Create the perfect alfresco kitchen for the ultimate in outdoor living.
20 C’mon, Get Happy
Some famous folks share their thoughts on finding true joy.
22 Pedal to the Metal!
After two-and-a-half short years, Cartersville’s Savoy Automobile Museum has proven it’s an attraction to get revved up about.
30
I’ll forever be a daddy’s girl.
Wanderlust You don’t need to be in school to enjoy Athens, Georgia’s ultimate college town.
Robert’s World These days, there’s more to cooking out than just wielding a spatula.
Daddy’s Girl
Growing up, I had two dads, both Army officers. My biological dad was gone for three years of my early childhood, serving tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam, and then my parents divorced. My mother remarried when I was 12, to a man named Murph, and I had no idea how much of an impact he’d have on my life. My mother was gaga over Murph. He was a true man’s man who was charming and movie star good-looking. He could fix anything and loved dogs. My new stepdad also loved me, and I adored him. He liked to give endearing nicknames, and somehow I became known as Boo,
Publisher and Founder Editor-in-Chief
Laura Wood Erickson Editor
Jill Becker
Murph and 15-year-old me looking snazzy.
CHATEAU ELAN WINERY AND RESORT
Nestled in the foothills of North Georgia, discover a place where Southern charm meets French luxury.
JULY
Copper Creek Farm Summer Fest
Through July 27, times vary Copper Creek Farm, Calhoun
Frolic through Instagramworthy fields of sunflowers and enjoy hayrides, rubber duckie races, a bubble barn, and more. coppercreekfarm.com
Movie Cars
Through Aug 4, Tue-Sun 10am-5pm
Savoy Automobile Museum, Cartersville
This showcase of classic vehicles that starred on the big screen includes the 964 Leslie Special from The
Great Race, the 1984 Ford LTD Country Squire Family Truckster from Vacation, and a 1958 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe from American Graffiti savoymuseum.org
Rome Emperors
July 1-3, 9-14, 30-31 & Aug 1-4, 13-18, 27-31, times vary
AdventHealth Stadium, Rome
Enjoy a day at the ballpark with the Atlanta Braves’ High-A minor-league affiliate. milb.com/rome
Patriotic Party in the Park
July 4, noon
Ridge Ferry Park, Rome Fun-filled day at the park featuring a splash zone, fireworks, food trucks, and more. rfpra.com/july4th
4th of July Parade
July 4, 9am
Downtown Cave Spring Celebrate
Independence Day with a fun family tradition. cityofcavespring.com/ events/4th-of-july-parade
All American Cookout & Fireworks
July 4, 6:30-9pm Barnsley Resort, Adairsville
Enjoy the holiday weekend with a menu of cookout favorites, games, live music, and a fireworks show over the resort’s Fazio Golf Course. barnsleyresort.com/ accommodations/ event-calendar
Star Spangled Celebration
July 4, 5-10pm Northwest Georgia
spectacular featuring fireworks, a light show, and live music.
Town Green, Rome Free outdoor concert series featuring Georgia Thunderbolts, Live Exchange Band, The Purple Madness Prince Tribute Band, and more.
downtownromega.us/events/ first-fridays
Georgia O’Keeffe, A Life
Well Lived: Photographs by Malcolm Varon
July 6-Dec 29, hours vary Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville
Previously unpublished photographs by Malcolm Varon reveal rarely seen aspects of the famed artist’s life and personality. boothmuseum.org
Roman Holiday Riverboat Tours
July 7, Aug 4, Sept 1 & Oct 6, 2-4pm
Heritage Park Trail, Rome Take a leisurely riverboat
and learn how Rome has been shaped by the rivers through the centuries and other local history.
romegeorgia.org/attraction/ roman-holiday
Euharlee Food Truck Friday
July 12 & Aug 9, 6:30-9:30pm
Frankie Harris Park, Euharlee
A night of food, fun, and friends with live tunes from Daniel Lieving (July 12) and Britt Nix and the Four Roses (Aug 9). facebook.com/euharleeftf
Legion of Comedy Improv Show
July 12 & Aug 9, 8pm Legion Theatre, Cartersville Improv show where you never know what’s going to happen. pumphouseplayers.com
Raccoon Creek
Bluegrass Festival
July 12 & 13, times vary Raccoon Creek Music Park, Dallas
Decades-old festival featuring some of the best bluegrass performers around. This year’s lineup includes Georgia Bound, The Steed Brothers, and Darin and Brooke Aldridge. raccooncreekmusic.com
Peek Park Summer Concerts
July 13 & Aug 17, 7-9pm
Peek Park, Cedartown
Free family-friendly weekend concerts in the park. cedartowngeorgia.gov
Logtown Concert Series
July 19, Aug 16 & Sept 20, 7-10pm Logtown, Adairsville
Start the weekend off with live music, food trucks, and a beer/wine garden. adairsvillega.net/community/ events/logtown_concert_ series.php
Music by the Tracks
July 20, 7-9 pm Downtown Cartersville
The last of this year’s free community concerts in historic downtown Cartersville features country/ folk artist July Turner. downtowncartersville.org/ events
Georgia Mountain
Moonshine Cruiz-In
July 26 & 27, Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 8am-5pm Dalton Convention Center, Dalton
Annual gathering for gearheads with muscle cars, hot rods, a swap meet, and live music.
gammoonshinecruizin.com
AUG
A Streetcar Named Desire
Aug 16, 17, 23 & 24, 8pm, Aug 18 & 25, 3pm Legion Theatre, Cartersville Retelling of the classic Tennessee Williams tale. pumphouseplayers.com
Carpool: A Tribute to The Cars
Aug 17, 7:30pm
GEM Theatre, Calhoun
Booth Photography Guild
Annual Exhibition
Aug 13-Nov 8, times vary
Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville
This juried exhibit showcases works by the members of the Booth Photography Guild. boothmuseum.org
Performance re-creating the sound and vibe that made The Cars world-famous. calhoungemtheatre.org
Tillman Clocktower 5K Run
Aug 17, 8-10am
Heritage Park, Rome
The 39th running of one of the oldest races in Georgia. Also includes a two-mile health walk. romegeorgia.org/visit-rome/ calendar
Backpack Buddies
5K Fun Run
Aug 24, 8am-noon Downtown Cartersville
This 5K race starts and finishes in downtown Cartersville and is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. onlyincartersvillebartow.com/ events/backpack-buddies-5kfun-run
Smokey and The Bandit
Aug 24, 7pm
GEM Theatre, Calhoun
Celebrate the anniversary of the historic GEM Theatre’s reopening with a free screening of this film classic, the last movie to be featured before the theater closed back in the late ’70s. calhoungemtheatre.org
Pioneer Days Festival
Aug 30-Sep 2, times vary
Sam Smith Park, Cartersville
This family-friendly event features arts and crafts, carnival rides, food vendors, games, and more. pioneerdaysgeorgia.com
Residential Remodeling | General Contracting
• Kitchen, bath, and basement remodeling
• Interior & exterior painting
• Flooring
• Roofing
• Deck replacement/ repairs
• Window & glass replacement
• Concrete & masonry
Jerry D. Erickson Licensed General Contractor 678-755-2943 jerry@ericksonconstructionservices.com
“Working with Jerry was a great experience! He’s very knowledgeable about the materials needed and had lots of finish options to choose from. My clients were extremely happy with the work when it was finalized.”
— James Robbins, Realtor / Full Basement Remodel
Listen Up!
These five audiobooks make the perfect travel accessory for your summer vacation.
BY ELIN WOODS
Summer is here, so chances are you’ll soon be piling in the car or hopping on a plane for a much-needed getaway. If so, don’t forget to pack your audiobooks! They’re the perfect solution for jazzing up a long journey, and they don’t take up space in your suitcase. You can usually even get them for free from your local library. Best of all, the listening options are as endless as there are places on the map!
Here are a few travel-worthy listens I’ve enjoyed that feature excellent narrators. Because if you’re a fan of audiobooks like me, you know that a good reader makes all the difference.
The Son
By Philipp Meyer
Narrated by Will Patton, Kate Mulgrew, Scott Shepherd, and Clifton Collins Jr.
I love a good Western, and this is one of the best I’ve ever read, or, in this case, listened to. I recommend it to even the Western-reluctant because it’s a story of a family on the precipice of change and how our lives interweave throughout history. We’re all part of the past, present in the now, and going into the future. This book is that story, set at the birth of both Texas and the main character, Eli McCullough, full of adventure and some of the most wellwritten characters I can think of. There are four narrators, each one excellent and some pretty famous names, so the characters feel fresh and are easy to keep track of. The book begins with Eli being kidnapped by the Comanches at the age of 13 with his brother, then follows his rise to power and the makings of what some might call a great American family through the eyes and experiences of his sons and his granddaughter, a spitting image if there ever was one.
Murder on Astor Place
By Victoria Thompson
Narrated
by
Callie Beaulieu
When I turn to fiction, I seek historical fiction, and this one takes us to turn-ofthe-century New York City. There are so many new people flocking to the shores,
a cacophony of languages in the streets, and, in Victoria Thompson’s Manhattan, murder around any corner if you’re not careful. This is the first book in the Gaslight Mystery series, and I was hooked early on. Protagonist Sarah Brandt is a midwife from a monied background who gives it up to pursue a career in medicine, mostly spending her days around tenement housing. When a young girl boarding at her same house is found dead, it’s soon discovered she’s from a very prominent family and that she and Sarah have some family connections. Sarah ends up assisting a local cop investigating the murder, with a possible romance in the air, and has to go back to her own past to find out who did it and why. This book is jam-packed with historical details and is never boring. Once you finish this one, you’ll want to go back for more adventures with Sarah Brandt. Luckily for you, there are 27 books in the series, with a new one just out this past April.
Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers
By Mary Roach
Narrated by Shelly Frasier
Perhaps you’re wondering, after seeing the cover, why I’m suggesting an audiobook about human cadavers. But I need you to trust me on this one. If you’ve not yet read or listened to anything by Mary Roach, pick any of her works and I promise you’ll leave fascinated. I wasn’t expecting to leave this experience as happy as I was having learned what happens to us when we’re dead, but this has fallen on my short list of
You’ll get a good sense of her writing style and hopefully be curious enough to continue on and give Stiff a listen as well.
Moon of the Crusted Snow
By Waubgeshig
Rice
Narrated by Billy Merasty
If you like your tales a little bit on the scarier side, my next suggestion would be this book. When an indigenous Anishinaabe community in northern Ontario, Canada, goes completely dark just as winter sets in, people slowly but surely begin to panic. Food supplies are running low and maintaining order isn’t easy. Throw into the mix a visitor who’s escaping to the south trying to convince others to go with him and the question becomes, What will everyone do? The pace of the book is a bit slow, but it’s winter after all, and everyone is at a standstill. This pace also allows for the feeling of dread to build up as everyone tries to figure out who this visitor is and how they seem to be doing okay while the rest of the world seems to be ending and people are starving. There’s a sequel to this book, which I’m looking forward to reading. Rice has a way of setting a tone that makes me uneasy, but as any horror fan knows, that can be a good feeling.
Looking for something fun for the whole family? Give this book a try, and be prepared for the high-flying adventures of sisters Flo, Faye, and Franny. Described as the perfect listen for lovers of stories like Indiana Jones and The Goonies, this immersive 3-D audiobook drops you into the action with sounds happening all around you (made through the use of different speakers during the recording). Set in the 1930s, this book is delivered like a radio play and is a perfect way to introduce youngsters to audiobooks and discuss how, before television, people got their entertainment. The plot revolves around the three Flamingo sisters joining a flying circus after their parents and their puppy mysteriously disappear somewhere over the Pacific. With a secret treasure map and a no-good uncle flying quickly behind them, the girls set out to discover what happened to their parents and, just maybe, find the long-lost family fortune. The first story runs about two hours, so if your trip is longer than that, pack it and the sequel for even more hijinks.
Elin Woods is a librarian from the mountains of western Pennsylvania, now living in the mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. When she’s not busy reading, she enjoys baking historical treats and exploring the East Coast. She balances her mostly nonfiction history reading with the occasional modern romance novel and plenty of cookbooks.
Cracking the Medicare Code
BY ANDE FRAZIER
Insights into navigating the Medicare enrollment maze and getting the care you need.
Medicare is a crucial aspect of health care for millions of Americans, yet it remains a complex and often confusing system for many. As the primary health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities, understanding the ins and outs of Medicare is essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care. Here, we delve into the top things you need to know, including some lesser-known aspects of the program.
D covers prescription drugs. Keep in mind that Medicare isn’t mandatory but can be difficult to decline. While Parts C and D are optional, Parts A and B are foundational, and declining them could come with consequences. Consider working with a Medicare expert to help you navigate the nuances.
“As the primary health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, understanding the ins and outs of Medicare is essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care.”
Understanding the basics: Medicare is divided into Parts A, B, C, and D. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Part B covers medical services such as doctor’s visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and combines Parts A and B, often with additional benefits. Part
Enrollment periods: It’s crucial to understand the enrollment periods for Medicare to avoid potential penalties. The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins three months before you turn 65, includes the month of your birthday, and extends for three months afterward. Missing this window can result in delayed coverage and penalties. After the IEP, there are Annual Enrollment Periods (AEP) and Special Enrollment Periods (SEP) for making changes to your coverage.
Costs and coverage: While many services are covered by Medicare, there are still out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, coinsurance, and co-payments. According to the Centers
MEDICARE
for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the average Part B premium for 2024 is $174.70 per month, but this can vary based on income. It’s important to budget for these expenses and consider supplemental insurance, such as a Medigap policy, to help cover gaps in coverage.
Medicare Advantage: Medicare Advantage plans offer an alternative to traditional Medicare by providing coverage through private insurance companies. These plans often include additional benefits such as dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans has steadily increased over the years, with 49% of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in these plans as of 2023.
Prescription drug coverage: Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage, and the cost-sharing requirements for its plans vary based on a formulary of covered medications. It’s advisable to review your plan annually during the Annual Enrollment Period to ensure it still meets your needs and offers the most cost-effective coverage for your medications.
Medicare’s Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA): Higherincome beneficiaries may be subject to an additional charge, known as IRMAA, on top of their standard Medicare premiums. According to the Social Security Administration, IRMAA affects individuals with modified adjusted gross incomes above $88,000 and married couples with incomes above $176,000. These additional charges can significantly impact health care costs, so if you fall into this category, make sure you’re working with a financial planner who can help you strategize ways to mitigate this extra expense.
Medicare’s coverage limitations: While Medicare covers a wide range of services, there are limitations. For example, it doesn’t typically cover long-term care, dental care, or cosmetic procedures. Understanding what is and isn’t covered can help you plan for potential out-of-pocket expenses and explore alternative coverage options.
Medicare’s hospital observation status: Many people are unaware of the distinction between being admitted to the hospital as an inpatient versus being
placed under observation status. This distinction can have significant financial implications, as observation status may not be covered under Part A, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for services received during a hospital stay. Available resources: Whether you’re approaching eligibility age or assisting a loved one in getting Medicare, staying informed about its various enrollment periods, costs, and coverages is key to maximizing benefits and minimizing potential pitfalls within the system. To learn more, visit medicare.gov or the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services’ site at aging.georgia.gov/georgia-ship. Or check with your financial advisor to see if they have a Medicare specialist in-house.
Ande Frazier, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, RICP, BFA™, ChSNC, CDFA®, is an expert in behavioral finance and the author of Fin(anci)ally Free: 11 Conversations To Have With Yourself About Life, Money, and Worth In addition to being a recognized thought leader, author, and speaker, she also serves as a partner at Peachtree Planning Corporation. To learn more, visit andefrazier.com
Getting to Know …
Jeffrey Sean Dokken
Artistic Director and Conductor of the Rome Symphony Orchestra
BY JILL BECKER
It’s cliche, but there’s never a dull moment,” says Jeffrey Sean Dokken of his job as the artistic director and conductor of the Rome Symphony Orchestra (RSO). His duties leading the oldest symphony in the South entail everything from planning out the season and scoring music to meeting with donors and attending board meetings. But surprisingly, he says that like with so many jobs these days, he spends an inordinate amount of his time sending emails.
Dokken’s mother was a talented pianist, flutist, and handbell artist and his sister is a brilliant singer and actress, so his penchant for music and entertaining isn’t surprising. He holds a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance and graduate degrees in music education and conducting. As a vocalist, he’s performed with the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Kelli O’Hara, and Brian d’Arcy James. When asked which he prefers, singing or conducting, he says, “I enjoy conducting more, but I jump at every chance I have to sing. They’re very different art forms, and I find them both fulfilling in different ways.”
Dokken’s conducting skills have taken him all over the globe, from the Kennedy Center in New York and the White House in D.C. to Teatro Bolivar in Quito, Ecuador, and Villa Bertilli in Forte dei Marmi, Italy. Of performing at such venerated venues, he says, “It’s so humbling, as well as being incredibly exciting and fun. I’m always struck by the history that’s taken place in these venues. You see the pictures backstage of all the amazing people who’ve performed there, and it’s important to take a moment to enjoy the honor of the opportunity given to you. I once got to perform at a concert hall in Bologna that is 400-plus years old. I was literally conducting on a stage where Mozart performed. I mean, how cool is that!”
receptive, eager audiences,” says Dokken. “I feel supported and trusted by the board, the musicians, and the community of Rome to lead this historic musical institution and that’s an honor and responsibility I don’t take lightly.”
What’s your favorite piece of music? That’s impossible to answer because I love so many different types of music and they’re all so awesome and impactful in different ways. But if I had to choose just one, it would be Disturbed’s cover of “The Sound of Silence.”
“I feel supported and trusted to lead this historic musical institution and that’s an honor and responsibility I don’t take lightly.”
How do you pick which pieces to perform? This is actually my favorite aspect of the job! Every season I try to ensure there’s a good mix of music to appeal to a huge swath of the public, while never pandering to anybody and never compromising our artistic standards. Even when we’re performing strictly classical concerts, I try to ensure we present them in an innovative way. Everybody has an opinion on repertoire selection, and my job is twofold: to get as many people as possible through our doors and to make sure that once they’re in attendance, that they like what they hear. Lastly, it’s also important to program music that the musicians themselves like to play.
What kind of music do you like to listen to? Scandinavian heavy metal. And musical theater.
Dokken has lofty goals for the RSO. He aims to introduce more collaborations with local, national, and international artists as well as more innovative concert experiences, including full-scale musical theater and opera productions. And to establish the RSO as one of the finest orchestras in the region. “My favorite thing about conducting the RSO is the level of the musicianship of the orchestra members, and the opportunity to bring high-quality, innovative music to
Do you play any musical instruments? I play piano, percussion, and low brass (my primary instrument is euphonium).
How do you spend your free time? I either rock climb or play golf almost every day of the week. I also play in a soccer league and spend a lot of time hiking. I just enjoy being outside. On the more leisurely side of things, I enjoy gardening and cooking. What’s your favorite place in Northwest Georgia? Kayaking on the Etowah River.
Photo Credit: Mark Law
Athens With an Attitude
You don’t need to be in school to enjoy Georgia’s ultimate college town.
BY JILL BECKER
Athens, Georgia, is consistently ranked among the best college towns in the country, but you certainly don’t have to be a student or a University of Georgia fan to appreciate everything the city has to offer.
Surprisingly, the university came before the town, when in 1801 a site for the school was selected on a settlement along the banks of the Oconee River. Four years later, John Milledge, a UGA trustee and the then-governor of Georgia, bought 633 acres of land and
Perhaps because Athens has such a large student population, there are a myriad of free things to do around town. A prime example is the Georgia Museum of Art. The official art museum of the state of Georgia, it houses a permanent collection of more than 10,000 works and hosts major traveling exhibits throughout the year. Equally impressive and equally free is the State Botanical Garden. Its 313 acres feature plants from around the world, nature trails, birding areas, greenhouses, fruit crops, a children’s garden, and more. And don’t forget the Bear Hollow Zoo, whose residents include everything from otters and owls to bobcats and bears, all of whom have encountered obstacles in their lives that prevented them from being released back into the wild. The zoo is located in pretty Memorial Park, where you can picnic by the lake, explore the walking trails, or let the kids loose on the playground.
Another budget-friendly local treat are the $1 scoops of ice cream you can get at the soda fountain inside
Hodgson’s Pharmacy, which has been an Athens mainstay since 1956. Speaking of food, you’ll have endless options when it comes to finding a good place to eat in Athens. A top choice is Five & Ten, a fine dining spot opened by James Beard award-winning chef Hugh Acheson in 2000 and now in the hands of his longtime partner Peter Dale. The menu showcases local produce in dishes like beet salad with chorizo and fried rabbit leg with summer squash and pumpkin seeds. Got a hankering for barbecue? Head to Dawg Gone Good BBQ, known for its pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and classic sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. Popular with the breakfast crowd is Mama’s Boy, a cheery downtown diner where the wait can be long but the mouthwatering biscuits are as big as your head. A fun way to sample the area’s suds is via the Athens Beer Trail Trolley Tour, which provides hop-on, hop-off transportation every Thursday and Friday between six local craft breweries.
Local craftspeople are also busy creating unique goods that can be
Music lovers take in a concert on the grounds of the State Botanical Garden. | Courtesy of State Botanical Garden of GA
The name says it all when it comes to the menu at Dawg Gone Good BBQ. | Courtesy of Visit Athens GA
found at shops like Community, where some of the finds include handmade jewelry, delicious chocolates, scented soaps, and upcycled vintage clothing. Neighborhood toy shop Treehouse Kid and Craft has books, games, dolls, and other items perfect for the younger set, in addition to storytime sessions and art classes. Athens is also the home Wuxtry Records, one of the oldest independent record stores in the state. With its vast selection of LPs, 45s, 78s, and CDs, it’s a veritable museum of music old and new.
You simply can’t talk about Athens without mentioning its renowned live music scene. It is, after all, the place where bands like The B-52s, Indigo Girls, Widespread Panic, and R.E.M. got their start. Whether your tastes lean toward rock, blues, hip-hop, or something in between, you’ll find performances almost every night of the week at spots like the 40 Watt Club, Georgia Theatre, and Hendershot’s. One of the more intimate venues, where there’s not a bad seat in the house, is The Foundry, located in a former metal forge where the University of Georgia’s famed arch and doublebarreled cannon were constructed more
than 100 years ago.
The Foundry is part of the Hotel Abacus, an eclectic lodging that oozes UGA spirit, from Georgia bulldogshaped lamps to room keys designed to look like student IDs. Another great place to lay your head at night is the Hotel Indigo, an upscale boutique hotel within walking distance of restaurants, clubs, and other downtown destinations. Its cozy rooms feature hardwood floors, plush beds, mini-fridges, and works by local artists. They even offer special amenities for your four-legged friends.
With all this at your feet, it’s clear that Athens is much more than a college town and that it deserves a place on your must-see list. And since this Athens is just over two hours east of Northwest Georgia, you won’t need a passport to get there.
Athens, GA
To learn more or for help planning an Athens getaway, go to visitathensga.com.
Jill Becker’s travel writing has appeared in dozens of magazines and websites, including more than 25 stories for CNN.com.
Since opening in 1978, the Georgia Theatre stage has seen performances by everyone from The Police to Willie Nelson. | Courtesy of Elliott Anderson
Guests enjoy a cup of joe at the art-filled coffee bar just off the Hotel Abacus lobby. | Courtesy of Christian Horan
The frogmore stew at Five & Ten is a take on a Low Country boil and features wild Gulf shrimp and andouille sausage in a savory tomato broth. | Courtesy of Andrew Thomas Lee
Just some of the historic architecture gracing downtown Athens. | Courtesy of Visit Athens GA by Jake Gee
Turn Your Kitchen Inside Out
Create the perfect alfresco kitchen for the ultimate in outdoor living.
BY JENNIFER ALMAND
Come summer, the opportunities for outdoor living are endless, and one of the best ways to maximize those opportunities is with a fabulous outdoor kitchen. Because what’s better than throwing some meat and veggies on the grill, popping open an ice-cold drink, and enjoying a meal on the patio with friends and loved ones?
This year I started thinking about expanding my patio with the addition of an outdoor kitchen. I’ve visited friends with some pretty impressive setups and have a bit of grill envy, and I want to seriously improve my outdoor dining experiences to make the most of my backyard space. Most parties end up in the kitchen anyway, so why not take the whole party outside?
A fully functioning outdoor kitchen eliminates all that running back and forth inside the house and allows you to fully enjoy your guests and summer activities.
After doing a bit of research, I’ve found there are some essential questions you need to ask yourself and some important factors you need to know before you get started. For example, did you know there are prefabricated outdoor kitchen options for sale through Sam’s, Costco, and the
other big-box stores that only require a minor amount of assembly? The downside is that they can look inexpensive, even though they cost anywhere from $4,000 to $7,000. They’d probably be more than adequate for a small condo or townhouse, but to boost the value of your home, a custom outdoor kitchen is usually the best way to go.
Keep in mind that a custom outdoor kitchen becomes a fixture of the home, and therefore all of the outdoor appliances typically have to stay if you sell your house. So picking out your favorite outdoor cooking appliances is where you should start on a project like this because they determine the size and scale of the project. When I refer to appliances, we’re talking about things like:
• gas grill
• side burners
• stainless steel griddle
• pellet smoker
• Big Green Egg or other grill
• pizza oven
• outdoor refrigerator
• Kegerator
The prices of these appliances can vary greatly depending on the make, model, and brand, so keep your budget in mind when ordering because the cost can multiply quickly. Ask yourself questions about the features that are important to you, such as, Do I want the grill with the built-in thermometer and infrared burners, along with lights, sound, and Bluetooth controls? Do I want a Big Green Egg grill or would I rather
Must-haves for some homeowners are an outdoor pizza oven and Big Green Egg.
have a Kamado? What size griddle do I need? Do I prefer the taste of food cooked on a charcoal grill versus a gas grill? Do I want to use propane or natural gas? Do I want a countertopmodel pizza oven or a stone-built custom one? Do I want beer spouts and, if so, how many? Do I need a wine chiller? How big of a pellet smoker do I need?
Once you pick out your must-have appliances, you can start to plan the layout. But first, consider things like where the sun sets and what part of your yard gets the hottest in order to determine the best location for your outdoor kitchen. Typically, outdoor kitchens need a pergola or roof covering them to extend the life of the kitchen and to shield both it and you from the elements. A covering also makes the space seem intentional and like more of an outdoor room. During the planning stage, also consider if you want in-line gas, electricity, and water running to the area, as you’ll want to have those details nailed down pre-construction. Also, do you need to have more concrete poured to add to your pad or need to extend your deck?
Some other important details you’ll definitely appreciate when enjoying the space, which impact the layout, are a trash can drawer, a working sink, storage drawers for spices and grilling utensils, a proper preparation area, fans, heaters, lighting, Bluetooth speakers for music, a TV, and mood lighting. Are you considering a bar area with stools? Do you have room for a patio table for eating? There are so many details to consider!
An experienced DIY-er could probably build out this new space, but for most of us it’s a daunting task and we need the assistance of a skilled expert. A good contractor will advise you, for example, that all of the framing and materials need to be weather- and heat-resistant. Instead of wood framing, consider metal framing for longevity. All the drawers and cabinets need to be stainless steel or composite material and can be ordered individually, depending on your needs. After building the skeleton structure, the contractor would cover the framing using outdoor materials such as tile, metal, concrete, stucco, or rock. This is the fun part where you can choose design elements that match your home and esthetic. I myself love a rustic metal, some barn wood, or stacked rock. And as far as countertops are concerned, I think either granite, tile, or concrete are a great way to go.
Safety considerations are also vital. Keep in mind that any pressure-treated wood contains chemicals that are not food-safe and that you want to keep wood substructures away from grills and smokers because exterior appliances don’t have an insulated exterior shell and can get very hot. This is an especially critical consideration if your outdoor kitchen will be attached to the back of your house. You don’t want any appliances directly up against your house in case they catch on fire.
The entire project cost can be pretty hefty, especially if you want all the bells and whistles, so keep a running price list and stay within your budget. Get estimates from multiple contractors and make sure they have experience with outdoor kitchens. They need to have a good knowledge of the safety concerns involved. A lot of contractors can provide you with a computer-generated rendering of the kitchen so you have something to actually look at and you can make adjustments if needed. People generally have a hard time visualizing the
Covering your outdoor kitchen and dining space not only protects them from the elements but also makes the space feel more like an actual room.
project, so pictures and drawings are a big help. Also, let the contractor mark the general size of the proposed kitchen with tape or spray paint so you can get a better feeling for how big it will be. Discuss with your contractor the various price points of different materials and finishes, as material costs can make or break a project.
I hope I’ve given you a good place to start if you’re considering building an outdoor kitchen. It’s a big project with lots of particulars to consider, but it can add so much value to your home and so much fun to your backyard entertaining. Start planning now and maximize your outdoor living for years to come.
Tips for Hiring a Top-Notch Contractor For Your New Outdoor Kitchen
Depending on the size and complexity of your new outdoor kitchen project, you’ll likely be looking to hire a contractor, which can be tricky. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years.
• Word of mouth is key when it comes to finding a skilled, experienced, trustworthy contractor. Ask your friends, family, neighbors, etc. for recommendations.
• Good contractors are booked weeks or months in advance, so plan accordingly.
• Ask for pictures of their work or their portfolio.
• Ask for references from former clients and actually call them. Most are happy to talk.
• Check the contractor’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and check out their Google and Yelp reviews.
• Social media sites like Facebook are a public forum where you can read about clients’ experiences both good and bad.
• Never pay a contractor upfront. Most will only ask you to cover material costs in advance.
Jennifer Almand is the owner of Almand Specialty Painting & Design. She specializes in kitchen cabinets, painted furniture, murals, custom art, and faux finishes, and also does decorative tile work, organization, and consults on colors, fabrics, finishes, and fixtures. She and her husband, Rick, live with their four dogs in Kingston, GA. Find her on Facebook or call 706-346-1590.
FIND THE BALANCE SHARE THE LOVE
C’mon, Get Happy
SAVOR THE MOMENT
Some famous folks share their thoughts on finding true joy.
THINK POSITIVE, STAY SAVOR THE LITTLE THINGS
“The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give.”
— Oprah Winfrey
DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL TAKE IT ONE DAY TAKE IT ONE DAY LOVE IS ALL
Your car broke down. Work is stressful. The last of your kids just moved out of the house. And then you watch the news. Yep, it’s sometimes hard to stay positive these days. But happiness, as they say, is a state of mind. Here are some tips on discovering your bliss from the likes of Oprah, Gandhi, and Princess Di.
Find the balance
“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Share the love
“The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give.” — Oprah Winfrey
Savor the moment
“It’s great to reminisce about good memories of my past. It was enjoyable when it was today. So learning to enjoy today has two benefits: it gives me happiness right now, and it becomes a good memory later.” — George Foreman
Think positive, stay positive
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature.” — Marcus Aurelius
Savor the little things
“The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.” — Henry Ward Beecher
Do unto others
“Nothing brings me more happiness than trying to help the most vulnerable people in society. It is a goal and an essential part of my life — a kind of destiny.” — Princess Diana
Don’t sweat the small stuff
“What makes me really happy is — what makes me free I think is the best word to use — is the feeling that nothing is of that much importance. We’re pretty insignificant little dots in our vast universe. I have a saying for myself: ‘Nothing to win, nothing to prove, nothing to win, nothing to lose, no sweat, no big deal.’” — Anthony Hopkins
Take it one day at a time
“I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.” — Groucho Marx
Love is all you need
“Life in common among people who love each other is the ideal of happiness.” — George Sand
STAY POSITIVE THINGS STUFF
Find your purpose
Challenge yourself
“Happiness lies … in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
The Happiest Countries in the World
“True happiness ... is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” — Helen Keller
Take action
Fake it till you make it
“Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” — Abraham Lincoln
Do what you love
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
“Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.” — Dalai Lama
Start anew
“Every day is a new day, and you’ll never be able to find happiness if you don’t move on.” — Carrie Underwood
According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, a publication of the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, UK, these are the top 10 happiest countries on the planet. The U.S. ranked #23.
1. Finland
Denmark
Iceland
Sweden
Israel
Netherlands
Norway
Luxembourg
Switzerland
According to the report, these are the top six factors that contribute to higher national happiness.
• Freedom to make life choices
• GDP per capita
• Generosity
• Freedom from corruption
• Social support
• Healthy life expectancy
“Happiness lies … in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.”
In December 2021, Georgia Museums Inc. (GMI) unveiled a new jewel in its cultural crown, the Savoy Automobile Museum, and in this short time frame, attendance has surpassed more than 200,000 visitors. During construction of the museum, which is nestled in a 37-acre park-like setting along State Route 20 in Cartersville, the town was abuzz with rumors such as, “We’re getting a Costco!” Instead, you’ll find the Savoy, a mecca for car lovers with a sleek, modern European architecture that creates a visually stunning first impression.
The museum derives its name from a rusty 1954 Plymouth Savoy that was discovered on the property during site preparation. Originally found with a tree growing from the trunk of the car, the vehicle was carefully removed and later repositioned in a prominent place by the building for all to see. And they even planted a new tree in its trunk to
complete the story.
As the newest program in the GMI family of museums, which includes the nearby Bartow History Museum, Booth Western Art Museum, and Tellus Science Museum, Savoy is helping to bolster Cartersville’s claim as Georgia’s “Museum City.” But Savoy is more than just a simple display of cars. It’s an interwoven tapestry of history, artistry, and community engagement. Here’s what makes it a must-see destination for any Northwest Georgia visitor.
Connecting Through Culture
The museum’s mission statement, “Connecting people to the cultural diversity of the automobile,” is accomplished through exhibitions of cars from around the world, and also through its presentation series, called Tireside Chats, which showcase cars and their history. In addition, informational reader boards and Highlights Tours
After two-and-a-half short years, Cartersville’s Savoy Automobile Museum has proven it’s an attraction to get revved up about.
go beyond the basics to delve into the historical, social, and cultural factors that impacted the automotive industry and the world. A comprehensive approach that makes history come alive gives visitors — even the ones who might not be big car buffs — a deeper appreciation for not only the vehicles themselves, but also the reasons for their creation, and in some cases, their demise.
The museum’s schedule of rotating exhibitions gives visitors the perfect excuse to return again and again. Of the five separate galleries, only one is dedicated to Savoy-owned cars, and it remains relatively stable with minor
Visitors admire the bevy of beauties on display during the museum’s annual Connection Car Show.
This sexy 1957 Chevy Corvette convertible surely would have turned heads as it cruised down the street.
changes made throughout the year. The remaining four galleries have frequently changing themes.
Dynamic Exhibits
Savoy is committed to keeping it fresh. Take, for example, a recent standout exhibition called “Women in Motorsports,” which opened in March and included tributes to influential women like Shirley Muldowney of NHRA drag racing fame and NASCAR trailblazer Janet Guthrie. They’re prime examples of successful female drivers who endured discrimination and a lack of support to pave the way for other women in the industry. “Women in Motorsports” was the first of two planned exhibitions featuring women, past and present, whose impact on motorsports is important but often overlooked.
Other notable exhibitions have included “Evolution of BIGFOOT,” which was dedicated to monster trucks and allowed the museum to host its first-ever children’s event, with participation exceeding all expectations. Last year’s summer-themed exhibition of convertibles with their tops down was also a big hit. For the first time in his career, well-known California car designer Chip Foose loaned a museum a collection of his personal vehicles, allowing Savoy to create the exhibition “What’s in Chip’s Garage.” “Rolling Sculpture” showcased prewar 1930s
European art deco-styled cars. An exhibition of little-known but historically significant Czechoslovakianbuilt Tatra cars and the “British Invasion” exhibition brought in vehicles from around the world, helping to fulfill the museum’s mission of highlighting the cultural impact of the automobile.
Currently on display are special cars, both foreign and domestic, from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, some of which have participated in America’s longestrunning motorsport event.
Beyond the Exhibits
Savoy’s dedication to automotive culture extends beyond cars. The museum also houses an impressive collection of original automotive-themed artwork. Imagine, for examine, a piece in which a group of artists used 903 Rubik’s Cubes to create a portrait of a 1946 Mercury Woodie Wagon. And easy to miss is the largest piece of art in the building,
a giant wheel affixed to the ceiling, so when you enter the café, be sure to look up.
The Savoy Automobile Museum isn’t just a place to admire cars; it’s a hub of activity. Continuing with the theme of art, Savoy hosts Sip n’ Paint evenings throughout the year. Participants eat, drink, socialize, and paint with assistance from a visiting artist. It’s not guaranteed that your masterpiece will grace the museum’s walls someday, but you never know where the next budding Rembrandt will come from. Also, while strolling through the museum, pay attention to what appears to be wood paneling throughout the building.
The unique artwork shown here is a massive oil on canvas created by Atlanta-born artist Mark Boomershine.
During one of Savoy’s Tireside Chats, the executive director of the Brumos Collection in Jacksonville, Florida, brought along a history-making 1963 Watson Indy Roadster.
It isn’t veneer or contact paper; it’s all hand-painted.
There are also Trivia Nights that provide attendees a chance to match wits and discover who knows the answers to some of the most obscure car questions. Monthly high-definition car-themed movies, shown on the big screen in the presentation theater, provide another form of entertainment for the public to enjoy.
Another important aspect of the museum is as an event venue. During regular hours, and even after hours, the museum hosts corporate, public, and private sector events. Private dining rooms with full catering capabilities, a fully-equipped presentation theater with the largest curved screen in the Southeast, and museum exhibition availability make the museum a popular event site.
Looking to the Future
Savoy’s next big event, The Connection car show, is scheduled for Saturday, August 17, on the showgrounds of the museum. It will be the first opportunity to incorporate the newly built
15,000-square-foot outdoor pavilion, where visitors and families can enjoy a meal or a little shade while visiting the show.
The rest of 2024 will feature rotating exhibitions featuring moonshine cars, prominent Packards, Japanese collectible cars, and supercars. A second exhibition from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum will showcase race winners from different decades, including the first Indy 500 winner, Ray Harroun’s 1911 Marmon Wasp. Movie nights, special guest speakers, presentations, and other upcoming events are listed on the museum’s website.
Plan a Visit Soon
Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast, art lover, or simply curious about Cartersville’s cultural offerings, a visit to Savoy Automobile Museum is a must. An often-asked question concerning the museum is, “Why Cartersville?” Well, you can’t spell Cartersville without “car” or “art,” and Savoy Automobile Museum has both. If your travel plans have you cruising
along I-75 in Northwest Georgia and you’re looking for a unique attraction, drop by and see what’s new at the Savoy.
For More Info
Savoy Automobile Museum
3 Savoy Lane, Cartersville, GA 30120 770-416-1500 | savoymuseum.org
Mary Agrusa is the curatorial research assistant at the Savoy Automobile Museum. Her first car was an early ’50s-era VW Beetle that she had painted bright yellow. Consequently, she says she never got away with anything!
Shirley Muldowney, aka The First Lady of Drag Racing, stands outside a display of some of her race memorabilia during the “Women in Motorsports” exhibit.
Front and center here is one of only 9,000 DeLoreans made before production was halted in 1983.
The Booth Museum Photography Guild provides education, an Exhibition in the museum, and three shows in the Cartersville Downtown Gallery annually.
• Monthly Speaker Meetings on the 2nd Saturday mornings at the museum and on Zoom
• Digital Image Reviews Saturday mornings: Group peer reviews of your photographs via zoom
• Dozens of hours of classes, instruction, and workshops annually for all levels of photography
Age 62 and Older
Heatherwood is a beautifully designed three level, sixty-eight unit one bedroom complex with units available for the mobility impaired. Heatherwood includes the following amenities:
Automatic Entry Door with Security System
Rent based on 30% of Adjusted Monthly Income
All Appliances Included
Private Mailbox Inside Building
All Utilities Included
Laundry Facilities
Individually Controlled Heat and Air Conditioning
Bulk Rate Cable Fee
In-House Maintenence
Walk-In Closets & Kitchen Pantry Bus Route
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS FOR INDEPENDENT SENIORS
~ Rent Based on your Income and all Utilities Included “Each Unit Provides You with a Quiet, Private Environment and a Homey Atmosphere.”
Heatherwood has a sunroom with deck and patio suitable for family parties and other activities. There are spacious landscaped grounds with a beautiful gazebo.
PATRICK
Let’s Eat Out!
Three delicious summertime recipes perfect for picnic or patio dining.
Are you craving cool summery foods for a picnic in the park or to partake on your patio? These recipes are just the ticket, as they require no cooking, incorporate fresh summer ingredients, and are a colorful array of deliciousness.
Cucumber, Tomato, and Green Bean Salad
Serves 4 | The no-mayo dressing is low calorie and a safe alternative for picnic temperatures.
1 lb. Persian or English cucumbers, halved lengthwise and sliced ¼-inch thick diagonally
6 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
4 oz. green beans, trimmed and sliced on thin diagonal
3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 Fresno chile, seeds removed, finely chopped
¾ cup unsalted roasted peanuts, divided
3 tbsp. (or more) fresh lime juice
1 tbsp. (or more) light brown sugar
1 tbsp. (or more) fish sauce or soy sauce
Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, green beans, garlic, and chile in a large bowl. Finely chop ½ cup of the peanuts and add to the bowl. Whisk lime juice, brown sugar, and fish or soy sauce in a small bowl until sugar is dissolved. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss until well coated and vegetables have wilted slightly, about 30 seconds. Taste and season with more lime juice, brown sugar, or fish sauce as needed. Salad should be equal parts sour and salty, with sweet close behind. Transfer salad to a platter. Coarsely chop the remaining ¼ cup peanuts and scatter over salad.
Antipasto Salad
Serves 4 | Salami makes this a meal; omitting it or substituting it with albacore tuna packed in water are delicious options.
Green Goddess Tuna Salad Sandwiches
Serves 4 | This recipe makes a lot of dressing, so add a small amount to the tuna, increasing as needed, and save any extra.
¼ cup basil leaves
¼ cup parsley leaves
¼ cup tarragon leaves
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
2 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 5-oz. cans albacore tuna in water, drained
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely grated
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
½ cup mixed tender herbs, coarsely chopped (such as celery leaves, basil, parsley, or dill)
4 English muffins, split and lightly toasted (or bread of your choice)
1 cup baby arugula (optional)
Purée basil, parsley, tarragon, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon zest, 2 tbsp. lemon juice, and olive oil in a blender until very smooth and pale green. Add tuna to medium bowl and break it up using a fork. Add dressing to tuna in desired amount. Mix in celery, shallot, and garlic, then season with salt and lots of pepper. Toss chopped mixed herbs with remaining 1 tsp. lemon juice in small bowl. Drizzle with a little oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss again to make an herb salad. Build sandwiches with English muffins, tuna salad (you may have extra), herb salad, and arugula if using.
TASTY ALTERNATIVES: Omit the bread and turn this into a salad or add it to your favorite pasta. You can also use any leftover dressing as a marinade for another dish.
1 garlic clove, finely grated
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
½ tsp. crushed dried oregano
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
4 jarred roasted red peppers, drained and sliced into strips
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 14-oz. can artichoke hearts, drained, patted dry, and halved
1 8-oz. ball fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces (or use mozzarella balls)
4 oz. salami, preferably fennel, thinly sliced Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 lemon
1½ cups basil leaves
Mix garlic, oil, vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes in large bowl. Add roasted peppers, onion, artichoke, mozzarella, and salami and toss to coat.
Season with salt and black pepper. Let sit, tossing occasionally, for at least 15 minutes. Zest half the lemon over the salad and add basil; toss to combine.
Season with more salt and pepper if needed.
PREP IN ADVANCE: This salad, without the lemon zest and basil, can be made a day ahead of time. Just cover and chill and then add the lemon and basil when ready to serve.
Kathy Patrick is a retired personal chef in Rome, Georgia. She loves cooking, travel, waterskiing, stand-up paddling, and bicycling with her husband, Berry College professor Martin Cipollini.
Kathy is a board member of Rome Little Theatre and vice president of the Georgia chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation.
The meals pictured are variations of the recipes featured in this article.
The Thrill of the Grill
BY ROBERT SMYTH
When I was a boy, one of the rites of passage to manhood was mastering the barbecue grill and having the spatula duties passed down from father to son. You’d watch your dad smother the charcoal with practically a whole bottle of lighter fluid and listen as he explained that the coals had to be just right to get even heat.
I have fond memories of watching beautiful platters of hamburgers and hot dogs come out of the kitchen and the sound they’d make when they hit the hot grill. But with my dad at the helm, somewhere from that point on a transformation would take place and they’d go from delectable burgers and franks to shriveled, well-done briquettes. They all looked like they’d been kissed by the flames of hell, and depending on which side of the grill they came from, were either diamond-hard or still mooing.
From guarding time-honored family recipes to operating newfangled, high-tech grills, there’s more to cooking out than just wielding a spatula.
For the most part, and especially in the South, there seems to be the notion that if you have the Y chromosome you also have the BBQ chromosome and naturally know what to do around the grill. But I have several friends who are firemen, and they’ve told me horror stories about outdoor cooking novices and their mishaps. Every year they’re sent out to whole decks on fire because people tried to fry a frozen turkey right next to their house. (If you don’t know why that’s a bad thing, please immediately step away from the grill and fryer!)
“There seems to be the notion that if you have the Y chromosome you also have the BBQ chromosome.”
Fast forward to today and I’m now the grill master. I love grilling or smoking just about anything I can get my hands on, and, with today’s advanced grill technology, it’s gotten easier to master the technique. Gone are the days of charcoal and lighter fluid and waiting on the coals to get right. With my snazzy Pit Boss pellet grill, I just plug it in, set a temp, and the grill does the rest. It even has Bluetooth capabilities so I can adjust the cook temp from the comfort of my recliner. What’s next, an AI robot grill that follows you around the yard and gives you updates on how the meat is doing? Sort of like a Big Green Egg and R2-D2 combined. Someone needs to patent that idea quick.
You can have all kinds of outdoor cooking experiences now. Blackstones, ceramic grills, turkey fryers, auto smokers, hibachi grills … you can pretty much cook anything outside that you want these days. Except salad. Outdoor salad-maker just sounds wrong.
Some people are real fanatics about grilling. They won’t share their secret sauce or rub, they don’t want you standing too close to the grill, and they certainly don’t want to hear that some else’s smoked butt is better than theirs. I have a brother-in-law who has a secret sauce recipe that he guards with his life. To be fair, it’s awesome and tastes good on everything, but it’s almost come to fisticuffs among the family over who’d get the next batch to take home as a prize.
All that said, I’ll leave you with some advice if you’re new to the grilling world and/or are shopping for your first grill. Bigger isn’t always better (can’t believe I’m saying that!), so you don’t have to buy a grill that you could land a plane on. And you don’t have to have all the fancy rubs and sauces or a secret recipe. Let the grill and the meat speak for itself. A little salt, pepper, and garlic and onion powder go a long way, and Piggly Wiggly has a lot of good BBQ sauces. Remember too to give the pigs and cows a pass every now and again and try some veggies and seafood on the grill. The internet is loaded with great recipes. Well, now I’m hungry, so it’s off to the grill. Wish me luck.
A TASTE OF NW GEORGIA
• Call ahead to pick your fresh hot meal at our convenient pick up window located just inside the front door before you enter the restaurant or enjoy delivery thru Door Dash or Dinner Delivered!!
• Bakery Case with Fresh Baked Desserts, Cookies, Brownies, and Cakes.
• We Cater events big and small. Call for a quote.
Surrounded by natural splendor on the banks of Eagle Lake, the simple things in life are made even better at The Spires. With all the serenity of our 27,000 wooded acres yet all the vitality of our location at Berry College, it’s second nature to explore new opportunities and make genuine connections when you’re here.
This spectacular setting is brought to life by resort-style amenities, chef-prepared dining, friendly neighbors and a carefree lifestyle — plus the assurance of quality care available on-site if ever needed.
Come see our breathtaking lake and mountain views for yourself — call 706-672-6055 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.
