Welcome new year 2015 e edition

Welcome January – March 2015

To Fannin County, Georgia and Polk County, Tennessee

A Publication of The News Observer

e e Fr

2 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Content 4 8 12 14

Kiwanis bingo family-friendly Fannin chamber names new leadership Brighton Beach Memoirs launches theater season Art Center hosts Cork & Canvas fundraiser

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3 Monkeys Antique Mall – Auction House Abernathy’s Furniture ACE Hardware of Blue Ridge ACE Hardware of Ellijay Blue Ridge Adventure Wear Blue Ridge Brewery Blue Ridge Community Theater Blue Ridge Dermatology Skin & Laser Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast Blue Ridge Kitchen Specialties Blue Ridge Law Cast & Blast Inn (Oyster Fine Bamboo) Christy Lee’s Courtyard Grille Country Corners Realty Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals Daisy Mae’s Delights Design Re-Find El Rio Mexican Restaurant Elite Response Disaster Mitigation Fishbone Studio Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop Jackie E. Seabolt, CPA, PC Joe’s BBQ Kaylor Properties L&L Beanery Mason Tractor Co. Mercier Orchards Monte Alban Mexican Restaurant Mountain Area Recommended Contractors

14 5 19 13 23 9 26 3 21 10 4 11 9 15 15 11 10 27 25 10 16 8 9 21 9 12 14 9 24

18 16 20 24

School, community events featured Fire & Ice returns to Blue Ridge Volunteer opportunities abound School history book now available

Mountain Country Realty Homes & Land 7 Mountain Valley Motors 16 10 Multitudes Gallery 27 Nature’s Collectables North Georgia Spas 18 11 Owl’s Nest 11 Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods Posh 10 Rachel Callihan Cowart, Harry Norman Realtors 28 23 Randall C. Brown & Associates Staining & Painting and Log Repair 24 Taste of Amish 17 10 The Coop Around Us The News Observer 27 The Vine Wine Bar & Bistro 9 Trimble Kelly Studios 10 Trinity Custom Homes 22 21 Tru Mountain Realty Zipline Canopy Tours 18

Welcome January – March 2015

A Publication of The News Observer

Cover

ON THE

To Fannin County, Georgia and Polk County, Tennessee

e

Fre

This is Long Creek Falls which is an easy one mile hike off Forest Service Road 58 in Fannin County. To get to FS 58, take Aska Road to the end at Newport Road. Turn right on Newport Road to its end at Double Head Gap Road. Turn left and travel one mile to FS 58 on the right.

Once on FS 58, go five miles to a parking area where the one mile hike to the falls begins.

Welcome is published by The News Observer

P.O. Box 989 • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • 706-632-2019 • ads@thenewsobserver.com • www.thenewsobserver.com •

/My News Observer

Publisher: Glenn Harbison; Editor: Brian K. Finnicum; Staff Writers: Chris Brown, Dub Joiner; Advertising Sales: Cheryl Norton, Connie Dees; Office Manager: Patti Bailey; Assistant Office Manager: Mary White; Composition Manager: Lori Waters; Office Staff: Brianne Collar; Composition Staff: Nathan Beaver; Assistant Circulation Manager: Kyle King.

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4 � Welcome

BINGO!

January – March 2015

Sponsors and players alike agree that the weekly jackpots make the trip to Blue Ridge worthwhile.

Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge member Vernon Smith counts out the winning prize money to Stacy Wright who won the big Super Bingo jackpot of $1,000 on New Year’s night. Bingo is played every Thursday night at the Kiwanis Club Fairgrounds, just off Jones Street in Blue Ridge.

A

nyone who enjoys a good game of bingo has an opportunity each Thursday night, and the jackpots are worth the trip to the Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club fairgrounds.

On any given Thursday night, bingo caller Ken Williams and his fellow KiBy Dub Joiner The News wanis Club members Observer will have from 100 to 200 people participating in the games with prizes of up to $800 per night.

The Kiwanis Club uses the proceeds from the bingo games for a variety of projects, including scholarships for high school students, food boxes at Christmas and donations to the Christian Learning Center, the Crisis Center, the Family Connection Food Pantry and other community help opportunities.

On Thursday night, Jan. 1, more than 200 people packed the club’s tables at the fairgrounds for an opportunity to win the Super Bingo prize of $1,000. When Williams finished calling the numbers, Stacy

Wright had the winning card and claimed the cash.

“We play seven games each night, six of which are $100 winning games,” Kiwanis member Tammy Stafford said.

“The seventh game each night is the big jackpot game.”

She said there are usually good crowds each Thursday night, but there is room for more people to play in the smoke-free, family-friendly environment. continued on page 6➣

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6 � Welcome

January – March 2015

➣Continued from page 4 “Children can also play with a paying adult,” Stafford said.

This year Super Bingo will be held the first Thursday of the month with a top prize of $800.

Every other Thursday night the big jackpot is $600.

The Kiwanis Club fairgrounds is located at 124 Jones Street in Blue Ridge.

For information about the bingo games or the fairgrounds, call 706-455-0998.

Bingo regularly attracts crowds of up to 200 people every Thursday night.

Kiwanian Ken Williams is the regular bingo night caller.

Hazel Walker has been playing Kiwanis bingo for 20 years. She keeps her seat reserved for the weekly games in Blue Ridge.

Bingo players start Thursday nights by purchasing their cards, blotters and any other supplies they feel will make them winners. Here, a customer gets ready for the games to start by purchasing supplies from Kiwanian Norman Kaye.

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8 � Welcome

New leadership takes helm at Fannin Chamber of Commerce

L

isa Hood, billing services manager with TriState EMC, will serve as chairman of the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

By Dub Joiner for 2015.

The News Observer S h e served as vice chairman during 2014.

Hood has been affiliated with the chamber for more than five years, serving in various capacities including chairman of the Ambassadors, Membership and Services committee, and as secretary of the chamber board.

“I look forward to continuing the

great work that the chamber has done in helping its members and promoting economic development and tourism in Fannin County,” she said.

Hood and her husband Shawn are co-owners of BrotherHood Oil in Blue Ridge.

Serving with Hood as chamber board officers are: Vice Chairman and Chairman-elect Cynthia Panter, Secretary Manda Gwatney, Treasurer Rene Bidez, and Past Chairman Kevin Panter.

Other members of the 2015 chamber board include Joe Foster, Glenn Harbison, Susan Kiker, Steven Miracle, Greg Norton, Kim Knu-

January – March 2015

tzen, Frankie Rigdon, Anita Weaver, Richard York, Angela DeLorme, C.J. Green, Nikki Gribble, Tommy Vannoy and Tabetha Whitaker.

During 2014 more than 120 new members, including businesses, organizations and individuals, joined the chamber. At the Lisa Hood is the new chairman of the Fanend of the year, the nin County Chamber of Commerce Board chamber member- of Directors. ship reached more than 750. tor’s center in the Red Caboose More than 16,000 visitors next to the Blue Ridge Depot. stopped by the main Welcome The chamber’s website also Center at the chamber office on received more than 550,000 Orvin Lance Drive and the visi- visits during 2014.

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12 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Theater season opens with “Brighton Beach Memoirs”

T

he 2015 main stage schedule of live theater productions at the Blue Ridge Community Theater opens with Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs” Feb. 12 through March 1.

The dramatic comedy is Neil Simon’s autobiographical play of a young teen in 1937 living with his family in

By Dub Joiner The News a crowded, lowObserver er middle-class Brooklyn walk-up.

Dreaming of baseball and girls, Eugene must cope with the mundane existence of his family life in Brooklyn that includes his formidable mother, overworked father, and his worldly older brother Stanley.

Throw into the mix his widowed Aunt Blanche, her two young (but rapidly aging) daughters and Grandpa the socialist, and it makes a recipe for hilarity, served up Simon-style.

This bittersweet memoir evocatively

captures the life of a struggling Jewish household in the late 1930s.

The cast includes Nick Sherman as “Eugene,” Mike Lacey as “Jack,” Delila Davenport as “Kate,” Toni Creed as “Blanche,” Joey Nicolella as “Stan,” Ariana Reel as “Laurie” and Abigail Knight as “Nora.”

Sonia Smith will direct the production, with show times Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.

The remainder of the 2015 theater season includes: • “The Moving of Lilla Barton,” April 9-26; • “Breakfast with Les & Bess,” May 14-31; • Radio TBS, July 9-26; • “A Night in the Theatre,” Aug. 20Sept 6; • “Steel Magnolias,” Oct. 1-18; and • “Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” Nov. 27- Dec 13.

For tickets and other information call the theater box office at 706-632-9223.

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14 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Cork & Canvas comes to Art Center Feb. 21

T

he Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association will sponsor its second annual Cork & Canvas fundraiser Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Art Center, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Art Center Marketing Consultant Jennifer Danner said there will be wine tasting from various local vintners, live music, raffle

By Dub Joiner prizes, The News a silent Observer auction, and hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar available at the event.

Ticket are $25 for Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association members, and $30 for nonmembers. Tickets includes an engraved wine glass, one glass of wine, and a raffle ticket.

Danner said all proceeds benefit and support the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Associ-

The second annual Cork & Canvas fundraiser will be held at the Art Center to benefit the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association. The center is located at 420 West Main Street in downtown Blue Ridge.

ation youth program and youth summer art camp.

Tickets are available at the Art Center, 420 West Main

Street in Blue Ridge, or call 706-632-2144.

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January – March 2015

Welcome �

Cappelli’s work on display at Art Center

T

he Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association will showcase the work of Artist in Residence Robyn Cappelli during the first quarter of the new year, Jan. 17 through March 14. Opening reception is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 17, from 5

By Dub Joiner The News to 7 p.m.

Observer at the Art Center.

Also, the art of Lynn Mayes continues on display in the Richard Low Evans gallery at the Art Center through Feb. 21.

The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association will have its annual membership meeting

Saturday, Jan. 24, at 4 p.m., at the Art Center.

Other events include the annual “Cork & Canvas” fundraiser Feb. 21. The event begins at 7 p.m. and includes wine tasting, live music and a silent auction. Tickets are $25 for arts association members and $30 per person for nonmembers.

Also, the opening reception for Youth Art Month will be March 3, from 4 to 6 p.m., in the Richard Low Evans gallery.

Youth art will be on display through March 28.

For information about these events or classes at the Art Center, call 706-632-2144.

15

Robyn Cappelli is the Artist in Residence at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association from January through March.

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The colder temperatures are always a good excuse to stay cozy and warm inside cuddling with the one you love but keep in mind many local wineries are still open and will offer tours through the winter season too! Treat yourself to the peace and quiet you crave, and come Cuddle Up in one of our beautiful mountain homes.

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16 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off returns to Blue Ridge

T

he Blue Ridge Business Association’s fifth annual Jim Thompson Memorial Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off will take place Saturday, Feb. 14, from noon to 4 p.m., in downtown Blue Ridge.

Business association spokesperson Lynda Thompson said the event brings award winning chili cooks, ice sculptors and live music to Blue Ridge for a winter fun event each February.

T h e

By Dub Joiner location The News for the Observer event has changed to the area on Church Street between East and West Main streets, Thompson said “because we outgrew the old Roberts Way location.”

Chili cooks can enter the contest as a restaurant, Continued on page 17➣

Carver Titus Aaronberg of Columbus, Ohio, creates an ice sculpture at the 2014 Fire & Ice event.

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January – March 2015

➣Continued from page 16 individual or youth for the best chili for a $35 fee.

Admission to the event is free, but $10 tickets will be

Welcome �

available to participate in the chili tasting that will determine the People’s Choice award from among all the chili cookers.

Thompson said in addition

Ice sculptures like these leaping trout from 2014 are commissioned by downtown businesses for Fire & Ice.

to chili, visitors can watch the amazing ice carvers chip, shave and saw giant blocks of ice into such things as trains, trout, bears and birds.

She said an Ice King and

Queen will also be crowned during the event.

For additional information about the event or to enter the chili cooking contest, call Thompson at 706-889-7415.

Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby introduced President and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln during the 2014 Fire & Ice event. The characters were played by members of the Blue Ridge Community Theater. This year, Fire & Ice will take place Saturday, Feb. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. in downtown city park.

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17

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18 � Welcome

January – March 2015

PAC site of upcoming concerts, pageants

T

he Fannin County High School Performing Arts Center will host a number of events during February and March of interest to students and others.

The events include: •Feb. 12-14 – Georgia Music Educators Association district honor bands with a combined concert

By Dub Joiner Saturday, Feb. 14, at The News 2 p.m.; Observer •Feb. 21 – “Fannin’s Got Talent,” 7 p.m.; •Feb. 22 – High School and Middle School band concert, 3 p.m.; •Feb. 28 – “Laughter & Latte, 7 p.m.: •March 6 – Miss FCMS Pageant, 6 p.m.; •March 16 – National Honor Society induction ceremony, 7 p.m.; •March 21 – Miss FCHS Pageant, 7 p.m.; •March 23 – National Technical Honor Society induction ceremony, 6:30 p.m.; For information about any of these The Performing Arts Center, commonly known as the “PAC,” on the Fannin County events, call the high school at 706-632- High School Campus, will be the site of several upcoming events, starting with the Georgia Music Educators Association district honor band concert Feb. 14.

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January – March 2015

Welcome �

19

Railroad open house, cruise-in among upcoming events

T

here are a number of events listed on the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce’s calendar for February and March that should be of interest to visitors as well as local residents.

The events include: February Events •Feb. 14 – the annual Fire & Ice in downtown Blue Ridge that includes lots of chili and ice sculptures; •Feb. 21 – the Tri-State

By Dub Joiner Model Railroaders Open The News House at the historic Mineral Observer Bluff Depot; •Feb. 21 – Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge fundraiser for Snack in a Backpack at Fightingtown Tavern in downtown Blue Ridge.

March Events •March 21 – Bowls of Hope fundraiser for Feed Fannin at Willow Creek Falls in Blue Ridge; •March 21 – Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad trips begin from the depot in downtown Blue Ridge; •March 27 – Classic Cars Cruise-In at the parking lot of the Dairy Queen in Blue Ridge.

Car enthusiasts regularly flock to the Classic Cars Cruise-In, a regular monthly event at the Dairy Queen in Blue Ridge.

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20 � Welcome

VOLUNTEER

January – March 2015

Various organizations offer an abundance of opportunities for those wishing to help the community.

Volunteers are vital to many Fannin County organizations. Those interested in helping can rest assured they will be given a job. Here, volunteers prepare to serve the annual Thanksgiving community meal sponsored by the Good Samaritans of Fannin County.

T

here are numerous opportunities for anyone who would like to volunteer to help a community organization in Fannin County as the New Year begins.

Here are some of those opportunities, along with contact phone numbers.

•The North Georgia Crisis Network

By Dub Joiner needs help running The News two thrift stores. The Observer numbers to call are 706-632-6619 or 706-492-7219.

•The Fannin County Veterans Organizations need volunteer drivers for their transportation network that transports vet-

erans to VA medical facilities. The number to call is 706-851-5204.

•The Humane Society of Blue Ridge needs temporary pet care for cats and dogs.

Pet food, supplies and veterinary care is provided for volunteer homes. Call 706632-4357 to volunteer.

• Feed Fannin is looking for volunteers to help on any of its committees in providing food for those in need. To help or join Feed Fannin call 706-374-4372.

•The Blue Ridge Community Theater needs volunteers to help with a variety of opportunities at the theater. To volunteer, call 706-632-9223.

•The American Red Cross in Fannin County needs volunteers for the Disaster Action Team. All training is provided. To volunteer call 706-632-9331.

•Georgia Mountains Hospice needs volunteers to help with a variety of opportunities involving patient care, administrative duties and fund raising. Call 800-692-7199 to reach the Fannin County representative.

•Open Arms of Blue Ridge needs volunteers to help provide care for abused and neglected girls. To volunteer call 706-851-4222.

Continued on page 21➣

January – March 2015

Welcome �

➣Continued from page 20 •The Good Samaritans of Fannin County need volunteers to help with a variety of opportunities throughout the year. To volunteer call 706-374-5949 or 706-455-3818.

•Snack in a Backpack needs volunteers to help pack food bags for children each week. To volunteer call 706-633-8616.

•Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver meals to homebound seniors in Fannin county. To volunteer call 706632-5438.

•Habitat for Humanity of Fannin County needs volunteers to help in the organization’s ReStore. To volunteer, call 706-632-6337.

•The annual Blue Ridge Relay for Life needs volunteers to help organize teams and provide other assistance for the Continued on page 22➣

21

LLC Est.1890

Unique 1890’s Victorian Inn All rooms have Private Bath, Cable TV & WIFI Open Year Round • Full Country Breakfast

In The Heart of Downtown Blue Ridge 477 West First Street Blue Ridge, GA 706.632.0222 Girls Scouts are one of the many area organizations that rely on volunteers to reach out to the area’s young people.

Sadie Ingle obviously enjoys her time in the Girl Scouts.

www.BlueRidgeInnBandB.com info@blueridgeinnbandb.com

Tru Mountain Realty Construction & Home Improvement

Taking care of all your real estate needs

Kaylor Properties

DANIEL KAYLOR | REALTOR | CONTRACTOR  706.455.7100 | 706.632.0367

beautiful views at every corner custom designs with charm

dramatic beauty awaits you unlimited adventures

771 East Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, Georgia  www.DanielKaylor.com

22 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Other volunteer opportunities can be found at each Fannin County school for parents to assist teachers in a variety of ways. To volunteer, contact the school where your child attends for information.

The phone numbers are: Blue Ridge Elementary 706-

➣Continued from page 21 relay in late April. To volunteer call 706-632-5800.

•Volunteers are needed to form teams and help with the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s in early October. To volunteer call Freda Stephenson at 1-800-272-3900.

632-5772; East Fannin Elementary 706-374-6418; West Fannin Elementary 706-4923644; Fannin Middle School 706-632-6100; Fannin High School 706-632-2081; and Mountain Area Christian Academy 706-374-6222.

Fannin County also has more

than a dozen fire stations maintained by volunteer firefighters.

To join a volunteer fire department call 706-632-4711.

The Friends of the Fannin County Library needs volunteers to help support library activities. To volunteer call the library at 706-632-5263.

Qualit Quality Homes Built Qualit on Your Land!!! oo Homes for Every Budget

Fromfrom $67,000 to Presbyte$425,000 Church groups are regular participants in the many events that raise money for worthy causes. This group Faith The Prices are Unbelievable and rian Church took part in the 2014 Relay for Life.

So Is the Quality!

Quality Homes Built Quality Homes Built Quality Homes Built Quality Homes Built on Your Land!!! on Your Land!!! on on Your Land!!!

Your Land!!!

Homes for Every Budget – From $72,900 to $440,000

129,500 2½ Baths et Under Roof

OUSE $137,300 2½ Baths et Under Roof

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Homes for Every Budget The Homes Prices are and so is the Quality!

Homes forUnbelievable Every Budget for Every Budget From $67,000 to $425,000THE From $67,000 to $425,000THE $129,500 $193,500 From $67,000 toany $425,000 MAGNOLIA $152,100 ELLIJAY CHALET II MAGNOLIA $152,100 ELLIJAYII $162,100 CHALET II $129,500 $129,500 THE CHATTAHOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500 $193,500 CHALET II $162,100 $129,500 THE CHATTAHOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500 Modify plan to meet YOUR needs! 3333CHALET The Prices are Unbelievable and Prices Unbelievable Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 3 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bedrooms, 3 ½ Baths 3Bedrooms, Bedrooms,2 2 Baths Baths Prices are are Unbelievable and andTHE CHATTAHOOCHEE ½The Baths 3 Bedrooms, Bedrooms,The 2½ ½ Baths 33 Bedrooms, 2½ Bedrooms, 2½ 3 Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 2 2½ ½ Baths Baths ½Baths Baths Bedrooms, 22 ½ Baths CHALET II $129,500 $193,500 2,592 Square Feet Under Roof 2,706 1,924 1,924 Square Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 2,592 2,706 Square Square Feet Feet Under Under Roof Roof So Is the Quality! 2,706 2,706 Square Feet2½ Under So IsFeet the Quality!

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THE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500

MAGNOLIA $152,100 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2½$193,500 THECHATTAHOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE THE $207,900 Square2Feet Under Roof Bedrooms, 2½Baths Baths 332,706 Bedrooms,

CHALET II $129,500

ELLIJAY II$162,100 $129,500 3CHALET Bedrooms, 2½ Baths CHALET II $139,100 1,924 Square Feet Under Roof

PARKVIEW $146,200 3 3 Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 2 2 Baths Baths

PARKVIEW $146,200 MAGNOLIA $152,100

3MAGNOLIA Bedrooms, 2 Baths $152,100 MAGNOLIA $163,300 2,495 Square Under 2,495 Feet Roof 2,592 Square FeetFeet Under RoofRoof 3Square Bedrooms, 2Under Baths

CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $137,300 $137,300 ELLIJAY $162,100 4 ELLIJAY Bedrooms, 2 4 Bedrooms, 2½ ½ Baths Baths $162,100 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths ELLIJAY $174,200 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under 3 Bedrooms, 2Roof ½ Baths

PARKVIEW COLUMBUS $146,600 COLUMBUS$146,200 $146,600 PARKVIEW $146,200 33 Bedrooms, 22 Baths Bedrooms, Baths 3Bedrooms, Bedrooms,2 2Baths Baths 3

PARKVIEW $146,200 PARKVIEW $157,300 2,376 Square Feet Under Roof 2,495 Square Feet Under Roof 2,376 Square Feet Under Roof 2,495 Feet 3Square Bedrooms, 2Under BathsRoof

CHEROKEE CHARLESTON MANOR $286,300 CHARLESTON MANOR “B” “B”$137,300 $286,300 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE FARMHOUSE $137,300 4 5 Bedrooms, 2 3½ Baths

5 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 4 2 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $137,300 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $150,500 2,520 5,017 5,017 Square 2,520 Square Feet Feet Under Under Roof Roof

3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 4 Bedrooms, 22½ ½ Baths 3 Bedrooms, Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 4 Bedrooms, Baths 2,592 Square Feet2½ Under Roof 2,592 Square Feet Under Roof 2,706 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 1,924 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 2,495 Square Feet Under Roof 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof 1,924 Square Feet Under Roof 2,592 Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 2,495 Under Roof 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof FullSquare BrickFeet Included FullSquare BrickFeet Included

Full Brick Included

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OFFERS YOU MORE HOME FOR NOBODY OFFERS YOUNOBODY MORE HOME FOR Full Brick Included YOUR HARD EARNED BUCKS $$ YOUR HARD EARNED BUCKS $$ • 2x6 Exterior Walls

• 2x6 Exterior Walls • 2x6 Exterior Walls OVER • R-38 CeilingOInsulation VER • R-38 Ceiling Insulation • Granite Kitchen Counter Tops CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $137,300 PARKVIEW $146,200 COLUMBUS $146,600 CHARLESTON MANOR “B” $286,300 • Granite Kitchen Counter Tops STOCK 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 4 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths Bedrooms, Hung 3½ S Baths • 5Double TOLow •2,376 Double Hung Low ERoof Glass Windows CK E Glass Windows PLANS Square Feet Under 2,495 Square$146,200 Feet Under Roof 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof 5,017 Square Feet MANOR Under Roof CENTERVILLE $155,700 $155,700 COLUMBUS $146,600 MANOR “B” $286,300 CENTERVILLE $155,700 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE PARKVIEW COLUMBUS $146,600 CHARLESTON “B” $286,300 CENTERVILLE $155,700 CENTERVILLE COLUMBUS $157,600 CHARLESTON CHARLESTON MANOR “B”$137,300 $307,400 CENTERVILLE $167,700 P L A N • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors S • R-195 Insulated Walls and Floors 44 Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 2 2 Baths Baths 4 Bedrooms,2 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 54 Bedrooms, ½ Bedrooms, 323½ ½ Baths Baths Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 43Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 22Baths Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 5 Bedrooms, Baths 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths CENTERVILLE $155,700 • 5/8” Roof Decking 2,376 2,612 Square Square Feet Feet Under Roof Roof 2,376Square SquareFeet FeetUnder UnderRoof Roof 2,612 Square Feet Under Roof 2,495 Square Feet Under Roof 5,017 2,520 Square Square Feet Feet Under Under Roof Roof 5,017Roof SquareDecking Feet Under Roof Full Brick 2,612 • 5/8” 2,612 2,376 Square Feet Included Under Roof 5,017 Square Feet Under Roof 2,612 Square Feet2Under Under 4 Bedrooms, Baths Roof NOBODY OFFERS YOU MORE HOME FOR

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OFFERS YOU MORE HOME FOR NOBODY OFFERS YOU MORE HOME FOR • 2x6 Exterior Walls OfficeBUCKS Locations: 706-273-7139 • Bremen 770-537-5337 • Lavonia 706-356-1015 HARD EARNED $$ Ellijay• R-38 YOUR HARD EARNED BUCKS $$ OVER Ceiling Insulation

MAGNOLIA MAGNOLIA 3 3 Bedroom Bedroom MAGNOLIA 2,592 F 2,5923Square Square F Bedroom 2,592 Square F

COLUMBU COLUMBU 3 3 Bedroom Bedroom COLUMBUF 2,376 2,3763Square Square F Bedroom 2,376 Square F

NOBODY OFFERS YOU MORE H NOBODY YOU MORE H YOUROFFERS HARD EARNED BUCK YOUR HARD EARNED BUCK • 2x6 Exterior Walls • 2x6 Exterior Walls •• R-38 Ceiling 2x6 Walls R-38Exterior Ceiling Insulation Insulation •• Granite Kitchen Counter R-38 Ceiling Insulation Granite Kitchen Counter Tops Tops •• Double Low E Glass Windows Granite Hung Kitchen Counter Tops Double Hung Low E Glass Windows COUNTRY CAPE CAPE $227,000 $227,000 COUNTRY CAPE COUNTRY $243,800 •• R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors Double Hung Low E Glass Windows R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors 4 Bedrooms, 2 ½ Baths 4 Bedrooms, 22½ ½ Baths 4 Bedrooms, Baths 4,206 Square Feet Roof ••4,206 5/8” Roof 4,206 SquareDecking Feet Under Under Roof R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors 5/8” Roof Decking Square Feet Under Roof • 5/8” Roof Decking

GUG AU RAR NA TN EETD EED

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110• Cullman, AL 256-737-5055 Dublin 770-537-5337 • Augusta 706-855-5227 Granite Kitchen Counter Tops Walls • •2x6 Exterior Walls STOCK •R-38 Double HungInsulation Low E Glass Windows OVER OVER PLANS Insulation • Ceiling CENTERVILLE $155,700 CAPE $227,000 Montgomery, AL 334-290-4397 • Waynesville, 828-456-3309 • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors 110 110 NC COUNTRY 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 4 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths hen Counter Tops • Granite Kitchen Counter Tops 2,612 Square Feet Under Roof STOCK 4,206 Square Feet Under Roof STOCK • 5/8” Roof Decking Office g Low E Glass Windows • Double Hung Low E Glass Windows Office Locations: Locations: PLANS of Operation: PLANSSaturdayCOUNTRY Hours Monday - Friday 9 am to 6 pm, 10 amCAPE to $227,000 4 Office pm Locations: COUNTRY CAPE $227,000 CENTERVILLE $155,700 Office Locations: ed Walls and Floors 4Visit • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors Ellijay 706-273-7139 • Dublin 47 Ellijay 706-273-7139 • Dublin 478-272-4404 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 4 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths Bedrooms, 2½ New Baths Home! one of our Models or Showrooms Today – Don’t Be Overcharged4 For Your 2,612 Square Feet Under Roof 4,206Roof SquareDecking Feet Under Roof 4,206 Square Feet Under Roof cking • 5/8” 706-273-7139 • Dublin 47 Lavonia • Augusta 706-855-5227 Lavonia 706-356-1015 • Augusta 706-855-5227 • 706-356-1015 Cullman, Ellijay AL 256-737-5055

ESES

Lavonia 706-356-1015 • 706-356-1015 Cullman, AL 256-737-5055 GUARAN • Augusta 706-855-5227 Lavonia • Augusta 706-855-5227

TE

ED LavoniaMontgomery, 706-356-1015 • Augusta 706-855-5227 AL 334-290-4397 • Waynesv • Waynesville, NC 828-456-3309 BUILDALO334-290-4397 WWW.TRINITYCUSTOM.COM Montgomery, UT Montgomery, AL 334-290-4397 • Waynesv

GUARANT

EED

Hours of Operation: GIU Hours of of Operation: Operation: TMonday AR M NTEEHours E-AS D to 6pm, Saturday 10am Monday Friday 9am to 4pm - Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturda

January – March 2015

Welcome �

23

“Outdoor Wear with Indoor Style”

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, and are never too old or too young. Little 4-year old Anthony Mubanda struggles to pull a wagon loaded with snack bags at East Fannin Elementary School. He was helping his grandparents, Billy and Barbara Nichols of Morganton, who are volunteers for Snack in a Backpack. The snack bags are for students to take home on weekends. Altogether, Snack in a Backpack prepares and delivers more than 400 snack bags each week to Fannin’s five schools.

Stop by our friendly 4000 sq. ft. store where you will find a great variety of Women’s and Men’s clothing, footwear, accessories as well as fun and useful items for outdoors and around the house or cabin.

We offer the largest selection of Life is Good clothes and accessories in Georgia as well as outstanding outdoor brands like Columbia, Woolrich, ExOfficio, Toad & Co., Kuhl, Merrill, Keen, Ahnu and many more! Our staff is waiting to make your Blue Ridge experience a wonderful memory. We are looking forward to your visit!

RCB

Randall C. Brown & Associates, P.C.

Certified Public Accountants  Audits  Reviews  Compilations  Payroll  Monthly Bookkeeping  Tax Return Preparation  FRAUD & FORENSIC ACCOUNTING

460 W. Main Street, Suite 102 Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706-946-1107

www.randallbrowncpa.com buzzfarouk@etcmail.com

We are located in the heart of downtown Blue Ridge where we have served your clothing & shoe needs for more than a decade!

ATM Available

BlueRidgeAdventureWear.com

706-632-3991

661 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, GA

24 � Welcome

January – March 2015

Museum closed, history book now on sale

T

he Fannin County Heritage Foundation’s museum, located in the historic Baugh House on West First Street in Blue Ridge, is closed for the winter due to the heating situation.

Heritage Foundation members hope to reopen the museum in April.

The latest history book published by the foundation, “Facing Forward, A History of Schools in Fannin County, Georgia” is available at the Fannin County Library and Fannin County Chamber of Commerce. The book arrived from the printer Dec. 15, and members reported brisk sales.

Anyone needing information about the book or the historical group should call Marie Herndon at 706-632-5773.

The Fannin County Heritage Foundation museum, located in the historic Baugh House at 411 W. First St. in Blue Ridge, is closed for the winter. It is expected to reopen in April.

Staining & Painting and Log Repair

$

999

COMPLETE DECK STAINING Pressure Wash, Stain & Seal

(prices may vary depending on size)

We’ll beat anybody’s price Beats most competitive bids by 10% using quality products by Sherwin Williams

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Locally owned & operated

Member of the Home Builder’s Association

References Available • Fully Insured SubContractors

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Mountain Area Recommended Contractors & Providers, LLC • ROOFING • CARPENTER WORK & LOG REPAIR • AUTOMATED SECURITY SYSTEM • SPECIALIZING IN CONCRETE BOAT RAMPS • • • • • • • • •

Electrical & Plumbing Troubleshooting & Repair Basement Finishing Painting & Staining Inside & Out Rotten Wood Repair Pressure Washing & Mold Removal Custom Screens, Porches & Re-screens Carpenter Bee Repairs Decks, Steps & Railings for outside enjoyment • Ramps & Railings for Handicap Access

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References Available

Member of the Home Builder’s Association

Locally owned & operated

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January – March 2015

Healthy Woman educates

The Fannin Regional Hospital will continue its Healthy Woman series on the third Thursday of each month at the Community & Southern Bank Community Room. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.

Hospital Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator Susan Kiker said Healthy Woman is a community resource of the hospital. Its aim is to “empower all women with the knowledge and confidence to make informed health care decisions, and maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit through health education events.”

The event is free for anyone.

F o r in f o r m a t i o n ab o u t Healthy Woman, call 706258-4673.

Welcome �

25

BOWLS OF HOPE HELPS FEED FANNIN

Feed Fannin will hold its second Bowls of Hope fundraiser Saturday, March 21, from noon to 4 p.m. at Willow Creek Falls in Blue Ridge. The event is a unique opportunity to obtain a handcrafted one-of-a-kind bowl, eat some good food, listen to good music and help Feed Fannin provide food for individuals and families who need help in Fannin County. Tickets are $25 per person in advance and $30 per person at the door. Only 400 tickets will be sold. To purchase a ticket call 706-946-1001.

ELITE RESPONSE DISASTER MITIGATION In a Disaster, Response is Everything.

• 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE • WATER, FIRE & SMOKE DAMAGE RESTORATION • STORM DAMAGE / TREE REMOVAL • RECONSTRUCTION / REMODEL • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Licensed & Insured General Contractor

TRAVIS COLEMAN

706-455-0415

« All the world's a stage and all the men and women merely players »

2015 MAIN STAGE SEASON

FEBRUARY 12 - MARCH 1

Dramatic Comedy · Rated PG-13

APRIL 9 - 26

Dramatic Comedy · Rated PG-13

MAY 14 - 31

Comedy · Rated PG-13

JULY 9 - 26

Comedy · Rated PG-13

Live Music is Better Concert Series is fully booked with package deals!

Coming Soon: AUGUST 20 - SEPTEMBER 6 Comedy · Rated PG-13

OCTOBER 1 - 18

Dramatic Comedy · Rated PG-13

NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 13 Classic · Rated PG

Copious Jones Jan 16 » 7:30p

Franklin Pond Quartet Mar 8 » 2p

Roxie Watson Band March 27 & 28 » 7:30p

Shows: Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 7:30p » Sunday at 2p

Blue Ridge Community Theater 2591 East First Street | Blue Ridge, GA

706-632-9223 Tickets for Live Theater & Live Music at www.BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com

January – March 2015

El Rio

Welcome �

Welcome

27

Welcome To Our Historic Mining Town

to the Twin Cities of MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA Copperhill El Rio Mexican Restaurant and BUY ONE COMBINATION (1-21) McCaysville GET $300 OFF 2nd An Authentic Mexican Experience!

Combination Dinner

Valid on Combination Dinners 1-21. Dine-In only. One coupon per table. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 3/30/15

Step back in time to a General Store that has a little of everything for everyone.

Cabin Decor ∙ Souvenirs Fudge ∙ Ice Cream Jellies/Honey/Syrup Quilts ∙ Handbags Rugs ∙ Furniture

-9860

706-492

423~496~1826

6 Toccoa Avenue McCaysville, Georgia 30555

23 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN

More Ways

Than Ever to Connect With Customers

The same local newspaper that has offered your business broader reach than any other advertising vehicle for decades now gives you access to more potential customers than ever with a variety of print and online offerings.

To put a powerful combination to work for your business, contact your sales rep or call 706.632.2019 today.

Local News. Local Sports. Local People.

Subscribe: 706-632-2019 news@thenewsobserver.com Advertising: 706-632-2019 ads@thenewsobserver.com Classifieds: 706-632-2019 classifieds@thenewsobserver.com

The News Observer

5748 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | 706.632.2019 | www.thenewsobserver.com

photography by James Ray Spahn

Welcome Home Rachel Callihan Cowart ere is a book, two e Fannin County. Th ttl se to t es old e th y family was one of . eek named after them ed this area mountains and a cr m a family that settl fro ng mi co d an ea ar e th ils of Cashes Being raised in into the beautiful tra e rs ho my ing rid I grew up untain property. in the early 1800s, d sold a lot of mo da my as e tat es good working in real Valley. I grew up siness so I have a bu on cti tru ns co e property and nd th I consider mountain I also grew up arou y. all loc ilt bu e ar at bins th l local business, knowledge of the ca of a very successfu r de un fo e th am I ialty. untains like I the beauty of the mo cabins to be my spec joy en lks fo lps he s, that Adventure Trail Ride ue Ridge area is . up did growing od news and the Bl go s ed ne ne yo er Ev for its fishing, THIS IS MY TOWN! s long been known ha ea ar e Th y. om e econ New shops are booming despite th ugh the mountains. ro th e rid in tra e th and e way of life is golf, horseback riding ing to thrive, and th inu nt co e ar ts an ur REALTOR! , resta continuing to open LOVE TO BE YOUR LD OU W I . ce pa l fu aceful, joy continuing at its pe

M

e it for yourself

Come experienc

» 2010-11 Top Sales for Harry Norman Atlanta Perimeter / Blue Ridge Office » 2011: #1 Closed Units ∙ #1 Listings Closed ∙ #5 Company Wide Closed Units ∙ 2011: Gold Level Recipient Northeast GA Board of Realtors ∙ $3.8 Million Sales in 2011 ∙ 39 Closed Sales in 2011 » 2012: #1 Agent Companywide Listings Sold ∙ #5 Sales Closed Companywide In the Top 50 Agents Overall Companywide

252 West Main Street | Blue Ridge, GA 800-314-8621 • 706.258.8067 HarryNormanBlueRidge.com • rachelbc@tds.net For more information on Horseback Riding at Adventure Trail Rides, call 706-258-2276 or visit www.adventuretrailrides.com