 16, 2009, those cute little yellow rubber ducks will invade Lake Lanier to raise money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County. This year’s winner will fly the coop with a $10,000 cash grand prize, which was made possible through an anonymous donation to the Rubber Duck Derby. The event takes place from 10:30am to 2:30pm at Gainesville’s Clarks Bridge Park. It will feature a Family Fun Day sponsored by Edmondson-Telford Center, INK Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, and Safe Kids, complete with food, games, vendors, and plenty of entertainment, including music and singing from Melvin Banks. New this year will be a Family Health Fair, which will include fun activities, educational information, and health screenings. At 2pm, it’s the “must see” event when over 16,000 rubber ducks, sporting fashionable sunglasses, will be cast into Lake Lanier. These rubber ducks, which have been adopted
by supporters of the fundraiser, will then race toward the finish line, to win great prizes for their adoptive parents. Prizes include $10,000 cash, a 1-carat solitaire diamond from Gainesville Jewelry, a Lake Lanier Islands Resort Getaway, a $500 Best Buy gift card, and a Taste of the Town package from various restaurants. Ducks may be adopted for a $5 donation for a single duck; Quack Packs are $25 for six ducks; and Grand Packs are $100 for 25 ducks. Remember, the more ducks you have entered in the race, the better your chances to win. You can adopt your ducks by calling the Cingular Wireless Duck Line at 770-656-DUCK (770-656-3825) or by visiting www. rubberduckderby.com. This event benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County, which has served local youth for over 55 years. The Clubs have been in the forefront of youth development, working with young people ages 6-18 years. Their mission is to help youth of all backgrounds develop the qualities needed to become responsible citizens and leaders.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
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Celebrating Third Grade Style
Why did God make mothers? She’s the only one who knows where the scotch tape is. Mostly to clean the house. To help us out of there when we were getting born. How did God make mothers? He used dirt, just like for the rest of us. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring. God made my mom just the same like he made me... He just used bigger parts. What ingredients are mothers made of? God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean. They had to get their start from men’s bones. Then they mostly use string, I think. Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot. She got too old to do anything else with him.
We’re related.
My grandma says that Mom didn’t have her thinking cap on.
God knew she likes me a lot more than other people’s moms like me.
Who’s the boss at your house?
What kind of little girl was your mom?
Mom doesn’t want to be boss, but she has to because
My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff. I don’t know because I wasn’t there, but my guess would be, pretty bossy. They say she used to be nice. What did Mom need to know about Dad before she married him? His last name. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer? Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
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Why did your mom marry your dad?
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
g Mothers Dad’s such a goofball. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than Dad. What’s the difference between moms and dads? Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power ’cause that’s who you get to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend’s. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine. What does your mom do in her spare time? Mothers don’t do spare time. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long. What would it take to make your mom
perfect? On the inside she’s already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery. Diet. You know, her hair. I’d diet, maybe blue. If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be? She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I’d get rid of that. I’d make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 13
Fun 400 by
Courtesy of ActivityConnection.com. Answers on page 21.
K L P L D P Q Q E A Y L E Y D
14 400 Edition
N Q Y R W D C R N P R K D K E
I I V P W O U D O I L Y I M C
C F D R P T A Z M F E V G X O
K S P Z C E Y W A O W G U U R
K W O I W O L L I P E W Q B A
N N P U Y W R X B T J N F Z T
A W I Q C N A Q B S E J O Y I
C F L C M F C G F E C K G H O
K D M S K A L J V E Q A S B N
L V J O R K A W S A U Y R A S
T X X D E C N A U M I U G F B
R S S B I P V A S I L S Q Y S
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
P O T P O U R R I K T E Y P S
Homemade Crafts The list of words below can be found horizontally, vertically, diagonally, forwards, and backwards. BASKET CARDS DECORATIONS DOILY JEWELRY KNICK-KNACK PICTURE PILLOW POTPOURRI QUILT SCARF VASE
Comma Momma
by Nancy Wright
Close Still Doesn’t Count, Part 5
A
s we’ve said in earlier columns, “close doesn’t count” when it comes to word choices. Here are a few more of those word pairs that frequently trip speakers and writers up in their efforts to use today’s standard English.
Elicit/illicit
Testimony/testimonial
Capital/capitol
Testimony is typically used to refer to what someone says when they’re in court telling what they saw, or (in a spiritual context) are telling about the changes God has made in their life. Testimonial, on the other hand, is usually “a recommendation of the character or worth of a person or thing.” The two words are simply not interchangeable. A Christian web site indicating that its staff members have posted their “testimonials” is using the wrong word.
Wile/while
Wile as a noun, most often seen in the plural, means tricks to lure someone into doing something (“the wiles of a dishonest salesman”). While when it’s used as a verb means to spend time idly (“He whiled away the morning playing Sudoku”). An article in a local magazine recently reported that a family “wiles away a lazy summer afternoon.” While this usage is not uncommon, and is even found in some dictionaries, it’s generally not considered the correct word in formal writing; you’d be better off to write “whiles away the afternoon.”
Elicit is a verb that means to draw out (“His questioning elicited the fact that she was ill”). Illicit is an adjective meaning unlawful, as in “illicit relationship.”
Capital can mean main or first, or the original part of a sum of money. It can also mean the town or city that’s a seat of government (“Atlanta is the capital of Georgia”), and has numerous other meanings related to the idea of big or important. Capitol, on the other hand, is only used to indicate the building where a governing body meets. “The gold on the dome of the capitol in Atlanta came from Lumpkin County.”
Bizarre/bazaar
Bizarre as an adjective means weird and maybe even downright creepy (“My computer is doing bizarre things”). Bazaar is a noun that’s traditionally used to mean a marketplace for miscellaneous items (“Please donate items for our fund-raising bazaar”); originally it had distinctly Oriental overtones.
Tenet/tenant
A tenet is a belief. A tenant is someone who’s renting your house.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Acronym/anachronism
An acronym is a word made up of the first letters of the words of a longer phrase: NASA, RAM, NIMBY, and the like. An anachronism, on the other hand, is something that’s depicted as being used outside its proper historical time period (the “chron” part of the word anachronism means “time”). In a movie about Thomas Jefferson, if he’s writing the Declaration of Independence with a felt marker, the felt marker would be an anachronism. Similarly, when movie makers shoot a film set in the nineteenth century, they’re always having to yell at the extras to turn their dang cell phones off, so that somebody’s ringtone of “Never Gonna Give You Up” doesn’t go off just as John Wilkes Booth is yelling “Sic semper tyrannis” and shooting President Lincoln. A cell phone ringing in an Abraham Lincoln movie would be an anachronism. But how could anybody mix up anachronism and acronym, two completely unrelated terms? Well, say anachronism (“uh-NACK-ruh-nizum”). Now say an acronym (“uh-NACK-ruh-nim”). See? Nancy Wright does occasional editing and proofreading, and formats technical books for a specialty publishing house in California. She and her husband live in White County; you can contact her at adairmill@windstream.net. You can visit the forums at www.400edition.com to read some earlier columns.
400 Edition 15
How Well Do You Know Your Teen or Preteen?
Mind and heart mind & heart
W
ith Mother’s Day and Father’s Day upcoming, it seems only natural to simply enjoy these days as celebrations and/or acknowledgments from one’s children about our importance to them as parents. Since children are often on the “receiving end” of our efforts to parent and provide for them materially, these holidays represent an opportunity to reverse roles a bit and be indulged with cards, presents, dinners, or even just a heartfelt acknowledgment of the day spoken in their own words. As valued as we may be by our children, it is another matter entirely to consider how well we actually know them. I have long observed in my own work with families that parents are often surprised, at times even shocked, when the real details/issues behind behavioral events in their children’s lives surface. Many a parent in family counseling has been heard to utter such statements as, “I had no idea of what kind of life my son was leading behind our backs,” or “We never heard of any of those other kids that she was with when she got in trouble.” These statements usually signal the presence of an “information gap” of some magnitude existing within the home pertaining to the parents’ knowledge of how their children are truly living their lives. As preadolescents move into adolescence, their needs for at least some privacy and autonomy naturally increase, and many parents recognize these needs and are respectful of them. Besides, it usually doesn’t take more than a few curt, impatient adolescent grunts in response to “conversational” (what parents usually call them) questions by parents to prevent any meaningful exchanges from taking place. Thus, our children quickly become adept at “training” us to ask fewer questions, because questions imply control (“knowledge is power”). The dilemma for parents resulting from the above soon becomes obvious: How can parents effectively learn more from their children about not only
16 400 Edition
important details of their developing lives, but also about how they really feel about us parents? The warm and fuzzy sentiments expressed on a Mother’s or Father’s Day can affirm a child’s love for us, but that love can often co-exist with many other felt frustrations and unexpressed feelings about how we are parenting them. In the same way that an adult in the workplace might be subjected to a performance appraisal, it seems to make intuitive sense for parents to solicit informal “parental performance appraisals” from their children, even though the locus of authority is of course reversed in this situation. Taking the time to ask questions about what feels comfortable or uncomfortable to our children about how we operate as parents is often both a disarming and informative process. The teen (or preteen) comes to feel that the parent truly cares about how they feel; that the parent is willing to take these feelings into account to at least some degree in policy making; and that the parent presents a posture of occasional fallibility (not to be confused with diluted authority, by the way). On the contrary, this willingness on the part of parents to solicit honest feedback usually breeds more felt respect within teens/preteens and, perhaps more importantly, less defensiveness and a heightened inclination to disclose themselves. The end result is more shared information, but I believe that it is important for parents not to over-empower themselves with this information, lest the fragile trust that is being established becomes damaged prematurely. Once this happens, information sharing by teens or preteens tends to shut down almost completely and the trust is then very difficult to reestablish. Some readers may recall some commercials that aired on television some years back; the question posed to parents went something like this: “It’s 10:00…do you know where your children are?” While this question is certainly still a relevant one today for parents to ask themselves, perhaps more
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Mark P. Feinsilber, Ph.D.
questions should also be posed in today’s times, such as the following, for example: 1. Can you name your son’s or daughter’s three best friends? 2. Have you met any of those best friends? 3. Have you ever asked your child what he or she values most in their friends? 4. Would you ask your children what they value most about you as a parent? 5. Could you ask your child why he or she would not choose to tell you something personal and/or controversial about himself/herself? The above questions are just a few of many that parents can generate and pose to their children, preferably during relaxed and non-confrontational moments, that serve to help open up a healthy dialogue between parents and teens/preteens. As is hopefully clear from the foregoing, this dialogue is important not only in terms of sharing specific information, but also in illuminating what some of the barriers are in the family communication process.
Mark P. Feinsilber, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience treating adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families; and is a founding member of the Behavioral Health Association of Forsyth (BHAF). His practice is located at 6030 Bethelview Road, Suite 401, in Cumming. Appointments or other consultations can be arranged by calling the administrative office at 770-205-5760, and more detailed information can be found at www.APSDoc.com.
Events!
Tip: Keep in mind that 400 Edition is released on or about the 15th of each month. That means your event needs to be submitted via our web site 30-45 days prior to your event date, and no later than the 1st of the month. We have to have all the information requested on the submission form, so be sure your form is complete. Just go to 400edition.com and click “Submit an Event” on the home page.
Earth Day (April 22) Mother’s Day (May 10) National Stroke Awareness Month (May) Graduation
Alpharetta
Wedding and Special Occasions Showcase
April 19 Noon-4:00pm at the Atlanta Marriott. At this free event, you will be able to meet with over 60 experts who will be on-hand to offer information about event-related products and services. Register online at AwesomeAlpharetta. com if you are interested in attending this event.
Family Reunion Workshop
April 25 from 10:00am-1:00pm at Hyatt Place North Point Mall. A complimentary lunch will be provided during the workshop. For more information, contact Carol at 678-297-2811.
19th Annual Taste of Alpharetta May 14 from 5:00pm-10:00pm at Wills Park, Old Milton Pkwy. Participating restaurants serve up an amazing array of appetizers, entrees and desserts from their menus for just $.50- 3 per sample. For more information, visit alpharetta.ga.us or call 678-297-6000, ext. 1006.
Entrepreneur Certificate Program
Big Canoe
Big Canoe Tour of Homes
May 2 from 8:30am-2:15pm at Big Canoe. Four homes on tour. Proceeds go to charities in Pickens and Dawson counties. For more information, call 770-402-3839 or go to bigcanoetour.org and ticket orders.
Blairsville
The Mountain Home Show
April 25 from 9:00am-6:00pm and April 26 from 1:00pm-4:00pm at North Georgia Technical College. Would you like to get some ideas for your home? In one place you can meet many local business people that offer products and services for your home. Go to mountainhomeshow.com for details.
Gardening for the Senses
April 29, 9:00am-3:00pm at Blairsville Civic Center. Garden Club Garden Seminar consists of morning coffee, box lunch, door prizes, and huge plant sale. Cost is $30.00 and registration form is available by phoning 706-745-1637.
Mountain Gospel Convention
May 15-17 at 6:00pm, downtown. Shape Note to Rock, solo to chorus. All perform on 5 stages. Free, donations appreciated. Details at UnionCountyHistory. org. For more information, contact Sam Ensley at 706-745-5493 or history1@windstream.net.
Cruise-Ins at the Square
Through May 20 at 6:00pm at Northpoint Executive Suites, 11175 Cicero Drive. Join us for a certificate program that combines practical, hands-on experiences and guest presenters. For more information, visit ngcsu.edu/ce/ entrepreneur or call 706-864-1918.
First Saturdays from April-October, 4:00pm until dark. Cruisers invite any classic vehicle owner to participate, registration is free. All free to the public. Vendors welcomed, and so are volunteers. See us on-line at blairsvillecruisers.com for more information and contacts.
Friends of the Library Book Sale
Blue Ridge
First Saturday of every month, beginning at 10:00am at 138 Canton Street. This is the Friends principal source of income to support library programs and purchase books and capital improvements. See website to donate books! Call 770-475-9214 or email statham@mindspring.com for information.
Taste of Blue Ridge
April 18 at 6:00pm at Riverstone Medical Campus. Several local restaurants will provide food. The event also includes a silent auction, wine tasting, and music. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society. For more information, call 706-632-2241 or email info@blueridgemountains.com.
Harvey
May 8-31 at 7:30pm at the Blue Ridge Community Theater. Elwood P. Dowd is probably one of the most loved characters of stage in the 20th century. This comedy is well known and wonderfully done. For more information, contact Elizabeth Hunt at 706-632-9223 or email info@blueridgecommunitytheater.com.
Low Country Boil
May 9 beginning at 5:30pm at Riverwalk on the Toccoa. Tickets are $15.00 and all proceeds go to conservation for the rivers of the area. For more information, contact Carl Riggs at 706-374-2740 or email 7turns@tds.net.
Front Row Center
May 16 at 7:00pm at Fannin County High School. Smokie Mountain Melodies, the area chapter of Sweet Adelines International, presents its 3rd annual evening of barbershop harmony and fun. For information and directions, contact Gail McGuire at 706-781-5134 or email gsmcguire@windstream.net.
Canton
Give The Gift of Blood
April 30 from 2:00pm-7:00pm at Northside Hospital-Cherokee, Education Building, 201 Hospital Road. As long as you are healthy, weigh at least 110 pounds and are 17 or older, you can give blood every 56 days. For more information, call Debbie Lucca, 404-845-5185 or email debbie.lucca@northside.com
Skin Cancer Screenings
May 6 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Northside Hospital-Cherokee Outpatient, Rehabilitation Services Building 201 Hospital Road. Pre-registration is required. To schedule an appointment, call 404-845-5555 and press “0”. For more information about skin cancer, visit northside.com.
Mammogram Screenings
May 19 at Kroger, 8020 Cumming Hwy at East Cherokee Dr. ScreenAtlanta, a community service of Northside Hospital, offers convenient screenings and breast health education on a year-round basis. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 404-851-6070.
Diabetes Support Group
Every fourth Tuesday of every month from 6:00pm-7:00pm at Northside Hospital-Cherokee’s Education Building, 201 Hospital Road. For more information about joining the diabetes support group, contact Jean Elliott at 678-493-1503 or email jean.elliott@northside.com.
Drop-in Breast Cancer Support Group
First Thursday of each month from 10:00am-Noon at Northside Hospital, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center. There is no charge. Call 404-843-1880 for information.
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Cleveland
Choral Explosion #6
April 19 at 7:00pm at First Presbyterian Church. The NGCSU Singers, under the direction of John M. Broman, perform a collaborative concert with the TruettMcConnell College Chorale. Admission is free. For more information, contact Marilyn McKinnon at 706-864-1423 or mamckinnon@ngcsu.edu.
Fabulous 50’s on the Square
May 16 at 5:00pm on the square. Wear your poodle skirts, slick back your hair and join us for 50’s music, food, arts and crafts and fun. For more information, contact Maria Jurado-Flynn at 706-969-3336 or email info@helenga.org.
Cumming
“A Bad Year for Tomatoes”
April 16-May 10 at the Cumming Playhouse. Fed up with the pressures and demands of her acting career, the famous Myra Marlowe leases a house in the tiny country hamlet of Beaver Haven and settles down to write her autobiography. Please go to playhousecumming.com for schedule and pricing.
2nd Annual Festival of Arts
April 18-26 from Noon-8:00pm at Cumming United Methodist Church, 770 Canton Hwy. Over 300 artists will be represented and featured in two gala receptions, an artist/patron gallery preview on April 18 and a student reception/awards ceremony on April 22. Call 770-887-2900 for information.
Bach’s Lunch
April 18-26 at Noon at Cumming United Methodist Church, 770 Canton Hwy. Concerts for the lunch crowd on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Each day features a thirty-minute concert by a fine performing artist followed by a light lunch for a nominal charge. Call 770-887-2900 for information.
7th Annual Taste of Forsyth
April 19 from Noon to 5:00pm at the Cumming Fairgrounds. All proceeds will go to the building of the new Family Haven shelter. The admission is free with tickets being sold to purchase food items from each vendor. The tickets are priced at $0.50 each. For more information visit family-haven.org
Radio City Night
April 22 at 8:00pm at Cumming United Methodist Church, 770 Canton Hwy. Robert MacDonald, former organist of Radio City Music Hall and New York’s Riverside Church, treats us to a night of silent movies and sing-a-longs. Call 770-887-2900 for information.
Mammogram Screenings
April 24 at Kroger, 1595 Peachtree Pkwy at Sharon Rd, May 4 at 540 Lakeland Plaza, May 14 at 2655 Freedom Pkwy at Hwy 306. Northside Hospital, offers
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Events! convenient screenings and breast health education on a year-round basis. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 404-851-6070.
Keep Forsyth County Beautiful
April 25 from 9:00am-11:00am beginning with a rally at the Veterans Memorial and ending with a celebration, includes
lunch and prizes. Forms are available at forsythco.com. Supplies will be provided. To receive more information, contact KFCB at 770-205-4573 or email kfcb@forsythco.com.
Broadway in Concert
April 25 at 7:30pm at Cumming United Methodist Church, 770 Canton Hwy.
The Chancel Choir and guests perform the classic Broadway musical, “How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” in a concert setting with a full Broadway orchestra. Call 770-887-2900 for information.
2nd Annual Raider Island Festival
April 25 beginning at 11:00am at North Forsyth High School. Local artisans, silent auction, raffle, special event for the children. Raider talent showcase and entertainment by Mike Cono. For more information, contact Berly West Baker at 678.480.8081 or raiderislandfestival@comcast.net.
Auditions for Christmas Around the World
April 27 and May 30 by appointment at the Castleberry Bldg. The premier will be December 19. We are looking for unique and traditional acts; dancers, musicians and singers; from bluegrass to ballet from Mexico to Korea. For more information and/or schedule an audition call 678-773-0018 or 678-455-3938.
Tour of Homes
May 2 from 10:00am–4:00pm for tours and 6:00pm-11:00pm for VIP Patron Party. 4770, 4780, and 4790 Hansard Road, off of Pittman Road, close to the intersection of Bethelview and Kelly Mill. Costs are $20.00 for tour and $75.00 for VIP party to benefit charitable donations. For information contact Tracy Wakefield
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April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
at tracy@theoutdoorlights.com or go to sawneewomansclub.org.
Art Show
May 2 from 10:00am-6:00pm and May 3 from 1:00pm-6:00pm at the historic Brannon-Heard house, 111 Pilgrim Mill Rd. There will be paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery, woodwork and jewelry—all for sale. As a special feature you can watch artists at work on the porch. Admission is free.
Newcomer Club Luncheon
May 11 deadline for May 21 luncheon at 11:15am at Winderemere Golf Club, 5000 Davis Love Drive. Join us to learn about making wise choices when dining out. Cost is $20.00. For information and where to mail your check, visit forsythcountynewcomersclub.org. For more information, call 770-205-9703 or email crglaza@comcast.net.
Skin Cancer Screenings
May 13 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Northside Hospital-Forsyth Infusion Center, 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 140. Pre-registration is required. To schedule an appointment, call 404-845-5555 and press “0”. For more information about skin cancer, visit northside.com.
Summer Technology Camp
Through May 23 registration, June 8-11 and 15-18 from 9:00am-1:00pm at Piney Grove Middle School. The
camp is open to any public, private and home schooled 2nd-8th grade students who reside in Forsyth County. Cost is $95 per student per course. For the registration form and other information visit forsyth.k12.ga.us/techcamp or email mevans@forsyth.k12.ga.us.
Barbershop Singers
Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm-9:30pm at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis Tribble Gap Road. Forsyth County Barbershop Singers invite men ages 18-105 to visit our rehearsals. No experience required. For information call Jerry Frank at 770-886-8670 or email Jerry_frank@bellsouth.net.
Asthma Education
Third Wednesday of each month from 6:30pm-8:00pm at Northside Hospital, Bennett Education Center, Classroom A. Topics covered include What is Asthma, Trigger Control, Medications and Proper inhaler and peak flow meter techniques. A one-time fee of $15.00 is required. To register for the class, call 770-844-3822. For more information call Sandy Gandee at 404-851-6309 or visit northside.com.
Counseling for Senior Adults
Monthly, second and fourth Wednesday from 9:00am-12:30pm, free individual counseling, by a qualified therapist, at the Forsyth County Senior Center, 595 Dahlonega Highway. Please call Mary Johnson to schedule an appointment at 770-781-2178.
Dahlonega
The Return: The Most Authentic Beatles Tribute Band April 24-25, 8:00pm at The Historic Holly Theatre. As the most authentic Beatles tribute band in the world, the Return performs a song list packed with all the fun and lively tunes the Beatles played while touring. For more information, contact Nicholas DeMoré at 706-864-3759 or email nick@hollytheater.com.
Oklahoma!
April 30-May 3 at 7:00pm at Lumpkin Co. High School Auditorium. LCHS Drama presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma. Advance admission is $7.00. Door admission is $10.00. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 706-864-6186 or email bpilgrim@lumpkin.k12.ga.us.
Art Appreciation Show
May 7-August 13 beginning at 8:00am at Hoag Student Center, NGCSU. Artwork by faculty of NGCSU on display. For more information, contact Marilyn McKinnon at 706-864-1423 or email mamckinnon@ngcsu.edu.
Book Discussion
May 12 at 1:00pm at the Lumpkin County Senior Center. The book, “In My Father’s House” by Bodie Thoeneis available from the library. Email rhonda@3By400.com
for information or call 706-864-2358 for directions to the center.
Affordable Travel
If you are interested in traveling to New York City, Pennsylvania, or Branson, Missouri, please contact Gail Monroe at 706-864-2358 for information.
Dawsonville
Hoops for Youth
April 19, 2:00pm at Rock Creek Sports Complex, off Hwy. 9. Ages: 7-8yrs, 911yrs, 12-13yrs, 14-16yrs. Looking for teams from all areas of North GA. Fee $400.00 per team. For more information, contact Raymond Porredon at 706-525-9546 & 706-864-6807 or email mporredon@windstream.net.
3 Day Sunbelt Senior Tour Golf Tournament
April 29-May 1 at Chestatee Golf Club. In conjunction with the tournament, we will conduct a Pro-Am event on the first day of the tournament with the proceeds going to a charity called the “Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund.” For information, call 706-216-2074 or email toddwillard@exceltrain.com.
Spring Fling Festival
May 2-3 beginning at 10:00am at Dawsonville Middle School, Bowen Center for the Arts, Dawsonville Municipal Complex. Juried arts and crafts, garden products, Rotary Bike Ride, and Activities Kare for Kids Car Show. Heart and Hand Quilt Show, Kiwanis 5K and 10K. Family Fun Run. Free Admission. For more information, contact Nancy King at 706-216-4306 or nking10099@aol.com.
Community Chorale
May 9 at 7:30pm at Dawson County Middle School. Celebrate the eleventh season. $10.00 General Admission, $8.00 students and members of the DCAC, ages 10 and under are free. For more information, contact Mr. Stan Lovell at 706-216-2787 or go to dawsonchorale.org.
Ellijay
Spring Into Art Fair
April 18 from 10:00am-6:00pm at Downtown Square. Entertainment all day, Spring hat competition and children’s activities. Great prizes will be raffled off. For more information, contact Nancy Brown at 706-636-5216 or 727-688-7957 or email art@nancyfangles.com.
J. D. Crowe
April 18 at 7:30pm at Ellijay Elementary Auditorium. Nominated for best banjo player of the year. Their song “Lefty’s Old Guitar” won best song of the year. For more information, call 706-635-5605 or go to gilmerarts.org.
Sacred Sounds
April 21 at 7:00pm at Ellijay Elementary School Auditorium. Sacred Sounds will be an evening length concert of choral
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
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Events!
music from the ancient to contemporary. Tickets are $5.00 and $10.00 in advance or $7.00 and $12.00 at the door. For more information, call 706-635-5605 or go to gilmerarts.org.
Friends of the Library Bookshelf
Through April 30 at 10:30am-5:00pm at Gilmer County Library. Find a great book, gently used, at a low price. Every month. For more information, contact Linda Kotula at 706-636-3562 or lkot@ellijay.com.
Culinary Arts Celebration
May 1 at 7:00pm at The Martyn House, 912 Flat Branch Rd. Kick off for the Artist’s Studio Tour. The tickets are $25.00 per person. You can book online at themartynhouse.com or L.L.Beanery, Anthony Abreau Art Gallery in downtown Blue Ridge. Call JoAnn Adams at 706-635-4759 or go to themartynhouse.com.
Six Artists Studio Tour
May 2-3 beginning at 10:00am at The Martyn House, 912 Flat Branch Rd.. This will be a self guided tour (maps provided) through the 18 acre estate. For more information, call 706-635-4759 or go to themartynhouse.com.
R T Henson Home and Art Gallery Show
May 9, 16 from 10:00am-5:00pm and May 10, 17 from Noon-5:00pm at Shuttle Service Ellijay Church of Christ. Free admission and shuttle service provided. For more information, contact Kathe Hall at 706-692-5625 or email Kathe@rthenson.com. Please check out our website at rthenson.com.
Garden Club Annual Plant Sale
May 9 from 8:30am-12:30pm at Lion’s Club, Old Hwy 5. Plants from some of
the best gardens in Gilmer County. Large selection includes; perennials, shrubs, roses, tropical, herbs, hanging baskets for Mother’s Day, and garden related raffle items. For more information go to gardenclubofellijay.org.
Pickin’ in the Park
For additional information and tickets contact Annette Walden at 770-887-6792. For more information, contact Annette Walden at 770-887-6792 or annette@paintedladyenterprises.com.
2nd Annual Arts Festival
May 2 from 10:00am-4:00pm and May 3 at Noon-4:30pm at Harbour Point Yacht Club on Hwy 53 W, between 2 Lake Lanier Bridges. Come dance the Maypole! View and/or purchase various works by resident artists. For more information, contact Kathy Totten at 404-317-2953 or email ktotten@gtotts.com.
Every Friday night through October from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Historic Downtown Square. Local musicians gather. Bring your instrument and join in or just kick back and listen. For more information, contact Berty Kamholz at 706-635-5961 or email wilmar225@yahoo.com.
The Garden Party
Gainesville
“Contemplations, Generations and Rustications”
Voices of North Georgia
April 17 at 7:30pm and April 19 at 3:00pm at St. Paul Methodist Church, 404 Washington Street, celebrating 40 years. Tickets may be purchased at The Arts Council, the door or by calling 678-943-7255. Cost is $15.00 general admission, $12.00 for seniors and students and $5.00 for children 11 and under.
18th Annual Stray Pet Strut/5K Run
April 19, registration and booths open at 12:30pm, 1 mile dog walk starts at 2:00pm and 5K run starts at 2:30pm at Presentation Point at Lake Lanier Islands. Pets must be current on vaccinations and be leashed and be in proper physical condition. Fee is $20.00 before April 13 and $25.00 for same day registration. For information call 770-532-6617. Entry forms available at humanesocietyhallcounty.com
ABWA Annual Luncheon
April 22 at 11:30am at First Baptist Church, Green Street. Keynote speaker will be Dr. Mary Lou Frank.
May 10 at 4:00pm at Brenau University Ampitheater. Music-Dance-Art Bring your picnic and we’ll provide beverage and dessert. For more information, contact Melissa Black at 770-532-4241 or email gbcinfo@gainesvilleballet.org.
Through June 7 at The Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street, N.E. Hours are Monday-Friday from 9:00am5:00pm, Saturday from 10:00am-4:00pm and closed Sundays. Admission is free. For more information, please call 770-536-2575, and view the website at quinlanartscenter.org.
Helen
Spring Volksmarch
April 18 at 8:00am at Festhalle. 10K and 20K walk through the woods. Everyone must register. Must be off the trail by 4:00pm. Anyone can participate. Pets must be on a leash. For more information, contact Jane Sims at 706-878-1908 or email info@helenga.org.
Pets on Parade & Costume Contest
May 2 at 10:00am at Helen Riverside City Park. Bring your pet with or without a costume. Pet people may dress in costume too. For entry form call 706-865-4135. For more information, contact Charles Smithgall Humane Society at 706-865-4135 or email info@helenga.org.
Mayfest
May 16-17 at 10:00am. Presented by H2O Tuning VW Audi Club. VW and Audi car show. For more information, contact Chris Cooley at 205-222-8411 or info@helenga.org.
Jasper Storytimes
Wednesdays, April 15-May 6, Family at 10:00am, Preschool at 2:00pm at Pickens County Library. April 15-Around the World We Go, April 22–Going Green at the Library, April 29–Created Equal–“We the People” Bookshelf story-time, May 6– Artsy Smartsy–Summer Reading Preview. For more information, call 706-692-5411 or visit sequoyahregionallibrary.org.
Friends of the Library
April 16 at 7:00pm at Pickens County Library . This month’s speaker is Jodi Ceraldi; whose first novel, “Redesigning the Mob,” was recently published. This Holly Springs’ resident is working on a series of Mafia related novels. . For more information, call 706-692-5411 or go to sequoyahregionallibrary.org.
5th Annual Habitat Hullabaloo
April 25 from 11:00am-5:00pm at Lee Newton Park. Food, music, games, vendors, silent auction, raffle, state championship BBQ and Chili Cook-offs. Free Admission. Go to pickenshfh.org. for information, call 706-692-1589 or email arothejr@etcmail.com.
Main Street Cruise-In
April 25 at 4:00pm, downtown Main Street. View vintage automobiles. 50/50 Drawing, refreshments available. For more information, contact Maxine Moore at 706-692-2031.
Genealogy Explorers
April 25 at 10:00am at Pickens County Library. Will discuss the continuation of the organization and potential adult programs and guest speakers. All are welcome. For more information, call 706-692-5411 or go to sequoyahregionallibrary.org.
“Tee Off for Kids” Golf Tournament
May 2 at Noon at Downtown Festhalle. Join us for dancing around the Maypole. Sample wurst from many of our area restauraunts. Then join us at the Festhalle at 7:00pm for German Music, dancing, drinks and more wurst. For more information, contact Jane Sims at 706-878-1908 or office@helenchamber.com.
April 29 at 1:00pm, shotgun start at Bent Tree Golf Course. Merchants are donating golf and raffle prizes including, free rounds of golf for four at 6 area golf courses, gift cards from Edwin Watts Golf, and a $300.00 gift certificate from the Bent Tree Pro Shop. For more information, call Parish Lowrie at 706-692-6920 or email parish@parishlowrie.com.
Winefest
Karate for Teens
May 2 at 10:00am at Habersham Winery. Sample various wines from many of our local area wineries. For more information, contact Steve Gibson at 706-878-9463 or info@helenga.org.
20 400 Edition
Southern Worthersee
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
May 11 at 6:30pm at Pickens County Library. Teens are invited to learn more about this form of self-defense; which includes a hands-on demonstration. For more information, call 706-692-5411 or go to sequoyahregionallibrary.org.
Jasper Farmers Market
Through October 31 from 7:30am12:00pm at Lee Newton Park. Opening day and tenth year of operation. Vendors will sell fresh vegetables and fruits in season, crafts and arts, and much more. For more information, call 706-253-8840 or visit pickensmg.com.
Marble Hill
Lunch and Learn Seminar
April 22 at 11:00am at Lakota Cove . Learn the art of placing your artwork. Seminar led by Carole Talbott, a National TV and internationally recognized designer. For more information, call 770-893-3495 or go to LakotaCove.com.
Ringgold
Trail of Tears Association Meeting
May 9 at 10:30am at the Old Stone Church. The speaker will be Dr. Sarah Hill, author and independent researcher of Southeastern Indian history and culture. Call 770-704-6338 for information.
Roswell
Caring for the Caregiver
April 25, a workshop designed to provide you with an opportunity to learn ways to care for yourself, including information on care giving resources for your loved one. Extended opportunities to get oneto-one consult for individual participants. To register and for more information, call 678-243-5074.
more information, contact Coach Naomi Kirk at 770-552-4500 or email kirkn@fultonschools.org.
Volunteer at Barrington Hall
If you love history and interacting with people, Barrington Hall may have a volunteer opportunity for you. After you sign up, you will be given training. The hours are very flexible and based on your availability. For more information call 770-640-3855.
Woodstock
Mammogram Screenings
March 16 at Kroger, 12050 Hwy 92 at Trickum Rd. ScreenAtlanta, a community service of Northside Hospital, offers convenient screenings and breast health education on a year-round basis. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 404-851-6070.
Diabetes Prevention Class
Second Tuesday of the month from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Northside-Cherokee Medical Office Building, 1st Floor conference room, 100 Stone Forest Dr. $35.00. Obtain nutrition and healthy meal tips; learn how to count carbohydrates and about blood glicose levels; and learn the difference between insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, call 404-845-5555 and press “0.”
Young Harris
Juried Art Exhibition
Through June 1, opening reception April 3 from 5:30pm-7:30pm, located at the Brasstown Valley Resort’s new art gallery, 6321 U.S.Hwy 76. For further information, visit themountainartsassociation.org.
Hornets Volleyball
Through April 29 at 5:00pm at Roswell High School Gym. Introduce volleyball to middle schools girls. Teach and reinforce skills of volleyball. For
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Courtesy of ActivityConnection.com. Answers from page 14.
Solution Homemade Crafts
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April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 21
400 Edition Wining & Dining
Knowing Wine
by Nancy Forrest
Starting a Wine Tasting Club
I
received an e-mail from one of my readers inquiring about information on starting a wine club. It can be as simple as gathering a few friends who are interested in wine tasting, and getting their e-mail addresses, wine glasses, some snacks, and wine. That’s it. Most, however, are a little more sophisticated…or at least more organized. Wine clubs are formed by people who like to meet, taste, judge, and discuss wine. These clubs are often educational and a great way to have fun, and make friends. The club meeting allows members to choose the best wines at more affordable prices, because the club members purchase together at discount, and also allows them to taste those that are a little pricier and share the cost. The purpose of a wine club is not only to have fun, but also to learn and compare. Have your group rate wines and see how they compare to published ratings. The members will want to expand their knowledge of wines and various wine regions. The more diverse the knowledge and appreciation of wine, the better. Invite guests who have differing knowledge of wine (for example, someone who worked for a wine bar or a distributor may offer different suggestions from someone who has lived in France or collects only French Bordeaux, etc.). People who have a large wine cellar are usually knowledgeable about wine. These guests will broaden the knowledge within your group. Remember, there are around 100,000 wines on the market, and joining with others who have an interest in wine allows you to learn from their various perspectives. Here are some tips for the meeting(s): • Appoint a leader and secretary: The leader can set meetings and send out invitations. The secretary is responsible for bringing tasting notes on the wine and taking notes on the responses during the meeting, as well as sending a summary to the group after the meeting. • Invitations: Use the Internet to post these meetings, through sites like e-vite.com • Choose a name: Come up with a catchy name at your first meeting and vote on it. Some clubs are named after the subdivision or area where the members live, others choose something more wine-
related (Dry Sippers, Sweet Toasts, The Green Bottles). • Size: Start with a small group and invite others to join—anywhere from 6 to 18 people. Eight to ten is an ideal size for a group, since generally a bottle has about 10 tasting-sized pours, and the experience can be more interactive. • Volume: Offer between three and eight bottles per meeting. This, of course, will depend on the size of the group and budget constraints. Take a snack break halfway through the tasting.
Wine of the Month
Brutocao, Zinfandel Mendocino, CA 2004 Complex, jammy with blackberry aromas and cedar, spice, and cracked pepper.
• Place: Determine where to hold the next event. Common options: members’ homes on an alternating basis; the club at the subdivision (by the pool when weather permits); a restaurant that allows guests to bring wine selections if dinner is ordered for a group (but be aware that there may be corking fees).
Available at: The Wine Store
8455 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 641-1900 http://www.thewinestoreinc.com Visit BIN 75, The Wine Store’s own tasting room next door. Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm
• Decide the date: Try to keep meetings on a regular basis (usually monthly), and one that is easy to remember. For example, the second Friday of every month. • Agree on dues or reimbursement: Set a fee that most are willing to spend for each meeting. Choose who will gather the wines. The host typically buys the wine and is reimbursed from attendees. Generally only one (the appointed person) purchases the wine. • Set guidelines for price ranges per bottle of wine: New clubs typically start at $15-$25/bottle. Occasionally buy a higher priced wine to compare to a less expensive one. Sticking to guidelines ensures that each host will have approximately the same expense. • Set guidelines for the type of wines to purchase for the next meeting: Regions, varietals (from different countries/regions or the same country/region: Merlot Month, Chardonnay Month, etc.), appellation, sparkling wine, etc. Try to purchase the wines in the same price range. Picking a theme for each meeting makes this easier and helps educate members on different wines. Make sure the themes are educational by appointing a member to gather information about the wines. • Any type of appetizers that pair with the wine will work for food/snacks. However,
it is best to keep it simple and typically stick to a cheese course that pairs with the type of wine. Generally you can stick to one appetizer, and make it salty. • Determine how selections are made: Use wine magazine listings and recommendations (Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast’s top 100 list), on-line wine sites, 400 Edition magazine’s “Knowing Wine” columns, etc. Use the notes from these references to guide the group. Use the staff at wine shops for guidance on themes and current wine trends. • Hosts should have a variety of wine glass selections, enough wine glasses for the meeting, a dump bucket, and water to cleanse the palate. After your first meeting, let other friends know about your group and what you do each month. For fun, at one meeting, disguise a bottle in a brown paper bag to see the results of a blind tasting. If you get started now, you should be able to host your first wine-tasting club meeting in the next month or two. Please excuse our error last month. Naturally Georgia Tasting Room is located in Dahlonega, not Clayton as previously stated.
“In wine there is truth”
Pliny the Elder [A.D. 23-79] “Natural History,” Book XIV, Sect. 141
by Sarah Mansfield
Restaurant Reviews for the GA 400 Corridor 61 Main
61 N. Main Street, Jasper, GA 30413 706-253-7289 | www.61main.com Fare: Fresh and local | Price: Moderate | Atmosphere: Bistro with a Down-Home Twist
N
ew restaurants are jumping on the trendy “Farm-to-Table” or “Eat Fresh Eat Local” bandwagon. Many talk the talk, but 61 Main, located in a historic corner building in downtown Jasper, walks the walk. What is Farm-to-Table? 61 Main’s definition is “utilization of local and seasonal ingredients, cooking with familiar southern techniques, and providing a comforting atmosphere to enjoy the dining experience!” The restaurant’s menu is based on the fresh ingredients they can obtain locally. Two farms provide gorgeous produce: Dig It Farm in Jasper, owned by Kip and Michelle Foster, and Whitestone Farm (www. whitestonefarm.biz) in Talking Rock, operated by Russell and Kristina Cutts. The walls at 61 Main showcase photography from Whitestone Farm, displayed in custom designed frames made from reclaimed barn wood. Produce from both Dig It and Whitestone will be available at the Jasper Farmers Market (see the
Jasper events section in this issue). All meat served is hormone- and antibiotic-free. They use local sources as often as possible. Most of the beef is obtained locally from Seventy-four Ranch (www.seventyfourranch.com). They only serve fresh and sustainable seafood (defined by Wikipedia as “seafood from either fished or farmed sources that can maintain or increase production in the future without jeopardizing the ecosystems from which it was acquired”). The restaurant serves takeout in biodegradable containers and recycles their cardboard, glass, and plastic. They even provide composting material for local farmers. The chef, Jenna Schreiber, is a Johnson & Wales graduate who has eight years of experience living and cooking professionally in Charleston, South Carolina. She and her husband fell in love with Jasper and chose to settle down here. On a rainy Friday night my husband and I recently dined at this
cozy restaurant. I started with fried green tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers served with a balsamic reduction (lovingly dubbed “redneck caprese”). John enjoyed the homemade onion soup followed by Niman Ranch lamb roulades with a to-die-for lima bean casserole. I had the scallops and grits with roasted sweet potato and cauliflower. The pan-seared scallops were perfectly cooked and served over locally milled grits infused with a whisky BBQ sauce—a different twist on one of my New Orleans favorites, shrimp and grits. We usually do not have dessert but could not resist splitting the deliciously decadent rich chocolate Brule. We capped it off with 61 Main’s signature blend of coffee, which is roasted weekly by another local supplier, Foggy Hollow Coffee Roasters (www.foggyhollowcoffee.com). The wine list is very thoughtful with varietals that pair well with a multitude of menu selections. Wines
are priced well and get featured at 50% off on Thursday evenings. Monday-Friday: 8am-3pm Saturday brunch: 10am-2pm Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 5pm-10pm Now serving Monday Night Suppers: 5pm-9pm
Delmonico Potatoes
Real Men Cook—Delmonico Potatoes 6 cups diced cooked potatoes 4 cups white sauce, recipe at right Salt and pepper 2 ½ cups shredded mild cheddar or Swiss cheese 3 cups bread crumbs ½ cup butter, melted
Combine potatoes, white sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour into a greased shallow baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over potatoes. In a small bowl, mix together bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over potatoes. Cook at 425° for about 20 minutes, or until nicely browned. Makes 12-14 servings.
by Patrick Snider
White Sauce: ½ cup butter ½ cup flour 4 cups milk Salt White or black pepper
April/May 2009 • www.400edition.com
Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat; stir in flour. Cook for 3 minutes, but do not brown. Stir in milk and continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until sauce begins to thicken. Season with salt and pepper. Add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream for a richer sauce. Makes 4 cups of white sauce.
400 Edition 23