Appalachian Country Living, April-May 2021

Bright Colors & Greens Mean Appalachian Spring

TROUT FISHING- WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL? FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN TAKE PART IN THIS COOL SPORT

2021 SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS, FAIRS & FUN. THERE’S LOTS OF THINGS TO DO IN THE MOUNTAINS

EXPLORE THE AMERICAN INDIAN HISTORY OF GEORGIA WITH OUR ONGOING SERIES

Life After COVID. So, is LAC the new hash tag? The biggest news here is that I adopted another dog! I’d been looking for a male Australian Heeler since Billy Zoom passed away this fall. Or more accurately, I’ve wanted a herding dog since I got Xena, a tiny, Beagle Heeler cross puppy full of mange for $20 in the late ‘80s, a puppy who I adopted to herd my deaf and nearly blind pit bill, and that worked out great.

Xena passed in 2012, and since then I’ve had several other rescue dogs, including Maxine, who I adopted in 2013.Now there’s Zevon!

A 6yr. old, Stumpy Tail Australian Cattle Dog, heartworm positive, who was an owner surrender to Gilmer County Animal Shelter.

For those that don’t already know me, I generally take in dogs that no one else would want. And after a couple of months of missing Billy, seemed like Maxine needed a new pal. It’s been a few weeks and Zevon is doing OK for a dog who probably spent his entire life outside. Maxine, at 11yrs. old, can’t really boss him around like she did with Billy. We’re in the process of negotiating all of our dog/dog/human relationships.

North Georgia is home to some of the best trout fishing on the east coast, learn how you too can enjoy this spectacular sport. Trout Unlimited- across the US- are the experts here to answer all of your questions.

Spring has officially sprung, and due to COVID, many festival, fairs and events have been cancelled or postponed until 2022, but there’s still plenty to do. So, check out our Spring and Summer Festivals and plan accordingly. Get ready for Arts in the Park, the Made In Georgia Festival, and the Dahlonega Wine and Live Jazz Festival!

Spring brings Local Greens. Check out the recipes, featuring Ramps, Asparagus, Fiddle Heads and in season Morel mushrooms. Experience what the north Georgia mountain locals have been eating since the beginning of time.

Our next issue is June July which typically is chock-full summer activities, so we’ll see what

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF

Alice Sexton

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Betty Kossick | bkwrites4u@hotmail.com

GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR

Steve Montgomery | steve@smac.biz

HISTORY EDITOR

Leslie Barker Thomas | PresHist@etcmail.com

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR

JR Ferjak | jferjak1@gmail.com

STYLE & DESIGN EDITOR

Cindy Trimble | cindy@studiotrimble.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Denise Fabec 678. 325. 0575 | ACLivingMagAds@gmail.com

ALL INQUIRIES

Appalachian Country Living 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

LAYOUT/DESIGN

Alice Sexton | Blue Ridge Media Group 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

Arthur Pope

Publication Marketing & Distribution, Inc. 770. 807. 3043 | publicationsinc@att.net

CONTRIBUTORS

Ralph Artigliere, Steve Heikkila, Brian Samuels, Hank Shaw, Tina’s Tie Dye, Laura Wright

Maxine & Zevon, RIP Billy Zoom

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE

PO Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070

hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

PLEASE RECYCLE

Appalachian Country Living Magazine is published six times a year. All rights reserved under International and Pan-American copyright conventions. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Appalachian Country Living is printed in the United States of America. The articles contained in this magazine are works of journalism and do not represent the opinions or ideas of Appalachian County Living Magazine and the publisher assume no responsibility for the content of advertisements. While we welcome submissions, the magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Please do not send originals. The magazine is given away free by advertisers and at selected businesses in the region. A one year subscription is $20 per year for six issues. For renewals, new subscriptions, or any other correspondence, write to PO Box 1250 Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Maxine and Billy Zoom in the Daffodills

Meet Zevon! The newest addition to the AC Living Mag staff. He was an owner surrender at the Gilmer County Animal Control and has come onboard as Maxine’s shadow and protege.

CONTENTS

Local Greens

Restaurant Spotlight, Shane’s Rib Shack Ellijay

It’s All in the Secret Sauce! Handed Down Over Generations, Shane’s BBQ Sauce is the Stuff of Legends Meet the New Outdoor Guy

A Self-Described Renaissance Man, JR Ferjak Brings a Fresh Take on the Great Outdoors.

Trout Fishing- What’s the Big Deal?

Ralph Artigliere Debunks Some of the Misconceptions About Trout Fishing.

The Mystery of Indigenous Greens Ramps, Asparagus, Fiddleheads and Morels- Find them at the Local Farmer’s Markets.

Spring & Summer Festivals & Fairs Practice Social Distancing, Wear Your Mask if Required, and Safely Enjoy These Cool Outdoor Festivals

MEAN APPALACHIAN SPRING 14

7 9 11 16 20 30 N    ’   , R,    .     Y  , , M   H; A  M    ,

20 11

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM APRIL/MAY 2021 TROUT FISHING- WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL? FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN TAKE PART IN THIS COOL SPORT 2021 SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS, FAIRS & FUN. THERE’S LOTS OF THINGS TO DO IN THE MOUNTAINS EXPLORE THE AMERICAN INDIAN HISTORY OF GEORGIA WITH OUR ONGOING SERIES

Mean Appalachian Spring

Appalachian Spring blooms with bright colors and edible foraged greens, mushrooms, and flowers. The return of foods so brightly colored, like this Simple Asparagus & Ramp Soup lifts our spirits, a departure from all the things roasted that we embraced during winter. Ramps and Morel colonies are top secret. No matter how much you beg, not one local will tell you where they found them. These recently trendy delicacies, however, can be found at your local farmer’s market.

Credit: Laura Wright, The First Mess. www.thefirstmess.com

Shane's Rib Shack, Ellijay

It's all in the secret sauce! Handed down over generations, Shane's BBQ sauce is the stuff of legends.

Shane’s Rib Shack has been open in East Ellijay for over ten years with many loyal customers who love the mouth watering ribs, heaping Big Dad barbecue sandwich, wonderful sides and desserts, all washed down with a cold beer or a Southern favorite, Sweet Tea. What many don’t know is that Shane’s has the best chicken around. The fried or grilled chicken tenders are huge and can be tossed in one of their signature sauces or simply plain. Love wings?

Shane’s serves some of the best in town. Watching the scale? Try one of their salads or a delicious wrap, great for a lighter lunch or for grabbing a bite on the go. Check out their gluten-free options!

Shane’s Catering is ready to bring their BBQ to your office, business or home, and this includes their gluten free menu too! There is no group too big or too small! Call 706-635-7427 to cater your next event, you won’t be disappointed.

Give the Gift of Shane’s! Pick up any of Shane’s Secret Sauces in store or you can order on-line. And don’t forget Shane’s Gift Cards- the perfect gift for coworkers, friends, family- or just about everyone on your list. Can you say Mother’s Day?

Owner, Steve Stone, would like to say thanks to his loyal customers for making the last nine years a success, "If you haven't been to Shane’s, please try us, I know you'll like us!"

Just off of 515, in front of Lowe’s in Ellijay, stop in and say hello to the friendly staff, try some tender barbecue, a salad or a wrap and leave happy. As the restaurant menu says, “It’s gonna get messy!” ACLM

Shanes’ Rib Shack, Ellijay

289 Highland Crossing, Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 7427

To view the complete menu, order on-line, or shop for some Shane’s Secret Sauce visit: www.shanesribshack.com/ellijay

WWelcome to spring in the Appalachian Mountains. The glory of the earth awakening from the slumber of the winter solstice is a beautiful sight to behold. Trees turn bright green or red with new leaves, and fruit trees are alive with vivid pinks, reds and whites. Wildlife becomes more active and the insect population is waking up as well.

Working with the natural systems provided by nature can allow us to use less chemicals and have healthier gardening choices. There are ways to work with the earth to provide a symbiotic and balanced plant environment as well as having healthier soil. Starting with a plan will help you be successful from the beginning. This article will primarily focus on beneficial insects as one method of organic pest control.

What are beneficial insects? Out of the thousands of insects in the average backyard you may be surprised to learn that only about a tenth of them are destructive. Most are either beneficial or harmless.

Beneficial insects fall into three categories: 1) Pollinators, 2) Predators, and 3) Parasitizers.

1) Pollinators. We depend on these insects including bees, butterflies, flies and moths to pollinate your garden’s ornamental flowers, fruit trees, vegetable gardens and more.

2) Predators. These insects eliminate other pests by eating them. The Ladybug, Praying Mantis and Green Lacewings larvae fall into this category.

3) Parasitizers. Like predators, parasitizers also prey upon other insects but in a slightly different way. They lay their eggs on or in the bad insects and when these insects hatch, the parasitizers’ larvae feed on the host insect. Parasitic Wasps are the main example here.

Among the beneficial insects are Ladybugs. Despite their name and appearance, they are actually ferocious predators. Besides being a bright red bug with spots, they are larvae moving about

A BAlAnced PlAnt environment

Garden and Landscape Editor Steve Montgomery Gives Us the 411 on Adding Beneficial Insects to Your Garden

on plants or feeding on aphids. A ladybug larvae can eat up to 40 aphids per hour.

Adult Green Lacewings feed on pollen and nectar, but their larvae, which looks like a cross between a slug and an alligator, prey upon soft bodied pests, including caterpillars and aphids. Praying Mantises make short work of grasshoppers. These predators will also hurt many other insect pests that terrorize gardens, including moths, beetles and flies. Spiders, grand beetles, soldier beetles, assassin bugs, robber flies and hover flies are also very effective at eliminating insects who cause damage.

Like all living creatures, beneficial insects have a basic need for water, food & shelter. By providing these things, your garden will become an inviting home for them. A diversity of plants will attract a wide range of insects. Many beneficial insects appear in the garden before the pests do and need alternative food sources such as pollen and nectar if they are to stick around.

Early blooming plants, especially those with tiny blossoms like Alyssum or biennials such as Carrots or Parsley will help draw beneficial insects to your yard in the spring. Later, they will be especially attracted to plants with compound blossoms such as Yarrow, Goldenrod and Queen Anne’s Lace. Flowering herbs like Lavender,

Top: The Green Lacewing, Chrysoperla rufilabris (left), lays her eggs on foliage. The eggs hatch and a predatory larva emerges ready to eat pests. Lacewing larvae are also known as “aphid lions.” They are tiny upon emerging, but grow to 3/8 of an inch long.

Left: Spalangia nigroaenea is the parasitic wasp most likely to attack both house fly and stable fly pupae. The female wasp lays her eggs into fly pupae. After hatching, the wasp larva feeds on the developing fly, ultimately killing it. An adult wasp emerges from a hole in the fly pupal case to mate and continue the cycle.

Mint, Sage, Dill, Fennel and Lemon Balm also attract beneficial insects.

Creating friendly environments that provide habitats for these friends of the garden is one more step toward protecting our planet. You’ll use less harmful chemicals that often eliminate both the good and the bad insects. There are also many types of insect and disease products you can use instead of the harsh chemicals. Insecticidal Soaps and Diatomaceous Earth are the two most common alternatives. Toxic chemicals should be only used as a last resort.

For more information on these and other topics go to the Farmer’s Almanac which is full of great information and advice. The primary information for this article was compiled primarily from the Farmer’s Almanac. ACLM

Visit: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/tips

Steve Montgomery and Company has extensive knowledge in the areas of landscape, hardscape, construction of outdoor structures, water features and pools.

Steve Montgomery and Company.

Phone: 404-966-8283 or 770-317-1484

Email: Steve@smac.biz Website: www.smac.biz

HHey all! My name is JR Ferjak, raised in the Midwest. From an early age I was attracted to the outdoors. You would find me on my bicycle riding miles and miles from my home, always with a distraction in mind. Even as early as 6 or 7 years old, when riding with my parents in the car, I would see some point of interest then go explore it on my own. That adventurous spirit has never left me and I hope to share my new experiences and guide readers of all ages to outdoor adventures here in the pages of Appalachian Country Living magazine.

As father of a young son, I am always in search of exciting outdoor exploration opportunities. In upcoming editions, we will be visiting new places of activity and interest as well as some of the tried and true venues. We’ll be sharing our experiences and recommendations of anything from hiking, biking, and camping, to fishing our many rivers, streams, and lakes. Trout abound, and with the bass and other fish being on bed for early spawning, fishing is certainly one of the more popular outdoor activities in the area. Yes, Fannin County has been named the Trout Capitol of Georgia for a reason!

I’ve been blessed to have hiked the Rockies, the Smokies, and the Alps. So, these days, a daily four mile hike in our beautiful Appalachian Mountains is quite common for us. We have so many points of interest right here in our own backyard that no one should be inside sitting on the couch. One activity I am very fond of is mountain biking. I’ve been a huge fan of MTB since its inception, LOL, I believe I just dated myself! Lucky for us, the southern Appalachians are known to many as one of the mountain biking Meccas in the United States. Stay tuned for some awesome two-wheel treks.

My most pleasure comes from driving. I’ve been a certified driving instructor for many auto manufacturers, high performance as well as classic and vintage British cars. But my driving

meet the new outdoor Guy!

Outdoor & Adventure Editor JR Ferjak Says, ‘Hey!” and Gives Us a Heads Up on What’s to come in Future Issues

desire and my hearts beckoning lately is for true 4x4 expedition travel.

So, with that being said, the next issue will feature off-roading, exploring, and camping by vehicle here in North Georgia and neighboring North Carolina and Tennessee areas. While OHV areas are disappearing, some have survived. Privateers have sprouted up and opened private lands for the enjoyment of our off-road vehicles with one of these facilities being right up the road! I’m very grateful to be able to share these experiences with you and I can’t wait to hit the dirt.

Above Left: JR and Karsten hit the trail right in their own hood.

Above Right: Thumbs up! Driving the back road on South Core Island on the way to Cape Lookout, Outer Banks, NC.

Above: Passion on 4x4 wheels, JR is a big fan of off-road adventure by Land Rover. Left: Staring down the gorge from the top in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains.

Always remember to take the road less traveled, for me it has made all the difference, it might for you as well.

ACLM

JR Ferjak is a self-described renaissance man, with residences here in Mineral Bluff and Dahlonega. A professional high performance on and off road driving instructor, a world trained and traveled professional chef by trade, JR runs a hi-end auto detailing business, and if that isn’t enough he also does home remodeling. His passion for the outdoors draws him to many adventures far from the norm. For more information about outdoor adventuring you can try to catch up with JR by email: Jferjak1@gmail.com.

Those who think trout fishing is beyond their means or ability to learn should know that’s not the case. There are many ways to fish, from a cane pole with a worm to sophisticated and modern ultra-light fly or spinning gear. If you know the right places to fish, expensive gear is not required; and the Appalachians have many good places for trout. Fly fishing, which is arguably the most technical of trout fishing methods, can be mastered easily, as explained below.

So much has been written about trout and trout fishing, so many paintings done, so many pictures taken, and so many stories told, that it is impossible to see, read, and hear them all in a lifetime. Why would trout be the subject of so much attention by scientists, outdoorsmen, artists and authors? In order to find out one needs to experience a trout in its environment. Take a hike or a drive to a mountain stream with a fly fisherman. Observe the surroundings where wild trout are found. Watch the artistry with which the fisherman plies techniques to place the fly in a location on the water where the trout may mistake it for natural food. Watch how the stream carries the fly in the current, like a bug trapped on or under the surface. The stream’s natural flow brings the fly over the trout, and the fish rises to take the lure. The fisherman tightens the line and sets the tiny hook. The trout scurries away, only to be stopped by the taut line. Next the trout leaps from water and somersaults back in the stream for another effort to flee. After another jump or two or a run downstream, the fisherman is able to bring the fish to a soft rubber net before carefully unhooking the fish. Notice the joy of the fisherman and the care taken with the fish out of love and respect. Observe the trout in the net. Whether rainbow, brown or brook trout, each species has its own beautiful markings. The eyes are big and vibrant. Wild trout frequently have bright colors, especially before and during spawning season. There is no doubt why this fish is loved by those who seek to make connections like this. With catch and release it is best to keep the fish in or close to the water when observing or photographing it, and then carefully release the fish back into the wild to live and multiply.

Let’s Debunk Some of the Misconceptions About Trout Fishing

Quality trout fishing in America is only available in the west and Alaska. WRONG. Brook trout are native to the east coast, including the southern Appalachians, and they have been a magnificent fishing quarry since men have lived here. Brown and rainbow trout were introduced to the U.S. in the last century, and, while technically exotic species, they thrive in the Appalachians and offer quality fishing. Fannin County, Georgia, is the state’s official

RAINBOW TROUT

The Rainbow Trout is named for the broad, lateral stripe on its sides, which ranges from pink to red. Its back is olive-green, and its belly is whitish with heavy black speckling on all fins and the entire body.

Scientific Name: Oncorhyncus mykiss

GA State Record: 17 lbs. 8 oz.

Waters wounded veterans learned fly fishing for trout at our Trout Unlimited retreat three years ago. Within a year he was tying his own flies and he made trout rods for himself and his wife. He was smitten… in a very good way, and he has a lifetime hobby.

Trout fishing is expensive. WRONG. It can be expensive if you overdo it. But a complete beginner fly fishing outfit that includes everything you need to fish can be purchased for less than $100. A spinning outfit and lures can be purchased for even less. Starter gear can catch just as big a trout as the high-end stuff. But, if you become hooked, then there is so much great gear to buy (or make), you will be dazzled.

BROWN TROUT

The Brown Trout is golden brown to olive brown with yellowish sides. Its back and sides have dark spots encircled with light yellow or white. Some brown trout also have orange or red spots on their sides.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta.

GA State Record: 20 lbs. 14 oz.

The Brook Trout is greenish brown, often iridescent, with light red spots on its sides. It has dark, wavy, worm-like lines on the back and white edges on the fins, including the tail. Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

GA State Record: 5 lbs. 10 oz.

Trout Capital because it has hundreds of miles of diverse trout streams and is surrounded within a 90 minute drive in all directions with first class trout waters. Also, the Trout Capital and surrounding areas exclusively offer quality yearround trout fishing with no crowds and a climate suitable for comfortable winter fishing.

Trout fishing is difficult to learn. WRONG. With a little instruction and information, fundamental trout fishing can be mastered. And trout fishing has several layers of skill to master and many aspects and refinements to learn, so it never becomes boring. Once you catch a trout, you want to learn to catch bigger trout. You may learn fly tying and catch a trout on your own fly that you tied. One of our Project Healing

Trout fishing is a solo sport. WRONG. The fellowship is great. Trout fishing for couples, friends, and family is terrific quality time. I learned trout fishing some 25 years ago along with my two teenaged sons, who travelled with me to Alaska and Montana. Now I am in my late sixties, trout fishing is something we still do together, and next week I am spending a week at Georgia Trout Unlimited Trout Camp with my 12 year-old grandson. The cycle repeats. Also, trout fishing is compatible with hiking, kayaking, canoeing, photography, and camping, so a significant other who does not fish can still enjoy the experience with you.

If conservation is your passion, trout fishing is ideal. Trout Unlimited, a conservation organization, provides education, fellowship, and volunteer opportunities for conservation projects and teaching kids and wounded vets (ProjectHealingWaters.org). TU volunteers build structures on streams, test water quality, and help landowners maximize their trout habitat. A TU chapter is a terrific place to make a few dozen quality friends.

If you are still skeptical about whether trout fishing is for you, just give it a try. Take a guided trip or visit a Trout Unlimited meeting. I have to warn you, trout fishing is so much fun that it is addictive. Today I stepped in a stream on the guise of showing the ropes to two folks who were renting the cabin next to me, and I found myself easing downstream toward fish rising in the river below me. Who was I fooling? ACLM

For more info about trout and fishing visit: Fannin Chamber: www.blueridgemountains.com/ trout_fishing.html

Trout Unlimited: www.tu.org

Georgia Trout Unlimited: www.georgiatu.org

Ralph Artigliere is a legal writer and author who is hopelessly addicted to fly fishing. He is the former Education Director for Blue Ridge Mountain Trout Unlimited and former Advocacy Chair for Georgia State Council of Trout Unlimited. Mr. Artigliere has retired and now resides in Florida.

Brook Trout

BIG DEAL? TROUT FISHING –WHAT’S THE–

Most folks don’t get it. Standing in a river thrashing a long pole with bugs on the end. It seems like a lot of work for little return, since many trout are small. It is easier and cheaper to buy trout in the grocery store. They have a point, if that’s how they see trout fishing. But simply ask a trout fisherman why they fish, and the answers might change that perception. The answers will vary: a few fish for food, some for the thrill of connecting with a beautiful wild animal, some for the challenge of mastering techniques for fishing, some for the beauty of getting outdoors, some for exercise, some for fellowship with friends and loved ones, and some for several of those reasons. But the common denominator of all serious trout fishermen and women is they are passionate about trout, a magnificent fish that lives in cold, clean water in beautiful places.

WORDS & PHOTOS: RALPH ARTIGLIERE

Local

Ramps, officially allium trioccum, are part of the lily family, which includes garlic, leeks, and onions. Slightly resembling scallions, they have a white bulb at the bottom, and below that are the roots. And they are among the first greens available in spring. You can make ramp tarts, ramp grits, fried ramps, or ramps & eggs. They can be roasted sautéed, pickled, or puréed, put raw in salads or stir fried.

Morel mushrooms or Morchella esculenta are an edible wild mushrooms found in the hardwood forests of the Northern Hemisphere; from Arctic/subarctic North Americas to Siberia. Morels are one of the highly prized mushrooms, valued for their rarity, and savory flavor.

Morel mushrooms spring up in forests and many mushroom hunters head out to search for them, but of course they won’ tell you where they found them.

Ramp Pasta with Morel Ragout

Don’t be frightened by the long instructions. This is a pretty simple recipe, and I am merely writing long to walk you through the nuances of making this dish -- I would not want you to mess up with precious ingredients like morel mushrooms and ramps. And while I did design this recipe for ramps and morels, a classic combination, you can do it with spinach (or another kind of green onion) and other mushrooms, if you’d like. The flavor will be different, but it will still be pretty.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 10 ounces all-purpose flour, about 2 heaping cups

• 4 1/2 ounces blanched ramp leaves, about a cup

Morel Ragout

• 1 pound fresh morels

• 1/2 pounds ramps or 5 green onions, leaves and bulbs separated

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• Salt

• 1/4 teaspoon caraway seed

• 1 cup chicken or mushroom broth

• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Start by getting a huge pot of water boiling and add a handful of salt. Have a large bowl with ice water in it nearby.

2. Toss the ramp leaves into the boiling water. Stir around and boil for 2 minutes. Fish them out with a skimmer or tongs and immediately dump them into the ice water. Once they are cool, put them in a colander to strain.

3. Chop the ramp leaves roughly and put them in a blender. Add about 1/2 cup of the ice water to the blender and puree. Ramp leaves can be stringy, so blitz the hell out of them for a solid 90 seconds. Pour the contents of the blender into a fine-meshed strainer set over a bowl. Let this drain for a minute or two.

4. Put the flour in a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the ramps from the strainer and begin mixing the dough with a fork. It should come together as a pliant dough, but if it looks like it will be a little to firm, add a splash of the green water from the straining bowl. Once you get a shaggy mass, start working the dough with your hands. Knead it on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

5. Cover the dough with a thin film of olive oil and wrap in plastic. Let it sit for an hour or so to hydrate.

6. Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces. Cover the rest while you work with each one. Roll the dough out in a pasta machine; I use an Atlas pasta maker. Roll it out to No. 4 on the machine, which is about 1/8 inch thick or so -- not too thin.

7. Dust the pasta sheet with some flour and run it through the spaghetti cutter that comes with the Atlas. Dust the ramp pasta with flour again and set it on a baking sheet or wooden board to dry. Repeat with the rest of the dough.

8. The pasta can sit like this for up to a day.

9. Boil in lots of salty water until they float, and then for another minute or two. Serve at once with the morel ragout.

10. Wash the morels and slice them into disks. Separate the ramp bulbs from the leaves. Chop the bulbs and slice the leaves in halves or thirds, depending on how large they are.

11. Arrange the morels and chopped ramp bulbs in a saute pan. Turn the heat to high. Once the morels begin to release their water, turn the heat down to medium-high and sprinkle some salt over everything. Sprinkle the caraway over the pan now.

When the morels have released most of their liquid, add 2 tablespoons of the butter and stir to combine. Saute the morels and ramp bulbs until the begin to brown, about 3 or 4 minutes. Add the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan. Boil this down by half over high heat.

When the ramp pasta is just about ready, add the remaining ramp leaves to the saute pan and cook them 1 minute, until they are just wilted. Put the finished pasta into the saute pan with the remaining butter and gently mix to combine. Grind some black pepper over everything and serve at once.

Credit: Hunter Angler Gardner Cook, Hank Shaw. www.facebook.com/huntgathercook/

Braised Chicken with Morel Cream Sauce

For purists, morels really should simply be sauteed lightly in butter and eaten all by themselves. This way the pure, unadulterated flavor is front and center. And if you’ve never had morels, try them this way first. But once that’s done, it’s really time to explore other morel recipes. And when you do, we really recommend you navigate directly to cream sauce.

Ingredients

Braised Chicken

• 4 Chicken Thighs with skin and bone

• Kosher Salt and Pepper to Taste

• ½ Teaspoon Smoked Spanish Paprika

• 1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Juice of One Lemon

Sauce

• Cup of Fresh Morel Mushrooms

• 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 1 Tablespoon Butter

• 1 Small Onion, finely chopped

• 2 Tablespoons Fresh Tarragon, chopped

• ½ Teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper

• ¼ Cup Sherry

• 1 Cup Half and Half

• 1 Tablespoon Whole Wheat Flour

Instructions

Braised Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Head a large skillet over medium high heat on the stove top.

Salt and pepper the chicken breasts and fry, skin side down, in olive oil until the skin is crispy and brown (about 10 - 12 minutes).

2. Flip the chicken pieces and add the lemon juice and paprika. Cover and place in the oven to braise until tender (about 20 minutes). Morel Mushroom Sauce

1. Meanwhile, carefully brush any sand or debris off of the morel mushrooms. Slice them in half and brush out any sand that might be in the hollow interior.

2. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the morels and saute until tender and just beginning to brown (about 6 - 8 minutes). Remove mushrooms from skillet and set aside.

3. Add the onion and the butter to the skillet. Saute the onions until soft and translucent.

4. Add the tarragon and pepper and cook a few minutes more.

5. Deglaze with the sherry. Continue cooking until sherry is reduced by half. Add the half and half and the mushrooms. Cook until cream sauce bubbles and is reduced by about ⅓. Sprinkle the flour on top and stir to incorporate. Continue simmering until sauce thickens.

6. Serve the chicken with morel tarragon cream sauce on the side.

Credit: Steve Heikkila: www.slowburningpassion.com

Simple Asparagus & Ramp Soup

The return of foods so brightly colored just lifts my spirit, a departure from all the things roasted that we embrace during winter. Laura combines two perennial favorites in this creamy soup, seemingly perfect for a rainy day and the smell of spring hitting the ground.

Ingredients Soup

• 2 tsp grapeseed oil

• 12 ramps/wild leeks, cleaned + chopped, white bulbs + greens divided

• 1 medium waxy potato, peeled + 1/2 inch dice

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch lengths

• 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper

• heavy splash of dry white wine

• salt + pepper

• 4-5 cups vegetable stock/asparagus stock juice of 1 lime

Garnishes

• Kale chips (kale tossed in oil, salt + pepper and baked in a single layer at 400 degrees F for about 10 minutes or until crisp)

• cooked quinoa

• Diced avocado

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Fresh pepper

• Chopped chives/chive blossoms

• Edible flowers (very optional)

(continued nextt page)

Instructions

1. Heat the grapeseed oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped white ramp bulbs to the pot. Stir them around and cook them until slightly softened.

2. Add the diced potato, asparagus and cayenne. Saute the vegetables for a minute or so.

3. Add the white wine, let the alcohol burn off a bit and stir the vegetables some more. Season everything with salt and pepper. Keep cooking the vegetables until the asparagus is bright, bright green.

4. Add the vegetable stock to the pot (enough to cover by an inch or so) and bring to a boil.

5. Add the chopped ramp greens and stir. Simmer the soup until the potatoes are just tender, about 10 minutes or so. Remove from the heat.

6. Carefully blend the soup in batches in your blender to puree.

7. Add the lime juice to the pureed soup and stir to combine. Taste the soup for seasoning and adjust if necessary. To serve, bring the pureed soup to a boil and serve with any garnishes you like and slices of the hearty bread.

Note: Simmer your vegetable stock with a few chopped up pieces of asparagus to really amp up the sweet asparagus flavour. Inevitably a few spears go off/wilt-y in a bunch, just chop those up and toss them in with the stock until they’ve gone a little past the bright green stage.

Credit: Laura Wright, The First Mess. www.thefirstmess.com

Cheese Grits with Fiddleheads and Ramps in Brown Butter

This bowl of grits is topped with two of my favorite seasonal ingredients: fiddlehead ferns and ramps. I kept the dish fairly rustic to create a comforting dinner for a rainy spring night that would stick to your ribs a little. With a bit of brown butter and cheese mixed into the grits, I would call this one a huge success.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quick cooking grits

• 6 oz. Gruyère cheese, shredded

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 4 sprigs of thyme

• 1/2 lb fiddleheads, rinsed

• 1 large bunch of ramps, rinsed

• 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into cubes

• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Directions

1. Follow the directions on the packaging for cooking the grits. Once they are done, stir in the shredded cheese and 3 tablespoons of butter lemon zest, and the leaves from the thyme sprigs. Season with a little salt and pepper

2. Place the fiddleheads in a large microwavesafe bowl and add in an inch of water. Cover and cook in the microwave at high heat for 4 minutes. Remove from the microwave and drain water.

3. Set a large pan on the stove over mediumhigh heat. Add the remaining butter to the pan and let it melt, whisking frequently. Once

it starts to foam, add in the ramp bulbs (not the greens) and cook in the butter for a minute or two. At this point, the butter will begin to brown and the ramps will get some color on them. Add in the fiddleheads and the ramp greens and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.

4. Transfer the grits to plates or bowls and top with fiddleheads and ramps. Be sure to get as much of the butter on top of the dish.

Credit: Brian Samuels www.athoughtforfood.net

Bloody Ramp with Pickled Ramp Garnish

Brew up a batch of this ramp infused vodka while you can still get your hands on some ramps. It’s super easy and a great way to have ramps throughout the year, that is if you don’t get too addicted and drink it all too fast!

Instructions

• Trim and clean 15 - 20 ramps, removing leaves for another use.

• Place the ramp bulbs and stems in your best vodka and store in your fridge for 3 months or even up to a year.

• Check the vodka from time to time to see when you like the taste of it best.

• Mix up your favorite Bloody Mary using the ramp infused vodka.

• Garnish with pickled ramps (use any pickling recipe you like) pour over crushed ice, rim the glass with celery salt. And Enjoy!

SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS, FAIRS & FUN FOR 2021

Welcome to the most complete list of Festivals & Fairs in north Georgia!

Due to COVID-19 many events have been cancelled. While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer!

A Blooming Affair at Hamilton Gardens

April 17 – May 23 2021

Spring will be upon us before we know it, and with Spring we’ll see our fabulous Rhododendrons and Azaleas show their vibrant colors once again. While there is color somewhere in the Gardens almost all year, spring is the peak time to plan your visit. While nature and the weather will dictate the specific dates, typically the wildflowers start in mid-to-late March; the native Azaleas start blooming shortly after the wildflowers; then the Rhododendrons start to pop in mid-April to mid-May; and the Mountain Laurels follow the Rhododendrons. We’re often asked when the “peak” of the season is, and a

ROUGH estimate is Mother’s Day, plus or minus a week or two. 8am to Dusk. No pets. Hamilton Gardens at the Georgia Mountain Fairground 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. 706-9700011or hamiltongardens.org

24th Annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference

April 9 - 10, 2021

The Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference mission is to educate, inform and inspire writers. During this conference writers will network with fellow writers, expand their markets and learn to hone their skills in various breakout sessions. The conference begins with a Workshop Intensive held on Friday from 10:30am-2:30pm. A Writers’ Meet and Greet on Friday at 5pm. Writers’ Conference sessions begin on Saturday from 9am-5pm. Books sales from our conference speakers and member writers will be available. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge GA 30513. For more info contact (706) 632- 2144, BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or visit www.blueridgearts.net.

Annual Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival - Online

April 16 -17, 2021

To maintain the safety of our storytellers and audience during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival will be held ONLINE. Join us for a celebration of the art of storytelling shared by a breadth of voices. Enjoy traditional and contemporary stories, children’s events, and workshops by our featured artists: Elizabeth Ellis, Diane Ferlatte, Megan Hicks, Tim Lowry, and Antonio Rocha. Some of the festival’s storytelling sessions will be recordings made by our tellers especially for GMSF 2021. Other storytelling sessions, all of the workshops, and the Q&A session will be presented live via Zoom. We hope you will find joy, hope, and laughter as you participate in this year’s virtual events. You’re in for a treat! $20. Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday, 9am to 9pm. Register online, for tickets and info: email: info@gamountainstoryfest.org or visit www.gamountainstoryfest.org

Andrews Annual Spring Fling

April 24, 2021

Andrews NC celebrates Earth Day and our beautiful little town by sweeping out the Winter cobwebs, and opening up our downtown area to vendors and nature lovers from all over the area.

Tina’s Tie Dye is one of our local festival favorites, pictured above with her husband Tim. Visit: www.tinastiedye.com

Learn about gardening, butterflies, water conservation, local history, and much more – all while you shop for great stuff from numerous local vendors. 11ma – 6pm. FREE! Downtown Andrews, NC. For info visit https://www.visitandrewsnc.com

Nantahala Outdoor Center Spring Fling

April 24- 25, 2021

Celebrate spring in the Smoky Mountains with a free, family-friendly event in the Nantahala Gorge! Join us for a weekend of fun at NOC during the Upper Cascades release! Shop at the Outfitters Store for great sales on paddling gear, apparel and more, or grab a meal with a view from River’s End Restaurant and watch the paddlers navigate down the river. For info visit the Nantahla Outdoor Center website: https://noc. com/ or call 828.785.4847.

Annual Bear on the Square Mountain Festival

Postponed to April 2022

Historic Downtown Dahlonega’s award-winning Bear on the Square Mountain Festival is a yearly celebration of the Southern Appalachian culture, including an auction, music, art and folkways. For more info visit www.bearonthesquare.org. Contact: (706) 864-3711 or (800) 231-5543.

Annual Big Shanty Festival

April 16-17, 2021

The Big Shanty Festival has grown to become one of the largest arts and crafts shows in north Georgia. More than 250 booths featuring a vast array of one-of-a-kind and homemade crafts. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History sits at the center of the festival. Outstanding local entertainment and all your favorite festival foods. Parade kicks off at 9:30 am on Saturday at Adams Park and continue down Main Street through downtown Kennesaw. Sat 10am – 6pm, Sunday Noon – 5pm. FREE. For more information call: 770-423-1330 or visit www.kennesawbusiness.org

Annual Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival

Postponed Until 2022

An absolute treat for knit, crochet, weaving, rug hooking enthusiasts and more. For more information regarding the 2022 Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival, please visit www.facebook.com/ georgiamountainneedleartsfestivalandretreat.

63rd Annual Polk County Ramp Tramp Festival

April 24, 2021

The ramp or wild leek, is a wild onion native to North America. The bulb resembles a scallion, but the flat, broad leaves set it apart, a version of the wild garlic. This event features the traditional Ramp Meal which includes, Ramps in eggs, white beans, cornbread, fried potatoes, and streaked meat bacon for take-out only. The take-out meal

will be served from 10:00am until 2:00 pm. Along with the meal, bagged ramps will be available for sale until they are sold out. Additional festivities are postponed until 2022. Admission is FREE. Proceeds for this event benefit the Polk County 4-H Clubs and Camp McCroy. Camp McCroy: 1058 Hwy 30, Reliance TN. 7 miles north of Turtletown, TN. Email the Polk County Extension Director and 4-H Agent: Greg Paxton rgpaxton@ utk.edu, call 423-338-4503. Visit www.ramptrampfestival.com

Kennesaw Beer & Wine Festival

April 24, 2021

100+ beers, 25+ wines, live music, food and fun. Tickets include entry, entertainment, souvenir cup and all beer, wine and cider samples. A full list of beers, wines and ciders will be posted the week of the festival. Live music on the main stage. This is a 21 and up event, no exceptions, no kids, no babies, no pets. Rain or Shine, no refunds. 1pm – 5pm. Tickets are $35 advance, $40 after April 19, and $50 day of event. The 1808, downtown Kennesaw, 2871 Cherokee Street Kennesaw, GA 30144. Visit www.kennesawbeerwinefest.com

Annual Blue Ridge Trout & Outdoor Adventures Festival

Postponed until 2022

Celebrating the Trout Capital of Georgia from the epicenter of Fannin County. For information;call 706. 374. 2390 or email info@blueridgetroutfest. com. Visit www.blueridgetroutfest.com

Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival

Postponed until 2022

Showcases arts and crafts by more than 150 artists/crafters from across the country. FREE. For more information 770-423-1330 or visit www. smyrnacity.com

Annual Georgia Mountain Rally Hosted by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Georgia

Postponed until 2022

The BMW Motorcycle Club of GA. The rally setting has lakeside tent and RV camping. All brands welcome. Visit www.bmwmcoga.org or rally@ bmwmcoga.org.

Annual Georgia Apple Blossom Festival

Postponed until 2022

One exciting weekend with over fifty hand-selected, regional vendors offering food, art, crafts, a business expo and more. Visit www.georgiaappleblossomfestival.com or 706-635-7400.

Annual Murphy Spring & Brew Festival

Postponed until 2022

Celebrate what makes Murphy our favorite town! For information visit: www.murphyspringfestival. com or follow us on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/whereNCbegins/”

Annual North Cobb Rotary Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival

May 7 -8, 2021

North Cobb Rotary is presenting this 100% Charity event that kicks off with a free concert on Friday night. This Georgia Barbecue Associationsanctioned barbecue cooking competition opens 5pm Friday night with Dinner (reservations), Lord of the Wings Contest, and Free Concert from 8 –10pm. Saturday 10am – 4pm. People’s Choice, Kids Zone, music, vendors, dance club competitions& FUN! Logan Farm Park, 4405 Cherokee St, Acworth, GA 30101. For information, visit northcobbrotary.org, smokeonthelake.org

31st Annual Cherokee County Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow

May 7 - 8, 2021

Celebrating Cherokee County’s rich history through entertainment, education and cultural fellowship! Native American dance exhibitions and competitions. Warriors on horseback. Native American cuisine. Native arts and crafts. Hoop dancers and Aztec dancers. Tipis, wigwam and living Indian village and displays. Northern Plains encampment and a Muscogee Creek settlement. Environmental and wildlife displays & Birds of Prey show. Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday, 11am-6pm. Tickets on sale at the gate: Adults (13 years and up): $15. Children (6-12 years old): $5. 5 years and under: FREE. Everyone is welcome! Boling Park, 1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton, GA 30114. For info: www.rthunder.com, 770-7356275 or rollingthunder34@ymail.com.

10th Annual Georgia Mountain Egg Fest

May 14 – 15, 2021`

An Egg Fest is a gathering of Big Green Egg fans and experienced cooks/chefs from all across the country. The cooks will be preparing recipes all day long. The non-cooks (tasters) are free to stroll through the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA and sample and experience wonderful “egged” food. starting out with a Meet & Greet party at an Antique Farm Museum Friday evening, followed up the next day with the eggfest, all on the grounds of the GA Mt. Fair. Get registered soon and come see why people are saying “this is the best eggfest out there.” Newthe demo eggs will be for sale at the end of the weekend and are going right at the cost level. Get yours reserved soon. For details visit: www. mountainegg.com. Taster tickets are $30.00, kids under 12 free. For info call 706-896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Annual Canton Festival of the Arts

TBD or Postponed until 2022

Held in Brown Park in historic downtown Canton GA is the festival is produced by the Cherokee County Arts Center-a 501 (c) 3 non-profit dedicated to enriching community life through the arts-as its primary fundraiser.. Visit www.cantonartfestival.com/

5th Annual Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival

May 15-16, 2021

Chestatee Artists presents this festival featuring quality arts & crafts, a Wine Garden for fine local and regional wines, and live jazz performances. This cultural event takes place in Dahlonega’s historic downtown square and Hancock Park, just one block from the square. Saturday hours are 10 to 6 pm and Sunday 10 to 5 pm. No admission is charged except for those wine lovers who wish to taste the fine wines. For more information go to www.chestateeartists.org or check out Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival’s Facebook page, or email chestatee.artists@gmail.com or call 229-2913623.

45th Annual Spring Arts in the Park Festival

May 29 - 30, 2021

Enjoy the Annual Spring Arts in the Park fine arts and fine crafts festival held in the beautiful Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge, Georgia during Memorial Day weekend. Admire the variety of artwork, enjoy tasty food, watch multiple artist demos and see art from over 175 juried fine arts and fine crafts exhibitors throughout the weekend festival. Weekend Admission: adults $5; children under 12 free. All proceeds go to benefit the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a 501c3 nonprofit community arts association. Arts in the Park is one of the town’s signature events. Admission $5, kids free. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm. Proceeds go to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144.

Annual Blairsville Spring Arts & Crafts Festival

Postponed until 2022

On the Square in Blairsville, Memorial Day weekend. All activities will take place on the Square around the Old Courthouse. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm, rain or shine. Visit the Union County Historical Society at www.unioncountyhistory.org or call 706-745-5493.

47th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival

June 3 - June 5, 2021

The South’s oldest balloon event will begin with a mass ascension of 30 colorful hot air balloons. Balloonists compete in local events Thursday evening beginning around 6pm thru Saturday. Local flying events will take place also on Friday and Saturday. The balloons will fly around 7:30am and 6:00pm each day (weather permitting). Many opportunities available to the public; assisting with the inflations, being a part of a chase crew, taking a tethered ride in a balloon or a champagne flight over the mountains. For more information contact Race Headquarters at 706-878-2271 to schedule a balloon flight. www. helenballoon.com.

Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games

Postponed Until 2022

Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games is held the second weekend in June at Meeks Park in Blairsville, GA. For Additional Information Visit: www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.com. Contact Information: 706-745-2161 or email: BSFHG1@ yahoo.com.

Old Timey Country Fair

June 12 – 13, 2021

Our Old Timey County Fair is scheduled for June 12th and 13th with a kickoff concert on the evening of June 11. Old fashioned booths, games, races, food, pie eating contests, and we will be giving out ribbons for best canned goods and baked goods. Vendors will be here to sell their local wares, and music and fun will flow. Deep Roots Orchard, 2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, GA 30555. For more info contact 706-492-7753, info@rootsorchard.com or visit www.rootsorchard.com.

34th Annual British in the Blue Ridge

June 25 – 26, 2021

This is the premier British motorcycle rally in the southeastern United States, held every year since 1985. Lots of fun and activities for all, including a poker run and other mountain rides on the best motorcycle roads in Georgia, a British motorcycle show featuring vintage and new British motorcycles, field events, vendors, comradery and camping. All makes and models of motorcycles are welcome! RV hookups and campsites are available. Sponsored by the Greater Atlanta British Motorcycle Association. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA. Visit www.gabma.us or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Annual Made in Georgia Festival

June 26 -27, 2021

Come out to the Annual Made in Georgia Festival featuring 100 vendors offering a wide variety of products made, grown, brewed, harvested, stitched, crafted, or inspired by Georgia. This festival will provide attendees the opportunity to sample our cuisine, have a unique shopping opportunity, and it will educate them about Georgia’s history. Come hungry and buy local! Admission $5, children ages 14 and under free. 10:00am - 5:00pm. Towns County Rec Center 150 Foster Park Rd. Young Harris, GA 30546. For info visit www.golakechatuge.com or call Crystal 706-896-4966.

70th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair

August 13 – 21, 2021

Thousands of visitors from across the region have experienced the excitement and nostalgia that this event has to offer. With first class musical performances, arts & crafts, fun carnival rides, and Georgia’s rich history and culture, the Fair provides something for every member of the fam-

When Suzannah’s life seems to stall, she hires Beth as her personal assistant, but Beth has plans to push Suzannah out of it!

‘TIL

BETH

DO US PART

April 22nd - May 16th

Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM

Sundays at 2 PM

In 1964 Sister Aloysius, a Bronx school principal, suspects the young Father Flynn of improper relations with one of the male students.

BLACK BOX THEATER PRESENTS DOUBT: A PARABEL

May 21nd - May 23rd

Friday & Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

“The guys” play cards in Oscar’s messy flat, Tidy yet tense, Felix seems depressed. But it’s Oscar who goes mental when they room together!

THE ODD COUPLE

July 15th & August 8th

Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM

Sundays at 2 PM

MASKS REQUIRED, SOCIALLY DISTANCED SEATING, THEATER SANITIZED DAILY

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY BY PHONE OR ONLINE!

BOX OFFICE: 706. 632. 9191

BUY ONLINE @ BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM

FIND US ON FB: FACEBOOK.COM/BRCTGA

MAIN: 706. 632. 9223

EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA

ily. Featuring the Hot-Glass Academy with handson demos, The Grizzly Experience, Top-notch musical performances, “Old Ways Demonstrations and a Pioneer Village! Free parking. Children under 12, free. Georgia Mountain Fair, Inc. P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, GA 30546. View entire Fair schedule at www.georgiamountainfairgrounds. com For more info Phone: (706) 896-4191.

20th Annual Butternut Creek Festival

July 17 - 18, 2021

Celebrate and enjoy the Arts of this Mountain Region! A family event nestled along the shady banks of Butternut Creek at the beautiful Meeks Park. The Butternut Creek Festival is one of the finest juried arts and crafts shows in the southeast. Showcasing the work of 70-75 hand selected artists and craftsmen in categories from basketry, fine art, fabric art, and decorative painting, to glass, jewelry, metal working, photography, pottery, scrimshaw, and woodturning. Enjoy live music, demonstrations and great food. Free! Sorry no pets at Meeks Park. Meeks Park: 11 Pool Lane, Blairsville, GA. on the South side of Hwy 76/515, just 0.7 miles west of the Hwy 19/129 traffic light. For more info contact High Country Artisans: 706-781-1221 or visit www. butternutcreekfestival.com

Annual Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In

July 29 - 30, 2021

Come join us for the Annual Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on beautiful Lake Chatuge. Camping is available. Stay right at the show site. Enjoy three fun filled days of good ole mountain hillbilly fun. See a Pioneer village, real moonshine still in the works, mountain crafts, and plenty of hot classic cars, trucks, bikes, rat rods, swat meet and more! Contact us: 662- 587- 9572 or www. gammoonshinecruizin.com

Annual Blairsville Green Bean Festival

Postponed until 2022

Celebrate the green bean and “green” living with pageants, a square dance, tractor show, quilting exhibit, storytellers, crafts, “living green” demonstrations, farmers’ market, and “Green Ribbon” recipe contest. Visit www.blairsvillechamber.com or www.ucfarmersmarket.com

Wine Highway Month

August 1 – August 31, 2020

That’s right, the entire month of August! Important Change – Passports will be accepted during each property’s regular business hours. Properties reserve the right to change those hours. You are encouraged to check the business hours of the property you plan to visit. Passports are $50.00 – that gives you 4 tastings at each participating winery/tasting room & complimentary wine glass. Passports will be available to purchase at the participating vineyards and wineries beginning on July 1.Purchase Passports online: www.georgiawineproducers.org/shop

Georgia Mountain Fair

August 13 – August 21, 2021

The GA Mountain Fair has first class musical performances, arts & crafts, fun carnival rides, unique attractions and a glimpse into North Georgia’s rich history and culture. Attractions include The Hot Glass Academy, The Grizzly Experience, Pioneer’s Village and “Old Ways” demonstrations. Musical performances by Wyatt Espalin, The Gatlin Brothers, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and more! 2pm – 10pm. One Day Pass- $12, Three Day Pass- $33, All Days Pass$90. More packages and discounts on the website. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee, GA 30546. Phone: (706) 896-4191 Web: georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Mountain Heritage Festival

September 3 – September 5, 2021

The Heritage Festival celebrates the history and mountain culture of Union County, GA on the grounds of the Historic Mountain Life Museum around the 1906 Butt-Mock home. There will be music on the porch, arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, as well as demonstrations of skills used by Union County’s earliest settlers. Free! Visit the Union County Historical Society at www.unioncountyhistory.org or call 706-745-5493. Email: History1@windstream.net

Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival

September 18, 2021

Always a fantastic event. Downtown Blue Ridge sets the stage as a fantastic back drop and venue location for a perfect early fall event. The leaves start to change with cooler days and crisp evenings that invite outdoor activities! The sounds of Blues music and the sweet smell of BBQ from local and regional cookers will fill the air as families and groups of friends enjoy this unique setting and event. $5 Admission, 12 & under Free. For info visit blueridgebluesandbbq.com or on FB: www.facebook.com/BlueRidgeBluesandBBQ

Due to COVID-19 many events have been cancelled. While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer!

Well-Dressed

The mountain wears its finest cape Much like a woman changes clothes, One day it’s dressed in autumn orange Next week it flaunts a fur of snow; In spring it’s garbed with wild flowers, And in summer a gown of green, The charming view does captivate, As we view nature’s changing scene.

The valley also gowns-up fine, With sparkling gems in river beds, And daisies dress the barest spots; Lowlands attire in fine threads, The meadow wears a gingham dress When hot summer is the season, Then changes to a gown of gold Before winter dons white ermine.

by Betty Kossick

INSIDE

Welcome to our Calendar!

Due to COVID-19 many events have been cancelled.

While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer!

ARTS

1st & 3rd Tuesdays Every Month

Plein Air Painters of Hiawassee Hiawasee, GA. Meet at ArtWorks and leave at 2pm for a local scenic spot to spend a fun afternoon painting with other artists. All media welcome. Bring supplies and equipment you can carry. Some walking on uneven ground may be required. Remember to bring some water and a hat. During winter months, we paint as long as afternoon temperature is at least 50 degrees. 2pm-5pm ArtWorks Gallery & Gifts, 232B Chatuge Way, Hiawassee, GA. www.artworksgalleryga.com or 706896-0932.

3rd Wednesdays Every Month

Quilt Guild

Jasper, GA. Out on a Limb Quilt Guild meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month 1pm – 3pm. Pickens County Community Center, Camp Road, Jasper, GA. 30143. Info: Cathy Vickers (678) 452-2155.

4/9 – 6/26

2nd Quarter Artist-in-Residence

M. Eben (Mark) Mann

Blue Ridge, GA. Mark is a Landscape and Nature photographer who has been taking photos for 58 years. Having done sports and wedding photography, and working with a commercial photographer over the years, Mark now focuses his efforts on capturing the natural world around us. He has also led numerous photo shoots in the Tri-State area. Opening reception is April 9, 5-7pm.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA ARTS | DINING & DANCE | EVENTS & SHOWS | MUSIC | THEATER

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144.

4/9 & 4/10

24th Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference

Blue Ridge, GA. No matter the level of expertise, the Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference provides a venue for professional writers, editors and agents to provide feedback to the aspiring writer. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit blueridgewritersconference.com blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144.

4/9 – 5/22

The Art of Renel Plouffe

Blue Ridge, GA. Renel Plouffe is an abstract expressionist painter who works with acrylic, oil, pastel, paint and charcoal mediums. Her highly textured, abstract paintings reveal an extraordinary balance between beauty and chaos. Join us for the opening reception on April 9,5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144.

4/17

Spring Art in the Park Hancock Park, Dahlonega, GA. Featuring local and regional arts and crafts from artists & crafters. Paintings, pottery, jewelry, wood or leather products, chain saw carving, lamps from repurposed metal, weaving and quilts, glass art, as well as handmade soaps and bath balms. 10am – 5pm. For examples of the work to be displayed, visit Chestatee Artists on Facebook. For info contact Chestatee.artists@gmail.com or 229-291-3623

4/17

2nd Annual Plein Aire Paint Out Event Blairsville, GA. Painters in all media invited to participate. $500 in prizes. Deadline Apr 3 to apply. $30 entry fee includes box lunch. 8am - 4:00pm. Hice Azalea Farm, 138 R Way, Blairsville, GA 30512-3842. 706-896-0932 www.mountainartscrafts.org

5/28 – 7/17

Community Quilt & Fiber Arts Exhibit

Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate our heritage with the age-old artistic craft of quilting and the beauty of the fiber arts. The Art Center will be adorned in colorful fabric, woven with care, skill and hand-made flare. Don’t miss one of the most unforgettable exhibits of the year with traditional and non-traditional quilts, and an array of fiber arts. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144.

EVENTS

Ongoing Mondays

Bingo at Buck Bald Brewing Copperhill, TN. Win cool prizes and have some fun. Starts at 6m. Free! Buck Bald Brewing, 160 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: 706.431.7141 or https://buckbaldbrewing.com

2nd, 4th, and 5th Mondays

Twirlers Square Dancing

Jasper, GA. Twirlers dance the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Mondays of the month at 7pm (lessons at 6pm). Bent Tree Club Tamarack, Jasper, GA. Info: 770-893-2629.

Ongoing Wednesdays

Cast-Off Pet Rescue Bingo

Blairsville, GA. Would you like to save dogs and cats and win money? Join us every Wednesday for Bingo Night! The Jackpot depends on YOU! If we at have least 60 players, jackpot will be $600.00. At least 80 players, jackpot will be $800.00. At least 100 players, jackpot will be $1,000.00!!! Doors 6 pm and games 7pm. Blairsville Civic Center, 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA. 30512. For info: www.castoffpetrescue.org or call (706) 487-4539.

Ongoing Thursdays

Trivia at Copperhill Brewery

Copperhill, TN. Gift certificates for first thru 3rd place winners. Starts 6pm SHARP. Copperhill Brewery, 105 Ocoee St, Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: (423) 548-3030 or www.copperhillbrewery.com

First Thursdays

Shop Late Thursdays

Blairsville, GA. Downtown Blairsville businesses will be open additional hours from 5pm - 8pm and featuring deals, discounts and other offers! Avoid the crowds on the weekends and visit Downtown Blairsville on the First Thursday of the month! Look for businesses with a red balloon! Info: www.visitblairsvillega.com or 877. 745.5789.

Ongoing Thursdays

Dart Tournament and Open Jam Session

Murphy, NC. Darts- 5pm. Jam- 5pm – 7pm. The Daily Grind And Wine, 46 Valley River Ave Murphy, NC 28906. Info: (828) 835-7322 or http://thedailygrindandwine.com/

Ongoing Fridays

Hiawassee Night Market

Hiawassee, GA. A family-friendly, open-air night artist & artisan market featuring fresh produce, food trucks, games, and live music.Filled with excitement and fun. Night Market is the monthly destination for outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment. 5pm- 10pm. Town Square at 19 S. Main Street, Hiawassee GA. http:// hiawasseega.gov

4/7

Gilmer County Extension Nutrition Class

Ellijay, GA. Nutrition 101. Learn how to eat healthy on a budget. Free classes provided by UGA Extension office. Pre-registration is required for this class and closes the day before each class. Space is limited! Face Mask are required and social distancing will be practiced. 9:30AM - 11:30AM. Gilmer County UGA Extension Office, 1123 Progress Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Info and registration: 706.635.4426 or jessmoor@uga.edu

4/7

Gilmer County Extension Money Budget Class

Ellijay, GA. Budgeting 101. Learn strategies to keep your expenses within your income and build your savings. Free classes provided by UGA Extension office. Pre-registration is required for this class and closes the day before each

class. Space is limited! Face Mask are required and social distancing will be practiced. 1:30PM - 3:30PM. Gilmer County UGA Extension Office, 1123 Progress Road, Ellijay, GA 30540.Info and registration: 706.635.4426 or jessmoor@uga.edu

2nd Fridy Each Month

Fantastic Finds Friday

Blairsville, GA. Come to Merchants Walk for great deals all day. Save, stay and enjoy! 7:30am- 8pm. Hours vary between merchants. Info: www.visitblairsvillega.com or 877. 745.5789.

4/17

Bighearted Biker’s Ride

Jasper, GA. Ride For The Kids. Raffle Tickets, 50/50 Raffle, Auction Baskets. Proceeds will benefit Kiwanis-Jasper/Pickens County Projects Serving Kids & Families. All riders $20. Registration 10 am. Kickstands Up 11 am. Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Ste 107, Jasper, GA 30143

4/23

Mile Long Yard Sale

Hiawasee, GA. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Come shop 1 mile worth of treasures at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! Free entry to shoppers! 10am - 4pm. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Visit: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or (706) 896-4191 Vendor application can be found here: https://georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/pages.../applications

4/23

SPRINGAPLALOOZA

Talking Rock, GA. Chateau Meichtry presents an evening of Ellijay’s best music, art, vendors & food. $10 –includes concert & souvenir glass available for purchase at the door. 6pm-10pm. Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA.

4/24

Mardi Gras in the Mountains

Jasper, GA. Knights of Columbus, Georgia Mountains Hospice, and the Rotary Club of Jasper present a spectacular evening with fine dining, a great band, a fun silent auction, and the coronation of the 2021 King and Queen and Honor Court. Black tie optional. 6:30pm – 11:00pm. Individual tickets & table reservations available. Chattahoochee Technical College, 100 Campus Drive in Jasper, Georgia 30143. For info visit mardigrasinthemountains.org or call 706-253-4100.

4/24 & 5/29

Cars and Coffee Cruise-In Ellijay, GA. North Georgia’s monthly meet of auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. Held in beautiful Ellijay, Ga on the last Saturday of each month. Bring your everything on wheels and enjoy free coffee and donuts. 50/50 raffle and great conversation.

8am -11am. Riverside Pavillion on Main Street, ELLIJAY, GA 30540. Contact Information: Michael Johnson 843-814-3774 (p) mhjfedex@aol.com

4/30 – 5/1

Memory Lane Classic Car Show Hiawassee, GA. Save the date! Partnering with Memory Lane Cars for a spring car show! Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee, GA 30546. Phone: (706) 896-4191. FB: www. facebook.com/Memory-LaneClassic-Cars or (762) 349-1557

5/1

Big Hats, Bold Bourbons, & The Game Of Luck Canton, GA. The larest fundraiser of the year supporting educational programming and historic preservation efforts throughout Cherokee county. Gourmet food provided by Old Country Place, specialty cocktails, silent auction, bourbon tasting, and hat parade and contest in conjunction with the 147th Running of the Kentucky Derby shown on the screen at the amphitheater of the Mill on Etowah. Face coverings are strongly encouraged for all attendees and social distancing precautions will be in practice.

Tickets are $75 and available for purchase at https://shop-historycenter.square.site/ or by calling 770.345.3288. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

5/7

Friday Night Fever Disco Party

Blue Ridge, GA. First time ever Disco Party after hours at Grumpy Old Men Brewing! Costume or Festive 70’s Disco Dress required. 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. $10 each. Grumpy Old Men Brewing, 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge , GA 30513. Phone: 706-946-2739.

5/18

A Hoot’n Holler Comedy Show

Blairsville, GA. Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. and Lucky’s Cantina are partnering up to provide you with a night of comedy! 18 & UP ONLY. $30 per ticket will allow you access to a full comedy lineup & heavy appetizers included! The bar will be open for drinks (cash or card).

$30. Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co., 112 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA 30512. Visit: http://grandaddymimms.com

5/22

Garden Club of Ellijay Plant Sale

Ellijay, GA. Plant Sale with large selection of native plants, perennials, shrubs, and container plants. Free! 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Lions Club Pavilion 1729 S. Main St. Ellijay, GA. Look for more information on Facebook-The Garden Club of Ellijay or by email: Shuman888@yahoo. com.

5/28 & 5/29

Hiawassee Pro Rodeo

Hiawassee, GA. Enjoy the best bucking horses, bulls, world class contestants from all over the United States and Canada, and the top of the line specialty acts! This is a family event that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat with live entertainment! 8pm. Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Children (ages 6-12), 5 & under Free! Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee, GA 30546. Phone: (706) 896-4191

5/29 -5/30

Spring Arts in the Park Blue Ridge, GA. Join us Memorial Day weekend for our 45th Annual Spring Arts in the Park fine arts and fine crafts festival held in the beautiful Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge, Georgia. Shop from a variety of artworks from over 175 juried fine arts and fine crafts exhibitors, enjoy tasty food, and engage in multiple artist demos throughout the weekend festival. Pets are welcomed as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. Festival is held rain or shine. Weekend Admission: adults $5; children under 12 free. Proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a 501c3 non-profit community arts association. www. blueridgeartsinthepark.com

KIDS STUFF

4/17 & 4/18

Chimps Rock!

Morganton, GA. Please join us for a guided tour of the Project Chimps sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Inspired by The Kindness Rocks Project, children are also invited to paint a rock with messages of inspiration to enrich the lives of the former research chimpanzees who now live at the sanctuary.

Guided walking tours of the sanctuary, 45-60 minutes of moderate

hiking. 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. $10 per child with a free adult, additional adult tickets are available for $25.

Project Chimps 2031 Lowery Road, Morganton, GA 30560. Email: info@ projectchimps.org, Phone: 706-3743675, Website: projectchimps.org.

5/15 & 5/16

Discovery Days at Project Chimp Morganton, GA. Go behind-thescenes in America’s newest, private sanctuary for chimpanzees retired from medical research. Guided walking tours of the sanctuary! 60-90 minutes of moderate hiking with rest stops. Tours are between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm by reservation. Project Chimps 2031 Lowery Road, Morganton, GA 30560. Email: info@ projectchimps.org, Phone: 706-3743675, Website: projectchimps.org.

MUSIC

Every Evening Bell Music from the Tower 7:00pm – 7:30pm. At the Historic Courthouse on the Square in Downtown Blairsville, GA. Free! Contact (706) 745-5493 or www. unioncountyhistory.org

Sundays Live Music at Rocco’s Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Jasper, GA. Contact 706.253.1900 or visit http://roccosjasper.com

Thursdays

PIckin’ in the Park MIneral Bluff, GA. Live music jams & pickin’ on the banks of the Toccoa River at the Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville. Free! 6:00 PM to dusk, May - Sept. Weather Permitting. Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park, 1156 River Road, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559. Info: 706-946-1130

Fridays Concert Series at the Old Courthouse Blairsville, GA. Free! 7pm. Old Historic Courthouse, 1 Town Square, Blairsville GA. For info: Union County Historical Society 706-745-5493 or www.unioncountyhistory.org/

3rd Friday Every Month

Live Music Acoustic Blends

Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own libations and munchies. 7 pm. Free & Public Invited. For info please contact Gilmer Arts 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. 706-635-5605. Visit www.gilmerarts.com

Weekends

Live Music at Engelheim

Vineyards

Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706635-WINE (9463) or visit www. engelheim.com.

Weekends

Fannin Brewing Company

Live Music in the Bier Garden

Fannin Brewing: 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. www. fanninbrewingcompany.com or 706.258.2762

Weekends

Cartecay Vineyards

Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www. cartecayvineyards.com

Weekends

Chateau Meichtry Vineyards

Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www.chateaumeichtry.com.

Weekends

Live Music at Mystic Mountain

Pizza

Blue Ridge, GA. We’re excited to showcase some of the Groovy local live talent. Mystic Mountain Pizza, 4118 E First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: www.facebook.com/ topstreet1, mysticmountainpizzaco. com or 706-946-0378.

5/14

Riley Green

Hiawassee, GA. Live in Concert!

Named ACM’s New Artist of the Year, this rising Country music singer is best known for songs like “If it wasn’t for Trucks”, “There Was This Girl”, and “In Love By Now”. Tickets on sale now. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Visit: www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or (706) 896-4191

OUTDOORS

Ongoing

Benton McKaye Trail Association

Hikes & Trail Maintenance

Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA). With many interesting hikes for all levels the BMTA invites you to join in these informational and scenery filled hikes. Too many to list! Please visit their website to find the right hike (all of them?) for you! https://bmta.org you can also find them on FB, Instagram and Twitter.

4/12

Caney Creek Historical Community Hike

Benton MacKaye Trail Association. Moderate 7 miles. Hike to the abandoned historical community of Caney Creek on the Ocoee River (one large creek crossing). See lots of artifacts. This tiny town had mass transit, bathtubs, electric street lights, concrete sidewalks, a tennis court, hotel, telephones, school and a church, but no stores. It existed from 1918-1941. No automobiles ever travelled there. Be prepared for an hour’s drive on FS Rd 221 in the Cherokee National Forest. Hike leader Clare Sullivan. For more information contact hikeleaderCS2@bmtamail.org

5/3

15th Annual Snowball Golf Tornament & Golfball Drop Jasper, GA. Fundraiser for Pickens Chamber of Commerce’s Youth and Adult Leadership Pickens Programs. Cash Prizes! Held at Arrowhead Golf Course in Jasper. For tickets and info contact the PIcken’s County Chamber at 706692-5600.

5/17

CARES Spring Classic Golf Tournament

Dawsonville, GA. FIRST EVER golf tournament to benefit CARES for Pickens County will feature a Putting Contest, Longest Drive Contest and a Hit the Celebrity Contest for AMAZING prizes, Hole in One Contest where someone can WIN a new car from Shottenkirk Ford. ALL proceeds will go to help us continue to provide counseling, food and financial assistance to those in need in Pickens County.

8:30am. Crystal Falls Golf Club, 3756 Cowart Road, Dawsonville, GA. For info and registration: visit caresforpickens.com or call

THEATER

4/9 thru 4/18

One of Your Biggest Fans

Ellijay, GA. The lives of a cantankerous soap opera star and his makeup artist collide with the those of his biggest fan and her father with the discovery of a piece of fan mail that changes everything.

Friday & Saturday 7pm. Sunday

2-4pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info and tickets: 706635-5605 or GilmerArts.com

4/22 thru 5/16

‘Til Beth Do Us Part

In this side-splitting comic romp about marriage, career-driven Suzannah Hayden needs a lot more help on the home front than she’s getting from her husband, Gibby. Enter Beth Bailey, Suzannah’s newlyhired assistant, a gregarious, highlymotivated daughter of the South. Gibby grows increasingly wary as Beth insinuates herself into more and more aspects of their lives. Their effort to stop Beth at any cost sets up the wildly funny climax in which things go uproariously awry just as Suzannah’s boss arrives for dinner. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Tickets & Info: (706) 632-9223. . blueridgecommunitytheater.com

5/28 – 6/6

Exit Laughing

Ellijay, GA. Three mature women realize how to live fully on the evening of their ‘anything but normal’ card game. This show is FUNNY! With “borrowed” ashes from the funeral home for one last card game, 3 women have the wildest, most exciting night of their lives involving a police raid, a cheeky male stripper and a whole new way of looking at all the fun you can have when you’re truly living. Be ready to have some good belly laughs. Friday & Saturday 7pm. Sunday 2-4pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Tickets: 706635-5605 or GilmerArts.com

WINE & BEER TASTINGS

Open Every Day

Engelheim Vineyards

Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706635-WINE (9463) or visit www. engelheim.com.

Ongoing

Cartecay Vineyards

Wine Tastings on the Chimney Patio or the Nealey Barn Loft. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visitcartecayvineyards.com

Ongoing

Cartecay Wine & Craft

Ellijay, GA. Cartecay Wine & Craft is a tasting room of Cartecay Vineyards’ located in Historic Downtown Ellijay, serving our wines, other GA Wines and GA Craft Beers. 19 South Main Street Ellijay, Georgia 30540. Phone: 706-697-9463 or www.facebook. com/cartecaywineandcraft/

Ongoing

Cartecay Wine & Craft

Blue Ridge, GA. Cartecay Wine & Craft is a tasting room of Cartecay Vineyards’ located in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge serving our wines, other GA Wines and GA Craft Beers. 19 South Main Street Ellijay, Georgia 30540. Phone: 706-6979463 or www.facebook.com/cartecaywineandcraft/

Daily Chateau Meichtry

Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

Fridays

Crane Creek VIneyards

Young Harris, GA. Kick off the weekend with live music out on the vineyard decks & delicious housemade seasonal appetizers. No reservations! Come out to grab a bottle, a bite, and sit back and enjoy the gorgeous mountain vineyard views & local tunes. Weather permitting. Saturday Vinters

Tours. Open Tuesday - Sunday. 16 Crane Creek Road | Young Harris, GA 30582. 706.379.1236 or visit cranecreekvineyards.com

AC LIVING CALENDAR

Saturdays Out Of The Blue Wine Tasting Blue Ridge, GA. Drinking alcohol is just drinking. Wine is a lifestyle. We sell fine wine, cheeses, and beer and specialty kitchen items. Wine tastings Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Out of the Blue, 647 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, 706-258-2750. Visit www. outofzbleu.com

Ongoing

Copperhill Brewery

Copperhill, TN. High quality craft brews, stop in and experience ours! 105 Ocoee Street - Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: 423-548-3030 or copperhillbrewery.com

Ongoing Thurs - Sun

Buck Bald Brewing

Monday- 2 - 8pm, Thursday, Friday, Saturday - Noon to 8pm, SundayNoon to 6pm. Buck Bald Brewing, 160 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: 706.431.7141 or buckbaldbrewing.com

Ongoing Thurs - Sun

Fannin Brewing Company

3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. 706.258.2762 or www. fanninbrewingcompany.com

Ongoing Thurs - Sat

Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Dog & kid friendly. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-3318870/404-966-2665, grumpyoldmenbrewing.com

Ongoing Mon- Sun

Valley River Brewery & Eatery

Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www.valleyriverbrewery.com

Ongoing Thurs- Sun

Cartecay River Brewing Co.

Ellijay, GA. Thurs - Sun. Craft beers on the river. At 26 River Terrace, Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: (706) 3958935 orcartecayriverbrewing.com

Fridays – Sundays

Pendley Creek Brewing Company

Jasper, GA. Offering flights, pints, and growlers to-go, we are proud to be Jasper’s first small-hold brewery. Friday: 12pm - 9pm, Saturday: 12pm - 9pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm. Pendley Creek Brewing Company, 57 N. Main Street Jasper, GA 30143. Info: @PendleyCreek · Brewery, (706) 253-2739 or www.pendleycreekbrewingco.com

Ongoing

Currahhee Brewing Co.

Franklin, NC. Mon-Thur 12-9 PM // Fri & Sat 12-10 PM // Sunday 12-8 PM. 100 Lakeside Dr, Franklin, NC 28734. Info: 828.634.0078 or www. curraheebrew.com

Please be aware of closings and cancellations due to COVID-19.

We recommend checking events and COVID restrictions before making travel plans as dates, times and requirements can change.

Editor’s Note: While we try our best to include everyone, we’re sure we’ve unintentionally missed some Happenings along the way.

If you’d like to be included in our CALENDAR, please email the information to alice@blueridgemediagroup.com or call 706. 492. 5070

During these tough times, we at Appalachian Country Living Magazine urge those who have more to help those who have less by donating to your local or regional Food Bank. A good place to start is with FEEDING AMERICA where you can donate directly or find a food pantry in your area. Let’s all be kind.

history of indi A n G eor

History Editor Leslie Barker Thomas Digs Deep Into The Rich and Exciting Cultural Past with This Ongoing Series About Our Native Ancestors

While the river was essential to natives, river boat travel on the Chattahoochee brought settlements and trade during the 1800’s.

The Creeks named the river; Indian agent Benjamin Hawkins recorded in 1799 that chat-to meant “stone,” and ho-che meant “marked” or “flowered.”

Access to the River opened trade and travel from Florida to the northern mountain region

Chattahoochee River, an Essential Lifeline

YYou never know where you will find resource information these days. I like to use googlebooks to find out of print books or articles. Some of the information for this article was found in a report concerning the Chattahoochee River Corridor by Lenard E. Brown for the National Park Service in 1980.

The Chattahoochee country was the birthplace of a river that was essential to the Native Americans of North Georgia beyond the recorded history of the Georgia Territory. The Mississippian Mound builders’ culture had always been there and used the river as a lifeline to their everyday being. The Cherokee and Creek that followed depended on the rivers for drinking, food, and transportation. Before the river was altered with dams and locks to create reservoirs and hydroelectric power, flood control, and recreation, it was a source not to be taken for granted by those who came before. After the Revolutionary War it became the demarcation between the white intruder’s and the redman’s reservation.

Thirty-six hundred feet above the mountains at Chattahoochee Gap, Jack’s Knob Trail deadends into the Appalachian Trail and there lies the origins of the spring that is considered the beginning of the Chattahoochee River’s surge to the Mississippi River. The story of the name comes from a travel log by Benjamin Hawkins, the Indian agent in 1799. It was explained that “Chatto” meant stone, and “Hoche” meant flowered in the Creek language. It was said that it was above Hoithletigua, also known as Burnt Village, near the old town of Chattahoochee, although a mystery as to the exact location it is thought to

be a township close by to Franklin, so named to honor Benjamin Franklin, in Heard County.

The Spanish used the river to travel northward to trade with the Creek Indians. The Chattahoochee flowed south and met with the Apalachicola and Flint Rivers. By 1824, development along the river had begun, using it as a commercial navigation center. Creek Indians being pushed westward afforded the intruders

their desires to make the nearly 200 cities forming along the river’s banks trade centers for cotton, corn, food stuffs, and oysters along with manufactured goods. Waterfalls along the route afforded much needed waterpower for the grist and lumber mills. Imagine if you can, dozens of steamboats and pole barges traveling frequently to points near Columbus Georgia.

The Cherokees who were living in the area of the headwaters, called it “Chota” also a town in the Nacoochee Valley. The town disappeared with the removal of the Indians from 18271838. Thousands of Indians, not just Cherokees and Creeks, had at one time, between the 1500’s and 1600’s, lived in a hundred towns along this river. We often find directions based on where a certain waterfall was, that is probably no longer to be found. ACLM

Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and the President of the Gilmer County Historical Society; Former President, Georgia Chapter Trail of Tears Association and Board Member of the National Trail of Tears Association.

“When history is erased, people’s moral values are also erased.” –Ma Jian

Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society

Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum

138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861. Reservations by Appointment, or Open Thursday & Friday 11am to 3pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/

A getaway designed b y nature.

A log home sanctuary is the perfect place to gather dreams, memories, and family for your retirement years. Nestled within its strength and comfort on a rolling hill or a scenic mountain, your log home is the perfect venue for good times w ith family and friends. A welcoming place that can light the night with fellowship and brighten your days with merriment.

Customized to your lifestyle.

At Satterwhite Lo g Homes, we encourage you to "customize" any of our 7 0 standard floorplans ... or design your own. So go ahead add that sun porch for your resident green thumb, enlarge t he master bedroom or bath, or include an upstairs playroom for t he kiddos.

Driving directions: Just 5 miles North of Ellijay on Highway 515N

Reliability tested by time.

At Satterwhite, we only use naturally cured logs. This me ans excessive shrinking will not compromise your home, ensuring reli ability. This material advantage is also backed by a gu arant ee of sound constru ction techniqu es, enduring design and simple attention to d etail in every home we craft. It's be en that way since 1974.

Company operated for Experience over 47years.

Family owned and Superior House Logs - Milled from deadstanding timber for stability.

Totally Custom - Your plans or ours. Design staff ready to create your own dream home. Our Locations - Serving the US from Utah, Texas and Georgia.

Nowhere else can you enjoy a true mountain lifestyle a stone’s throw from the charm and vibe of Georgia’s favorite mountain town, Blue Ridge. Only at Old Toccoa Farm, behind the beautifully appointed Gate House, can you enjoy custom homes and residences of unparalleled quality and design alongside a magnificent mountain “links-style” golf experience. Here, People, Lifestyle & Design live together and nature stands center-stage. Home of the 2021 Georgia State Golf Association Public Links Championship. Coming Fall 2021 - Community Tavern.

Hole #6 | Par 4

Photographic credit: Square Frame Media