Dear Property Owners,
Ballot packets for the Second General Election began arriving this week.
Your participation is essential to a successful election, and we encourage you to return your ballot as soon as possible using one of the three methods available to you, whether you are in Big Canoe, live out of town, or traveling during the voting period.
If you have not received your ballot packet by today, Friday, January 23—or if you will be away from your address on record with the POA—please send an Ask the POA today using the link below. We can email a ballot packet to you, or if you are in town, you may request one and stop by the Lodge to pick it up.
To help avoid postal delays, please consider the following return options:
Inside Big Canoe: Use the Mauldin & Jenkins dropbox located at the Big Canoe Postal Facility
Inside or Outside Big Canoe: Take a photo of your completed ballot and email it to bigcanoepoaballots@mjcpa.com
USPS Mail: If mailing, please do so as early as possible
All ballots must be received by our independent accounting firm, Mauldin & Jenkins, by end of day Tuesday, February 24, to be valid.
Election results will be announced at the POA Board of Directors public meeting on February 26 at 5:00 p.m. in the Overlook Room at the Clubhouse.
Thank you for your timely participation and continued engagement in Big Canoe's governance
Sincerely,
Mark Green Secretary, Board of Directors Big Canoe Property Owners Association
WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS CHECK LIST
CHIEFRICKYJORDAN
Gather supplies before the weather hits. Have a 72-hour supply of food and water stocked in your home, but a week’s supply is recommended Make sure to have your prescriptions filled as well as a good supply of overthe-counter meds and first-aid provisions.
Protect your pipes from freezing by allowing them to drip continuously until the weather warms up.
Backup power and heat are recommended. This could mean a backup generator or alternative heat source, such as a fireplace, that can be used if the power fails
If you have a wood fireplace, stock up on wood as soon as possible, and use fireplace safety best practices
If you use a space heater, be sure to keep it at least three feet away from furniture and drapes Electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements are the safest
In the event of a power outage, check the Amicalola Outage Map to determine if your area has been identified: https://outages.amicalolaemc.com/ (If your area is not included, please call Amicalola EMC at 706-253-0359 )
Have multiple flashlights ready, which you should also test If you use candlelight, watch the flame carefully to avoid a surprise fire.
Avoid traveling as much as possible, even when roads appear clear. Black ice, especially on our hills, is a nearly invisible and highly dangerous hazard
If you see Public Safety vehicles traveling with ease, it’s likely because we have installed heavy-duty tire chains or are in a track-equipped vehicle. Do not try to follow a Public Safety vehicle unless you are told to do so
Consider stocking up on foods that do not require cooking and be sure to have a manual can opener on hand
If you must travel, a good idea is to have a cell phone charger that you keep fully charged, boots for cold and wet weather, snacks, food, water, and blankets in your vehicle in case you become stranded When driving through Big Canoe, be aware that our rapid elevation changes mean that some areas in Big Canoe are colder than others While it may be raining at the North Gate, it could be snowing on Cox Mountain Drive
If you are stranded in our community, try to find a nearby home to stay in while you wait for help. Public Safety will attempt to access anyone stuck in a bad place, but they can’t guarantee a quick arrival if the conditions are an issue.
Please be patient! Big Canoe has a large fleet of road-clearing equipment to make roads passable as quickly as possible; however, due to our elevation and temperatures, if the roads are plowed and cleared too soon, an icy film will freeze, resulting in black ice.
WINTER STORM PREP
Freezing rain and significant ice accumulation are forecasted
Dangerous travel conditions
Extended power outages likely Tree limb and power line damage
Secure at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day
Non-perishable items for one week
Have enough prescription meds for one week
STAY OFF ICY ROADS
Top off fuel and fluids
Park at the flattest part of the driveway - no street parking
Cover exposed pipes
Drip indoor faucets
Disconnect outdoor hoses
Check levels/fill propane tanks
Ensure you have dry firewood if an option for additional heat
Charge phones/power banks
Have working flashlights and extra batteries
Check on neighbors by phone
Bring all pets indoors
FromthePickens CountyEmergency Management Agency
SIGNUPFOROUR NOTIFICATIONSYSTEM
“Withtheincomingwinterweather,weaskeveryonetobeaspreparedas possible.
ManyofyouarefamiliarwiththeCodeREDsystemusedinthepast. PickensCountyhastransitionedfromCodeREDtoanewemergency weatheralertsystem,Regroup.
Whileexistingdatawasimportedintothenewsystem,westrongly encourageeveryonetotakeamomenttosignupandcreateanew accounttomakesureyourcontactinformationiscurrentandaccurate. Thishelpsensureyoureceiveimportantweatheralertsasconditions change.
Signuphere!>>>Attention,everyone!Wehaveasignificant announcementtomake.Yourpresenceandfocusarehighlyvaluedaswe shareimportantinformationthataffectsusall.
Inaddition,pleasefollowthePickensCountyEMA Facebookpagecloselyforongoingupdates onincomingweatherandroadconditions aswemonitorchangingconditions.
Stayinginformedwillbeespeciallyimportant overthecomingdays.”
RESOURCES FOR POWER OUTAGES AEMC
Preparing for Power Outages
Electricity powers nearly everything in our lives, so it's understandably frustrating when the lights go out. With some preparation, you can minimize inconvenience during an outage
Get Prepared
Know Your Account Details: Make sure you have your account number handy and that AEMC has your current phone number on file. This will streamline reporting an outage.
Create a Checklist: Visit the Ready.gov website to customize a preparedness checklist tailored to your needs
Special Considerations
Life-Support Equipment: If you rely on lifesupport devices, make alternate arrangements for power or lodging in case of a prolonged outage.
Understanding the Risks: Severe weather events like ice storms and tornadoes can lead to extended outages. Protect your family and property by following these tips
Safety Tips
Food Preservation: Limit the opening of your freezer and refrigerator to keep food from spoiling. The contents will stay cold longer if the doors remain closed.
Avoid Indoor Cooking: Do not cook inside with charcoal, and be cautious with candles, fireplaces, and fuel lamps
Generator Safety: If using a portable generator, ensure it's isolated from our lines with a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch to prevent electrocution and damage to your appliances. Learn more about generator safety
STEPS TO RESTORE POWER POWER OUTAGE MAP
E L E C T I O N
SECOND GENERAL ELECTION
IMPORTANT DATES
FEB JAN 24 17
BALLOTS START TO ARRIVE
BOARD ELECTIONS
FEB 26
BALLOTS DUE BY 5PM TO MAULDIN & JENKINS
Please visit the Election Page to view each candidates’ profile.
If you have any questions please submit them to Ask the POA.
ELECTED CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED AT FEBRUARY BOARD MEETING AND VIA EMAIL ASK THE POA
ELECTIONS
LYNETTE HOWARD
ROGER HACKLER
BILL THURBER
BOB KELLEY
Cancelled Due To Weather
Sunday
Brunch
January 25, 2026
11:00am - 2:00pm
$28 adult | $12 children ages 5-12
In the Clubhouse surveys, you said you would like to see the return of Sunday Brunch. We are delighted to welcome you back on the last Sunday of every month. The Lunch and Bar menu are also available Reservations recommended
Click the button and choose Jan25 to make your reservation
Brunch Reservations
ASSORTED DANISH
SCRAMBLED EGGS
HASHBROWN POTATOES
APPLEWOOD SMOKED BACON
FRENCH TOAST STICKS – Maple syrup
TURKEY RICE SOUP
FRESH FRUIT DISPLAY - Honeydew, cantaloupe, pineapple and strawberries
SEARED SALMON ENGLISH MUFFIN – Seared salmon on toasted English muffin with hollandaise sauce
CHICKEN FLORENTINE – Grilled chicken, sauteed baby spinach, oven dried tomato, basil olive oil
Shareable Meals Menu
Youaskedtomakeouralreadypopulartakeoutdiningoptions moreconvenientbyenablingonlineorderingandtobecreative withvalue.Withyourfeedback,wearedelightedtoannounce onlineordering,andweinviteyoutotaketheClubhousedining experienceyouknowandlovewithyouanywhereyougo.
Servedwithfreshsaladwithyourchoiceofdressing,warmrolls andbutter,andahearty,satisfyingentreeperfectlysizedfortwo.
Tuesday, Jan. 27 -
Saturday, Jan. 31
EXPERIENCE AT THE CLUBHOUSE
Valentine’s Day
CHOOSE HOW YOU CELEBRATE!
Make Valentine’s Day unforgettable with three distinct experiences at the Clubhouse each designed to suit a different style of celebration, all on the same night In the Main Dining Room, enjoy our regular à la carte menu alongside special chefinspired features. Head to the Overlook and Black Bear Pub for the Sweetheart Dance, where you can dine from a delicious buffet and dance the night away For a more elevated and romantic evening, reserve your place in the Seasons Room for an indulgent four-course dining experience.
Feb. 14
ONE NIGHT. THREE WAYS TO CELEBRATE.
Choose the experience that fits your Valentine’s style and make it a night to remember in Big Canoe.
Dinner Date
Feb. 14
Enjoy a romantic evening in our main dining room and lounge with our regular à la carte menu and Valentine-inspired chef specials. Reserve your spot now through OpenTable on our website.
Chefs Specials
Lobster Newberg $38
Sauteed lobster in a creamy lobster sauce on butter egg noodles, topped with puff pastry hearts, and a side of broccoli.
Chargrilled Flat Iron Steak $40
8oz Black Angus flat iron steak, Dauphinoise potato, grilled asparagus, and portobello mushroom Napoleon, classic bearnaise sauce, and fresh chives.
Sweethearts Chocolate $15
Shareable plate with chocolate
mousse in a chocolate cup with ganache chocolate bourbon sauce, accompanied by chocolate-dipped strawberries
Click the button and choose Feb 14 to make your reservation
Sweetheart Dance - Feb. 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in the Overlook and Black Bear
Pub with an evening of dinner, music, and dancing in a lively, romantic atmosphere Enjoy a festive Valentine’s buffet, a cash bar, and music by DJ Fernando F to keep you on the dance floor all night long. The cash bar opens at 5 p.m., the buffet begins at 6 p.m., and DJ music plays from 6 to 10 p.m.
$75 PER PERSON | 88 SEATS AVAILABLE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
UPCOMING Clubhouse Events
02/05 02/14 02/17 02/22
Prime Rib Night | 5 p.m.
Reservations through OpenTable
Valentine’s Day Dining
Dining can be booked on Open Table
Valentine’s Sweetheart Dance
Fat Tuesday Dinner Buffet
Details & Reservations Coming Soon
Sunday Brunch Buffet
Reservations through OpenTable
For OpenTable reservations click the button and choose the date of the event to make your reservation
MONDAY
JANUARY at Wellness
6 : 4 5 B O O T C A M P
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Ready to start your new year ' s resolution, but hate to go it alone? The Wellness Center has you covered! Join Fitness Friends, a Wellness Center introductory event. Open registration for Fitness Friends at the Wellness Center the week of Feb. 1
Already a member? Become a sponsor. Bring your friend to sign up. Non-members will receive 5 free visits, including any complimentary classes currently available. Add years to your friendship with Fitness Friends! Join Wellness by the end of February and get a 2026 Fitness Friends shirt.
ComingFebruary4
Water Balance:
Fourspecialclasses offeredonWednesdays inFebruaryat4pm,ledbyNewBeginning TherapeuticServicestofocusonbalance, coordinationandstrength.
Wednesdaysat4PM
$12 per class
Junior Junior
CCAMPS AMPS
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Clickondate toregister
About Our Camp About Our Camp
Get ready for an action-packed morning on the courts of Big Canoe! Our Junior Tennis and Junior Pickleball Camp is perfect for kids ages 8–14, from beginners to intermediate players. Campers will build skills, learn the fundamentals of tennis or pickleball, and enjoy plenty of games and friendly competition—all while making new friends. Best of all, lunch is included, so the fun keeps going!
Ages8-14
July 14-17 Tennis Camps Pickleball Camps perstudent $300
June 9-12
June 9-12
July 14-17
2026 JANUARY atRacquet
MONDAY
9 : 0 0 B O C C E B O Y S : M E N ’ S O P E N P L A Y
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Upcoming Events
Beginner Bocce Clinic
FREE & OPEN TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS - CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
21 FEB 10AM
Bocce 8
Kick Off Meeting
REGISTRATION EXTENDED & START DATE PUSHED BACK - CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS & TO REGISTER.
Spring Bocce League 09 FEB 4-6PM
PLAY BEGINS
REGISTRATION OPEN NOW THROUGH 3/3. LEAGUE PLAY BEGINS 3/17 AND ENDS 4/23. PLAYOFFS & CHAMPIONSHIPS TO BE HELD ON 5/9. MATCHES WILL BE PLAYED ON TUES. & THURS. AT 5:00 PM. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
17 MAR
TUES.& THURS. AT5PM
GOLF CAMP GOLF CAMP Junior Junior
$325 $325
FOR KIDS AGES 5-15 YEARS OLD
Whether your camper is new to the game or looking to sharpen their skills, our Junior Golf Camp is the perfect place to grow their knowledge of the game, make new friends, and have a blast on the course. Golf Instruction by: Mike Miller, PGA
Joan Delk, LPGA
Roger Keller, PGA
Assistant Golf Professional Justin Luysterborg
Assistant Golf Professional Kathryn Densmore
Golf Guest Rounds & Receive a Major Discount
Cardsonsalenowat theGolfProShop!
This year, we are bringing back our popular Accompanied Guest punch card. While supplies last, this benefit is for golf amenity members and allows you to pre-pay for future accompanied guest rounds at a reduced rate.
Amenity members will be able to purchase up to 2 cards per golf amenity lot. Each card will be good for 10 accompanied guest rounds of golf.
Cards will cost $600 for 10 rounds. At $60 per round, you save 35% off the standard accompanied guest rate of $93, for a total savings of $330. Only 50 cards will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Terms and conditions apply, contact the Golf Pro Shop for more details (706) 268-3323
Live in The Overlook, our new community meeting space in the renewed Clubhouse.
Thursday, January 29 at 5:00 p.m.
Agenda
I. Opening Comments
II. Administrative Report
III. Financial Report
IV. Business
V. Close Q & A with the Board
FOLLOW OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR LIVE VIDEO STREAMING
Rent or Lease your property?
If you rent or lease your property in Big Canoe, submit your digital Residential Lease Registration form no later than Friday, Jan. 31. Lessees for any unregistered rental properties will not be permitted inside the gates, and lessors may receive a $1,000 fine.
NO SHREDDING AVAILABLE THIS MONTH
BULK TRASH DAY
JANUARY 31, 10AM-2PM
IN THE PARKING LOT BEHIND TRASH.
$20 per car | SUV | truck | $40 per trailer | $60 for truck & trailer Cannot drop off: wet paint, hazardous chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, or tires.
ELECTRONIC & MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RECYCLING
Electronics
Smooth Stone Ministries refurbishes computers/laptops for those in need. Please clear your data off the units.
Flat Screen Monitors
Up to 32″ – $3.00 • Larger than 32″ – $5.00
We do not take CRT TVs. Pickens County hosts a drop-off day. There is a fee for flat screen monitors which you will pay to the volunteer helping that day. It cannot go on the lot charge. Cash only.
Medical Equipment Recycling
Big Canoe Rotary & FODAC collect walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, crutches, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, and more for those in need. Questions? Contact Colleen Coulter at luvbugmom52@gmail.com
No thrift store on-site for bulk trash day.
UPCOMING EVENTS
CLUBS & ORGINIZATIONS CLUBS & ORGINIZATIONS
Women’s Fellowship
Women’s Fellowship Books & More
Women’s Fellowship is collecting book donations for Books & More: Ye Old Book Nook. Donation bins are located at both ends of the Postal Center and outside the Chapel office for easy drop-off
Travel Club
Join us for the first Travel Club meeting of the year, sponsored by Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Jodi Murphy from RSSC will update us on what's new at their cruise line. Mike will also advise as to what's happening this year and next with trips the Travel Club will sponsor.
6pm | Clubhouse Overlook
Women’s Fellowship Women's Fellowship Winter Bible Study
Women's Fellowship invites all women to take part in our 2026 Winter Bible Study, meeting each Wednesday from February 4 through March 18, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Copyright © 2025 Big Canoe Property Owners Association. All rights reserved. This publication is the property of the Big Canoe Property Owners Association (Big Canoe POA). All content—including articles, photographs, graphics, layout, and design—is protected under U.S. and international copyright laws.
No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, distributed, modified, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise—without the express prior written consent of the Big Canoe POA.
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