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PORCH
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STOP BY AND SEE US AT OUR NEW NEW SHOWOOM AT 14224 HWY 515 ELLIJAY, GA. 30536 SCREEN ENCLOSURES | THREE SEASON ROOMS & SUNROOMS | UNDERDECKING Facebook “f ” Logo
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3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513
706-492-3071 AbernathysFurniture.com
6.9 miles North of Blue Ridge on Hwy 5 toward McCaysville. | Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:30pm
WELCOME TO AC LIVING MAGAZINE
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Summer 2021, who would’ve thought we’d be here after the Twilight Zone of last year? With mask mandates lifted in most places, we hope that everyone is healthy and vaccinated so we can rock the summer properly! What’s the latest here at the cabin? Zevon has now completed his first round of heartworm treatment with the last two back-to-back shots coming in the next week. It’s really tough to keep him quiet during these treatments, because, he is of course, an ‘Excitable Boy.’ But, so far, so good. At 11years (?), Maxine is looking a little silver-haired around the edges and takes even more naps than I Maxine says, “Quit working, feed do. While she’s mostly accepted Zevon- me, and take me for a walk!” she still can be a bit grumpy. I’m fairly certain that once Zevon can run and play, Maxine will come around. The other BIG news is that high-speed fiber is coming to my little mountain! Now I won’t have an excuse to drink beer at Buck Bald Brewing while uploading files to the printer. Speaking of printing- I want to give a SHOUT OUT to Mark Heisberger at Walsworth Press, the best customer service rep ever who has always had my back over these last (almost) 10 years. Thanks bro. Featured in this issue is Old Toccoa Farm. If you’re looking for a golf community in the mountains with all of the amenities of modern living, this is the place for you. Peter Knutzen and friends are creating an incredible environment with exquisite mountain homes built for active lifestyles. Oh, and we can’t wait for The Farmhouse Tavern coming this fall! Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings, family owned and operated, is celebrating over 12 decades of serving our community. One of the most valuable assets we have is our small town good feels, and Abernathy’s is squarely an important part of that culture. The newest good vibe around here is Buck Bald Brewing in the Copper Basin. Locals, rafters, visitors, kids, babies, dogs, bikers, family generations and just about anyone you can think of come together here in happy harmony to enjoy the craft brews and the crazy camaraderie. Next up will be the August September issue featuring the most complete list of Fall Festivals, Fairs and Happenings in the north Georgia mountains, that we all so sorely missed last year. Don’t pass up a chance to experience as many of these fun events as possible. It’s a gorgeous day here, time for me to clock out and take the dogs for a hike. See y’all on the trail!
Zevon learning how to ride in a car! 4
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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 Two Positions Open Ellijay & South | Blue Ridge & North 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 The Buck Bald Family, Pearl Diebeck, Lorrie Bryan Gauldin, Peter Knutzen, Lori Montgomery, Ross Stedman, 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.
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The Premier Guide to Arts, Dinning, Shopping, Events & Outdoor Activities in the Southern Appalachian Mountains and Beyond!
We are Growing, and We Want You to Grow With Us! WHO WE ARE...
Print magazines are more balanced across generations than any other media, including internet, TV, radio, newspapers and billboards.
Welcome to Appalachian Country Living Magazine! AC Living Magazine is a free bi-monthly, fullcolor magazine with eye-popping graphics that serves as the Insider’s Guide to the North Georgia Mountain Region. We are dedicated to celebrating and promoting the best of what the North Georgia Mountains and its people have to offer, and are heavily involved in the communities we serve, frequently featuring nonprofit programs and events. The people, the culture, and local businesses are only a fraction of what we cover. Our extra features include coverage of the arts, events, restaurants, wineries, festivals, homes and cabin rentals, and mountain decor, as well as the people, food, and history— AC Living Magazine provides entertaining and helpful information for residents and visitors alike.
You can check us out at our website where readers have access to us 24/7. We are Country.
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We provide better content and service than any other magazine in the area. Not only do readers look forward to our variety of articles, but they save the magazines, bake the recipes, and respond to our website. If you don’t believe us, just compare us!
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CONTENTS Spotlight, Colonel 7 Restaurant Poole’s BBQ
A Home Town Favorite. World Famous for Great Food and Friendly Service.
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Gardening With More Purpose
14
Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings
18
Steve Montgomery Shares His Vision for Adding Edible Plants to Your Gardens.
A Small Town Staple That Has Served the Community for Over 12 Decades.
18 Old Toccoa Farm
A Place Where People, Lifestyle, and Design Live Together.
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Buck Bald Brewing Fill a Pint. Fill a Growler. Fill Your Mind. A Community Craft Brewery Love Story.
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Markets, Festivals, Fourth of July and Fun! 32 Farmer’s
Summer is Here! Grab the Kids, Dogs, Families, Friends. There’s so Much to Do We Bet You Can’t Do it All.
ON THE COVER IVINGMA WWW.ACL GAZINE.C OM | JUNE /JULY 2021
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If the pace of a small mountain community is what you are looking for, yet you don’t want to sacrifice the many modern conveniences that keep your busy life on track, then look no further than Old Toccoa Farm, just outside Blue Ridge, Georgia. Shadowed by the world’s oldest mountain range, and living naturally alongside 4,360 feet of the trout filled Toccoa River, Old Toccoa Farm brings people, lifestyle and design together in a setting that is, simply put…special.
2021
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JUNE/JULY 2021
AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT
COL. POOLE’S Georgia Bar-B-Q
PO Box 727 East Ellijay, GA 30539 706. 635. 4100
Poole’s Bar-B-Q
Oscar and Edna Poole Darvin Poole
PoolesBBQ.com
CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE
Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday Wood Fired Pizza, Gourmet Dogs, Sandwiches, Salads, Local Beer, Live Music & Hippie Stuff!
Food Truck & Hippie Dippies Ice Cream Truck Avaialble for Your Special Event!
706.946.0378 4118 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA w w w.mysticmountainpizzaco.com
I-FI FREE W
Breakfast: Sandwiches, Pastries, Cinnamon Rolls & Bagels Lunch: Soup, Salad & Sandwiches Drinks: Coffee, Mocha, Latte, Cappuccino, Frappe & Fruit Smoothies
44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512
706. 745. 0073
CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville
YOUR RESTAURANT AD HERE
Call Us Today! 706.492.5070 JUNE/JULY 2021
289 Highland Crossing East Ellijay, GA 30540 In Front of Lowe’s
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Named by CNN as one of the TOP “DON’T MISS BBQ SPOTS” in Georgia and Alabama! What started as an eight by twelve shack with no indoor seating in 1989, Poole’s Bar-B-Q, is now world famous for its great food, friendly service, the Taj-Mah-Hog, the Hog-Rock-Cafe, The PigMoby-il and the Pig Hill of Fame. Yes the Pig Hill of Fame. Rumor has it that state authorities would not allow Colonel Poole to put a sign by the highway, so instead he just up and planted pigs on the steep hill behind his restaurant. First it was just names of friends and family, but now the Pig Hill of Fame has over 4,000 little piggies. Want your name on a pig? For just five bucks, they paint your name on a pig and plant it somewhere on the hill. Then you have to come back and try to find it! With the tourist attraction aside, Poole’s Bar-B-Q is a serious All-American BBQ establishment serving delicious options for locals and visitors alike. At lunchtime you’ll find fire fighters, policemen and women, and many other local workers partaking in the great home style foods. By evening, be prepared to stand in line because it’s just THAT good. Poole’s offers up beef, pork and chicken barbecue plates with Colonel Poole’s in-house barbecue sauce. There are a plenty of side dishes to choose from: barbecue beans, creamy mac-n-cheese, crisp coleslaw, potato salad, Brunswick stew, freedom fries, and onion rings. Many say the Brunswick stew is some of the best they’ve ever had. If you’re hankering for Brisket- get there early before they run out! For the younger (or maybe just less hungry) crowd, Poole’s offers Junior plates. Not in the mood for barbecue? Poole’s offers ribs, chicken strips, corn dogs and hot dogs. Take some of Colonel Poole’s famous BBQ sauce home with youOriginal or Sweet- or get both. And don’t forget to impress your friends with a Poole’s BBQ Pig Hill of Fame T-shirt. Get ready to treat yourself to some great local Bar-B-Q! ACLM Colonel Poole’s BAR-B-Q – Open Friday thru Sunday Highway 515 at 164 Craig Street East Ellijay, GA 30540 Call: 706. 635. 4100 Visit: PoolesBBQ.com • Fridays from 11am to 7pm • Saturdays from 11am to 6pm • Sunday from 11am to 6pm Facebook “f ” Logo
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North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor SAVE ON ALL...
Mattress Sets, Living Room, Bedroom, Dining Room, Home Office, Entertainment, Cabinets, Youth Furniture, Cabin Decor and More!
Owner Doug Shelburn says,
“Let’s Make a Deal, Because the Price is Right!”
Good Company Great Music
FIND US ON FACEBOOK
2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay GA 30540
•
My Paw Paw Will Save You Money!
Tasty Food Cold Drinks Lots of Fun!
Located 2 miles from Dairy Queen on Highway 282 in Ellijay
Call 706. 635. 4202 or Visit ngfh.net
Weekly Specials
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Live Music Fridays and Saturdays
M I STY MOU NTAI N HOPS
VI NYL PU B
706. 946. 8620
ANTIQUES, GIF TS & HOME FURNISHINGS 20,00 SQUARE FEET | 125 DEALERS
WED THRU SAT: 11AM - 9PM 3300 EAST 1ST STREET, BLUE RIDGE, GA
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706.635.2327
Find us at Hwy. 515 and Maddox Rd. next to Ingles 240-B Old Orchard Square • East Ellijay, GA 30540 Blackbearantiques blackbearantiques1
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE/JULY 2021
AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN
Time to Wash Away the Covid Gray Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Traces the History of World Wide Color Over the Last Seven Decades
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It goes without saying that color trends are associated not only with advances in technology, but also with current events in our world. You can look at the past and associate many the colors of that time with historical events. Colors permeate everything we touch: our clothes, our homes, and the world around us. How will our current history (in the making) and color trends of today look to future generations? Has the turmoil of the last few years resulted in the idea that we must be “neutral” in everything we do? Has this “neutral” feeling spilled over into the world of design by painting everything “GRAY?” Have we become afraid of color because we need to be neutral? Have our choices been limited by profit margins generated by data mining? Interesting thoughts. Have the words “color” and “unique” become adjectives of the past in relation to social and artistic history? I guess we will find out a few years from now. The “Mid-Century” 1950’s was celebrated as the “stay at home” mom’s era, so our mom’s bathrooms and kitchens were color matched in soft pink or earthy olive making the homes such a pleasant place to stay (1). The 1960’s were the free-love and psychedelic times bringing wild, vivid, iridescent and psychedelic colors– hot pink, neon orange, electric blue (2). The 1970’s brought disco, lava lamps, and sparkly, shiny, bright colors contrasted against a neutral background like white, black or khaki (3). Next came John Travolta, The Bee Gee’s and Donna Summer in the 1980’s concurrent with the public awareness of the LGBT generation. We were introduced to the full spectrum and “rainbow” of colors set against strong neutrals of white, black and mauve. (4) Hello Y2K and millennials!!! The technology revolution is ramped up even more bringing JUNE/JULY 2021
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world events and entertainment into our homes instantaneously. The famous, yet outrageous millennials touted their personalities with vibrant colors. Miley Cyrus, Paris Hilton, Lady Gaga, Pink and Katy Perry stepped out with outrageous, in your face colors and layers of patterns that never would have made sense before this time (5). Then from 2015 to 2019 the world begins to cry for calmness with New Age lifestyles and an emphasis on calm and “spa like” environments that heal. Soothing blues, turquoise, white and warm grays dominate with little contrast or patterns (6). Hold onto your hat as a worldwide pandemic hits in 2019 and bold home fashion, just like everything else, comes to a screeching halt. We see a mass exodus of color in our homes with the predominance of gray on everything! Restoration Hardware takes over the home fashion curve with their total gray coating of their furnishings and showrooms. Reduced to shopping online, with no expert designer or savvy sales person to guide buyers to new trends and creative ideas, the general public opts for these shades of gray.
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
Some venture into using touches of black and white as seen with the popular farmhouse look, but homes and other interiors are mostly bathed in gray and void of large areas of accent colors (7). What has happened to our 7 world of color??? 2021 is here!!! The pandemic is finally waning; people are busting out of their homes ready to get back to work and “life.” Concurrently, we are seeing life coming back into our home furnishing world with more colorful accent 8 colors. 2021’s accent colors are dark blue with small dots of dark gold and chocolate (8). Whew, what a relief to have some color back in our world, with an eye for more to come. Will this somber era be remembered as “Covid Gray?” Only time will tell. ACLM Cindy Trimble, ASID is owner of StudioTrimble, Inc. based in Blue Ridge. She is NCIDQ certified and a Georgia Registered Interior Designer. Cindy Trimble,StudioTrimble, Inc. 706-946-2030 www.studiotrimble.com WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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Eclectic Art, Paintings, Pottery, Jewlery, Unique Gifts! VISIT US IN COPPERHILL, TN AND FIND THE PERFECT GIFT!
Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles THE LITTLE STORE THAT PAYS YOU MORE!
We Buy and Sell Coins and Collectibles Coins • Gold • Silver • Jewelry • Currency Free In-Store Appraisals
1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA In the Dogwood Plaza
706. 632. 3127 For Hours and More Information Contact Us at (423) 548-0000 or fatraccoonart@gmail.com 121 Ocoee Street, Suite 2, Copperhill, TN 37317
www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com
Destination! YOUR INSPIRATION
Around Back at Rocky’s Place
The Ultimate Folk Art Gallery in the South! Best Selection by “Cornbread” in the Universe! Call or Email for an appointment weekdays or weekends
Furniture, Antiques, Home Decor, Handcrafted Goods, Women’s Clothes & Jewelry, Great Gifts and More! We Sell Fusion Mineral Paint!
770. 992. 9294 cottonmillexchange.net
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“Guinea Hen” by Cornbread 3631 Highway 53 E at Etowah River Road Dawsonville, GA 30543
706. 265. 6030
Monday thru Saturday 10am - 7pm and Sunday Noon - 6pm 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 100, Canton, GA 30114 Come Visit & Shop 48,000 sq. ft! Facebook “f ” Logo
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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE/JULY 2021
AC LIVING GARDEN & LANDSCAPE
Gardening with More Purpose Garden and Landscape Editor Steve Montgomery Shares His Vision for Adding Edible Plants to Your Gardens
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I’ve been designing and creating beautiful gardens/outdoor projects for over 35 years with a primary focus on ornamental plants that have unusual flowers, interesting growth habits, special looking bark, and the like. In my designing, I look at the entire picture of growth habit, location (sun vs shade), flowering (time of year), year round visual appearance, privacy, and much more. This approach is challenging and there is purpose in it, but there can be more to a garden than just the beauty. In the past 10 years or so, with help from my wife Lori, I began exploring ways to incorporate plants that are edible, functional, and good for the environment in my designs. More time and earth friendly gardening ideas– permaculture, insect/disease control, companion planting and much more became part of my design palette. I started incorporating these concepts so that clients can use or consume their gardens for a healthier life. The concept is to have a beautiful, well planned garden that not only looks great, but has edible plants designed into it. Adding fruit trees, fruiting vines, herbs, and other beneficial plants create an interesting, beautiful, and healthy garden. For example, replace any flowering vine with a fruiting vine, a grape or Kiwi vine that will look great and produce food. Blueberry bushes in a sunny location are beautiful and provide food for people and/or our beautiful birds. Full of vitamins and great taste, blueberries are extremely easy to grow as they require extraordinarily little attention. You may choose to grow a potted lemon tree or an artichoke with strawberry plants which feature both fruit and flowers. There are so many plants to consider, nearly anything is possible. While many of us have known for quite some time that corporate food production is unsustainable, the recent pandemic has opened eyes around the world and made folks, who didn’t grow up in rural areas, or who are not environJUNE/JULY 2021
Left: Replace any flowering vine with a fruiting vine that will look great and produce food. Right: For almost every vegetable you grow, there is a beneficial companion plant that will increase soil nutrients, chase away pests, and help you get the most out of your garden. mentally savvy, realize where their food comes from. Many take so much for granted as industrial agriculture and corporate food production make it easy to get what we want, usually when we want it and mostly, at a very reasonable cost. But at what cost to our health and the planet? What happens when corporate food, for whatever reason, and fossil fuel supply lines to grocery stores fail? What then? The answer, like our grandparents and great grandparents did is– grow your own. It’s amazing how much you can grow in a small space and incorporating ‘food’ into your existing garden is a huge plus. You’ll not only have a great looking garden, but one that can sustain you. Lori and I bought a place in Murphy, NC about 10 years ago and have been slowly creating our sustainable garden. Over the years we’ve planted many ornamentals, however, we’ve also incorporated many edibles. Figs, apples, peaches, and plums, along with grape vines, raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry bushes provide a healthy, nutritious variety. They’ve grown into a well thought out and designed edible landscape. In addition to this, we’ve incorporated animals into our plan for self-sustainability. Chickens are easy to take care of and provide an excellent source of food, producing both eggs and more chickens. We’re also in the process of adding livestock that we know we can take care of, recently adding goats and pigs. Folks in urban areas may not be able to have these animals, but chickens are allowed in most places and, as mentioned above, are a great source of food. The most important aspect here, is that we’re
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
learning more all the time and discovering ways to help the planet and produce sustainable food sources so that we don’t have to rely on industrial food production and delivery. I’ve made great progress over the last few years including more purpose driven gardening in my designs for those clients who want it. Beauty is an especially important and wonderful thing in all of our lives. That in itself is fantastic, but with edible/ useable items incorporated into the design your garden can be so much more. ACLM 1. Planning Your first Edible Garden? Here are the Steps to Follow and Common Mistakes to Avoid https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.5532253 2. 40 Best Plants for an Edible Landscape Homestead Survival Site https://homesteadsurvivalsite.com/best-plants-ediblelandscape/ 3. Growing Edibles in the Landscape | NC State Extension Publications https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/growing-edibles-in-thelandscape 4. Foodscaping | How to Create an Edible Landscape | joe gardener® https://joegardener.com/podcast/foodscaping-how-tocreate-an-edible-lanscape/
Steve Montgomery and Company has extensive knowledge in the areas of landscape, hardscape, construction of outdoor structures, water features, pools, and gardening with purpose. Steve Montgomery and Company. Phone: 404-966-8283 or 770-317-1484 Email: Steve@smac.biz Website: www.smac.biz WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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GENERAC
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305 South Main Street Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236
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JUNE/JULY 2021
AC LIVING OUTDOOR & ADVENTURE
Chattahoochee National Forest Outdoor & Adventure Editor JR Ferjak Offers Up Three Off-Road Adventures for All Enthusiasts
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Welcome readers! This is JR Ferjak, the outdoor guy, reaching out. In this addition we will be exploring, that’s right exploring, so let’s start every day with an adventure that we call getting out of bed! Here in the beautiful southern Appalachians we’re extremely lucky to have a wide variety of outdoor activities to choose from. Hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking and mountain bike riding are the most popular, but what about four-wheeled adventure? I’ve compiled a short list from several sources to get you started on your four-wheel explorations in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Proper planning and preparedness will go a long way in keeping you safe, and don’t forget to Pack it In and Pack it Out! The Beasley Knob OHV Trail System is a challenging trail system located off of U.S. Highway 76 in Union County, GA. It’s conveniently located two miles east of Blairsville, GA and can be accessed by two trail heads. The system provides approximately 13.4 miles of recreational driving for OHV enthusiasts, including those driving fourwheel drive vehicles, motorcycles and ATVs. The system is made up of interconnecting dirt trails, rock hill climbs and gravel roads through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Mostly recommended for experienced drivers due to the challenging terrain and steep ascents. Be prepared for hard obstacles such as rocks, large ruts, and other challenges. Can you say winch? Have fun and stay safe– be ready for breakage and using your winch to help others having a hard time making the course. Please, no bolted, studded or tire chains allowed. The Beasley Knob Trails are open from sunrise to sunset. National Forest OHV Pass required. JUNE/JULY 2021
Top: Land Rover Competition Trek trucks perched atop Axe Head Rock at Carolina Crawlers off road park. Left: Wally Chapman and me after a fun, successful day of wheeling. Above Left: Getting ready to enter the trail net work and have some fun. Above Right: A well geared-up vehicle will allow for much adventure.
larger obstacles have go arounds if you so desire. Owner Wally Chapman urges everyone to bring a good attitude and have a great time. For info and reservations, contact Carolina Crwalers. Please check the status of your favorite trail and “call before you haul.” Always remember there’s an adventure just over every horizon. ‘Till next time, tread lightly and take the road less traveled. ACLM
Nimblewill Gap OHV Road is a 5 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Dawsonville, GA that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for ohv/off-road driving and is accessible year-round. A really easy trail that connects to Old Bucktown Road OHV trail. This trail can be easily traversed in pretty much any vehicle. Lots of great views and camping/picnic spots along the way.
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, JR offers private driving lessons with a future off-road driving clinic in the works. His passion for the outdoors draws him to many adventures far from the norm. For more information you can try to catch up with JR by email: Jferjak1@gmail.com.
Carolina Crawlers Off-Road Adventures is a privately owned, family friendly, off-road adventure park just outside of Blairsville, GA. With about 15 trails (more under development) on 100 acres, primitive camping and rental Jeeps, this is the perfect place for all level offroaders. Trails loop around and connect, and
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
To purchase OHV passes and more information on the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests contact: Blue Ridge District, 2042 Highway 515 West Blairsville, GA 30512 C: 706-970-9776 O: 706-745-6928 Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/conf Forest Road Status: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/road_status WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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ABERNATHY’S COMPLETE HOME FURNISHINGS 131 Years of Quality
While the Cherokee knew of the rich deposits beneath the Ducktown Basin- and had actually smelted copper from the Basin- their removal in 1838- opened the area for white settlement and copper mining speculators. With the formation of the new Occoee District, discovery of copper became official in 1843. This spurred a copper rush to the Basin bringing a booming commerce to Ducktown, TN and the joint towns of Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA. Capitalizing on this boom Luther Abernathy opened a second location of Abernathy and Center Mercantile Business in Copperhill, TN selling a variety of merchandise ranging from nails and other hardware to furniture and coffins. 131 years later, family owned Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings still serves the region. 14
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WORDS : RAY HIGGINBOTHAM PHOTOS: ABERNATHY’S COMPLETE HOME FURNISHINGS
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Modern-Day America can be described as a land that is always changing; a land that sees new innovations and ideas pop up on what seems to be a daily basis. Those innovations and ideas are part of what makes living in the United States so great. Indeed, there is always an opportunity to further oneself, so long as that person is willing to work hard to achieve what they desire. While it’s true that we live in an ever-changing nation, there is one constant that acts as the backbone of America, and that backbone is small business. Small businesses are the operating system behind free enterprise, and are described by some as the brains behind the modern-day innovations that we have come to love so much. They embody Americana, and are vital in keeping small and large communities alive. Abernathy’s Furniture, located a little over an hour outside of Atlanta, Georgia in the heart of 16
the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the embodiment of one such business. Their story starts in the late 1800s, when a man named George Abernathy began selling Singer sewing machines to farmers in Bear Paw, North Carolina. It quickly became evident to Mr. Abernathy that there was a need for a local commissary, and as such opened his establishment in Farner, Tennessee. After several successful years, George met a gentleman named Carl Center, and formed a business partnership that would see them open the Abernathy and Center Mercantile Business in Ducktown, Tennessee primarily. Though Abernathy and Center experienced success, in this location, it wasn’t until George died that his son Luther Abernathy followed in his footsteps with Mr. Center opening a secondary store in the more established town of Copperhill, Tennessee. During Luther’s time in Copperhill, he created two business
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Previous Page Top: Taken during the 1950’s or 1960’s at the Highway 5 location. Previous Page Bottom: Abernathy and Center Merchantile in Ducktown, TN during the early 1900s. Above: Elizabeth, Carl Edd and Charles Abernathy with two of their employees at the Blue Ridge, GA location in 1949. Above Right: Copperhill, TN location in the early 1920s.
slogans: “Coffins, Caskets, and Dynamite,” and “You Marry the Girl, We’ll Furnish the Home”. The second slogan, “You Marry the Girl, We’ll Furnish the Home,” is the most well-known to our community and still stands today as the slogan for Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings. JUNE/JULY 2021
Hard times fell on the Copperhill facility in 1925, as the great depression was in full swing and the facility was damaged by an arsonist. Ever the entrepreneur, Luther pushed through the difficulty and relocated his business to Abernathy’s current location in Blue Ridge. After relocating, Luther decided to focus his attention on selling only furniture and hardware. After his passing in 1949, Luther’s wife Elizabeth began running day-to-day operations. Elizabeth’s time overseeing the store was fraught with similar hardships that Luther had to endure, having to remodel the store after it was partially torn down in the 1950s. To make matters worse, Abernathy’s was the victim of another attempted arson attack in 1973. Thankfully, the local community came together to show support, and helped save a portion of the business by putting out the fire. JUNE/JULY 2021
Retiring years later, Elizabeth left her son, Carl Edd Abernathy, in charge as the sole proprietor. Carl Edd played a crucial role in the early expansion of the business however in 1984 he sold out to a local entrepreneur named Wayne Queen and his wife Diane. It was under Mr. Queen’s management that Abernathy’s Furniture has added an additional 14,000 sq. ft. of showroom, a 2400 sq. ft. office building and over 16,000 sq. ft. of warehouse facilities. In 2006, Wayne retired putting the business in the hands of his children, who continue to manage the store to this day under the same name which has stood in the community for over 12 decades. Over the last 131 years, Abernathy’s has become one of the most recognizable businesses in North Georgia, having experienced increased success with each decade that has passed.
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The story of Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings epitomizes the American Dream, and stands as a testament to hard work and the dedication its owners have to the community in which it resides. ACLM
Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings 3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706.492.3071 www.abernathysfurniture.com info@abernathysfurniture.com Monday through Saturday 9:00am – 5:30pm Closed Sunday WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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Where People, Lifestyle & Design Live Together Private residence Hole # 6. Builders: Kasteel Custom Homes
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Par-4, Hole # 4 – “The Dead Yank” OTF Members can enjoy kayaking on the Toccoa River or taking aim at sporting clays at our partner property, Noontootla Creek Farms.
With a Casual, Hip Vibe– Historic Downtown Blue Ridge Offers World Class Shopping, Dining, Craft Breweries and Art Galleries all in a Quaint Small Mountain Town Setting. Restaurants and Nightlife
Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill, The Black Sheep, The Dogwood, Harvest on Main, Cucina Rustica, Misty Mountain Hops, Mona Lisa’s Dessert House, Blue Jeans Pizza & Pasta, Masseria Kitchen & Bar, South of North Fusion Eatery, Poke’ Jon’s, The Pasta Market, Twisted Tomato, and the Old Toccoa Farm Tavern.
Benton MacKaye Trail
Blue Ridge is the official start of this 300-mile foot trail through the Appalachians.
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Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center
Recognized as one of the top five art towns in Georgia, the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center hosts 35-plus exhibits and events annually.
Breweries & Wineries
Fannin Brewing Company, Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Buck Bald Brewing, Copperhill Brewery, Cartecay Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry, Serenberry Vineyards & Winery, Ott Farms & Vineyard, and Bear Claw Vineyards
Boat Dock Bar & Grill
Float on up to Lake Blue Ridge Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill for some delicious lakefront drinks and eats.
Noontootla Creek Farms
In partnership with Old Toccoa Farm, this 1,000+ acre property offers guided trophy fly-fishing, quail and pheasant shoots, and a 12-stand sporting clay course.
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Par 4, Hole # 6 – “The Barn Hole” OTF Members embrace an active lifestyle with yoga on the Toccoa River, fantastic fly fishing and mountain hiking for all levels.
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If the pace of a small mountain community is what you are looking for, yet you don’t want to sacrifice the many modern conveniences that keep your busy life on track, then look no further than Old Toccoa Farm, just outside Blue Ridge, Georgia. Shadowed by the world’s oldest mountain range, and living naturally alongside 4,360 feet of the trout filled Toccoa River, Old Toccoa Farm brings people, lifestyle and design together in a setting that is, simply put…special. Decisions typically start with location. And it all starts with the charm of downtown Blue Ridge, a town that baby-boomers and gen-x’ers call the “college town for adults.” It has a great vibe, an always improving restaurant scene, micro-breweries, wineries, a thriving arts community, great local shopping, and an expansive National Forest that surrounds the town providing nature enthusiasts with the perfect backdrop for worldclass outdoor pursuits. For sure, the area checks the box for an active lifestyle and then the question remains, where do you live? The answer is, Old Toccoa Farm. Nature and southern hospitality stand center-stage as you drive up to the well-designed community Gate House where you are welcomed with true southern hospitality from the gate attendant. As you drive through the gates, the smell of smoke drifts in the mountain air from fire pits, reminding you that you are now in a special place. Your senses are alive as you make your way around the community, and you begin to notice a significant number of new homes are under construction. Each home is architecturally appropriate, with heavy use of large timbers, natural stone, board-batten, cedar shakes and accent metal roofing. These purposeful materials work together to create a true sense of belonging. JUNE/JULY 2021
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Each home is sized and placed to be “of the land, not on the land,” and you see what they mean by this as you drive around. Nothing seems out of scale. A healthy difference in each home’s architecture, but they all live together nicely. Your head turns towards couples walking their dogs, golfers driving from one hole to the next, and staff moving about, all of this tells you the community has a healthy pulse. And there is much to look forward to at Old Toccoa Farm this year. Real estate lot sales have been extremely brisk at Old Toccoa Farm as have new home construction starts. Twenty beautifully designed homes have been completed, another ten custom homes are now under construction and the design/builder program has another 30+ homes in the design pipeline which will become new construction starts throughout the rest of 2021. Almost all who are purchasing homesites in Old Toccoa Farm are working with our talented team of architects, designers and builders to get their homes started as soon as possible. The supply chain for construction materials has created some obvious challenges, but together with the team at Old Toccoa Farm, property owners are successfully navigating the challenges in front of them. “It’s a real team effort here and we are focused on making sure our property owners are not alone in the process,” says Knutzen. We are creating a community that appeals to an active lifestyle buyer, and a buyer that wants a well-designed home that doesn’t break the bank on “all-in” costs. We can’t control the material costs, but we can control construction quality and scheduling the best we can,” says Peter Knutzen, one of two Managing Partners and developer of Old Toccoa Farm. WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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Above: Front elevation rendering of The Farmhouse Tavern at Old Toccoa Farm. And here, the back patio rendering. The Farmhouse Tavern is scheduled to open Fall 2021.
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Hole # 13, Par-5, 626 yards Below: Arrive at Old Toccoa Farm’s welcoming Gate House and you know you’re home. And homes aren’t the only construction taking place at Old Toccoa Farm. The highly anticipated new Golf Shop and Community Tavern is now under construction. “We feel that we have come to a critical path in our development plan that requires this new amenity and we are thrilled for our members, our public playing guests and the greater Blue Ridge community, that this is now underway. By mid-fall of this year, we will be “full-on” socializing and the Tavern will be THE PLACE for our membership and visiting guests to gather,” says Knutzen. Knutzen also mentioned that an aggressive membership drive will soon be scheduled to coincide with this new phase of amenity construction. “If you are looking to become a member of Old Toccoa Farm, now, NOW is the time to apply for membership,” says Knutzen. Old Toccoa Farm now has a completed 18-holes of golf course that was ranked the #8 Best New Golf Course in the United States by Golf Digest in 2020. This semi-private golf course, designed by Bunker Hill Golf, whose designers, Jack Dredla, Dan Proctor and Dave Axland, have worked for the renowned firm of Coore & Crenshaw for the past 30 years, offers an exceptional golf experience. Among the course’s features are the incredibly beautiful 626-yard, par-five 13th hole, the 413-yard, par-four 6th hole overlooking a 100-year-old barn, and four amazing golf holes that play along Old Toccoa Farm’s 4,360 feet of Toccoa River frontage. For those looking to become a part of the local community, the volunteer options are robust and rewarding. In fact, the developer of Old Toccoa Farm, many of its employees, and members are intimately involved with local charities including Habitat for Humanity; The Open Arms Home for Children, a safe foster home for abused and neglected young girls ages 10-18; and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc., a veteranfocused organization providing therapy through fly-fishing and fly tying. With spectacular sporting opportunities, a bustling downtown and a giving community, Old Toccoa Farm is the perfect mountain retreat you’re looking for. ACLM
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Real Estate & Membership Sales Golf Tee Times 706.946.4653 Visit their website: oldtoccoafarm.com Photos by: Jerry Mucklow Photography, jerrymucklow.com Squareframe Media, squareframemedia.com
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CHERRY BERRY INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICAN I CAN’T TELL A LIE
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AC LIVING RECIPES
Fireflies, backyard barbeques, fireworks, sunburnt shoulders, freeze pops, sparklers, potato salad, small town parades, snow cones, firetrucks, all things red, white, and blue, family, paper plates full of food, flags, homemade pie, baseball, pool parties, cold beer, sun dresses, madras shorts, lemonade with stripped straws, polka dots, party boats on the lake, hot dogs on the grill, burnt marshmallows, red checkered table clothes, bonfires, star spangled lovers, sandals, watermelon, squirt guns, freshly mowed grass, and barefoot freedom. This is our America.
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The Porch Swing In the summertime, I recall The wooden porch and the swing; Back and forth the easy movement, Ah! finer than anything. An old porch, with the creaking boards Yet new paint on porch and swing, “The annual dressuppin” Mom insisted, every spring. When the hot summer sun moved in, Cooling on the porch was sweet And the swing like a refuge place Made the lazy days a treat. The singing of the creaky chains, Sort of like a soft lullaby, Made any summer night so nice, With a whistle, hum, or sigh. Old ones, young ones, and babies, too, All found the swinging sublime, From spring to autumn every year, But best in the summertime. The porch and the swing gave comfort When summer’s storm came brewing We watched as the lightning cracked Through the sky with rain pelting. In summertime, I do recall The wooden porch and the swing; Back and forth the easy movement, Ah! finer than anything.
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Old Glory Cherry Blueberry Pie
Top a juicy cherry and blueberry pie with a pastry crust cut into stars and stripes for a festive 4th of July dessert. Ingredients • 5 cups fresh sweet, dark cherries, rinsed and pitted, or frozen pitted cherries (see notes) • 3 tablespoons lemon juice • 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries, rinsed and drained, or frozen blueberries • 1 cup sugar • ¼ cup cornstarch • Your favorite berry pie crust pastry • 1 tablespoon instant tapioca • 2 teaspoons butter or margarine, cut into small pieces • Vanilla ice cream (optional) Instructions • In a large bowl, mix cherries with 2 tablespoons lemon juice. In a smaller bowl, mix blueberries with remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Combine sugar and cornstarch; gently stir 1 cup of the mixture into cherries and 1/4 cup into blueberries. Sprinkle about a quarter of the tapioca into the blueberries, the rest into the cherries, gently stir. The instant tapioca will tapioca will thicken things up well.
• Top filling with stars and stripes as directed for flag pastry. Set pie in a foil-lined 13- by 17-inch baking pan. • Bake on the bottom rack of a 400° regular or convection oven until fruit is bubbling in the center and pastry is well browned, about 1 hour. If pastry edges brown too quickly (check after 40 minutes), cover loosely with foil. • Let pie cool on a rack at least 3 hours; let stand at room temperature up to 8 hours. Cut into wedges and serve with ice cream, if desired. • Optional- dust with coarse sugar for the elegant frosted look.
Credit: www.myrecipes.com
Celebrate with a Watermelon and Feta Salad
Dress up your 4th of July spread with this easy Patriotic summer salad that resembles the flag. Nothing beats an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue.
Credit: www.tasteofhome.com
• Spoon cherry mixture over 3/4 of the pastry in pan, leaving 1 quadrant free. Spoon blueberry mixture into unfilled area. Scatter butter evenly over fruit.
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Sangria in Rosé, Bourbon, and Blue
This sangria contains bourbon which adds just that perfect little somethin’ somethin’ to make it stand out. Plus it magically gives the guys a free pass to enjoy this bevvy that might otherwise come off as too girlie. Ingredients • 2 c. fresh blueberries, divided • 1 c. pitted and halved fresh sweet dark cherries • 1 750 mL bottle fruity rosé • 2/3 c. freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 large oranges) • 1/2 c. bourbon • 2 T. Grand Marnier • 1 sprig fresh rosemary, about 5’’ long • 1 lemon, one half squeezed for its juice, the other half sliced thinly Instructions • In a small bowl with tall sides, combine sugar with 1/3 cup hot water. Using an immersion blender, blitz until sugar dissolves. (Or use a food processor or blender.) Add 1-1/2 cups of the blueberries and blitz again, until blueberries are completely broken up. Set a strainer over a bowl and strain the blueberry mixture, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids. • Pour blueberry liquid into a medium-large pitcher. Cut the remaining 1/2 cup blueberries in half and add to pitcher. Then add cherries, rosé, orange juice, bourbon, Grand Marnier, JUNE/JULY 2021
rosemary, lemon juice, and lemon slices. Stir and place in refrigerator until chilled, about 2 hours. • Fill glasses with ice and pour sangria over the ice. Garnish with additional cherries, blueberries, and lemon slices, if desired. Credit: Adapted greatly from original recipe in bon appétit, with changes from Molly McNeil incorporated.
Red, White & Blue Berry-Patch Brownie Pizza
The combination of fruit, almonds and chocolate is what makes this brownie so unique. The fruit lightens the chocolate a bit and makes it feel as though you are eating something sinfully healthy. Ingredients Brownie • 1 package fudge brownie mix (13x9” pan size) • 1/3 cup chopped unblanched almonds • 1 teaspoon almond extract Topping • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest • 2 cups whipped topping • Assorted fresh berries • Optional: Fresh mint leaves and coarse sugar
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Instructions • Preheat oven to 375°. Prepare brownie batter according to package directions for fudgelike brownies, adding almonds and almond extract. Spread into a greased 14-in. pizza pan. • Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 15-18 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. • Beat first 4 topping ingredients until smooth; fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust to within 1/2 in. of edges; refrigerate, loosely covered, 2 hours. • To serve, cut into 12 slices; top with berries of choice. If desired, top with mint and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Credit: www.tasteofhome.com
Holiday Tip: Try these easy DIY Country Style Table lLghts! Rice, food coloring, mason jars and votive candles, that’s it. This should keep the busy!
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Small Town
BIG BREWS How did a scuffed-up, mid-century gas station in a declining mining town in a poor, sparsely populated area of Tennessee become an enormously popular destination for locals and regional tourists?
WORDS: LORRIE BRYAN GAULDEN PHOTOS: ROSS STEDMAN | NORTH LIGHT PHOTO
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B
Brewing beer successfully can be attributed to good chemistry—proper ratios of water, hops, malt and yeast—and the right time and temperature. But creating a successful destination craft brewery is more like alchemy. Turning beer into gold can be an elusive and mysterious endeavor. So how did a scuffed-up, mid-century gas station in a declining mining town in a poor, sparsely populated area of Tennessee become an enormously popular destination for locals and regional tourists? Patrick Keenan, owner of Buck Bald Brewing, and his wife Sylvie Jobin-Keenan will attest that the success of this business is nothing short of magical. “I wanted to create a brewery that I would want to hang out in—one with great beer, an amazing atmosphere, and a cool family vibe. What has resulted from our efforts has far surpassed anything I could imagine. I never expected for BBB (Buck Bald Brewing or B3) to take off as quickly as it has. I had visions of me being behind the bar with 10 or 15 patrons 30
at a time on a good day to start then slowly building a following over time. We skipped by that in the first few weeks and have continued to build quickly ever since,” Patrick explains enthusiastically. Their success is primarily due to the great beer and fun atmosphere, but Patrick also attributes it to being in the right place at the right time. “Copperhill, Tennessee, is perfectly suited for our style of craft brewery. Not only do we have a great group of locals that visit often and share the good word about BBB, but we have so many reasons for people to visit the area. There is rafting, tubing, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, motorcycling and just about any outdoor activity you can imagine in very close proximity. We are perfectly located as an easy getaway for people from Atlanta, Chattanooga and Knoxville. People love the small-town feel, the friendly people, and the variety of local activities,” he adds. You will always find an interesting selection
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of great beer here. They feature 13 on tap, including popular favorites, season specialties, and new concoctions. Patrick describes their beers as creative classics. “We most often start with a well-known beer style. We try to make the best example of the style we can, and then look for ways to make it better.” While every good brewery has enthusiasts, armchair brewers and regulars critiquing their lineup, Patrick says that he is fortunate to have a team of expert collaborators who have actually brewed together since the beginning in 2018. “Mike, Cro, Tony and I push up our sleeves and brew every batch of beer that’s made at BBB, with Clay and Lee serving customers and creating amazing experiences from behind the bar since the first pour. I don’t think there are many businesses, breweries or otherwise, that can say that the same small group of friends have been there since day one.” Often, they pull beers from history, some that you would be hard-pressed to find in other breweries within 100 miles. “Our JUNE/JULY 2021
English Mild and our Lichtenhainer are perfect examples of this. We also take cues from beers we enjoy from other breweries and try to make them better.” You can also find an interesting selection of people here on most nice afternoons and evenings: an easy-to-spot, out-of-town bachelorette party enthusiastically lifting their pint glasses; exhilarated rafting guides and kayakers winding down and swapping boulderencounter stories after a busy day on the nearby rapids; happy kids chalking on the sidewalks and wagging-tail pups making friends and learning manners; thirsty, endorphin-loaded peddlers and paddlers, bikers and hikers coming in off the River Road; aficionados working on their best-brewery bucket list while pondering esters, hops and gravity; and a hub of lively locals/wannabe locals on the large patio planning their next rafting, tubing or kayaking foray on the Toccoa/Ocoee River, plotting the next potluck dinner (birthday party, baby JUNE/JULY 2021
shower or charity fundraiser), or mapping out an upcoming hiking excursion into the surrounding National Forest that usually ends right back here with a celebratory beer. In this place that once offered windshieldcleaning, tire-pressure-checking full service, “fill it up,” has taken on a whole new meaning. “Fill a pint, fill a growler or fill your mind,” is the tagline adorning the collectible glasses, banners and T-shirts sold here. They could also add “fill your heart.” Bottomland near rivers is known for its fertility. Likewise, friendships tend to flourish in this Copper Basin locale near the banks of the Ocoee. “Our locals, especially our Mug Club members, make everyone feel comfortable. I’ve never seen a place as friendly from top to bottom as BBB. There are a lot of craft breweries that make great beer, but I think it would be hard to top the combination of our delicious, locally brewed, craft beer and our friendly, welcoming atmosphere,” Patrick says smiling. ACLM
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Owners Sylvie, Patrick and Alexandra say, “Come on down to B3 for some great beer made with love, friendship and community!” Buck Bald Brewing 160 Ocoee St, Copperhill, TN 37317 buckbaldbrewing.com Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday Noon to 8pm Now open Tuesday 4pm to 8pm WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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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.
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4/9 – 6/26 2nd Quarter Artist-inResidence 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. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, Phone: 706-6322144. 6/26 Cartecay Vineyards Autism & Art Pop Up Ellijay, GA. Join us for some delicious wine and check out our Pop Up Art Gallery to support and empower people with Autism and local artists! Free! 1pm – 6pm. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536. Info: www.cartecayvineyards.com 5/28 – 7/17 Community Quilt & Fiber Arts Exhibit Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate our heritage with the ageold 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: 706-6322144.
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NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA
ARTS | DINING & DANCE | EVENTS & SHOWS | MUSIC | THEATER
7/3 thru 9/18 Artist in Residence 3rd Qtr – Dennis Heckes Blue Ridge, GA. Join us in welcoming glass artist Dennis Heckes as our 3rd Quarter Artist-in-Residence. Artist reception is July 3, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, Phone: 706-6322144.
EVENTS
7/24 – 8/28 BRMAA National Juried Photography Show Blue Ridge, GA.Open to all photographers, both amateur and professional, and all original photographic media, including film and digital images. Monetary prizes totaling $3,000 will be awarded including $750 for Best of Show. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see and purchase some of the best photography around in North Georgia. Opening reception is July 24, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www. blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144.
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.
7/24 – 8/28 “Off the Wall” 3D Exhibit The 11th Annual “Off the Wall” exhibit takes the works off the gallery walls and lets you see the beauty of the three-dimensional arts. Highlighting a variety of three-dimensional mediums, this exhibit is not one to miss! “Off the Wall” is open to three-dimensional artists of all genres and a People’s Choice award will be awarded at the end of the exhibition. Opening reception will be held July 24, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, Phone: 706-6322144.
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Ongoing Mondays Raft GUide Trivia 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
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 Wednesdays Team Trivia at Hoppy Trout Andrews, NC. Four rounds of trivia. Each round has a different category with 10 questions. Prizes are a $5 gift card for each of the first three rounds and a $20 gift card for the overall winning team at the end. 6:30pm. Free! Hoppy Trout Brewing Company 911 Main St. Andrews, NC 28901. Info: www.hoppytroutbrewing. com or 828-835-2111
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 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 familyfriendly, open-air night artist & artisan market featuring fresh produce, food trucks, games, and live music.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 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. JUNE/JULY 2021
6/26 & 7/31 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 843-8143774 (p) mhjfedex@aol.com 7/17 Paws for Celebration Taste of Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Annual event benefitting by Humane Society of Blue Ridge. Local restaurants and food trucks will provide food for purchase, the event will also include a silent auction, beer/ wine and live music. 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets on sale June 1st, advance purchase only. $50 HSBR Thrift Store 23800 First Street, Blue Ridge or online at www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org Willow Falls Resort, 340 Willow Creek Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: Phone: 404-435-1942 7/17 Movie Night at Deep Roots Orchard McCaysville, GA. Deliverance. A movie under the stars. Bring your blankets and pillows and coppasquat on the hillside above poplar holler as they screen some of their beloved movies. The movie is free and concessions will be sold so please, no outside food admitted. 8:30pm. Deep Roots Orchard, 2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, GA 30533. Email: info@ rootsorchard.com Phone: 706-492-7753 Web: https:// www.rootsorchard.com/ 7/23 Fresh Air Stories on the Square Hayesville, NC. Join us at the gazebo for an evening of storytelling, poetry and music. 6:30-8:30. Free! Downtown Square, Hayesville, NC. Info: www. cccra-nc.org JUNE/JULY 2021
6/26 Dining with Fireflies Ellijay, GA. Don’t miss this truly special dining and social event benefiting Friends of Harrison Park, Inc. Enjoy a unique farm to table experience. A four course meal, locally sourced and prepared by Emily’s Bar & Restaurant and A Little Baked Bakery will be served in the park on long farm tables. You will have the opportunity to hear all about the events and planned projects for Harrison Park. You will tour the Pinson Barn and learn about the rehabilitation efforts and plans for future use. Be prepared to participate in a silent auction with 20 unique items from gift baskets to exciting trips. Enjoy competing with your friends to win your favorite items. All proceeds will be used to help Harrison Park reach its potential. 6pm – 9pm. $100/ person. Event by Harrison Park Ellijay. Tickets and info: hpmemberships.afrogs. org or http://www.harrisonparkellijay.com/ 7/23 Fresh Air Stories on the Square Hayesville, NC. Join us at the gazebo for an evening of storytelling, poetry and music. 6:30-8:30. Free! Downtown Square, Hayesville, NC. Info: www. cccra-nc.org 7/24 & 7/25 Annual Home & Garden Show Young Harris, GA. North East Georgia & Western North Carolina’s Annual Home & Garden Show - See the newest in home improvement products and services - Furnishings, accessories, decorating and remodeling ideas - the latest from floor to roof, patio to pool - Inside and out. Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm5pm. Free! Towns County Recreation and Conference Center, 150 Foster Park Road, Young Harris, GA 30582. Info: http://www. expomanagementinc.com or 855-321-2110 or 828-3212111.
FARMERS MARKETS Saturdays Downtown Market Blue Ridge. Lots of wonderful vendors this year offering local honey, baked goods, produce, handmade arts and crafts, hand crafted furniture and much more! In front of the Fannin County Court House, weather permitting, from 8am to 1:00ish. 400 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Find us on FB. Saturdays & Wednesdays Jasper Farmers Market Saturdays 7:30- Noon. Wednesdays 11am – 2pm. Park & Ride Lot in Lee Newton Park, W. Church Street. For info: Call 706253-8840 or find them on FB: https://www.facebook. com/JasperFarmersMarket/ Saturdays Downtown Ellijay Market Homegrown, homemade or home baked delicious breads, muffins, jellies and pies. Plants, fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, artisan soaps, jellies, etched glassware, woodworking, embroidered linens, fresh grassfed beef and pork products, and much needed — the ubiquitous carpenter bee traps. Things change from week to week with the occasional musician to entertain market goers, activities for children including face painting, and artists. 8am – Noon. Broad Street, Downtown Ellijay, GA, 30536. Info: (706) 635-4426 https://gcmgvolunteers. wordpress.com/farmersmarket/
Saturdays & Tuesdays Union County Farmers Market Blairsville, GA. North Georgia’s largest and friendliest farmers market —more than 85 vendors selling fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, cheeses, honey, milk, jams & jellies, wines & sauces, breads, seafood, plants & flowers and handmade crafts. A different special event is held every Saturday, including live music. Sat. 9am – 1pm. Tues. 2pm – 5pm. 290 Farmers Market Way Blairsville, GA 30512. Info: http://www.unioncountyga.gov/farmers-market/ or (706) 439-6043. Saturdays North Georgia Farmers Market Blue Ridge, GA. Top notch local farmers & artisans offering farm fresh produce, fruits, food and handmade arts & crafts. 9am. Parking lot at Cohutta Country Store, Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA. Presented by the Appalachian Mountains Farmers Cooperative. Info: https://northgeorgiafarmersmarket.business.site/ or (706) 666-9030
FESTIVALS 6/3 - 6/5 47th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival 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. 6/11 – 6/13 Old Timey Country Fair McCaysville, GA. Our Old Timey County Fair will kickoff with a 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
Saturdays Towns County Farmers Market Hiawassee, GA. Fresh vegetables, fruit, nuts, honey, fresh herbs, local seasonal mushrooms, baked goods, jams, jellies, herbal soaps, lotions and natural cosmetics, native and hybrid bushes and plants. Across from GA Mountain Fairgrounds, 908 Hwy 76 west Hiawassee, GA.
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“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!
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July 15th & August 8th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM Audrina inherits her father’s Beachside Hotel, and learns her Uncle is running illegal activities. Chaos breaks loose as secrets are uncovered!
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August 26th - September 19th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM THE LITTLE MERMAID, THE GRUNCH, CLUE, SECRET GARDEN, JACK & THE BEANSTALK Sunny D Camp Performances Check our website for full play schedule!
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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.
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! GA Mountain Fairgrounds, 908 Hwy 76 west Hiawassee, GA. Contact us: 662- 587- 9572 or www.gammoonshinecruizin.com
6/26 - 6/27 Annual Made in Georgia Festival 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.
8/1 – 8/31 Wine Highway Month 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
7/17 & 7/18 22nd Annual Butternut Creek Art Festival Blairsville, GA. One of the finest, juried arts and crafts shows in the Southeast. The two day festival showcases the work of artists and craftsmen in categories from basketry, fine art, fabric art, and decorative painting, to glass, jewelry, metal working, photography, pottery, scrimshaw, and wood turning. Free admission and parking. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please remember that Union County rules do not allow pets in the park. Meeks Park, 490 Meeks Park Road, Blairsville, GA 30512.info. For more info: Email: butternutcreekfestival@gmail.com Phone: 706-781-1221 Website: www. butternutcreekfestival.com/ 7/29 & 7/30 Annual Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In 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
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FOURTH OF JULY 7/3 Lake Nottley Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade Hiawassee, GA. Trophies given to Smallest, Most Patriotic, Most Spirit, Crowd Favorite, & top 3 winners. Marina hosts annual parade and eDemand Inc. is our annual sponsor. We hope to see everyone show up and show out as usual! Make 2021 the best yet! Starts at Noon. Info: nottelymarinainc.com or 706745-3638 7/3 17th Annual Dahlonega Car Club 4th of July Car Show Dahlonega, GA. 10am – 2pm. Lumpkin County Complex on E. Main St (342 Hill Street). $20 entry fee. Info: www.dahlonegacarclub.com 7/3 Old Timers’ Parade Downtown Blue Ridge. This parade started in the 1950’s and it is a time for all of BLUE RIDGE to come together and celebrate the 4th of July as well as the way Blue Ridge, Georgia used to be. Bring your antique vehicles, dress in period attire OR not, it is up to you. 10am – Noon
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7/3 Firework Special ~ Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA. Train will depart Blue Ridge at 7:00 pm to enjoy the great Copper Basin Fireworks display just after dark and then return to Blue Ridge by 11:00pm. Bring your lawn chair and sit outside the train to view the fireworks! Activities in downtown McCaysville & Copperhill when you arrive. Lots of vendors for food and things to do for the kids until the fireworks start. 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: (877) 413-8724 or https://brscenic.com/ 7/3 Copper Basin Fireworks McCaysville / Copperhill. The skies over the twin cities of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN will be lit up on Friday night. Anywhere downtown is a great viewing area! Lots of vendors for food and things to do for the kids until the fireworks start. 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Fireworks at 9:30pm. 7/4 Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks Presented by the Lake Blue Ridge Civic Association. Places for viewing: Morganton Point Recreation Area,from a boat in Lake Blue Ridge near the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, The Lake Blue Ridge Marina or the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, as well as adjacent areas by the “tower in the lake.” Dusk or 9:30pm – 10:30pm. Info: 706-632-5680 7/4 Fireworks at Meeks Park Blairsville, GA. Watch the skies over Meeks Park light up with an explosion of color! Come out and enjoy this beautiful, hometown Independence Day celebration. Free admission. Free Parking. Meeks Park, 11 Pool Lane (1/2 mile west of Blairsville HWY 515W, Blairsville, GA. Info: www.visitblairsvillega.com or 706-745-5789 7/4 Vintage Vixens & Fireworks at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee, GA. The prettiest place to watch fireworks on the 4th is at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! Family friendly and JUNE/JULY 2021
AC LIVING CALENDAR plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy. Bring your American Pride and let’s celebrate America’s Birthday! FREE! 9:45 PM 11:00 PM EDT. Info: www. georgiamountainfairgrounds. com/ or 706-896-4191.
KIDS STUFF Mondays 6/7 thru 7/26 Summer Arts Camp, Gilmer Arts Ellijay, GA. Check out these art classes we have for the youngsters. We have gathered art teachers from the local school system and artists from the area to teach these classes this summer. Supplies are included. Scholarships available. If you bring a coupon from the school Facebook to the office you can receive an additional 10% off. Classes are $9 members and $10 for non-members. Buy all eight at once and get them for $75. Mondays 1pm – 3pm. Gilmer Arts – Hawthorne Hall, 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: gilmertarts. com or 706-635-5605 6/21 – 6/25 A Groovier Alice in Wonderland Summer Drama Camp Ellijay, GA. For one week your child will be surrounded by all the elements of drama in theater. They will learn back stage, on-stage, prop development, blocking, and learning lines. All this will be done using games, arts, crafts, and classroom style instruction. Kelly Dyer is coming back to direct this Drama Camp for Gilmer Arts. Enrollment will be capped at 60. Open to ages 6 and up. Lunch and afternoon snack provided. Performance for family will be on Friday evening, June 25th. Camp Daily 9am – 3pm. $90-$100, Scholarships available. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse 135 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: gilmertarts.com or 706-6355605
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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 706-7455493 or www.unioncountyhistory.org/ Fridays Guitars & Grapes Live Music Series Blairsville, GA. We are featuring some of the best local musicians to play in our Guitars & Grapes Live Music Series every Friday night on our patio from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. Bring a friend, grab a glass of wine, and enjoy a variety of music including Indie Folk, Country, Americana Folk, and more. Free! Paradise Hills Resort, Winery & Spa, 366 Paradise Rd., Blairsville, GA 30512. Info: www.paradisehillsvineyard.com or 706-745-7483. 3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own liba-
tions 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 706-635-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
and music gets underway at 7pm. Free! Sponsored by the Clay County Revitalization Community. Historic Clay County Courthouse/Beall Center, 25 Herbert St, Hayesville, NC 28904. Info: www.cccra-nc.org 7/17 Country River Band at Grandaddy Mimm’s Blairsville, GA. Tommy Townsend with Special Guests Country River Band is a 5 generation Classic/ Traditional Country Style Band. CRB’s influences include Merle Haggard, Waylon, Cash, Willie, Buck Owens, and so many others. 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Free! Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. 112 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, Georgia 30513. Info https://grandaddymimms.com or 706-7811829.
7/30 Friday Night Concert Series Caribbean Cowboys Hayesville, NC.Back by popular demand CARIBBEAN COWBOYS. 7pm -9pm. Historic Clay County Courthouse/Beal Cen, 25 Herbert St, Hayesville, NC 28904 Free! Downtown Square, Hayesville, NC. Info: www.cccra-nc.org 7/31 Dwight Yoakam - Guitars, Cadillacs, Hillbilly Music Hiawassee, GA. Dwight Yoakam has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, and he is a 21time nominated, multiple GRAMMY Award winner. He has 12 gold albums and 9 platinum or multi-platinum albums, with five of those albums topping Billboard’s Country Albums chart and another 14 landing in the Top 10. 7pm. $47 + Fees.
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. 7/16 Friday Night Concert Series Wyatt Esplain Hayesville, NC. Bring your favorite lawn chair, your sweetheart and family, and come out for our FREE summer concerts on the Historic Courthouse Square in downtown Hayesville! No registration or tickets required! Red Bucket Donations appreciated. Food and beverage service available at 6pm
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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. Ongoing Thursdays Riverwalk Run Club Join us for a fun run! Joggers and walkers are welcome as well! Every Thursday at 6 p.m. departing from the Burra Burra. 3.1 Miles, 2 States and 1 Steel Bridge. Beautiful run along the Toccoa River and through town. The fun doesn’t end there, you’re welcome to hang out with your new friends and have a drink on the deck of the Burra Burra overlooking the Toccoa River. Riverwalk, 100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA 30555. First Saturdays Yoga class at Harrison Park Ellijay, GA. 9 a.m. the first Saturday of each month. Suggested donation of $10.00. Proceeds benefit Harrison Park. Follow our FB page - Harrison Park Ellijay for more info. 6/12 – 6/13 Justin Elliott Memorial Tennis Tournament Ellijay, GA. Open to Adult 18+ Men and Women’s Doubles only. A bracket: 4.0+ / B bracket: 3.0-3.5 (NTRP rating) $35.00 Entry Fee includes T-shirt, goodie bag, lunch and breakfast. Hosted by Gilmer County Optimist Club to benefit the Youth of Gilmer Country. To Register: https://fidgrit.com/tournament/optimisttennist
JUNE/JULY 2021
7/3 Walk the Line 5K McCaysville, GA. America’s ONLY 5K that crosses two states! Covering 3.1 miles, the course crosses from Georgia into Tennessee and back into Georgia. Participants will also run alongside the famous Toccoa River and across the city’s iconic steel bridge. Food, drinks and music will be available before and after the race on the river deck of Riverwalk Shops. Parking is free and plentiful, located right across the finish line at McCaysville, GA City Park. 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Phone: (727) 571-2088 Website: https://www.riverwalkrunseries.com/
THEATER 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: 706-6355605 or GilmerArts.com 7/30 thru 8/8 Nunsense- A Musical Comedy Ellijay, GA. Friday & Saturday 7pm. Sunday 2-4pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Tickets: 706-635-5605 or GilmerArts.com
WINE & BEER TASTINGS Open Every Day Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-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 located in Downtown Ellijay, serving our wines, other GA Wines and GA Craft Beers. 19 South Main Street Ellijay, Georgia 30540. Phone: 706697-9463 or www.facebook. com/cartecaywineandcraft/ Ongoing Cartecay Wine & Craft Blue Ridge, GA. Cartecay Wine & Craft is a tasting room located in 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) 5021608 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! Weather permitting. Saturday Vinters Tours. Open Tuesday - Sunday. 16 Crane Creek Road | Young Harris, GA 30582. 706.379.1236 or visit cranecreekvineyards. com
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
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, Sunday - Noon 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. 770-331-8870/404-9662665, grumpyoldmenbrewing.com Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837BEER 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) 395-8935 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
SHOP SMALL! SHOP LOCAL! SHOP SMALL! SHOP LOCAL!
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AC LIVING HISTORY
History of Indian Georgia – Formidable Major Ridge History Editor Leslie Barker Thomas Digs Deep Into The Rich and Exciting Cultural Past with This Ongoing Series About Our Native Ancestors moccasins, his peers snickered. He watched carefully and learned how his peers functioned (or did not), and by the second meeting had found his voice. He put his words together to make the most complex of issues into simple terms all could understand. He told them how he had seen too many lives ended, how white men’s justice worked and how they picked a jury of peers to try the guilty. He felt it time to do away with the old blood law. As many shook their heads, he learned that he must visit each of his fellow council members and find ways to persuade them to put blood law to rest. Over the next 21 years, Ridge, still dressed in loin cloth and knee-high leggings, even in the chill of late fall, rode tall on his fine horse. He was an impressive red man compared to the pale skinned John Ross, who spoke not one word of Cherokee. Ross was small in stature and Ridge saw him as an oddity. Both Ridge and Ross had been enlisted to fight with Andrew Jackson against the British. Ross solicited the aid of a mixed blood by the name of John Spears to John Ross and Major Ridge tried diplomatic and legal strategies to maintain autonomy, but the new president, Andrew Jackson, help him understand both the white and red man’s had other plans. (National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian tongue. As Ridge spoke no Institution; Library of Congress) English, he was made a 1st Lieutenant even though he was the leader of a when they killed their brothers. It was a sense of pride that their Creator insisted there be a life for nation. Ross was made adjutant or staff officer at only 23. Others who knew both languages were a life. In old times if a young man killed another given higher commissions. By the end of their then he must die, while the wiser elders deterbattles with other tribes, under General Andrew mined that perhaps the young life be spared, an Jackson, Ridge was given the rank of Major and old man would take his place so he might live forever became known as Major Ridge. ACLM out his young life and learn the true meaning of mercy. Ridge had learned from the old stories Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and about the arrogance of the white men along the President of the Gilmer County Historical with the embarrassment caused to his people by Society; Former President, Georgia Chapter Trail lording over them as superior. If there was honor of Tears Association and Board Member of the amongst these intruders, then how did so many National Trail of Tears Association. of his people had die under the flag of truce? Ridge’s contemporaries only wanted the white “When history is erased, people’s moral values men gone. The conjurers saw destruction by the are also erased.” –Ma Jian hands of these people and would tell the leaders often they must flea from such dealings, but Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society most felt there must and should be a slaughter to restore their land. Ridge wanted nothing of it. By Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 1796 he had won the admiration of his people, 706. 276. 1861. Reservations by Appointment, or and was only 21 when he asked to join the tribal Open Thursday & Friday 11am to 3pm council and was accepted. Ridge attended his www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/ first meeting in worn animal skins and scuffed as being stealth as a deer, patient as a hawk, intent on learning the ways of his prey. His daring would earn him many names among his people, but the one that stuck was the Ridge. Some, like James Adair, called the Cherokees “a petticoat society” for allowing their women to rule over their tribe. Little did Adair understand the true nature of this society. It was incomprehensible to these Cherokee that Creator had given them the land to till, tend, and plant, and a piece of paper could take it all away. The white intruders consistently called the red man pagan savages without learning who they were amongst their own peoples. The Cherokee peoples had to restore the imbalance forced upon them by these intruders
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One Who Walks the Mountain Tops
Thomas L. McKenney (1785-1859) was the Superintendent of Indian Trade from 18161822 and then Indian Affairs from 1824-1830. He wrote two volumes on the Indian Tribes of North America with numerous biographical sketches of the Principal Chiefs. It’s from these works that author John Sedgwick wrote his book Blood Moon, about the Cherokee Nation. In this book, Sedgwick weaves for us a dramatic picture of one of the most famous and well-known Cherokee chiefs, Major Ridge. John Erhle’s book, Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation, and drawings by various artists, portray Ridge as a sensible, elderly man, with high standards for his people. We find ourselves skipping over the difficult history of Native America, deleting in our mind, passages that speak of unthinkable deeds unbefitting to our concept of the noble Indian. The Ridge (1771-1839) was one such person, whose given name was Kah-nung-da-tla-geh (among one of several spellings) meaning “One Who Walks the Mountain Tops.” In his younger days, as a member of the Deer Clan, he was a formidable warrior. Ridge stood 6’3” tall, with solid muscle, piercing brown eyes, and commanding voice. Though he spoke no English, his demeaner led him to become one of the Cherokees’ greatest leaders. McKenney describes him in romantic terms 38
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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE/JULY 2021
70th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair
22nd Annual
Butternut Creek Festival
Summer Line-Up
July 17 & 18, 2021
Sat 10am – 5pm & Sun 10am – 4pm INNE PA S T W
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Meeks Park Blairsville, GA Arts • Crafts • Music • Food & Live Craft Demonstrations FREE Admission & Parking!
Showcasing the Work of 80-85 Artists on the Shady Banks of Butternut Creek • Sorry No Pets
Concerts Camping Events Hiawassee | 706-896-4191
www.butternutcreekfestival.com
GeorgiaMountainFairgrounds.com
Presented by High Country Artisans, Inc. a 501(c)(3) organization
706.698.KNIT Tues, Wed & Fri 10-5 • Thurs 10-7 • Sat 10-4
www.stringsandstitches.com stringsandstitches@ellijay.com 449 Industrial Blvd. Suite 165 Spring Plaza • Ellijay, GA 30540 JUNE/JULY 2021
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by t eInGe .ly/Mad t t o yo u brough 966 or visit bit 6-896-4
Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced
MA
PLUS
Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles
m - 5pm
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OR E G N I DE
Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty
th & ne 27th m 6 2 e n u J Ju| Sunday 11am - 4p
L A V I T S GIA FE
The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!
APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING
mos les – de p m a s – vendors$5 admission,free under, kids 14 & unty towns ceonce center nfer rec & cooster park roadia 150 f arris, georg event young h be enforced at this s wil
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Hole #6 | Par 4
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.
oldtoccoafarm.com 706.946.4653
Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor as a solicitation of offers to buy property in Old Toccoa Farm by residents of any state where prior registration is required.
Photographic credit: Square Frame Media