3.18.10 Union Sentinel

Sentinel www.GeorgiaSentinel.com

0DUFK ‡ „

UNION

Volume 16, Issue 11

Crowded field for primary

COMMUNITY

Dreams, Trains, Music and Cures

On February 28th Hiawassee resident, Gene Fox, was surrounded by friends and family from all over North Georgia in a little church in Hayesville, NC known as the Cowboy Church. Gene is the recipient of a Second Wind Dream sponsored by Regency Hospice. “Every month I interview one of our patients and find out if they have any unresolved wishes or dreams,� says Linda Tatum, social worker with Regency Hospice. “I compile the interviews and our Second Wind Dreams board determines how we can make the dream come true.�

Gene’s dream as a boy was to be a train conductor and now in physical decline he expresses only a wish to be a part of 2 things; a cure for cancer and to hear good gospel music.

Gene’s dream of being a conductor was fulfilled as Suzanne Repp, bereavement coordinator with Regency Hospice placed a new conductor’s hat, courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway out of Blue Ridge, GA on Gene’s head and announced the offer from the BSR to let him ride free of charge on the train when trips begin in mid-March. Another gift was a book of train lore and songs. The audiSee Dreams, page 8A

COMMUNITY

Strong support for new Urgent Care, Family Practice facility Murphy Medical Center has received $985,000 in support of the development of a new Urgent Care Center and Family Practice facility scheduled to open on March 30 in Murphy.

The financial support is being used to offset costs from land and building purchase, renovation and construction, equipment and furnishings, and recruitment of staff. Cost for the project through January was $1.6 million.

Kathi Osborne, Foundation Director, said support has come from Federal and State agencies as well as private foundations and individual donors. “We are extremely grateful to have received a number of grants totaling $884,000. Proceeds from the Foundation’s 2008 and 2009 ‘Two Hours from Anywhere’ road race fundraisers totaled $100,000 and the remainder was given by individual donors,�

Osborne stated.

Grantors to the project are The Cannon Foundation, The Duke Endowment, Golden Leaf Foundation, NC Health & Wellness Trust Fund, NC Office of Rural Health and Community Care, and the U.S. See Urgent Care, page 8A

Big turnout at Union County Republican political rally

By Frank Bradley Sentinel writer

Republican candidates for Georgia's Ninth U.S. Congressional District and for state offices flocked to Blairsville on Saturday to tell local voters why they are the best candidate for the offices they seek in a hotly contested primary to be held in July.

Seven candidates running for the congressional seat vacated by Nathan Deal, now a candidate for governor, spoke at a crowded Civic Center. The occasion was billed as Union County's First Ronald Reagan Day Dinner with proceeds from the $10 a plate meal going to sponsor two $500 student scholarships.

Five gubernatorial candidates spoke along with Sandra Deal, who explained that Nathan was unable to attend due to another political event commitment in south Georgia.

"He regrets he couldn't be here tonight," she said. "He has served this area 15 years as your congressman. Now he is taking a big step in running for governor. It's a big state. Nathan is a kind and

Doc's in the race Books for babies!

Two doc's and a dentist want to change the way things are run in Washington

Dr. Chris Cates gets riled up over health care bill

By Frank Bradley Sentinel writer

ECONOMY

Zoller speaks at Reagan Dinner

By Frank Bradley Sentinel writer

Radio host and television commentator Martha Zoller was the featured speaker at Union County's first Republican Reagan Dinner last Saturday evening at the the Civic Center in Blairsville.

Calling our 40th president our last great letter writer, she said she thinks he would have liked the Tea Party movement.

"It's gotten a lot of people involved in the political process who have never been involved in a protest before," she said.

Zoller spoke of the joblessness of many Americans, especially the men. She said it is devastating for them. "As a woman, you can take 10 years off from the workforce and then go back and nobody will think anything of it," she said. "But for men, so much of their life is tied to work that for them being without a job, it is simply devastating."

Zoller said the country may be in for a bad time, but that it is not the worst of times. Nothing like the

Georgia roadside covered with republican political campaign signs Photo/ Jacob Harris gentle man. I know because I have lived with him mitment to conservatism: right to life, Second for 40 years. He's a homebody. He loves Georgia. Amendment rights, cutting taxes and the waste In the entire time he has been in Washington, he out of government.

Jeff Chapman talked of his experience in busihas only stayed up there three weekends.

All gubernatorial candidates stressed their comSee Crowded, page 3A

Dr. Chris Cates wants to put a little heart in the U.S. House of Representatives. And he's ready to put up his own. A nationally recognized cardiologist, Cates has been actively involved in the national debate on health policy for the past 20 years. Now he wants to be one of the deciders on what the federal policy will be by winning election to a seat in congress.

Through Mountain Mists %H\RQG WKH 0RXQWDLQ +D]H

Photo/ Jacob Harris

On Saturday, he spoke at the Reagan Day in Blairsville saying what got him all riled up. He said he was in Washington recently talking with legislators about the Health Care Bill when he was told by a Democratic legislator that "You doctors better get on board with this bill or we're going to crush you."

Cates says he understands the importance of quality, affordable healthcare and is already fighting

Celebrating language skills development at an early age

My name is Mya Hill. I'm only six months old, but I'm a Party Girl. Have you heard about the First Books for Babies Celebration Party honoring babies on April 17th from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Junior Brackett Room at the United Community Bank? If you were born to a Union County resident between January 1, 2009 and April, 2010, be sure to have your mommy mark the date on the calendar. Moms, Dads, and baby's brothers and sisters are all invited. There will be gifts, door prizes, entertainment , refreshments and fun.

You won't want to miss it!

Make sure your Mom signs up

by April 1st. Tell her to go to the Library to sign up, check the Friends of Union County Library website, or call Joanne Olson at 706-781-5237.

I love books already. I "chew" on every word my mommy readsand sometimes I even "chew" on the books. Mommy says it's making me smarter, but I just love hearing the sounds and looking at the pictures. Maybe someday I'll be able to read. I think that would be fun, too. But for now I'm satisfied being held in my mommy's arms and being read to. It's one of my favorite times of day.

I hope to see you at the Books for Babies Celebration Party on Six month old Mya Hill is all giggles about the baby April 17th! book party on the 17th of April

See Doc's, page 3A

It is seldom that we can read a delightful and revealing story about a mountain family written in poetry, with just enough prose interspersed to make the line quite understandable and appealing.

Charles Weymon Cook who was born to Rufus and Nora Davenport Cook and calls Blairsville his hometown has done just that with his newly-published autobiographical poetry book entitled Beyond the Mountain Haze. Weymon, as he was known growing up in Union, now lives in Macon, Georgia. He is one of those native citizens who has gone out into other places and done well, first as a teacher, and now in his retirement as a writer. In this book paying tribute to his mountain heritage, he has captured in impeccable rhyme and rhythm many aspects of mountain life that

are fast passing away under the guise of progress.

What makes the book even more appealing is the fact that its author is what I like to call a “walking miracle.� Charles Weymon Cook underwent heart transplant surgery on September 21, 2000. Not only did he live and do well, but he has been able to write and compile his delightful autobiography in verse and make it available to any who would like to know more about life in the “miracle� dimension of restored health. One way of offering his thanks for the gift of life is this book, well-crafted and pleasing to the eye as well as to the reader. It walks us through woodland paths and family solidarity, helps us meet and greet people significant in his life, and allows us new perspectives on the beauty of nature and the harmony of creation. And with thanks

See Zoller, page 8A

Union Sentinel PO Box 1996 Blairsville, GA 30512 SENTINEL NEWSGROUP

Columnist

See MISTS, page 3A

UNION COUNTY WEATHER THURSDAY

By ETHELENE DYER-JONES

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

To subscribe to the WEDNESDAY

UNION

SENTINEL 828.389.8338

61Âş/38Âş

65Âş/43Âş

64Âş/38Âş

54Âş/37Âş

60Âş/39Âş

62Âş/43Âş

64Âş/44Âş

call 828.389.8338

Page 2A

GEORGIA SENTINEL ‡ 7KXUVGD\ 0DUFK

CO LU MNS & O P I N I O NS

By Jim Fitzgerald

LEANING LEFT

Sentinel Guest Columnist

Conservatives are really good at acting like victims. The latest injustice they are suffering is the proposed use of reconciliation to pass the health care reform bill.

Conservatives are calling this method of covering an additional 30 million people and reducing the national deficit by 118 million dollars a parliamentary “trick,� an “assault on the democratic process,� and an attempt to “cram health care down our throats.�

If you look at Wikipedia.com, you can see that, since 1980, 17 of 23 reconciliation bills were signed into law by Republican Presidents, undermining current claims that the Democrats are doing something underhanded. Under Bush II, reconciliation was used three times to pass tax cuts even after the Congressional Budget Office predicted they would substantially increase the federal deficit. Conservatives significantly violated the original purpose of reconciliation to pass their agenda in the face of Democratic opposition and now are crying foul when the tables are turned. How patriotic of them. They have been cramming legislation down our throats for several decades.

However, are the Democrats really cramming (or ramming – depending on commentator) health care reform down our throats?

Shortly after Obama was elected, he sponsored a series of conferences where he invited all of the health care stakeholders to participate in reforming a broken system.

These series of meetings included business CEO’s, health insurance companies, providers of health care, politicians, ordinary citizens, and pharmaceutical companies – everybody that would be affected by changes to the system. The stakeholders fully participated in these meetings, progress was being made, and Obama was showing us a new way to deal with thorny issues. He was not only holding

public, transparent meetings, but also, in doing so, undermining the influence of lobbyists.

As Republicans watched Obama usher in an intelligent, inclusive form of governing, they starting going ballistic. If Obama was successful, they would lose power for decades to come and that was more than they could bear. Though they had been obstructionistic before, they really cranked up the spin machinery and played to everyone’s fear though distortions and outright lies. In the recent past, conservatives had voted to cut Medicare funding, to turn Medicare into a voucher system, to pay physicians to discuss end-of-life decisions with their elderly patients, socialized pharmaceuticals for the elderly, and the list goes on. Suddenly, everything they had tried to change before the Democrats gained control became unacceptable.

They seized on this excellent opportunity to distract ordinary citizens from their gross mismanagement of the economy and increasing the national debt over five trillion, with a T, dollars in less than seven years. They yelled so loud about death panels, government takeover of health care, and socialism that people begin to think the Democrats caused 10% unemployment, fell into bed with Wall Street, and crashed the housing market – all within nine months of assuming power! Now, that is power my friend!

Not only did Obama hold these stakeholder conferences but also he met face-to-face with politicians from both parties. More important, some of these meeting were televised and we were able to witness his mastery of the complexities involved in changing the health care system. We were able to witness his openness to incorporating Republican ideas into the reform process. We were able to see first-hand that the Republicans had no intentions of working with the Democrats to overhaul a

broken system.

In spite of total conservative opposition, Obama folded a number of Republican ideas into the reform process. He accepted the arguments for small business tax breaks and medical malpractice reform, among others. He understood that these ideas had merit and would contribute to the success of health care reform. The bill is bipartisan even if the votes fail to be. However, the inclusion of these ideas did not stop the relentless conservative drumbeat that nothing was better than something. I have to hand it to them, Republicans are excellent at fear mongering.

We are more than a year down the road since health care reform was introduced. As Obama said the other day, everything that needs to be said about health care has been said. There is nothing new to add to the debate. It is time to pass reform and in the face of continuing Republican opposition, Democrats must forget bipartisanship and go it alone.

Polling shows that the primary opposition to reform lies in ignorance over the details. Overall, people say they do not want the reform bill to pass. However, when informed of the key components (health insurance exchanges, existing coverage unchanged, prohibited from denying coverage, close doughnut hole for seniors), they overwhelmingly support it.

Space will not allow me to provide all of the details but check the Kaiser Family Foundation tracking poll of January 2010.

To answer the question I posed about the “cramming/ramming� distortion, I fail to see how a yearlong debate over reform, that included all of the stakeholders, “crams� anything anywhere. Everyone had a say, everyone was heard, and now it is time to pass reform. Let the Republicans take their best shot in November.

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

RU DOO RI WKH LQLWLDO VWRU\ IRU WKH -DQ LVVXH VDLG WKDW KH GLG QRW ZULWH WKH )HE HQWU\ , EHOLHYH KLP 'XE LV D JRRG SHUVRQ DQG D JRRG ZULWHU , KDYH EHHQ LQ 'XE V VLWXDWLRQ EHIRUH 6RPH RI P\ HGLWRUV KDYH UHZULWWHQ WKH VWRULHV , KDYH VXEPLWWHG WR IXUWKHU WKHLU RZQ DJHQGDV 0RVW KDYH WDNHQ LQIRUPDWLRQ , VXEPLWWHG WR XVH IRU HGLWRULDOV +RZHYHU , KDYH QHYHU KHDUG RI D VLWXDWLRQ ZKHUH DOOHJHGO\ D QHZVSDSHU DGPLQLVWUDWRU KDV WDNHQ D OHWWHU WR WKH HGLWRU DGGHG WH[W DQG JUDSKLFV SODFHG LW XQGHU D 72 7+( (',725 KHDGOLQH DQG GLG QRW SULQW D VLJQDWXUH 7KDW V HJUHJLRXVO\ XQHWKLFDO ,W LV \HOORZ MRXUQDOLVP DW LWV ZRUVW ,W ZDV SXUSRVHO\ LQDFFXUDWH DQG GLVWRUWHG ,W HPEDUUDVVHG )ULHQGV RI WKH /LEUDU\ ,W HPEDUUDVVHG LWV SUHVLGHQW $QQH 6HD\ ,W JHQHUDWHG XQZDUUDQWHG FRQWURYHUV\ WKDW QHJDWLYHO\ DIIHFWV WKH OLEUDU\ DQG LWV VXSSRUWLQJ RUJDQL]DWLRQV 7KH HQWU\ V SRUWUD\DO RI )RVWHU DV FKDOOHQJLQJ WKH )ULHQGV RI WKH /LEUDU\ VHHPV WR PH WR EH SXUSRVHO\ FRQWHQWLRXV , ZDV DW PRVW PHHWLQJV ZLWK )RVWHU DQG , GRQ W UHFDOO KLP HYHU XVLQJ WKDW ZRUG ,Q IDFW )RVWHU GLG QRW DSSHDU WR EH WU\LQJ WR PDNH LW D FRPSHWLWLRQ DW DOO ,Q P\ RSLQLRQ IRPHQWLQJ GLVFRUG EHWZHHQ SHRSOH ZKR DUH DOO ZRUNLQJ WRZDUG WKH VDPH JRDO GRHV QRERG\ DQ\ JRRG 7KH HQWU\ DOVR KXUW 'XE -RLQHU DQG 7KH 1HZV 2EVHUYHU $QG \HV EHFDXVH 6HD\ VDLG VKH ZLOO LQVLVW WKDW DOO FRPPXQLFDWLRQ EHWZHHQ DOO QHZVSDSHUV DQG KHUVHOI EH ZULWWHQ LW KXUW WKH 6HQWLQHO 3HRSOH PDNH PLVWDNHV 1HZVSDSHUV PDNH PLVWDNHV $GPLQLVWUDWRUV PDNH PLVWDNHV +RSHIXOO\ ZH DOO OHDUQ IURP WKHP

EDITOR'S INBOX

Mistakes alienate readers %\ /LVD *DJQRQ

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

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS It was only a matter of time before we would be informed of the very possible serious side-effects of the drug FOSAMAX. Dr. Richard Besser, senior health and medical editor on ABC News gave an excellent report last week. In short, he stated that Merck took an entire year to respond and that the FDA has also never made an effort to inform the public or doctors across the country who prescribe bisphosphonates of the possible side effects. Fosamax, one in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates, is supposed to make bones stronger. But now there’s mounting evidence that for some women, taking these drugs for more than five years could cause spontaneous fractures.

As we become more senior, our bones get thinner. Few people realize that bone is living tissue that is constantly rebuilding itself.

Bone density reaches a peak in early adulthood and then gradually begins to decline. For women this process starts earlier than for men and accelerates at menopause.

When the thinning becomes severe, the condition is called osteoporosis, which greatly increases the risk of fractures. The bad news is that one-third of women over 65 will have a vertebral fracture not caused by injury. And those who survive to 90, one-third of women and 17% of men will have a hip fracture.

When bone loss is less severe, it is called osteopenia—a “predisease� that may lead to osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a condition of diminished amount of bone tissue.

Such moderate bone loss, which happens to everybody eventually if they live long enough, has only recently been classified as a disorder. If you are 50 to 65 years of age and have a bone density test— one third will be diagnosed with osteopenia. For those over 65, two-thirds will be told they have osteopenia. The question is, if you have it, what next? This has been my own personal dilemma. A few years ago being diagnosed with os-

By CLAUDIA PARKS RN Columnist

teopenia and not wanting to take the high-powered new drugs on the market –I doubled up on my intake of calcium and vitamin D. However, being truthful, I wasn’t as conscientious as I should have been and I didn’t participate in weight-bearing exercise along with strength training, for at least 30 minutes five times a week. I did stay active and improved my diet.

A recent bone density now shows that I’m just barely into the osteoporosis scale! So now I’m thinking more seriously about taking the “high-powered� medications for osteopenia/osteoporosis.

Every time I see Sally Field’s commercial and hear all the side effects—I say, “No way, Jose ! I personally don’t think enough testing has been done and I will wait!

In 2008, bisphosphonate sales exceeded $3.5 billion according to data from IMS Health. In 2008, over 37 million prescriptions were written for the osteoporosis medications. There are critics that charge that osteopenia is a creation of the pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of testing machines, who stand to reap big profits. Certainly, the drug industry funds a great many of the studies, as well as conferences and foundations. A recent article (not funded by industry) in the British Medical Journal said that marketers had overstated the benefits and underplayed the risks of the drugs.

There are few studies showing that the drugs actually prevent fractures

in women who don’t already have osteoporosis or a previous fracture. The medications are expensive and may produce serious side effects, and their long-term safety is unknown. (We are between a rock and a hard place!)

Ways to prevent or delay osteoporosis: (1) Do weight-bearing exercise (such as running or brisk walking), along with strength training, for at least 30 minutes a day. It’s never too late to start— check with your doctor first! (2) Make your diet count. Eat low-fat and nonfat dairy products. Leafy greens, fruits and vegetables provide other bone-building nutrients. Limit caffeine and carbonated drinks. (3) Take a calcium supplement 1,200 milligrams and vitamin D 600 - 1000 IU daily (ten minutes of midday sun with your arms and legs exposed with no sun block can make enough natural vitamin D to avoid deficiency). (4) Don’t smoke. (5) If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. (6) Ask your doctor if any of your medications could be taking a toll on your bones. Without question, anyone taking oral corticosteroids for more than a month, which is used to treat a variety of chronic diseases including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause bone loss.

Do your own research and talk with your doctor about your concerns.

Claudia Parks, RN is a former doctor’s office and emergency room nurse and retired as an educator from Fulton County(GA) Schools. She writes Your Health Matters as a public service; the information here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your physician. Claudia and her husband make their home in the beautiful north Georgia Mountains near Blairsville. Claudia can be reached at yhm@windstream.net

PRICE OF CRUDE OIL DECLINES, ALBEIT MINIMALLY TAMPA, Fla. (March 14, 2010)—After two weeks of positive economic reports that bolstered the price of crude oil above $83 a barrel, a report from Reuters/University of Michigan showed the consumer sentiment index dropped to 72.5 when it was expected to increase to 74, reducing the price of crude oil to settle at $81.24 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange—26 cents less than its $81.50 price last Friday.

The U.S. dollar still plays an important role in the price of crude oil and last week, the dollar weakened against other currencies such

as the euro, thus making crude more appealing to foreign investors.

"The price of crude oil is currently driven by every piece of economic data that is released and the value of the U.S. dollar," said Jessica Brady, manager, Public & Government Relations, AAA Auto Club South. "So, it wasn't shocking to see the price decrease in response to the recent decline in the consumer sentiment index.

Retail prices may remain relatively unchanged this week, until we see whether the price of crude oil will continue its decline or increase. “Consumers in the Southeast

are beginning to worry that retail gas prices will rise to $3 a gallon in the next week or two. While some parts of the nation, like California and Hawaii, are already seeing these high prices, it is unlikely we will see prices rise that high in the next couple of weeks, locally,� added Brady.

The national average price of unleaded regular gasoline is $2.78 per gallon and reflects a four-cent increase from last week. Florida’s average price is $2.84, Georgia's average price is 2.71, and Tennessee’s is $2.54, all of which reflect an increase of five cents, respectively.

CURRENT AND PAST PRICE AVERAGES Regular Unleaded Gasoline National: Florida: Georgia: Tennessee:

Current $2.789 $2.844 $2.712 $2.692

Week Ago $2.747 $2.797 $2.667 $2.640

Month Ago Year Ago $2.628 $1.916 $2.666 $1.975 $2.511 $1.794 $2.511 $1.796

AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report (fuelgaugereport.com) is updated each day and is the most comprehensive; reflecting actual prices from credit card transactions within the past 24 hours at two-thirds (100,000 stations) of the gasoline stations in the U.S. Its accuracy is unparalleled.

How much are you paying for gasoline taxes in Florida/Georgia/Tennessee? Use this link: http://www. aaasouth.com/acs_news/gas_taxes.asp to find out.

NE WS

7KXUVGD\ 0DUFK ‡ GEORGIA SENTINEL Page 3A

Mists: Continued from page 1A

stone By teaching me how to pray.� (p.

54) I have the recent privilege of being associated with Charles Weymon Cook, teacher, poet, friend, having met him only in recent years through our associations in the Georgia State Poetry Society and the Byron Herbert Reece Society of which we are both members. Occasionally I am able to meet for a meal with him and his wife, LaVerne, or to travel to a meeting together. Having grown up in the same county, Charles and I didn’t know each other back when we were youth. I did know Charles’s older brother, Donald, as we were nearer together in age. The day of Mrs. Dora Hunter Allison Spiva’s 104th birthday celebration in February, 2009, Charles and I were both there and were able to read to her our individual poetic tributes for her profound influence on our lives. She had much to do with each of us choosing and pursuing careers in teaching.

Charles Weymon Cook writes in his “Introduction� to his book, Beyond the Mountain Haze: “My

southern style ‘earthy’ verses simply reflect people, places and events that have influenced my life. Some things just tear at the heartstrings and trigger a melody in your soul that you wish to share with friends and neighbors.�

This very modest appraisal by the author of why he had to write the book only goes partially into why he should, indeed, have shared it. He had something to say, and he said it with apparent ease and facility. Find a copy of Beyond the Mountain Haze. My prediction is that you, as I, will return to its pages again and again for inspiration, information and enjoyment. He lifts the haze and allows us to see a miracle heart, restored and ready to give praise to the Creator of all beauty and the Sustainer of life. And this he does in understandable, sensitive and positive poetry. Congratulations, Charles Weymon Cook, mountain lad grown to productive citizen, whose knowledge and appreciation of family, environment and associations shine forth from the pages of your book.

Celebrity servers take a break from politics and cater to the community in a different way

Photo/ Jacob Harris

Crowded: Continued from page 1A

ness, as a county commissioner and a state senator. He said he was for an open transparent government and that he had never voted for a tax increase.

Karen Handel, currently Georgia's Secretary of State and the sole woman Republican candidate for governor, said she was for comprehensive tax reform and was out to downsize the state government.

Calling herself a bold reformer, she said she had already downsized her department by 20 percent.

Austin Scott said he was the candidate who had walked the state, some 1,068 miles in 64 days talking to Georgians along the way.

He said he wanted to get the state's economy back on track, and that he sees better days ahead.

Eric Johnson referred to himself as the only candidate who was involved in the Reagan Revolution.

He has served in the state senate and said he believes in speaking his mind. He was also on a recent mission trip to India and said it made him realize just what a great country we have here in the U.S. "I'm for building a better Georgia," he said.

He added that the state needs to put people to work by improving the state's infrastructure and by cutting out unnecessary regulations which are stifling businesses.

He's for zero based budgeting and educational reform by allowing greater parent choice regarding schools.

John Oxendine, who has served 15 years as the state's Insurance Commissioner, said he is the only gubernatorial candidate with sufficient administrative governmental experience. He said he can hit the ground running on day one.

"Our state has a serious budget crisis," he said. "We have to do more with less. I've already done that with my department. We are still operating with the same budget we had 15 years ago, and in that time I've managed to cut my personnel where I have 31 percent fewer employees than I had at the start. Oxendine also stressed the importance in getting the state moving with regard to education.

He said Georgia is continuing to fall behind other states. "Right now North Carolina is blowing us away," he said. "We've got to make changes in the way we fund education giving priority to the children." He said he favors a voucher system where parents can choose where to send their children. He said one of the biggest problems in today's schools is that the teachers can't maintain discipline.

Ethelene Dyer Jones speaks at the 104th birthday party. Both she, and Charles Weymon Cook (below) wrote, read and presented framed poems in tribute to Aunt Dora.

Charles Weymon Cook shown with his high school teacher, Mrs. Dora Hunter Allison Spiva at her 104th birthday celebration in February, 2009.

He is author of the book Beyond the Mountain Haze.

Doc's: Continued from page 1A

to protect every American's right to choose their own doctor, access to emergency care and access to the latest technological advancements in medicine.

On other issues, he wants lower taxes, smaller government, locally centered education, traditionally family vaues, 12-year term limits on elected officials, and he supports 2nd Amendment rights. Cates is well known in the mountain area since he has held weekly clinics in Hiawassee, Blairsville and Dahlonega for the past 21 years.

Bert Loftman, a retired physician, is also running for congressman on the platform of Fairtax, control of the federal government's spending and keeping the federal government out of education.

Lee Hawkins, a dentist, is also in the race with a platform of Fairtax, bringing jobs to Georgia and building up small businesses. He called the proposed federal Health Care Bill a "nightmare."

Of the non-doc's running, Bobby Reese has served five terms in the Georgia House of Representatives.

He said he is for term limits in congress and thinks the U.S. representatives should have their salaries

cut based on the employment rate.

Tom Graves of Ranger, Georgia is running for congress on a pro-gun, pro-life platform. He said he is the author of a zero base budget for Georgia, and that he has traveled extensively across the country speaking to different groups including being one of the keynote speakers at the recent National Tea Party gathering in Washington.

Bill Stephens has also served in the Georgia State Senate, including being its leader. He said he was for Fairtax, term limits, and a freeze on federal spending. Stephens traces his family roots to Union and Fannin counties, and is well known in this region.

Jeremy Jones, who is running for the U.S. Congress, said, he supports Fairtax and getting a handle on illegal immigration. He said he is only running to fill Nathan Deal's unexpired term and would not be running for the regular two-year term in November.

That way you will know that I will devote my full attention to serving you during this period he said, and that he would not have to be out campaigning.

Subscribe to the Sentinel Call 828.389.8338

499

$

All American HearingAid AidCenter Center Audibel Hearing North Main St. 3 %NOTA 428 3AMARITAN $RIVE 'AINESVILLE

#UMMING '!

Hiawassee, GA

706-896-5525

"-

to his beautiful and compassionate wife, a teacher as he, LaVerne Young Cook, and their only child, daughter Christy, who assisted him with manuscript, typesetting and organization for the book, we have for our perusal a volume which I predict the reader will return to again and again.

Charles Weymon Cook’s father was Rufus Cook, “Mr. Ranger,� one of the earlier forest rangers in North Georgia who learned his skills as a forester under the able tutelage of Ranger Arthur Woody. Charles tells us that his father spent 43 years as a U. S. Forest Ranger. Among his skills were certified surveyor, timber-marker, forest-fire fighter, recreational facilities designer and builder, tower radio equipment manager and repairer—whatever the need within the far reaches of the mountain forests, Rufus Cook was there, walking the forests, keeping an eye diligently on the land and its care. Nine of Charles’s poems pay tribute to this giant of a fellow, both in stature and morally and spiritually, who gave him the firm foundation of a solid upbringing.

We can sense love in every line in which this poet describes his father. Here’s but a small example from “Mr. Ranger�: “I thank my God that I was there To live and love and grow Amidst the shadow of a giant, With smiling face aglow.� (p.

65) His mother, Nora Davenport Cook, has her section in the book.

Both parents and their influence are seen throughout the book, but their own sections are especially provocative, leading the reader to recall and appreciate family roots that went deeply into the soil of a developing life and bore fruit in years “beyond the mountain haze.�

A descendant of the early Davenport settlers to Union County for whom Davenport mountain was named, Nora Cook was a stay-athome mother who worked hard as an avid gardener and a dedicated housewife and mother. She did not tolerate “sassiness,� back-talk, or half-done chores. Her discipline and astuteness to details and homemaking values assured Charles and his siblings that they had a warm loving home where they were taught the principles of life: “You taught me love with gentle hands, Encouraging all the way; You laid the founding corner

Page 4A

GEORGIA SENTINEL ‡ 7KXUVGD\ 0DUFK

C A L E NDA R Fannin: Upcoming Events Car & Motorcycle Show benefits Relay For Life The Relay For Life of Fannin County Car & Motorcycle Show takes place on April 3 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Blue Ridge City Park in front of the Courthouse. The event includes the show, an Easter egg hunt at 1 p.m. and a cakewalk. Awards for the show take place at 4 p.m. Pre-registration fee until April 2 is $15, and day-of-show registration is $20.

The show is sponsored by Century 21 Professional Realty Group and benefits Relay For Life of Fannin County. For more information, contact Vickie Rhodes at (706) 455-5093 or VRhodes_8@ hotmail.com or Chris Bradburn at (706) 455-7348.

Children's Theater

"James and the Giant Peach," this season's first Sunny D Children's Theater play, will open March 26 at 7:30 p.m. Additional performances will be staged March 27 and April 1-3 at 7:30 p.m. and March 27 at 2 p.m. The theater

is located at 2591 East First Street in Blue Ridge. For tickets or more information, call (706) 632-9223.01.

Byrd family benefits from pancake breakfast

A benefit pancake breakfast will be held March 20 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Order of the Eastern Star, Beulah Chapter No. 21, 57 Toccoa Ave. in McCaysville. Cost is $5 per plate. All proceeds benefit the family of Madison Byrd.

Union: Recurring Events SUPPORT Road to Recovery

Are you a cancer patient? Do you need a ride to and from your treatment sessions? A lack of transportation should not be the reason why cancer patients do not receive the life-saving cancer treatment they need. The American Cancer Society offers their Road to Recovery program to help transport cancer patients to and from their treatment. The Society has a toll-free number that you may call, and an operator will put you in touch with local volunteers that give cancer patients without personal transportation rides to and from their cancer treatment sessions.

Give them a call at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Man to Man

Prostate Cancer Support Group—3rd Monday of every month from 5:00-6:30 p.m. at The Cancer Treatment Center Auditorium, 750 Deep South Road, Blairsville.

Parkinson’s support

Our group meets at 3 p.m. on the 2nd Wednesday of each month in the conference room of the Union County Public Library. For further information contact Paula Wilde at (706) 745- 6594 or Peter and Helen Schultze at (706) 745-9171.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Blairsville group meets every Monday and Wednesday night at 8 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 8 a.m. at the Mountain Presbyterian Church on Hwy. 515. For more information call 706-994-4462.

T.O.P.S.

TOPS (Take Pounds Off Sensibly) support group is moving to a new location at Zion United Methodist Church, 4812 Young Harris Hwy. Time weigh in 5:00; meeting starts at 5:30. Come join us to learn how to lose weight the sensible way. Membership fee of $24 includes monthly magazine subscription. Monthly awards and contests, weekly programs on nutrition and health. For more information call Sandy at 706-835-1607.

Morning Coffee Group

Regency Hospice announces Men’s Morning Coffee Group at Mary Ann’s Restaurant. For men who have a lost spouse, partner, or experienced other losses and would like to share with other men, please join us on Tuesday at 10 a.m. We meet the first and third Tuesday morning of each month.

For more information call Suzanne Repp, Bereavement Counselor at Regency Hospice in Hiawassee, Ga., at 800-577-8791.

Cancer Support Group

At the United Community Bank in Hayesville, N.C. Patients, families and friends are all welcome to attend. United Community Bank is located at the corner of Hwy. 64 and Hwy. 69. Meeting time is 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The group will meet twice a month (on the 2nd and 4th Mondays). For more information, please call Janet Curns evenings at 828-3890295.

Narcotics Anonymous Weekly Meetings List

Mondays - 7 p.m. 12-Step meeting at Union County Annex Building located at 71 Hospital Street. This is an open meeting. Union County Anti-Drug Coalition Tuesdays - 4 p.m. Open discussion meeting at Towns County Avita Community Partners. Meet at 1100 Jack Dayton Circle, Young Harris, Ga. Tuesdays - 7 p.m. Discussion meeting at Union County Annex Building & New Hope Counseling at 71 Hospital St. Wednesdays - 6 p.m. Open discussion meeting at Union County Avita Community Partners. 41 Hospital St., Suite 100, Blairsville.

Fridays - 8 p.m. Open discussion meeting at Union County Annex & New Hope Counseling, 71 Hospital St. All the meetings are open & anyone can attend. For more information regarding any of these meetings, please call 706-897-9775, 706-896-6263 or 706745-4066.

Bereavement Support Group Meeting

Welcome to a community bereavement support group. A place to share your thoughts and feelings and grow together with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

First Thursday of every month at United Community Bank, Small Community Room, Blairsville from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

We will only meet once per month.

Facilitator: Suzanne Repp, LCSW. The group is presented by Regency Hospice and is free of charge. Please call 1-800577-8791 or 706-896-1251 for more information.

Young Harris Al Anon

The Young Harris Al Anon Family Group will meet at 12 Noon every Tuesday in Young Harris, Ga., at Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church, Room 105. For more information, please call 706-781-3158.

Your Journey from Mourning to Joy

GriefShare is a Biblically-based weekly support group for people grieving the death of someone close. It’s a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life.

A GriefShare group meets every Tuesday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. starting September 1, at All Saints Lutheran Church in Blairsville. Call 706 745-7777 for more information.

ACTIVITIES GWRRA meets

Chapter J of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) meets the fourth Saturday of each month at Daniel’s Steakhouse, Hiawassee, GA. We eat at 11 AM followed by the meeting at 12:00 during which rides and other activities are announced and discussed.

We encourage current members of the GWRRA and anyone interested in becoming a member to join us. All motorcyclists are welcome and we look forward to seeing participants from other chapters.

There are great rides coming up and we hope many of you will join us.

For further information, contact Chapter Director, June Gottlieb, 706-8967403

Tri-State Business Women

Formerly known as Business Women of Blairsville, the Tri-State Business Women is an organization of entrepreneurial women in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee who own and operate their own businesses and are a positive force in the community. Their vision and mission is to support one another in continuing success through networking and marketing.

If you are a woman in business in the area, there is a place for you to receive support, gain leads, and spread the word about your practice or business in the area.

Meetings are held every Tuesday of the month at 8 a.m. at Grinds N Glazes in Blairsville. For more information, please contact Susanne Johnson, President, at 706-781-1678 or Cathy Wheeler at 706781-1050.

Ga. Mtn. Writers Club

We meet 10 a.m. to noon the second Wednesday of the month at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic church on the Young Harris Highway.

We have no membership dues or electHG RIÀFHUV DQG PHHW WR VKDUH RXU ZULWLQJV and provide helpful criticism, inspiration, motivation and encouragement to each other. Everyone is welcome. You do not have to be a writer - just visit and enjoy listening to readings and discussion. You will be entertained – and maybe acquire a new interest.

Call for information: Larry Casey at 781-6636 or Ellie Dobson at 745-0678.

Knights of Columbus, North Georgia Council Knights of Columbus, North Georgia Council, monthly meeting is on the second Thursday of the month and meets 7:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Blairsville. All active members are invited to attend the meeting and social hour.

Bagpipe Instruction

The Appalachian Saint Andrew’s Pipes and Drums bagpipe band is offering free instruction to all who want to learn how to play the Great Highland Bagpipe or learn Regimental Drumming. The band meets each Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon in the Parish Hall of Saint Clare’s Episcopal Church for instruction and practice. For further information, please call 706-835-9071 or 706-745-3526.

Mountain High Hiker's Schedule

Mountain High Hikers schedule two hikes each Tuesday, occasionally specialty hike, and regular trail maintaining trips- all in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Georgia.

Check the web site: MountainHighHikers.org for schedule and meeting locations or call 828-389-8240 for information.

Kiwanis Club

The Kiwanis Club of Blairsville is dedicated to serving and supporting young people in the immediate area around Blairsville through numerous projects.

The Kiwanis Club meets at the Cobb’s Mill restaurant in Blairsville at 12:00 Noon each Monday. Come join in the fun with us. For more information, contact President Charlie Krick at (706)7816793.

DAV

The Disabled American Veterans meet monthly on the second Monday of each month at noon in the Old Nursing Home, Room 116, in Blairsville. Please join them.

Club 180 for Teens

Join us on Fridays at 6:30 p.m. for fellowship, fun and snacks at Choestoe Baptist Church, 4455 Choestoe Church Rd., located south of Blairsville off Hwy. 129 and Hwy. 180. For more information and directions, please call the church at 706745-6370.

Mountain Sounds

We meet every 2nd & 4th Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30p.m. at the Senior

Center in Blairsville. No matter if you just started playing the dulcimer or if you are experienced, come join us for a good time playing your favorite songs and learning new songs. For more information, please contact LaDale at 706-835-1688 or raydale@windstream.net. Hope to see you at our next meeting!

Just 4 Hours

Just 4 hours a week can make a big difference in caring for abandoned and abused animals. Just 4 hours to walk dogs. Just 4 hours to groom dogs or cats.

Just 4 house to clean the cattery. Just 4 hours to transport dogs and/or cats to the vet. If you have just 4 hours a week to volunteer your time and energy, please contact Castaway Critters at 706-7813992 or call Martha at 706-379-2729.

Trout Unlimited

Trout Unlimited meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at Cadence Bank conference room in Blairsville at 7:00 p.m.

For more information, please call Marcus Tuschel at 706-835-9010.

Experimental Aircraft Association

The Experimental Aircraft Association - local tri-state EAA Chapter #1211 meets the third Thursday, 7 p.m. of each month at Blairsville airport. For more information, contact Jim Olson at 828-557-2446.

Shooting Creek Basket Weavers

The Shooting Creek Basket Weavers Guild meets on the 2nd Wed. of each month from 9:45 until 2:00 at the ShootLQJ &UHHN &RPPXQLW\ &HQWHU ÀUH VWDtion) in NC. Refreshments are served and a business meeting is held before a weaving project is presented. For more information, contact Joan (Guild president) at 706-896-1534.

UC Republican Party

The Union County Republican Party holds its monthly meetings on the third Saturday of each month at Victoria’s Sweet Shop. Meetings begin at 9am and have an optional breakfast for $6. More information can be found at www.uniongop.org.

Tri-State Business Women

Women business owners in the tri-state area are welcome to attend and join our weekly meeting every Tuesday at 8am.

Meetings are held at the Blairsville Restaurant with breakfast available to those interested. Come and see how women are making an impact as leaders in our community. For more information visit www. tri-statebusinesswomen.com.

Republican Women Of Union County

The RWUC meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Meetings are held in the Brackett Room at the United Community Bank. For more information visit www.RepublicanWomenOfUnion.org.

Feed Fannin

Feed Fannin is offering a class on organic gardening on Thursday, March 18, 10:00 a.m. at Family Connections, 101 Industrial Park Blvd. Blue Ridge.

For more information, contact Bill Voyles at 404-455-3965.

Superstars of the South Wrestling

Special Olympics fundraiser The Fannin County Special Olympics School Feud Games will be held from 5:30-9 p.m. at the middle school gym. The game is played like TV's "The Family Feud," and all proceeds go to the Special Olympics.

MOAA

Superstars of the South wrestling will be presented by the Fannin County Middle School Chorus March 27 at the middle school gym. The event takes place from 5-10 p.m. and raises funds for the chorus. For more information, call (706) 455-9669.

The Blue Ridge Mountains Chapter RI WKH 0LOLWDU\ 2IĂ€FHUV $VVRFLDWLRQ RI America (MOAA) meets the third Monday of each month at various area restaurants.

All active duty, National Guard, reserve, retired, former military, Public Health SerYLFH 12$$ RIĂ€FHUV ZDUUDQW RIĂ€FHUV DQG surviving spouses are invited to attend.

For information please contact one of the following individuals, in North Carolina: Jim Ferrell at 828-335-9203, and in Georgia: John Quinlan at 706-896-2430,

or becoming a HAM, call Don Deyton at 706-781-6665.

Amateur license testing will be held on December 7th in Blairsville at 310 Welborn Street, Blairsville, GA. Contact Bob Ochs at 706-838-4728 for more information.

General - By way of Presidential appointment, Max Wood served as the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia beginning in 2001. He served as the Chief Prosecutor and law enforcePHQW RIĂ€FHU IRU WKH 8QLWHG 6WDWHV LQ WKH 70 county Middle District of Georgia.

This district includes the cities of Athens, Macon, Columbus, Albany and Valdosta.

0DULD 6KHIĂ€HOG VHHNLQJ WKH RIĂ€FH RI Insurance Commissioner - She is a conservative running to serve Georgia as Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.

Pro Fair Tax, Pro Gun, and Pro Life.

Doug MacGinnitie, candidate for Secretary of State Candidate - Doug believes the key to creating jobs during the current recession is a focus on small business.“More than 75 percent of jobs that are created in this kind of recession are created at the small business level,� he said. “If you care about jobs in the state, then you should care about small business.�.

Melvin Everson, running for Labor Commissioner - Republican Melvin Everson has developed a reputation for strong, conservative leadership as a State Representative from Gwinnett County.

Prior to being elected to the State Legislature, he was elected City Councilman in Snellville twice. Everson has made a difference for those he has served at both the local and state level. He served 23 years in the military before retiring in 1999.

Additional information may be obtained at www.uniongop.org or by calling 706-781-1013.

DAR Meeting

The December meeting of the Old Unicoi Trail Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be held at the Big Springs meeting room at The Oaks in Hiawassee, GA, Saturday, December 12th, 2009, at 10:15 AM. OUTDAR members will tell about their memories of celebrating Christmas in other countries. Members will also KROG D &UDIWV DQG %DNH 6DOH WR EHQHĂ€W club chapter projects. If you are interested in learning more about DAR, an organization for women who have Revolutionary War patriots in their family history, contact Eloise Wolfersteig, Regent, 706-379-2533. Old Unicoi Trail Chapter serves Towns, Union, and Fannin Counties. The Old Unicoi Trail homepage is found online at http://oldunicoitrail.georgiastatedar.org.

Computer Club

The Mountain Computer User Group Will meets in November on TUESDAY at 7 PM in the Goolsby Center, Young Harris College. Please note this is a change from our normal meeting date.

At this time we will be presenting a program on all the new technologies that you can expect to get for Christmas.

Come join us as we travel into the land of new technology. You might just get a glimpse of what Santa has in store for you at Christmas this year. Don’t forget we are meeting on Tuesday, November 10th. at 7 PM and not on Monday as we normally do.

We will start the evening with our usual Q&A session. Come and join us for a lively session that is bound to increase your computer knowledge. Our Q&A session begins at 6 PM. Bring a friend and join us for the evening, you’ll be glad you did.

Union County Republican Party

The Republican Party will be holding its monthly meeting on Saturday, January 16th at 9:00 am at Victoria’s Sweet Shop at 2386 Young Harris Highway, Blairsville. A buffet breakfast for $6 will be available and is optional. Everyone is invited to attend and meet candidates for VWDWHZLGH RIÀFHV 6SHDNHUV WKLV PRQWK are: Max Wood, running for Attorney

Patriots of Union County The Patriots of Union County meet on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 P.M. at the Civic Center (next to Steve's Steak House). 185 Wellborn St. This is a non-partisan group and everyone is invited.

The meetings will feature discussions on Constitutional rights, state's rights, right to bear arms, Fair Tax, border security, energy dependence and more.

A canned and non-perishable food drive will be held in conjunction with the meeting for the 9th District Food Bank For more information call: 706-7457201

Auto Club

The next meeting of the Good Neighbors Auto Club will be on Thursday starting at 7:00 PM. Meeting to be held at Brothers Restaurant in Murphy, NC. All meetings are open to the public and are held on the third Thursday of

or visit www.moaa.org/chapter/blueridgemountains.

Surviving in Economic Hard Times

FREE Seminar March 25, 2010, 6:00 p.m. - United Community Bank’s Meeting Room If you would like some guidance in GHDOLQJ ZLWK ÀQDQFLDO PDWWHUV LQ WKHVH GLIÀFXOW HFRQRPLF WLPHV SODQ WR DWWHQG WKLV FREE seminar which will be hosted by 6\OYLD 7XUQDJH &HUWLÀHG 3XEOLF $FFRXQtant, and Susanne Johnson, Regional Vice President of Primerica. The session will be targeted to ages 25 to 50. Topics covered will include budgeting, saving, credit scores, debt elimination, insurance needs and identity theft.

Although the seminar is free, it is necessary for you to reserve a seat by calling Sylvia at 706-745-5125 or Susanne at 706781-1678. each month.

Mountain Community Seniors

They meets second Thursday each month at Senior Center in Hiawassee at 2:00 P.M.. We invite and welcome all Mountain Seniors from Towns, Union and Clay Counties to join us. We have Music, Informative speakers, picnics DQG ÀHOG WULSV 2Q 7KXUVGD\ )HE WK We have Roy Perrin, Principal of Towns County High School who will give us his very entertaining rendition of Elvis.

Light refreshments served. Do come join us.

Master Gardener Organizational Meeting

,I \RX DUH D &HUWLĂ€HG 0DVWHU *DUGHQHU interested in supporting projects in Towns and Union counties, please join us at 6PM, March 18th at the Blairsville Civic Center for an organizational meeting. We will discuss potential projects, as well as review possible meeting locations and dates and time for monthly meetings. For additional information, please contact Patti Bransford at 706896-6430, or cell 706-781-4040. email: bransford@brmemc.net The Master Gardener Program in Georgia is a volunteer training program designed to help Extension agents transfer research-based information about gardening and related subjects to the public by training home gardeners.

For more information about the Master Gardener program in your area, contact WKH &RRSHUDWLYH ([WHQVLRQ RIĂ€FH QHDUHVW you.

Mountain Coin Club

meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month.

Early activities begin at 5:30. Meeting follows at 6:30 p.m. The club meets at Cadence Bank in Blairsville. For more information, call YOCS, 706-379-1488.

Submit your events to the The Sentinel Community Calendar!

828-389-8338 or news@wncsentinel.net

WorthConsidering Athoughtfortoday

Mothers of Preschoolers

0236 ,QWHUQDWLRQDO D QRQ SURĂ€W PRWKering organization, creates communities and resources to help make "better moms who make a better world." A MOPS group is a place where moms can comejust as they are-to build friendships, receive mothering support, practical help and spiritual hope. Join us - because better moms, make a better world! Visit us at www.MOPS.org Mothers of Preschoolers meets on the Third Thursday of each month in the new fellowship hall at First Baptist Church of Blairsville from 6-8pm. Call the church RIĂ€FH DW IRU PRUH LQIRUPDtion or email us at mopsofblairsville@ gmail.com.

“I’ve learned from experience that the greater part of happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances.�

-Martha Washington

Smokie Mountain Melodies

Smokie Mountain Melodies is a ladies barbershop-style chorus whose members FRPH IURP ÀYH FRXQWLHV LQ 1RUWK *HRUJLD and Western North Carolina. As a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, the chorus is committed to a goal of advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performances.

Smokie Mountain Melodies meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 at the First United Methodist of Union County in Blairsville, Georgia located at 859 Highway 515.

Any women who have a love of singing are welcome to join. For more information call the Director, Phyllis Baker at 706-379-3836.

Forming Gourmet Dinner Club

6KDUH VXSHUE GLQQHUV ZLWK RWKHU ÀQH dining connoisseurs, must have some gourmet cooking skills and room to host candle light, sit down dinners in your home. Full time and part time residents welcome. Hiawassee and Young Harris.

Limited membership. Call Diane 706835-5007

Amateur Radio

Attention HAMs and anyone interested in Amateur Radio The North Georgia Tri-State A.R.C. (Amateur Radio Club) meetings are KHOG RQ WKH ÀUVW 7XHVGD\ RI HDFK PRQWK DW 7 p.m. at Branan Lodge in Blairsville. All of our meetings are open to the public.

Our next meeting is to be held December 1st and will begin with a special technical session on Amatuer Radio Emergency 6HUYLFH $5(6 DQG PRUH VSHFLĂ€FDOO\ WKH Tarheel Network in North Carolina. For more information about joining the Club

Some look to things to satisfy, To bring euphoria and contentment.

But pursuit of more can lead to misery And the never-satiated desire for greater possessions.

Some hope to have a life without trials And so seek to avoid pitfalls that would bring sorrow.

Along the journey the traveler must take heed to self.

Peace and joy are inward traits; the way we think is who we are.

-Ethelene Dyer Jones

7KXUVGD\ 0DUFK ‡ GEORGIA SENTINEL Page 5A

CO M MUN I T Y Tributes Donald Lee Cox

Mr. Donald Lee Cox age 81 of Highland Trace Blairsville formerly of Palm Springs, FL., passed away on Saturday March 13,2010 in the Union General Hospital following a brief illness. Mr.Cox was born on Nov.13,1928 in Dayton,OH., the son of the late Paul and Clara Cox. He was a veteran of the US Army.

He had retired from Bell South Telephone Company. Donald enjoyed surfing,scuba diving,racing cars and jumping out of airplanes. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters,Polly and Helen. Mr.Cox was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Surviving Mr.Cox are his loving wife of twenty five years, Vanessa Cox of Blairsville, four children, Debbie and Curtis Bland of R.I., Tracey Cox of

Vernon Hancel Barnes

Mr. Vernon Hancel Barnes age 67 of Mt.Pleasant Church Rd. Blairsville passed away on Monday, March 8, 2010 in the Union General Hospital following a brief illness. Mr.Barnes was born on March 8, 1942 in Union County, the son of the late Loman Barnes and the late Beulah Blue Barnes.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Union County. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Norma Jean Barnes and a son, Ronnie Barnes.

Mr.Barnes was of the Baptist faith.

Surviving Mr.Barnes are his loving wife of fifty years, Belva Jean Brown Barnes of Blairsville, son and daughter in law, Johnny and Debbie Barnes of Blairsville, daughter, Diane Green of Blairsville, daughter and son in law, Sarah and Nelson Patterson of Blairsville, son, Keith Barnes of Blairsville, one brother, Claude Barnes, four sisters and three brother in laws, Maude and Gene Henson, Sue and Ronnie Ware, Josephine Phillips, Kay and Harold Cook, eight grandchildren, Greg and Andy

Willa Mae Dockery

Willa Mae Dockery, age 96, of Blairsville, GA and formerly of Murphy, NC passed away Monday, March 8, 2010 at the Union General Hospital in Blairsville, GA. She was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, NC and the daughter of the late Noah and Dovie Fricks McDonald. Willa Mae was a homemaker. She was a member of the Hiawassee Baptist Church where she loved going and had taught Sunday school in her younger years. Willa Mae enjoyed quilting and gardening.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Andrew Dockery; one son, Mack Alden Dockery; three brothers, Fred McDonald, Olen McDonald and Leonard McDonald; three sisters, Bessie Johnson, Beatrice Kephart and Lola Dockery.

She is survived by three sons, Guy Charles Dockery and his wife, June King Dockery of Lebanon, TN, Dennis Dockery and his wife, Marie G. Dockery of Murphy, NC and Noah Odis Dockery and his wife, Betty Ellen Hall Dockery of Kingston, TN; one daughter, Eva Beth Decker and her husband, Billy

Paula Paris Johnson

Paula Paris Johnson, age 70, of Blairsville, Georgia passed away on Thursday, March 11,2010 at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta following complications from MS. Paula was born on June 15, 1939 in Atlanta, the daughter of the late Paul Paris and the late Edith Floyd Paris.

She is survived by her son Paul Stanley of Gainesvillle, Georgia; her sister Mary Carol Adamson, of LaGrange; Commissioner Lamar Paris, the sole commissioner of Union County; two grandchildren, Phillip Stanley and Elizabeth Stanley both of Gainesville; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Paula never met a stranger, and if she did they were not strangers for very long. She loved Blairsville and everything--and everyone--in it. She was born and raised in Blairsville.

She graduated from Young Harris College and went on to graduate from the Great University of Georgia with a degree in Home Economics. She later obtained a masters degree in that field. She loved people and spent her career helping others as a Home Extension Agent in Inverness, Florida. After 30 years she returned to Blairsville to retire among friends and family and moved into the home her mother lived in before her. She was a member of Kiwanis--an organization that her father, Paul Paris, help found and was the first president. She liked any group where there were people to listen to her stories and they had some food to eat. It wasn't that she liked to eat, but that the

Bernadette Marie Larkin

Mrs.Bernadette Marie Larkin age 87 of Lakeside Drive Blairsville passed away on Monday March 8,2010 in the Fannin Regional Hospital following an extended illness.Mrs.Larkin was born on July 19,1922 in Sioux City,Iowa,the daughter of the late John Monroe Savage and the late Alice Clay Savage.She was a loving mother,grandmother and great grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her husband,Ralph Larkin Jr.in 1971.Mrs.Larkin was of the Methodist faith.

Surviving Mrs.Larkin are two daughter and son in law,Sandra and Dick Sowers of Blairsville,Teresa and Mark Gaechter of Eugene,OR.,four grandchi

Augusta,GA., Jeff and Penny Cox of Rex,GA., Holly Cox of Schertz,TX., several cousins, nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends also survive.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 2:00pm from the Antioch Baptist Church with the Rev. George Cline officiating. Special music will be presented by Susanne Dowdy. In lieu of flowers if you wish, the family requests that memorials may be made to the Antioch Baptist Church in memory of Mr.Cox. The family will meet with friends on Wednesday from 1-2 pm at the Antioch Baptist Church.

Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and send condolences on line at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com

Randall "Randy" Evan King

Mr.Randall “Randy�Evan King age 47 of Mountain Cycles Drive Blairsville rode off into the sunset for the last time on Monday March 8, 2010 from the Union General Hospital following an extended illness. Randy was born on May 9,1962 in Union County,the son of Sam King and Geneva Davis King Chastain.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Union County and was a 1980 graduate of Union County High School. He owned and operated Mountain Cycles Repair Shop for several years.

Randy loved life and lived each day to the fullest.

He was a loving son,brother and nephew and was a friend to many. Randy was of the Baptist faith.

Surviving Mr.King are his mother, Geneva Chastain of Blairsville, father, Sam King of Blairsville, one brother and sister in law, Ricky and Jeri King of Blairsville, one Barnes, Avery, Shane and Cody Patterson, Cory and sister, Tanya Chastain of Blairsville, niece, Chantell King Amy Green and Ashley West, ten great grandchildren, Wayne H. Ledford Gage and Kane Barnes, Faith, Mason and Bradley Mr. Wayne H. Ledford, age 74, of McDonough, GA West, Alyssa and Keirra Barnes, Chase Payne, Trenton passed away March 10, 2010. He was born in Murphy, and Russell Barnes, many other relatives and friends NC to the late Olen William and Naomi Elizabeth also survive.

Coleman Ledford. He was preceded in death by Funeral services will be held on Thursday parents, and one sister, Sandra Robinson.

March 11,2010 at 2:00pm from the MounWayne was a native of Murphy, but lived tain View Chapel with the Rev. Ray Potts most of his life in the Atlanta area. He worked officiating. Special music will be presented 36 years at AT&T, being formerly the Western by the Kelley Trio. The following gentleman Electric and Lucent Technologies. In 1969, he will serve as pallbearers, Dan Payne, Richard was part of a selected group of Western Electric West, Cory Green, Shane Patterson, Greg employees sent to Europe when a telephone cable Barnes and Adam Payne. Serving as honorary line was laid on the Atlantic Ocean floor from the pallbearers will be, Ronnie Ware, Gene Henson eastern U.S. to the coast of Spain. He was of the Baptist and Leonard Sosebee. Interment will follow in the Faith and a member of the Liberty Baptist Church in NC. Birch Cemetery. The family will meet with friends at One of Wayne’s biggest passions was playing the electric the funeral home.

Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville in Frances Louise Milhizer charge of the arrangements. You may sign the fam- Frances Louise Milhizer of Blue Ridge, Georgia passed ily guest book and send condolences on line at www. away at her home on Saturday March 6, 2010. Miss Milmountainviewfuneralhome.com hizer was born in Fannin County to the late Charles and Kittie Bell (Anderson) Milhizer. Family members preceded Frances in death and she is survived by close friends M. of Blairsville, GA; one brother, J.D. McDonald of and her church family.

Cary, NC; one sister, Nettie Green of Sylva, NC; sevFrances was a life-long member of the Blue Ridge en grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, two great United Methodist Church and a Certified Lay Speaker. great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was an active member of the United Methodist Funeral Services were held at 11:00 AM, ThursWomen, Saints Alive, Missions and the Adminisday, March 11, 2010 at the Townson-Rose Funeral trative Church Council.

Home Chapel in Murphy, NC. Pastor Jim Beasley Active in the local community, Frances was a and Dr. Eddis Dockery officiated. Burial was be Charter Member of the Blue Ridge Federated in the Hiawassee Baptist Church Cemetery.

Woman’s Club and served as an officer for over Grandchildren and great grandchildren 25 years. She was a graduate of the Tallulah Falls served as pallbearers.

Boarding School owned by the Georgia FederaThe family will receive friends from tion of Woman’s Clubs. She has been an active 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Wednesday, March volunteer with the Good Samaritans of Fannin 10, 2010 at the Townson-Rose Funeral County helping to coordinate financial assistance to Home in Murphy, NC. Fannin County neighbors in need.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be Her professional career included insurance sales, pubmade to the Hiawassee Baptist Church Building lishing and editing the monthly Mountain Highlights, Fund, c/o Linda K . Seabolt, 95 Bates Creek Road, marketing and sales for an area resort, encyclopedia sales Murphy, NC 28906. and an employment training counselor with the DepartYou may send tributes to the Dockery family at ment of Human Resources. Frances also was an employee www.mem.com or view other obits at www.townsonof the Fannin Sentinel for several years and was well liked rose.com and enjoyed by the community as well as her co-workers.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arMiss Milhizer obtained a Bachelor in Education in rangements.

1956 from the University of Georgia at Athens, a Masters in Education from Western Carolina University in Culfood drew a bigger crowd to talk to. She was an avid lowhee in 1964 and an Education Specialist in Adminissupporter of the Union County Historical Society-an organization that her mother, Ms. Edith, helped or- Howard Reece Mr. Howard Reece, age 89, of McCaysville, ganize and presided over. She was part of the reunion GA, passed away Friday, March 5, 2010 at Piedmont committee for the Union County Class of '56--and Hospital in Atlanta.

Mr. Reece was born in Cherokee they got together just about every Tuesday morning County, GA to the late Charles Jefferson and Berfor breakfast. Not to mention the Saturday Morning tha Cochran Reece.

Howard was a U.S. Navy Breakfast group, the Taco Tuesday group, the Veteran who served in WWII. He was a DeaYoung Harris group, the Monday Night group con and trustee of The First Baptist Church (when it did not conflict with Kiwanis), a of McCaysville Copperhill, and a member Wednesday breakfast group, and NARFE... and the list could go on. She loved to make of the McCaysville Masonic Lodge. He redesserts of all kinds. She will be greatly tired from the Cities Service Company.

Mr. Reece was preceded in death by missed by all. Don't forget to keep your sisters, Hattie Pruitt, Ruby Hall, and sister, fork.

Frances Larkin, and brother, James Hubert Funeral services were held on Saturday, Reece.

March 13, 2010 at First United Methodist Howard is survived by his wife, Dorothy Stanley Church of Union county in Blairsville with the Reece; daughter, Mary Alice Walker; son, Ronald SteRev. Ben Lewis officiating. Internment was in Union phen ( Janine) Reece; son, William H. "Buck" (DonMemoryGardens, next to her late husband Cody na) Reece Jr.; sisters, Anna Bell Peterson, and Willa Johnson and near her parents.

Mae Bilskis, brother, Charles J. Reece Jr., and John B. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to any "Buster" Reece; grandchildren, Brian Walker, Sarah of her favorite causes: The Union County Historical Society, The First United Methodist Church of Union County Building Fund, Blairsville Kiwanis Club or Major Monroe Payne Mr. Major Monroe Payne, native and lifelong Young Harris College Alumni Association. resident of Blairsville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday, Mountain View Funeral Home in Blairsville is coMarch 9, 2010, in Union County Nursing Home ordinating the arrangements. You may sign the famin Blairsville.

Mr. Payne was born Wednesday, ily guest book and send condolences online at www.

August 30, 1916, as son of the late Charles mountainviewfuneralhome.com.

Monroe and the late Virginia Ross Payne, in Union County. He was a member of ldren,Denise,Stacee,Chad and Nicole,seven great Pleasant Hill Baptist Church and was a grandchildren,many other relatives and friends also 50+ year member of Youngcane Masonic survive.

Lodge. Mr. Payne was preceded in death by A memorial service will be held at a later date his wife of 72 years, Grace, in 2009, and an from Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier,CA.with infant daughter, Nettie Virginia Payne.

Rev.Dennis Larkin officiating.In lieu of flowers if you Surviving family members include: daughwish,the family requests that memorials may be made ter and son-in-law, Blanche and Jimmy Huddleston to the American Lung Association in memory of Mrs. of Blairsville; grandsons, Daryl Norwood and Curt Larkin.

Norwood, both of Kentucky; step grandaughter, Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville in Rhonda Campbell of Virginia and step-granson, Jim charge of the arrangements.You may sign the family guest book and send condolences on line at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com

of Blairsville, aunts, Beulah Davis, Ellaree Fortenberry, Lucille Collins, Hazel Dyer and Irene Seabolt, uncle, Cecil King, many other relatives and friends also survive.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday March 11,2010 at 11:00am from the Mountain View Chapel with the Rev. Larry Truelove officiating. Special music will be presented by the Kelley Trio. The following gentleman will serve as pallbearers, Darren Groves, Michael Davis, Mark Mull, Mike Hill, Cal Kindy and Joe Young. Interment will follow in the Burch Cemetery. The family will meet with friends at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 5-9pm.

Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and send condolences on line at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com guitar. His idol was Chet Atkins, known as “Mister Guitar.� Wayne was a long time member of the annual meeting of the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society.

Survivors included his wife, of over 50 years, Kamilla Ledford; sons, Eric Ledford of Porterdale, GA, Stephen Ledford of McDonough, GA; brothers, Donald Ledford of Plantation, FL, and David Ledford of Huron, TN. Funeral Services were conducted Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. from the Chapel of the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home.

Arrangements were entrusted to the FinchCochran Funeral Home, McCaysville, GA. www. cochranfuneralhomes.com

tration and Supervision in 1971 from the University of Georgia. Her teaching career included Curriculum Director for Habersham, Pickens and Oconee County School Systems, after ten years teaching first through eighth grade in Fannin County Schools. University appointments included Adult Education Director for Morehead State University in Kentucky and Adjunct Faculty for Brenau College. Honors received included Georgia Commissioner’s Award for Outstanding Service, selection to Outstanding Elementary Teacher of America and to the Who’s Who Among Child Developmental Professionals.

Funeral services were held Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church with Dr. John T. Brantley officiating. Interment followed in the family plot at Harmony Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Tom Patterson, Tommy Vannoy, Gary Gray, Randy Brown, Gordon Riddock, Jim Lassiter, John Davis, and Jim Mayhugh. Honorary pallbearers were members of the Blue Ridge Federated Woman’s Club and the Good Samaritans of Fannin County.

Donations in memory of Frances Milhizer may be made to the Memorial Fund of the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church or to the Good Samaritans of Fannin County, both at Post Office Box 85, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513.

Remembrances and memories of Frances can be shared on her guest book pages at www.akinsfuneralhome.com.

Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of arrangements for Frances Louise Milhizer.

Walker, Chad Reece, Aaron Reece, Cristy Woody, Emily Reece, and Elizabeth Reece, and great grandchildren, Reece Walker, Nathan Walker, C.J. Reece and Cayden Reece.

Funeral services were held Monday March 8, 2010 at 1:00 PM from the First Baptist Church McCaysville/ Copperhill with Rev. Scott Baugh and Rev. Harry Gilbert officiating. Music was provided by The Prime Time Choir. Serving as pallbearers were Brian Walker, Chad Reece, Aaron Reece, Jason Woody, John Barry Reece and Randy Reece. Honorary Pallbearers were Deacons of the First Baptist Church of McCaysville/Copperhill. Burial followed in the Crestlawn Cemetery with Military Honors provided by The North GA Honor Guard.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home of McCaysville. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com Huddleston III of Kentucky. 6 great grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services were held Friday, March 12, 2010 at 11:00 AM from the Chapel of the Cochran Funeral Home of Blairsville with Rev. Steve Youngblood officiating. Interment was in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family met with friends on Thursday, March 11, 2010, from 5:00 until 8:00 PM, at the funeral home.

Serving as pallbearers were the following gentlemen: David Abercrombie, Michael Abercrombie, Kenny Blevins, Carlton Chambers, John Foster, and Richard Wheeler.

Arrangements entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home of Blairsville. Please send condolences and sign the guest registry at www.cochranfuneralhomes. com.

Page 6A

GEORGIA SENTINEL ‡ 7KXUVGD\ 0DUFK

The M & M's Have Done it Again!!!

Well, the first thing that you must know is, who are the M & M's They are First Vice President Mildred Thompson and Second Vice President Mary Arnold. Both are Lions and members of Union County Lions Club.

Current lion President Lisa Little dubbed Lions Mildred & Mary as the M & M's when she asked them to be the co-chairs for the Lion programs at the beginning of the 2009-2010Lions year. They have certainly done an outstanding job thus far with very different and interesting programs for the Lions meetings. Remember the very different annual Lions Christmas meeting? The M & M's put that together.

Reason for this article is the very different recent annual Lions Valentine meeting the M & M's planned. Everyone likes to receive Valentines, however, not everyone does. As each person arrived that evening, their name was printed on a slip of paper and put in a container for a drawing of

Church Events Bible Retreat Weekend

James Wilson, Director Mountain Christian Ashram, announces Rev. Dr. Timothy S. Moore as Bible teacher for their upcoming seminar/retreat.

Rev. Dr. Stuart Greene will be the weekend Evangelist. MCA has been sponsored

by Young Harris College and Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church for more than 20 years. Their next event will be held June 18-20, 2010.

The Christian Ashram movement was founded by E. Stanley Jones 80 years ago in India where he served as Methodist missionary, teacher and author. Jones Christianized the Indian concept of an Ashram and brought it to the states in 1940.

The movement is now worldwide and interdenominational.

Rev. Dr. Timothy Moore is a native of Cullowhee, NC and is the campus minister at Young Harris College. Moore graduated from Greensboro College with a degree in religion and philosophy and completed his master of divinity degree at Duke University.

Moore furthered his postgraduate research studies as a Rotary International Scholar at St. Andrews University in St. Andrews Scotland and returned to North Carolina to begin his doctoral studies at Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury, NC. He completed his doctoral degree while serving churches in southeast Eng-

CO M MUN I T Y

names. Then Lions Mildred and Mary gave to each Lion and guest that evening a big, write, blank, shaped heart. With colored pens on each table, the 'Valentine' was suppose to be decorated, colored, and a message written to the person whose name you drew. There was time limit for this momentous undertaking and at 'time up' each person was then to stand and read the message and present their 'Valentine'.

Needless to say there were plain Valentines, sweet Valentines, funny Valentines, and Valentines that rhymed. The very best ones, believe it or not, were the ones where a man drew another man's name! It was truly a fun time and several prizes were awarded.

Thank you Lions Club for avery different kind of Valentine meeting. By the way, did you know it is said that more teachers receive Valentines than any other group of people and that 'sweethearts' are last on the list?

With all the fellowship and fun, please remember the Lions Motto: " WE SERVE".

Reaching out with Environmental Research

By Harrison Keely Sentinel Writer The Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center wants to reach across state lines to help Clay County citizens become more aware of the environment.

The center's community council met with local business leaders last week to discuss a series of programs and express the necessity of the center.

"Even though we're neighbors in a different state, we have the same environment, we have the same needs, and we hope to serve you just as well as we can serve the citizens of Georgia," staffer Joe Garner said.

Council members said that the goal was to encourage people to make better decisions through knowledge, noting that the closest similar program in North Carolina is hours away on the other end of the state.

"We want to cooperate with them; we're not in conflict with

land.

Mountain Christian Ashram is where barriers of race, age, class and title are broken. It is here that obstacles of fear, worry, anxiety, and emptiness are shattered.

Young and old, married and single, male and female, all are welcome. It is the goal of the Christian Ashram that all will go forth proclaiming that “Jesus is Lord.�

In addition to Bible study, the weekend LV ÀOOHG ZLWK ZRUVKLS PXVLF KHDOLQJ IHOlowship and communion. Registration fee is $25.00. Scholarships are provided for high school and college students. For more details please go online www.MountainChristianAshram.org or telephone Dot Manchester 706-745-9029.

Cherokee, NC. House of Prayer Church in Blairsville, GA on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 5:00 to 7:00. Takeout available at 4:00 p.m. Sponsored by: Osprey Ministries Please call John Davis at 706-835-6010 or 706-896-7491 for more information.

Pine Grove Baptist Church

Youngstown Baptist Church

Singing March 20, 2010 at 7:00 PM. Special singers will be Rodney Underwood and Billy Nicholson. Pastor Dwayne Patterson invites everyone to some out and enjoy singing praises to our Lord. The church is located off 17-69 going towards Hayesville NC on Swaims Rd.

House of Prayer

House of Prayer Church is having their 21st annual Missions Conference. March 19th ,20th and 21st . Evening services at 7.

Saturday, Mens Breakfast at 8:30a.m. ,Womens luncheon at 11: 30. Please call to sign up 706-745-9061. Sunday, Sunday School at 9a.m. and service at 10:00 a.m. . Please come join us as we celebrate what God is doing all over the world. For more info call 7067455925.

Join Youngstown Baptist Church for a community breakfast in the fellowship Hall Saturday, March 20th 9-10:30 am. Country VW\OH EUHDNIDVW ZLWK ELVFXLWV DQG DOO WKH À[ins! Donations accepted!

Sunrise Service at Chapel BBQ Chicken Dinner & Ledford's An Easter Sunrise Service will be held at Ledford’s Chapel UMC at 7:30am on SunGospel Sing day, April 4th. Breakfast will be served in 1/4 BBQ Chicken, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Bread, Dessert, Drink $8.00 donation. Singing: House of Prayer Choir Ensemble, All Nations Warrior Drum from

UNION

Sentinel

the fellowship room after the service. Everyone is welcome: Please come!

PUBLISHER: Frank Bradley EDITOR: Jacob Harris EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debbie Walker CIRCULATION: Debbie Walker BOOKKEEPING: Pat McCollum

them," Garner said.

The center is open for residents of Towns, Union, Fannin, Clay and Cherokee Counties, the council said.

"I think we all realize the increase in population in our region," member Lou Ann Bleakley said. "New residents face the challenge of a different environment completely in their gardening and farming."

The center aims to help newcomers by answering questions and offering advice.

"This year we are trying to help people deal with the economic situation," she said. "We are so blessed to have this in our region to help our residents."

Seminars on topics such as cutting energy bills and even raising backyard poultry all add up, she said.

Council member Peg Schneider described the importance of the program in local schools.

"If we had to name one major supporter of our programs, it's Hayesville Elementary and Mr. Tommy Hollingsworth," she said.

"They come to everything,...so we always go to them first."

Schneider said that the center just introduced its first water lessons in Hayesville schools, adding that Hayesville will get the "first shot" at every new program.

"The teachers told me the kindergarden students have an attention span of about 20 minutes," she said.

"They are so wrong. You keep them busy, you teach them the right stuff, you're gonna have them forever."

At the research center's recent Johnny Appleseed program the kids paid attention for an hour and fifteen minutes, she said.

On March 19 the research center plans to teach a bird lesson at Hayesville schools, encouraging kids to create their own birdfeeders in class.

"Our programs are all about action," Schneider said. "Hayesville's really special to us because they be-

lieved in us from the beginning."

A base of about 200 volunteers come together to design programs for each grade level, she said.

Of the 2,700 students served last year by the center's education program, more than 600 were from Clay County, Schneider said, noting that the council expected more than 3,000 kids to take part this year.

"Obviously, you can tell we are excited about this place; we view it as a treasure that's in our community," she said.

Clay County Commissioner Herbert Cheeks said he enjoyed visiting the center as well, noting that he approved of the student events.

"I always love the kids being able to go," he said.

Council member Jennifer Cordier invited citizens to the grand opening of the center's interpretive center on June 5.

"These are the oldest mountains in the world, and we have the most diverse biological plant life probably on the planet," she said. "We are living in a very, very, very special place."

Cordier said that a plant rescue team volunteers to move plants that may be in harm's way due to developments.

"Many of the weeds we stomp around on in our backyard are actually displayed in [the center's] garden because they have played an important role in our past and in our present," she said. "We honor folks who have set aside a portion of their property as a native botanical sanctuary;...more than 700 acres have now been preserved."

Sandy Zimmerman, a representative from Congressman Shuler's office, said that the agriculture and education program was of big interest to Shuler.

"It's good to see that the council is working across not only county lines but state lines," she said.

Garner said that the community

The Union Sentinel (USPS 015363) is published weekly each Thursday. Subscriptions are $25 a year in Union County; $45 out of area.

Periodical postage paid at Blairsville, Georgia.

council relies on donations to keep activities going.

"The state legislature's been going through some turmoil," he said.

"We think that there will be some cuts, we don't know how hard.

We're expecting our budget to be restored;...hopefully the cuts are not as severe."

Council member John Mays said that the center's budget is $8,000 lower this year than the standard $60,000 per year.

"Would we like financial support from Clay County? I think the answer is 'yes'," he said.

One of the research center's recent projects has been to study the effect of cold weather on palm trees.

Garner said that while there have been more chill hours this year than last, the temperatures fluctuated more wildly in the past.

"In 2006 we started working with wine grape, trying to have a diseased vineyard," he said. "We've got an acre and a half of wine grape.

I know that you at least have some wine grape enthusiasts in Clay County;...they've come to see us before."

The center's current concern is Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, a pest that has started killing hemlock trees in the north, Garner said.

"This is the big black eye coming into our general area. ...We're working with scientists who are trying to discover answers on how to control it," he said.

Claire Johnston, the community council's technician, said that the insects are originally from Southeast Asia, and noted that by the end of April, the problem will be extremely apparent as a serious concern.

Clay County resident Clay Logan voiced his support of the council's programs to local business leaders, too.

"It sounds like you all have come to join us, not to change us," he said.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the address listed below: Union Sentinel, PO Box 1996, Blairsville, GA 30514.

828-389-8338

CORRECTIONS: If you find a mistake of fact in the Union Sentinel that is serious enough to warrant a correction or clarification, call or stop in so we can make it right in the next week's edition. Email us at usentinel@gmail.com

Worship at the Church of your choice Advertise Here

Bruce Masonry & Concrete 706-781-0950 Cell: 706-483-8366

/XPEHU ‡ 3OXPELQJ ‡ (OHFWULFDO +Z\ (

Information line 706-745-8888

ELSIE'S

Cochran Funeral Homes +LDZDVVHH &KDSHO ‡ 706-896-6000 5LFH 6WUHHW ‡ +LDZDVVHH www.cochranfuneralhomes.com

INDIGO HILLS RESTAURANT (DVW )LUVW 6WUHHW ‡ %OXH 5LGJH

706-632-FOOD $IIRUGDEOH *RXUPHW 6XQGD\ %UXQFK

Jacky Jones

2257 Hwy. 515 Blairsville GA

706-835-2881

HEMPHILL VINYL SIDING WHOLESALE .HOOH\ 5RDG ‡ %ODLUVYLOOH *$ ‡

CHRYSLER PLYMOUTH DODGE JEEP

+D\HVYLOOH 1& ‡

706-745-6727

Mountain Building Supply

Rock, Brick, Block, Stucco, Decks Stampcrete, Flat Work, & Patio

%ODLUVYLOOH &KDSHO ‡ 706-745-2156 +RVSLWDO 6WUHHW ‡ %ODLUVYLOOH

Blairsville Diamond Center 40 Blue Ridge Street

OTE’S CHRIS M g Service Pumpin

Cleveland - Toll Free 1-877-250-PUMP (7867)

Office

Mobile

770-530-2034

y

1-866-596-9200

Steak & Seafood Hot Bar & Salad Bar 321-4915 356 West Main St., Andrews, NC Open 7 Days a Week

www.lifetimekia.com

Royal Crest & Mastic Vinyl Siding

Jimmy’s Metal 6242 Patton Place, Blairsville 706-745-0096

Subject to our liberal credit policy and limitations, if any.

Toda

t*OTUBMM 4FQUJD 5BOLT t3FQBJS 'JFME -JOFT %SBJO -JOFT t)JHI 1SFTTVSF -JOF $MFBOJOH

706-865-5526

Advertise Here ‡ %OXH 5LGJH 6W %ODLUVYLOOH

Call

Septic Tanks Pumped Since 1987

CLASSIFIEDS

Reminder:

Place your ad in our classifieds and reach thousands of North Georgia readers. Cost is only $5 for the first 10 words for one week in Union, Towns and Fannin Counties.

Call (828) 389-8338

Subscribe to the Sentinel

#C?BJGLC DMP AJ?QQGcCBQ GQ ,MLB?W ?R N K JJ AJ?QQGcCBQ PCACGTCB ?DRCP RFGQ RGKC UGJJ @C NPGLRCB RFC DMJJMUGLE 3FSPQB?W 200 - Employment

& Farm Supply ( 896-1319) www. happyjackinc.com

Now accepting applications Hiawassee Huddle House 706970-0631 GAUSE RV CENTER, INC. SALES-SERVICE-PARTS STORE ( CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME) 706-896-7897 SR 288- Hiawassee, Ga. MOBILE SERVICE AVAILABLE.

500 - Services

300 - For Sale Brown Couch, 2 years old, $25.00, Rollaway bed, $65.00 706-896-0565 Gorgeous, soft green, Country French, distressed China Cabinet. Original Price $1,950.00 will sell for $475.00. I will be happy to e-mail pictures for anyone interested. Call 706-897-5728 2008 Jayco Feather for Sale : 19’9� Camper $12,799.00. Excellent condition, only used during travel one time. Have used where it sits 2 times. Have sway tow bar ( worth $400) , electronic brake adjuster, 12 ‘ x 9’ awning, full kitchen, gas stove/oven,microwave, cd/radio, shower ( inside and out) .

Please contact ONLY if serious about looking at it, and possibly purchasing. It is located 2 miles south my home, in a rental space, so like I said please be serious if wanting to see/purchase it! Located south of Blairsville, just north of Vogel State Park.

Queen bed, sofa folds down to a full sizes bed, Tires like new ( about 200 miles on them) e-mail me at : scottan59@yahoo.com if you would like photos Call 706-781-1748 For Sale Dining Room Table with 4 chair, handmade solid hardwood, asking $200 call 828735-1328

400 - Animals Happy Jack Mitex For ear mites in rabbits, dogs, or cats, ask for Happy Jack Mitex. Contains no IGR’s., Hiawassee Feed

Eagle Restoration, LLC., Staining and Pressure Cleaning.

706-632-6266 eaglerestorationllc.com Cooking with Kara *NEW* The Hiawassee Health Hut, your natural grocer. 3243 Dogwood Lane Hiawassee GA. Open TuesdayFriday from 8-3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9-4. Saturday morning cooking classes from 11-1. For more information call Kara 828389-7044. Visit: www.Cooking with Kara.com A and R Landscape Residential and Commercial Lawn Care.

Plant, tur f and grassing, lot clean-up, mulching and retaining walls. 706-994-2457 Tile installer your tile or mine, 26 years experience have references and liability insurance.

Ask for Don at 828-389-9394 D&L Painting & drywall INC. 1BJOUJOH 4UBJOJOH *OUFSJPS t &YUFSJPS t 3FTJEFOUJBM t $PNNFSDJBM %3:8"-- )BOH t 'JOJTI t 5FYUVSF all types of finishes & textures 100% Quality Driven. Free Estimates cell: 828-508-5270 office(1): 828-321-2111 office(2): 828-479-4052 Massage Therapy- in the comfort of your home. Licensed and insured. 18 years experience, call Gerri; 1 hour $40; Half hour $25; 706-896-6108.

Bush hogging, Stump-grinding, gardens plowed, gravelroads/driveways scraped, postholes dug, sickle mowing. Free estimates, reasonable rates, dependable service. (828) 8377809 Cell: (828) 361-8738 Housing Crisis hitting home?

Payments straining your wallet?

Call 877-835-8904 to lower your Mortgage payments.

Walker Storage Corner of Old Highway 64 West and West Cherry Road. Convenient to Warne, NC. and Western Clay County.

AD 5$13(2$ Your classified ?BTCPRGQCKCLR UGJJ @C QCCL GL 4LGML 3MULQ ?LB %?LLGL "MSLRGCQ all for one JMU NPGAC (828) 389-8338

Variety of sizes. Concrete block Construction 828-389-4926 Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Will baby sit your child or children: Any age. Reasonable rates.References available. Call 706-299-1614

700 - Miscellaneous Moving Sale: 4 piece bedroom set, Dining Table, sofa and love seat, Lamps, Some misc. items.

Call 828-389-0859

800 - Wanted Paying cash for gold! Rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, etc.In most cases, paying at least DOUBLE what any pawn shop will pay. Gold tested, weighed and you are paid on the spot!

706-896-1380Sell your Boat, RV. We bring the buyer to you. 1-866-4178291 We buy junk, wrecked, rusted old cars and trucks. Call George 706-455-1129 Have any old Mac/Apple products just sitting around gathering dust? Donate old iPods and computers, even if they don’t work anymore, to Harrison by contacting hkeely@gmail.com.

Wanted : Old Pinball Machines, Electro-mechanical, Call 828-389-6459

900 - Lost & Found Black and white Australian Shepherd lost on Gum Log near county line. Bob tail dog, no collar, male. Please call 706-8978150 or 706-781-3974.

990 - Real Estate House for Sale By Owner 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, a sunroom, LR, DR, HWF, Many extras, Partially furnished. In beautiful Plantation Villa in Hiawassee, Georgia. Walk to Town, Walk to Lake $175,000.00 Call 706-400-8159

1000 - Rentals

Become a fan of the Sentinel on Facebook

Local Subscriptions in

2 Bedroom, 3 Bath Cabin with Mtn. views for rent. $850.00 a month, plus first month security deposit. 3 miles from Blairsville.

All appliances,finished basement.

1-770-995-0184 Mobile Home for Rent Two bedroom, one bath Mobile Home for rent in Hiawassee, Ga.,$125 per week or $400 per month, plus $200 Deposit. No Pets. Call 706-835-6561 Apartment for Rent in Hiawassee Specious, light, 1 bedroom, large bathroom. All appliances! Private covered deck! monthly $475.00 plus deposits 706-896-4988 or 706781-9917 Ridgeline Apartments Early Spring Special! Sit in your rockers and watch Spring Arrive from your front porch! 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath to 2 Bedrooms , 1 1/2 Bath from $495.00 per month with security deposit. Maintenance FREE! NO steps! FREE water & Trash disposal! All appliances included! “It’s time to move up to the Ridgeline Apartments! “3346 Highway 64 East, Hayesville, NC 828-389-1545

Georgia Gold Buyers

only $25 / year 706-896-6397

Trusted Since 1976

Now Open to the Public In our NEW LOCATION in Hiawassee Get all the CASH for YOUR GOLD & SILVER Be Smart Sell your GOLD & Silver where the Gold Buyer’s Sell Eliminate the Middle-Man

and GET ALL THE MONEY! Now Paying the Highest Prices Ever!

We Buy - Jewelry In Any Condition Coins Silver - Gold Watches Wristwatches - Pocket Watches Open Daily Georgia Gold Buyers 375 N Main St. Hiawassee, GA 1-877-465-3919 Next t0

Georgia Mountain Restaurant

Facebook.com/NewsSentinel

g3MULQ "MSLRW g4LGML "MSLRW g%?LLGL "MSLRW

“Drive a Little and Get a

Whole Lot More�

Hughes Pool & Stone Carries a full line of Landscaping products including: t 0BL $ZQSFTT 3FE BOE #SPXO .VMDI t #SPXO 8IJUF BOE (SBZ %FDPSBUJWF 1FB (SBWFM t 4UBOEBSE (SBZ (SBWFM BOE 3JQ 3BQ t 8IJUF 4BOE BOE 3JWFS 3PDL Located behind Downtown Pizza in Murphy on Church St.

Call (828) 837-6222

You could win $100 by becoming a fan.

Go online for details.

SENTINEL NEWSGROUP (828) 389 - 8338

The following positions are available

0853+< 0(',&$/ &(17(5 Â&#x2021; 0HG 6XUJ 51 37 30 $0 Â&#x2021; ,&8 51 )7 30 $0 Â&#x2021; 3K\VLFLDQ 6HUYLFHV 5HLPEXUVHPHQW 6SHFLDOLVW )7 Â&#x2021; 0XUSK\ *URXS 3UDFWLFH , 6XUJHU\ 51 )7 Â&#x2021; 0*3 DQG 8&& 5DGLRORJLF 7HFKQRORJLVW 8&& 37 0*3 ,9 2UWKR )7

0853+< 0(',&$/ &(17(5 1856,1* +20( Â&#x2021; 51 /31 $OO 6KLIWV 7R DSSO\ JR WR ZZZ PXUSK\PHGLFDO RUJ DQG FOLFN RQ HPSOR\PHQW WR XVH RXU HOHFWURQLF DSSOLFDWLRQ V\VWHP 3DSHU DSSOLFDWLRQV ZLOO QR ORQJHU EH DFFHSWHG +XPDQ 5HVRXUFHV 'HSDUWPHQW 0XUSK\ 0HGLFDO &HQWHU (DVW 86 $OW 0XUSK\ 1&

Page 8A

GEORGIA SENTINEL Â&#x2021; 7KXUVGD\ )HEUXDU\

CO M MUN I T Y

Dreams, Trains, Music, and Cures &RQWLQXHG IURP SDJH $

-ence stood and saluted the smiling conductor.

The church band played a medley of Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Fly Away and I Saw the Light to an upbeat tempo that had the whole church tapping toes and clapping hands and finally exploding into a full stance of celebration of the life of the guest of honor as he sat smiling and nodding to his wife, Shirley, displaying his contentment with the magical moment Lori Burks represented the American Cancer Society in accepting a donation made by the Second Wind Dreams Board in Geneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honor as his contribution to researching a cure for cancer.

To cheers and tears of onlookers a man who currently endures physical weakness, showed the crowd his spiritual strength as he took his place on stage to once again play

the guitar with his church band family.

The music flowed from the guitar Gene played as the crowd marveled at his talent. While waiting for him to come down from the stage, Gene was heard to say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think I have one more in meâ&#x20AC;?. And the band played on.

Julia Vereb, Executive Director at Regency brought the Second Wind Dreams program to Regency Hospice in 2009. The mission of the program is to grant a dream to those living in eldercare communities or in hospice care. Currently, Regency is the only hospice in Northeast Georgia participating in the SWD program. For more information about making a hospice patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream come true, contact Robin Watts, Hospice Care Consultant at 1-800-577-8791.

Gene "the Conductor" plays the guitar once again along with the band

Strong support for new Urgent Care, Family Practice facility &RQWLQXHG IURP SDJH $

Department of Health and Human Services.

Two physicians have been recruited to work in the Family Practice. Osborne said the addition of Dr. Glendon Rougeou and Dr. Dana Conner (who will begin in June) will help alleviate the cur-

rent shortage of primary care physicians in the tri-county area.

The Urgent Care Center is relocating to the new site from its location in a modular unit on Andrews Road in Valley River Shopping Center where it has been for the past 13 years. The center currently treats over 10,000 walk-in patients per year with urgent healthcare needs.

The new facility is located at 183 Ledford St. on the corner of Highway 74 in Murphy.

For more information about supporting the efforts of the nonprofit Murphy Medical Center, contact Osborne at 835-7506.

See more photos from the Reagan dinner...

Follow the Sentinel on

facebook for news updates, photo galleries and video

facebook.com/NewsSentinel

Martha Zoller speaks at Republican Rally Saturday Evening

Photo/ Jacob Harris

Zoller speaks at Reagan Dinner

&RQWLQXHG IURP SDJH $

Civil War, the Great Depression, men lost in World War II. "What we have is a money problem," she said. "And that can be fixed."

She said she thinks it is good to have many candidates running in the primary. "We get strong with strong competition," she said. "I encourage that. The important is to get behind the candidate we have (after the primary). For the

candidates, you should do the things you say you are going to do, and if you decide to change what you said, then you should tell us."

Zoller concluded saying, "The era of Reagan is not over."

Chuck Honaker, who emceed the event, introduced Zoller and welcomed guests and all the candidates. Candidates were held to a two-minute time limit to say

why they were running and what they stood for. In addition to gubernatorial and congressional candidates, others running for Secretary of State, Insurance Commissioner, Agricultural Commissioner, Superintendent of Schools, and Attorney General attended and spoke.

District Attorney Stan Gunter, who is running for the State Court

of Appeals, was also there. Representative Stephen Allison, who is also Deputy Whip of the State House, attended and announced that he will be running again for state representative.

There was a silent auction and straw poll taken at the event.

There was also an opportunity for folks to have their picture taken with President Reagan.

Timothy wants you to know...

25

Local yearly newspaper subscriptions are only

BUCKS

(828) 389 - 8338

w w w . g e o r g i a s e n t i n e l . c o m SENTINEL NEWS