Information please 2015 e edition by Community Newspapers

Information Please

A LOOK INTO FANNIN COUNTY, GEORGIA & COPPER BASIN, TENNESSEE

2015-2016 A special publication of The News Observer in partnership with the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce

B L U E

R I D G E

G E O R G I A

Family Fun!

From blossom tours in April and strawberries in May, to pick-your-own events all summer long, there’s always lots happening here at Mercier Orchards. We have classes, special events, and farm winery tastings. We’re the #1 tourist destination in the region!

U-Pick

Season! April

Blossom Tours

May

Strawberries

June

Blueberries

July

Blueberries

Aug

Apples

Sept

Apples

Oct

Apples

Nov

Apples

Subject to availability: Please call for details. You can check us out on Facebook and visit our website for the most current ripening dates!

Shop Online at Mercier-Orchards.com

The Bakery & Deli Fried Pies Fritters Breakfast Lunch Dinner To Go Items

We’re so close! Take Hwy 5 North from the McDonald’s at Hwy 515—we’re 2 miles ahead on the left.

Plus: Children’s Bakery Classes, Candy Kitchen, Catering and so much more!

Gourmet Farm Market & Gifts Hard Cider Tasting Room! 706-632-3411 We’re Open All Year! Jams & Jellies, Gifts, Speciality Shopping, Mercier Orchards Merchandise, Sample Counter

Since 1890

Abernathy’s FURNITURE

“You marry the girl,we’ll furnish the home!” • Rustic Cabin Furniture Delivery % Financing • Traditional Home Furnishings Available Available • Contemporary Home Furnishings • Whirlpool & KitchenAid Home Appliances • Simmons Beautyrest Mattresses • Electronics • Wall Art and Accessories

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3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, Georgia

706-492-3071

AbernathysFurniture.com

6.9 miles North of Blue Ridge on Hwy. 5 toward McCaysville

Monday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

AGE IS A STATE OF MIND The younger you feel the less you mind. The skin is your largest organ and vital to your body’s health...

Don’t take your skin for granted. We treat all aspects of the epidermis – medical and cosmetic.

BL UE R I D G E

DERMATOLOGY

Skin and Laser

101 RiverStone Vista, Suite 215, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-258-4118 · 706-946-4227 · BlueRidgeDermAndLaser.com

r. Mills is a graduate of the Loma Linda University School of Medicine. He completed his post-graduate training in dermatology at the Skin Cancer and Cosmetic Dermatology Center and is board certified. Dr. Mills is a sustaining member of the Medical Dermatology Society, as well as a member of the American Association of Physician Specialists. Let Dr. Mills and staff help you!

OFFICE SKIN TESTING Diagnosis is very important and may require: Philip R. Mills, MD

· Skin biopsy · KOH microscopic examination · Skin allergy patch testing · Dermatoscopy (no additional cost) · In-office MOHS procedure

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Jammie Savugot, FNP-C

Information Please 2015-2016 Annual magazine offers comprehensive look at Fannin County, Georgia & Copper Basin, Tennessee ANIMALS Fannin County Animal Control................................ 64 Humane Society...................................................... 66 TriState Pet Rescue................................................... 67 ANNUAL EVENTS Arts In The Park.................................................. 20, 22 Blues Crawl.............................................................. 22 Blues Train............................................................... 22 Classic Car Cruise-In................................................ 20 Christmas Parade..................................................... 25 Community Yard Sale & Craft Fair............................ 20 Copper Basin River Fest........................................... 21 Fall Fest Arts & Crafts................................................ 22 Fourth of July Fireworks.................................... 20, 21 Friends of the Library Book Sale........................ 20, 22 Halloween Safe Zone......................................... 22, 24 Kiwanis Rodeo......................................................... 21 Light Up Blue Ridge................................................ 25 Light Up the Basin................................................... 24 Labor Day BBQ................................................... 21, 68 Marching Festival.................................................... 22 Miners Homecoming.............................................. 20 Old Fashioned 4th of July....................................... 21 Old Time July 4th Parade......................................... 21 Paws in the Park....................................................... 22 Ramp Festival.......................................................... 86 Resolution Run........................................................ 25 Turkey Trot................................................................ 24 Veterans Parade & Walk........................................... 24 ATTRACTIONS Appalachian Trail.............................................45 Benton MacKaye........................................20, 44 Blue Ridge Downtown Farmers Market ��76 Chattahoochee Forest National Hatchery �� 56 Downtown Blue Ridge Park..................................... 38 Fannin County Veterans Memorial Park............ 42, 60 Fannin County Sports Complex............................... 36 Ocoee Whitewater Center........................................ 54 Toccoa River Park / McCaysville................................ 40

GOVERNMENT Local City & County Government.....................97, 104 State Government.................................................103 Motor Vehicles...............................................102, 104 Taxes..............................................................100, 104 UGA Cooperative Extension..................................... 82 HEALTH CARE Copper Basin Medical Center.................................. 88 Fannin Regional Hospital........................................ 87 Georgia Mountains Health...................................... 90 RiverStone Medical Campus................................... 91 ORGANIZATIONS American Legion...................................................... 57 Artist Guild............................................................... 63 AMVets.................................................................... 57 Back Country Horseman of N. Georgia �� 57 Benton MacKaye Trail Association........................... 58 Blood Assurance...................................................... 58 Blue Ridge Business Association............................. 58 Blue Ridge Mtns. Arts Assoc..................................... 26 Blue Ridge Community Theater................................ 28, 58 Blue Ridge Carvers.................................................. 58 Blue Ridge Homemakers........................................ 59 Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club......................................... 58 Blue Ridge Lions Club............................................. 59 Blue Ridge Lodging Association.............................. 58 Churches.........................................................105-113 Copperhill Kiwanis Club.......................................... 59 Copper Basin Healthcare Organization �� 59 Craddock Center...................................................... 63 Disabled American Veterans/Transportation �� 59 Empty Stocking Program......................................... 59 Fannin Chamber of Commerce.......................70, 71, 114-137 Fannin County Co-op............................................... 80 Fannin County Development Authority.............72, 73, 74, 75 Fannin County Farm Bureau.................................... 59 Fannin County Fire Explorers................................... 59 Fannin County Heritage Foundation....................... 59 Fannin County Recreation Dept............................... 36 Fannin County Scholarship Foundation �� 84 Fannin Regional Hospital Auxiliary......................... 60 Feed Fannin....................................................... 60, 85

Gateway to the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mtns ��60 Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club.......................62 Georgia Mountain Research & Education ��60 Georgia Mountains Hospice....................................62 Habitat for Humanity...............................................62 March of Dimes.......................................................62 NARFE......................................................................62 North Georgia Honor Guard....................................62 North Georgia Master Gardeners............................62 N. Georgia Mtn. Crisis Network...............................62 Polk County Chamber..............................................86 Rotary Club of Blue Ridge.......................................62 Smokie Mountain Melodies....................................63 Snack in a Backpack...........................................63, 77 TriCities Business Association............................63, 78 Tri-State EMC Operation Round-Up.........................81 Tri-State Model Railroaders......................................63 Trout Unlimited.......................................................63 Veterans of Foreign Wars.........................................60 RECREATION Blue Ridge Lake/Marina..........................................48 Boating Laws...........................................................48 Camping Experiences..............................................49 Fishing & Hunting License......................................35 Golf..........................................................................46 Hiking..........................................................20, 44, 45 Pickin’ At Horseshoe Bend.................................20, 25 Pools........................................................................38 Ocoee Water Release Schedule...............................52 Rafting / Whitewater Fun.........................................53 SCHOOLS Area Colleges...........................................................94 Copper Basin...........................................................95 Fannin County.........................................................92 Mountain Education Charter High School ��91 UTILITIES Power.................................................................81, 96 Water/Sewer.................................................... 96

The News Observer IS PUBLISHED ANNUALLY IN MAY BY

P.O. Box 989 • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | 706-632-2019 | Fax 706-632-2577 Email: news@thenewsobserver.com |  Website: www.thenewsobserver.com Publisher: Glenn Harbison; Editor: Brian K. Finnicum; Staff Writers: 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, Samantha Oliver; Composition Staff: Nathan Beaver; Assistant Circulation Manager: Kyle King. 6 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ASSOCIATIONS Blue Ridge Community Theater........................................101 Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association................................. 2 Fannin County Chamber of Commerce...............................70-71 Fannin Chamber of Commerce Buy Local................................8, 113 Fannin Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory....................................................117-137 Fannin County Development Authority....................................72, 75 Fannin County Co-Op............................................................. 111 Tri-Cities Business Association............................................. 68 ATTORNEY Angela Stewart DeLorme, P.C............................................... 21 Blue Ridge Law...................................................................... 7 AUTOMOTIVE Mountain Valley Motors...................................................... 36 North GA Ford...................................................................... 81 BANKS/FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS United Community Bank...................................................140 Copper Basin Federal Credit Union..................................... 97 BARBER SHOP / HAIR SALON Blue Ridge Barber Shop...................................................... 96 Lisa Mitchell Hair Design & Nails........................................ 91 BED & BREAKFAST Fernbrook Inn....................................................................102 Blue Ridge Inn..................................................................... 88 CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT Jackie E. Seabolt, CPA.......................................................... 13 Randall C. Brown & Associates, P.C...................................... 57 COMMUNICATIONS TDS Telecom.........................................................................11 CONTRACTOR Manners Construction...........................................................86 Tommy Wosyluk....................................................................18 Wolf Creek Builders............................................................. 77 FOOD Blue Ridge Brewery...........................................................103 Blue Ridge Grocery.............................................................. 16 Harvest on Main.................................................................. 16 L&L Beanery......................................................................... 14 Masseria Kitchen & Bar........................................................ 16 Serenity Garden Café........................................................... 56 Serenity Garden Café Riverside........................................... 56 Sue’s Best Burger in Town................................................... 44 Taste of Amish...................................................................... 32 The Cook’s Farm................................................................... 16 The Trailer Drive-In............................................................... 20 The Vine Wine Bar & Bistro.................................................. 78 Toccoa Riverside Restaurant................................................ 29 HEALTH CARE Appalachian Physicians Group..........................................139 Bear Eye Care....................................................................... 33 Blue Ridge Dermatology Skin & Laser................................... 5

Copper Basin Medical Center.............................................. 47 Dan Eichenbaum, MD Eye Physician................................... 89 Dean D. Worthingstun, DO Hand Surgery.........................105 Fannin Regional Hospital..................................................139 Georgia Mountains Hospice..............................................110 Life Care of Copper Basin.................................................... 30 North Georgia Hearing Aid Specialists................................ 38 North Georgia Medical Center Dr. Rowan............................ 59 Pruitt Health Blue Ridge...................................................... 99 Pruitt Health Community Services ....................................107 Pruitt Health Home First ...................................................107 Pruitt Health Hospice........................................................109 Ronnie L. Hold, DDS............................................................ 37 Win Pound, MD ................................................................100 HOME Abernathy’s Home Furnishings............................................. 4 Ace Hardware of Blue Ridge................................................ 28 Ace Hardware of Ellijay........................................................ 93 Applied Technologies Resources Spring Pure....................... 9 Automated Creations........................................................... 92 Budget Blinds...................................................................... 48 Julie Ford Designs............................................................... 66 King Heating & Air............................................................... 39 North Georgia Spas............................................................. 67 North GA Stone & Outdoor Living........................................ 27 Spa and Deck Creations....................................................... 65 Terminator Pest Control Service........................................... 10 Tri-State Heating & Air.......................................................... 49 Trimble Kelly Studios........................................................... 22 INSURANCE Dickey McCay Insurance...................................................... 26 Farmers Insurance............................................................... 50 Insurance Mart.................................................................... 63 Kevin Panter Insurance........................................................ 17 Thomas Insurance.............................................................110 LODGING 224 West Main.................................................................... 16 Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals.................................................... 23 Mountain Laurel Cabin Rentals........................................... 62 Mountain Top Cabin Rentals............................................... 43 My Mountain Cabin Rentals................................................ 58 Nevaeh Cabin Rentals......................................................... 77 Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals......................................... 61 The Cast & Blast Inn.................................................................. 85 NEWSPAPERS The News Observer............................................................138 ORCHARD Mercier Orchards................................................................... 3 REAL ESTATE Ayla Haney, Tru Mountain Realty...........................................62 America’s Home Place...........................................................52 Anchor Brokerage..................................................................45 Annie Boland_Sotheby’s International Realty..................... 79

A PPA LAC H I AN

TI TL E ,

I NC.

Country Corners Realty........................................................ 23 Donna M. O’Neal_Coldwell Banker..................................... 42 Judy Aselton_Century 21 In The Mountains.....................106 Julie Fitts Queen_ReMax Town & Country.......................... 98 Kenny Schrader_North GA Cabins & Land........................... 86 Kim Knutzen _Harry Norman.............................................. 69 Mountain Tracks Realty........................................................ 46 Nicki Tipton Cornerstone Properties.................................... 55 Rachel Callihan-Cowart_Harry Norman.............................. 15 Sandy Wilbanks_Sharp Real Estate Services....................... 61 Trinity Custom Homes......................................................... 82 RECREATION Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides........................................... 91 Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters............................................. 95 Lake Blue Ridge Marina...................................................... 19 Noontootla Creek Farms...................................................... 27 Ocoee Rafting...................................................................... 12 Toccoa Valley Campground & Tubing................................... 84 Toccoa Wilderness Tubing.................................................... 80 Zipline Canopy Tours........................................................... 12 RETAIL 3 Monkeys Antique & Auction House.................................. 25 Ain’t What It Used To Be...................................................... 54 Blue Ridge Adventure Wear................................................ 53 Blue Ridge Coin Shop......................................................... 34 Blue Ridge Pawn Shop........................................................ 24 Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Gift Shop....................................... . 41 Cohutta Country Store......................................................... 31 Crawford Collections Ladies Apparel & Accessories................... 94 Design Re-Find.................................................................... 22 Diamond Center of Blue Ridge........................................... 35 Havana Day Dreaming Cigars.............................................. 78 Hidden Treasures................................................................. 40 House of Threads................................................................. 90 Mercier Orchards................................................................... 3 Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods.............................................. 85 Pezrok Nature’s Artistry........................................................ 76 Presents of Mine.................................................................. 95 Rountree’s Furniture & Home Décor.................................... 83 Turning Leaf Fine Art Gallery................................................ 87 Wrapsody in Blue................................................................ 60 SERVICES Aska Farms of Blue Ridge.................................................... 19 Blue Ridge Coin Laundry...................................................106 BrotherHood Oil.................................................................. 64 Men on the Move.............................................................104 UTILITIES Tri-State Electric Membership Corp...................................108 VINEYARD/WINERY Mercier Orchards................................................................... 3 Serenberry Vineyards.......................................................... 51

D/ B/ A

B lue R idge l aw (706) 632-1900  (706) 258-2900 www.blueridgelaw.com The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 7

WELCOME

On the Cover

Information Please offers wealth of knowledge

elcome to the 23rd annual edition of Information Please, published by The News Observer newspaper in Blue Ridge, Georgia. This magazine strives to provide a comprehensive source of user-friendly information about Fannin County, Georgia, and the Copper Basin area of Polk County, Tennessee. We want you, our readers, to come away with an understanding of everything the area has to offer. We believe our mountains, rivers, streams, schools, civic groups and extensive variety of businesses offer assets found nowhere else. It also provides a nuts and bolts approach to the workings of government. We hope Information Please helps you develop a sense of the people

here. They are our greatest asset. The magazine contains the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory. With over 700 listings, this is an invaluable tool for anyone looking for any service. Information Please is a partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, designed for residents, newcomers, visitors and those looking to locate here. We all hope you find the magazine useful as you discover the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treasurers and learn about its people. 17,000 copies of this magazine are being distributed this year, over 3,000 of which will be through the Chamber of Commerce. Information Please continues to grow in acceptance and readership. Glenn Harbison Publisher

This Eastern Screech-Owl was spotted one recent snowy evening in the Hellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hollow area of northwestern Fannin County.

Invest in your community, your neighbors and yourself. 8 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

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RELAX AND ENJOY VISITORS CAN FIND EVERYTHING FROM FORESTS TO MUSEUMS

The view from Springer Mountain offers breath-taking relaxation.

Olympic Games canoe and kayak venue. The river’s Class IV rapids draw weekend adventurers and professionals alike. The entire area has turned into a tourist paradise from its roots in the railroad and mining industries. Fannin County was founded in 1854 from lands taken from Gilmer and Union Counties. It was named for Col. James Walker Fannin, who fought for the independence of Texas and was killed in the Goliad Massacre after the fall of the Alamo. The town of Blue Ridge, now the county seat, was established soon after the arrival of the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad in 1886. It flourished as businesses were established that counted on the railroad for their lifeblood. Soon, the bustling north Georgia town began attracting tourists. Today, Blue Ridge boasts unique shops, upscale restaurants, live community theES

ROL

OP ER ATO

GE O

OF RG IA

C ERTIFIE

hanks to excellent transportation corridors, travelers can find their way to Fannin County and the Copper Basin from Atlanta, Chattanooga, Knoxville or Asheville in about two hours. Just 90 miles north of Atlanta on Highway 515, Fannin County opens the door to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the southern tip of the Appalachians. Fannin County offers 385 square miles of unmatched relaxation. Travelers coming from Chattanooga or Knoxville enter the Cherokee National Forest via U.S. Highway 64 or State Route 68, while visitors making their way from Asheville also follow U.S. 64/74. No matter where you come from, you will find a variety of things to do that will make any vacation an event to remember, or make the idea of a new home a thought you cannot give up. Fannin County offers an outdoor paradise with 42 percent of the land claimed by the Chattahoochee National Forest and Cohutta Wilderness. Fannin County is also the Trout Capital of Georgia, known worldwide for its fishing. Water sports include canoeing and fishing on the Toccoa River. Blue Ridge Lake offers a 3,290-acre water enthusiast’s paradise. The Copper Basin area of Polk County, Tennessee, offers similar outdoor activities in the Cherokee National Forest and is home to the Ocoee River, site of the 1996

ater and an arts association recognized nationally for its excellence. Fannin County is filled with other, smaller communities rich in history. Among these is McCaysville, twin city of Copperhill, Tennessee. Copper was king in the Copper Basin area of Polk County, Tennessee, when McCaysville was founded in 1904. Copper was first discovered in 1843, bringing hundreds of people from as far away as New York looking to find their fortunes. Copperhill and Ducktown, the two largest towns in the Copper Basin, are rich in mining history. Visitors can explore the history of both counties at local museums. The Baugh House Museum in Blue Ridge and the Ducktown Basin Museum in Ducktown are well worth a visit to take a trip into the past. ■

Customer Service is our #1 Priority New Construction Pre-treatments

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706-632-2807 10 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

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ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE DON’T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY THESE TOP 12 ACTIVITIES

Canoeing can offer hours of family fun.

RELAXING

Take a Deep Breath and Relax …

urround yourself with beauty, relaxation and natural fun in Georgia’s Blue Ridge, only 90 miles north of Atlanta via I-575 and Hwy. 515, but a million miles away from the traffic, stress and anxiety of the city. With 106,000 acres located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge

is definitely the cure for whatever ails you. Rent a cozy cabin or a luxury mountain home, or stay in a bed & breakfast inn or hotel – and simply relax.

EXPLORING

Enjoy Mother Nature at Her Best

inter, summer, spring and fall, Georgia’s Blue Ridge is simply beautiful.

Come. Fly with Me. Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge is the newest zip course in town. Experience the beautiful North Georgia Mountains from the treetops, zip through a 165 acre tract of land with over one mile of cable. Rated one of the best zipline courses in the industry, you’ll have to see it to believe it. Come zip with us and you be the judge! al feet)

13 Zips (6,000 tot

2 Towers 35

& 75 feet hi

Located only 6 miles from Downtown Blue Ridge. Turn on Scenic Drive at Arby’s and follow the signs to 891 Old Cashes Valley Road Blue Ridge, GA RESERVATIONS REQUIRED IN ADVANCE

Let the adventure begin! 800-251-4800 ZipBlueRidge.com

Zipline Canopy Tours O F

B L U E

R I D G E

Ocoee Whitewater Rafting. Enough said. Ocoee Rafting is the oldest outfitter on the Ocoee River! For 39 years we have introduced thousands of our guests to the adventure of whitewater rafting. We’re the preferred company on one of the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in America.

800-251-4800 OcoeeRafting.com

Come join us for an adventure you’re gonna love, we guarantee it!

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY! 12 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Ride ’Em Cow

boy!

Winter is cool and quiet with occasional snow. Spring is best for trout fishing, wildflower displays, blooming dogwoods and native azaleas. Summer brings a profusion of mountain laurel and rhododendron blossoms, along with warmer water for tubing and rafting. Blue Ridge is the perfect place to celebrate the harvest and the glorious color of fall, or to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

SHOPPING

Fall in Love with Blue Ridge

ou will fall in love with the authentic mountain towns of Blue Ridge and McCaysville. Blue Ridge was once considered an elite health resort because of its pure mineral waters. It was established as a railroad town, with the depot at its heart. Visitors would ride the train to town,

eat dinner and take a leisurely walk to the mineral springs after dinner. Today, visitors still ride the train and take a walk along Main Street, enjoying the antique and specialty shops, galleries, restaurants, small town atmosphere and friendly people. A river runs through the quaint town of McCaysville, twin city with Copperhill, Tennessee. Stand in both states at one time at the Blue Line, which marks the spot where Georgia ends and Tennessee begins. Here the Toccoa River becomes the Ocoee River, flowing northward into Tennessee.

Downtown Blue Ridge is famous for its unique shops.

DINING

Have a taste of the mountains

xperiencing local cuisine is part of the trip when you visit Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blue Ridge. Now, Continued on page 14â&#x17E;Ł

Jackie E. Seabolt CPA, PC C E R T I F I E D P U B L I C A C C O U N TA N T

Tax Planning Tax Preparation Payroll Service Financial Statement Preparation New Business Consultations

6082 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 | 706-632-7850 office | jackie@seaboltcpa.com | www.seaboltcpa.com The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 13

➣Continued from page 13

with the addition of some wonderful new restaurants, the choices of dining spots are simply amazing, from gourmet to traditional Southern cuisine. There are some things you just have to eat when you come to the mountains, including local mountain trout, barbecue and Brunswick stew, grits and homemade biscuits. But there are also some fabulous eclectic new places to experience.

BUYING LOCAL

Enjoy homegrown, homemade goodies

uying local fruits, vegetables and homemade goodies is a big part of the Blue Ridge experience, especially when it includes a visit to Mercier Orchards, largest orchard in the Southeast and family farm for 65 years. You can pick apples off the tree, buy fresh apple cider and the best fried apple pies – a true farm to table experience. Treat yourself to a farm tractor

Considered by many as “The Best of Blue Ridge” 260 West Main Street Blue Ridge, GA

Passengers board the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a round-trip excursion.

tour and U-pick strawberries, sweet cherries, blueberries and apples in season. Also see Mountainview Orchards, a traditional apple orchard and fruit market, and eat good Southern food at the Cider House Café.

RIDE THE RAILWAY

Experience Living History

on’t miss the train! Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic

Railway, which runs along the Toccoa River from Blue Ridge to McCaysville. Board the train at the historic depot in Blue Ridge. The view changes with the seasons, wildflowers and mountain laurel in the spring, rhododendron in the summer, gorgeous foliage in the fall and a ride with Santa and his elves for Christmas. Special trips are planned throughout the year, including the Easter Eggspress in the spring and Pumpkin Train in the fall. Open April through December. Call 1-800-934-1898 or visit www.brscenic.com.

Hike the Appalachian Trail to a Local Waterfall

wo of the greatest outdoor adventures in the world begin in Fannin County. Both the Appalachian and Benton MacKaye trails start at the top of Springer Mountain. There are over 300 miles

L&L Beanery COF F E E AN D CA F E

706.632.3242 The best tomato basil soup & chicken salad sandwich!

14 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

HIKING

Continued on page 16➣

www.llbeanery.com Free Wi-Fi 612 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA

706.946.2612 The best brew, no beans about it!

Welcome Home

Consistency Year after Year AWARDS OFFICE: • #1 Individual Listing Units Closed • #1 Individual Total Closed Units • #2 Individual Dollar Volume COMPANY WIDE: • #2 Small Team Total Closed Units • #2 Small Team Listing Units Closed • #19 Small Team Dollar Volume

Rachel Callihan Cowart

y family was one of the oldest to settle Fannin County. There is a book, two mountains and a creek named after them. Being raised in the area and coming from a family that settled this area in the early 1800s, I grew up riding my horse into the beautiful trails of Cashes Valley. I grew up in real estate as my dad sold a lot of mountain property. I also grew up around the construction business so I have a good working knowledge of the cabins that are built locally. I consider mountain property and cabins to be my specialty. I am the founder of a very successful local business, Adventure Trail Rides, that helps folks enjoy the beauty of the mountains like I did growing up. THIS IS MY TOWN! Everyone needs good news and the Blue Ridge area is booming despite the economy. The area has long been known for its fishing, golf, horseback riding and the train ride through the mountains. New shops are continuing to open, restaurants are continuing to thrive, and the way of life is continuing at its peaceful, joyful pace. I WOULD LOVE TO BE YOUR REALTOR!

Come experience it for yourself

252 West Main Street | Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-7211 • 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

Real Ingredients. Local Flavors. Great food.

Chef Danny Mellman prepares fresh pasta.

A Fresh Approach To Food Lunch & Dinner Thursday-Sunday Tuesday Lunch Only • Closed Wednesday

576 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, Georgia 706-946-6164 | HarvestOnMain.com

➣ Continued from page 14

Locally Roasted Coffee The BEST Biscuits & Gravy Housemade Bread & Pastries Take-Home Dinners & More • Edible Gifts

560 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, Georgia 706-258-2867 | BlueRidgeGrocery.com

of hiking trails in the area, including short trails suitable for beginning hikers and families. Get a map to all our local waterfalls online at www.blueridgemountains.com or at our Welcome Center.

8 T

Handmade Pasta & Pizza • Full Bar, Craft Cocktails • Take Out 7 Days A Week Lunch and Dinner

RAFTING & TUBING Float the Beautiful Toccoa River

he most popular family pastime in the summer is probably tubing the clear, chilly Toccoa River either above the Lake Blue Ridge dam on Aska Road or below in McCaysville. But there are lots of ways to enjoy our rivers, streams and lakes, including rafting the exciting Ocoee River, renting canoes or kayaks, pontooning or jet skiing on Lake Blue Ridge, or even surfing on the river or the lake.

67 Roberts Way | Blue Ridge, Georgia 706-946-1511 | facebook.com/masseriakitchen Kids Summer Farm-to-Fork Camp.

Lodging

224 West Main

Tubers enjoy the Toccoa River at Horseshoe Bend. 706-900-0016

Seasonal Produce Stand. 16 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

For reservations, call Mountaintop Cabin Rentals | 866-40-CABIN www.mountaintopcabinrentals.com

biking with kids. Be sure to bring water shoes for the kids at either location.

PLAYING IN THE WATER

Discover Natural Water Parks

he best water parks are those created by nature. Morganton Point on Lake Blue Ridge is a Chattahoochee National Forest recreation area with camping, fishing, swimming beach and picnic areas. Another favorite spot for families is the Ocoee Whitewater Center just over the Tennessee state line, where the Olympic kayak slalom course is perfect for wading and sliding over the rocks when the river is not running (weekdays). The Whitewater Center is also a great place for hiking and

Paddle boarding has become popular on Lake Blue Ridge.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Ride Horseback on Mountain Trails

ur riding stables specialize in family trail rides for kids of almost all ages. Open year round, with seasonal hayrides and evening wagon rides with campfire dinners. Call for reservations and to book special group events.

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FISHING CELEBRATING

F A horseback ride is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the mountains.

Catch a Trophy Trout

annin County is the Trout Capital of Georgia. There are over 100 miles of great trout fishing rivers, creeks and streams in the area, including Jack’s River, Conasauga River, Toccoa River, Rock Creek, Noontootla Creek and Cooper Creek. Please consult the Georgia Guide to Trout Fishing, available free at the Welcome Center, for details as to season, creel limits and size restrictions.

Spend Quality Time With Family and Friends

hether it’s playing Scrabble or Monopoly in your cabin, hiking to a waterfall, going to a festival or the Swan Drive-in, the best thing about visiting Georgia’s Blue Ridge is spending quality time with family and friends. For special occasions, holidays, reunions, weddings or anniversaries, create lasting memories of quality time well spent in the mountains Downtown Blue Ridge is known for its nighttime activities.

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FIND SOMETHING YOU ENJOY Fannin, Basin offer something for everyone

he remainder of 2015 has many special events and activities scheduled according to the events calendar provided by the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce. Those events include: PICKIN’ IN THE PARK May through September: every Thursday from 6 p.m. to dusk, Pickin’ in the Park takes place at Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park, 706632-7696;

DAY HIKING TRIPS May 21 and continuing through 2015 are free, fun-guided day hikes with the Benton MacKaye Trail Association. Visit www.bmta. org in the activities section to see when fun hikes are being held, 770-235-9760; CLASSIC CAR CRUISE-IN Every fourth Friday through September, Classic Car Cruise-In, 6 p.m. until dark, parking area near the

Classic car shows are always a big attraction.

Diary Queen in Blue Ridge, 706-838-4701; FRIENDS BOOK SALE May 22-24, Friends of The Fannin County Library Memorial Day book sale, Blue Ridge United Methodist Church, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 5 on Sunday, 706-632-5263; ARTS IN THE PARK May 23-24, downtown Blue Ridge city park, Blue

Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $5 admission, 706-632-2144; COMMUNITY YARD SALE May 16, Community Yard Sale & Craft Fair, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.. various locations in McCaysville and Copperhill, 706-964-6531; MINER’S HOMECOMING June 26-27, Ducktown, walking parade, pancake breakfast, soup bean dinner

and fireworks, Duck Race at 1 p.m. along with other pre fireworks activities, 423-4963546; TRI-CITIES FIREWORKS July 3, Southern Nights Fireworks, McCaysville, Duck Race at 1 p.m. and other pre fireworks events, fireworks at dark from Tater Hill sponsored by the TriCities Business Association, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and Christian Resources Visitor Center;

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OLD TIMEY FOURTH July 4, Old Fashion Fourth of July Parade, downtown Blue Ridge, 10 a.m., sponsored by Blue Ridge Business Association, 706-889-7415; JULY FIREWORKS July 4, The largest fireworks display in north Georgia, Lake Blue Ridge Marina, events begin with barbecue and music, fireworks at dark, 706-632-2618; OLD FASHIONED FOURTH July 4, Epworth, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Epworth United Methodist Church community park, pancake breakfast, antique cars, bingo, hay rides, music and food, 706-6323708; KIWANIS RODEO Aug. 14 -15, Kiwanis Club Fairgrounds, Jones Street, Blue Ridge, rodeo begins at 8

p.m. both days, 706-632-664; BASIN RIVER FEST Aug. 15, Copper Basin RiverFest, Duck Race at 1 p.m., tube race at 1:30 p.m. from McCaysville City Park to the Hwy. 5 concrete bridge, McCaysville, 706-964-6531; LABOR DAY BAR-B-Q Sept. 7, Labor Day weekend, downtown Blue Ridge city park, starts Sunday Sept. 6, at 6 p.m., with a community worship service in the park and ice cream social, annual barbecue begins Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., sponsored by the Good Samaritans, an inter-denominational association of area churches that raises benevolent funds for Fannin County neighbors in need, 706-455-3818 or LDBBQ@bellsouth.net;

The annual July 4 fireworks show at Lake Blue Ridge is always a hit.

Continued on page 22â&#x17E;Ł

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➣Continued from page 21

Music is a feature of almost every special event.

BLUES CRAWL Sept. 11, Blues Crawl, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., followed Sept. 12 by 5th annual Blues & BBQ Music Festival from noon to 9 p.m. downtown city park, call Paul Gribble 770546-9614 or Greg Spencer 404-661-4531; BLUES TRAIN Sept. 11, the Blues Train in conjunction with the Blues Crawl, boarding at 5:30 p.m., sponsored by the Rotary Club of Blue Ridge and Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, benefiting Rotary Club Ferst Foundation book donations, for tickets go to www.brscenic.com; FALL ARTS IN THE PARK Oct. 10-11, downtown Blue Ridge, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission $5, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 706-632-2144; FALL BOOK SALE Oct. 9-11, Friends of Fannin County Library book sale, Blue Ridge United Methodist Church, Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., 706-6325263; MARCHING FESTIVAL Oct. 10, Fannin High School football stadium, 1 p.m to 9 p.m., 706-632-2081;

PAWS IN THE PARK Oct. 17, Ninth Annual Paws in the Park, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., downtown Blue Ridge City Park, 706-632-5224; FALL FEST ARTS & CRAFTS Oct. 17-18 and 24-25, annual Fall Fest Arts and Crafts Sale, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., old State Farmer’s Market, East First Street, Blue Ridge, free admission, sales benefit the Fannin County Fire Explorer Post 401, 423-761-9985;

The Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge sponsors an annual rodeo every August.

BASIN SAFE ZONE Oct. 30, Halloween Safe Zone, Copperhill, 4:30 p.m. costume contest, 5 p.m. parade, trick or treating and 6 p.m. scream contest, 706851-4919 or 706-964-6531; Continued on page 24➣

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Veterans organizations are very active in community events.

Blue Ridge, to honor all local military veterans, 706-6325002;

BLUE RIDGE SAFE ZONE Oct. 31, Halloween Safe Zone, 5:30 p.m., downtown Blue Ridge, merchants give candy to kids, 706-889-7415;

VETERAN’S WALK Nov. 11, Veteran’s Walk and Parade in Copperhill, 2 p.m., to honor local residents

VETERAN’S PARADE Nov. 7, Veteran’s Parade in

who have served in the military, phone 706-964-6531; LIGHT UP THE BASIN Nov. 22, Light up the Basin events in downtown McCaysville and Copperhill;

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Halloween is celebrated with Safe Zones.

TURKEY TROT Nov. 26, 6th Annual Blue Ridge Turkey Trot, 7 a.m. to register and 8 a.m. begins the 5K, online registration begins Sept. 1 at www. blueridgeturkeytrot.com;

LIGHT UP BLUE RIDGE Nov. 28, downtown Blue Ridge, including the Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Blue Ridge Business Association, 706-889-7415; CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 5, 67th Annual Kiwanis Christmas Parade, Copperhill and McCaysville, 2 p.m., 706-632-9011;

Pickin’ in the Park entertains

Thousands are attracted to the annual Christmas parade in the twin cities.

Local and area musicians are invited to join Pickin’ at Horseshoe Bend beginning on the first Thursday in May at Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park on River Road, off Hwy. 60 in McCaysville. Anyone who plays a non-electric instrument, such as guitar, fiddle, upright bass, banjo or Dobro, is invited to participate. Pickin’ begins at 6 p.m. under the park’s main pavilion, and, depending on how many musicians show up, the music usually spreads to other areas of the park, The event is old-time music at its best, and the pickin’ usually lasts until the pickers get tired and go home. If the weather is good, a good crowd of music lovers usually comes out to listen and enjoy the music. The recreation department sponsors the free event each Thursday night from May through September. For information call the Fannin County Recreation Department at 706-632-7696. ■

RESOLUTION RUN Dec. 31, downtown Blue Ridge, benefits the Ferst Foundation, 706-632-7311. CHECK ON UPDATES For updates on any of these events see the Calendar of Events in The News Observer each week as well as the events calendar on the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce website: www. blueridgemountains.com. ■

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Art Center features seven galleries Exhibits, festivals, and conferences combine to attract national attention

he old Fannin County Courthouse on West Main Street in Blue Ridge is home to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association and Art Center. From Tuesday through Sunday, the stately old brick icon is the location for a variety of arts programs and classes, from painting to photography to dance to quilting. From the front door to the studios located in the old judge’s chambers, art works are in progress and art activities are going on. Artwork lines the walls of the staircase leading to the second floor area where school board members and superintendents used to meet, along with the district attorney’s and other courthouse offices. There are seven art galleries in the Art Center, including the main Richard Low Evans courtroom gallery, the artist-in-residence gallery, Mahan gallery, atrium gallery and the lobby gallery. Another gallery on the second floor is the Fiber Arts room where a working cloth loom is

located. To the rear of the courtroom are two working art studios for painting and pottery. In the basement of the Art Center is the new kiln studio and classroom from which the annual summer art camp operates. During the year, the Art Center and the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association host a number of art-related activities at the center and in downtown Blue Ridge that attract visitors from across Georgia and the Southeast. The largest events are the Spring and Fall Arts-in-thePark that bring more than 100 artists of various media to the downtown city park for twoday weekends in May and October. The center also hosts the annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference in April that draws professional writers for a weekend conference. The Art Center is host to a number of exhibits during the year, including the spring Celebration of Artisans for the Southern Appalachian Artist

Jennifer Danner shows off part of an exhibit at the Art Center.

Guild member show. Arts Association Executive Director Nichole Potzauf said there are now 145 members in the SAAG whose main goal is

to encourage business among members, showcase their work and educate the public about Continued on page 28➣

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the arts. The Art Center showcases various artists-in-residence throughout the year in the special gallery of the Art Center on the main floor. Art from the five Fannin County schools is another event that draws attention to local student artists during March. New to the Art Center is the Women Painters of the Southeast, whose work fills the courtroom gallery during the month of April. This juried event is dedicated to showcasing the work of women painters who live within the southeastern United States. Other events that the Art Center hosts include the annual Blue Ridge Mountain Photographers National Juried Pho-

The Art Center is located next to the Fannin County Courthouse in downtown Blue Ridge.

tography Show in September, the Fall Plein Air International Paint-out, the SAAG National Juried Show, the Juried Emerging Artist Showcase and the Holiday Show & Sale. The Art Center also offers a large array of art supplies. “We are the only quality art

supply location in Blue Ridge,” Potzauf said. “Our store includes a large variety of oils, pastels, sketch pads, canvas, brushes, pens and pencils and other art supplies.” In addition to Potzauf, the Art Center staff includes assistant director Caroline Mann,

comptroller Sandra Zadroga, marketing consultant Jennifer Danner and program and festival coordinator Lisa Tyler. For information about the Art Center, call 706-632-2144, or got to the website www. blueridgemountainsartsassociation.com. ■

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The Blue Ridge Community Theater got its start over 15 years ago

ver 15 years ago a plea appeared in The News Observer seeking anyone interested in “putting on a play.” That first year saw one play, “Love Letters,” performed at Fannin County High School. Today the Blue Ridge Community Theater is a volu n t e e r- b a s e d , non-profit organization that will produce seven plays every year for a total of 83 days of live, main stage performances. The plays include comedies, dramatic comedies and comedy farces. Each of the plays runs three weeks, Thursdays through Sundays. The Sunny D Children’s Theater provides a fun and educational theater experience for children ages 5 to 18. Summer camp for 2015 will be held June 8-21. Children will take the main stage for five different plays, giving the community another 15 days of theater. The Live Music is Better Adam Wilcher is a regular volunteer at the theater.

series includes various musical entertainers on the main stage between plays. The series will add another nine days of entertainment. In all, the theater offers 35 weekends of opportunities full of fun and entertainment. Community support has fueled the organization’s growth. The 10,000 square foot building the theater occupies and is purchasing on East Main Street in Blue Ridge has seating for 171 people for main stage performances. This summer marks the theater’s sixth year in the building. Over 100 volunteers are actively involved, while the theater employs only one fulltime, paid employee. More volunteers are always welcomed. The theater holds auditions for all its performances. For more information about the theater, or to purchase tickets, call 706-632-9223 or visit www.BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com. ■

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IT’S SHOW TIME

Five plays remain in Blue Ridge Community Theater’s 2015 season

he Blue Ridge Community Theater has scheduled five main stage productions during the remainder of 2015. The performances include the current production “Breakfast with Les and Bess,” that continues through May 31. The Lee Kalchaim stage play is a comedy involving a married couple, Les and Bess, who co-host a radio talk show in New York City before the turmoil of the 1960s stirred the country out of its complacency. Les and Bess are about to have their talk show canceled because of lack of interest. Since their marriage is based on their show, they may have to cancel their marriage as well. Les wants to go to Houston and fulfill his dream as a sports announcer, and Bess wants to stay in New York.

The question is, will Les and Bess stay together? Also, will their budding radical of a son straighten up and will their daughter actually marry the sailor she has just met and will their long distance phone call from Princess Grace of Monaco ever come through? The comedy is directed by Norma Bean with showtime at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and Sunday at 2 p.m., May 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31. “RADIO TBS” Mark Landon Smith’s “Radio TBS” will follow on the main stage as radio hostesses and society doyennes Vesta Poteet and Dixie Mandrell bring to you the comings and goings of the Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Empire, and

what a jumpin’ place this trailer park is. The comedy includes a visit to Graceland from rovin’ reporter Missy Goode; the upcomin’ Miss Manatee contest, if forced contestant Mayola Felts can stop eatin’ every sweet thing she can get her hands on. Then there is the colossal celebration at Luna Del Mar, the penicillin capital of central Florida, and the Tribute to the Kings, a little drive-by nativity with some rock n’ roll. If you think that this kings’ tribute runs smoothly, you’ll also believe that teased hair is a thing of the past! Mike Lacy and Beth Inman direct the production, which hits the stage July 9 - 26, with show times Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

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“A NIGHT AT THE THEATER” Next on the main stage is “A Night At The Theater” written by Lawrence Casler. Margaret and Stanley Locker and their friends, Donna and Walter Pace, go to the theater for their weekly dose of culture. This week’s o r deal is “Hamlet.” After they seat themselves with some confusion, the play consists of their incessant and hilarious chatter about themselves, their children, a dead friend, and even occasionally Shakespeare’s play. Secrets emerge and friendships unravel amid the audience’s laughter. You may even recognize these rude playgoers as the obnoxious people who sometimes sit behind you. Sonia Smith directs the PG13 rated comedy Aug. 30 Sept. 6. Showtimes are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. “STEEL MAGNOLIAS” Robert Harling’s “Steel Magnolias” will take the main stage Oct. 1 - 18 under the direction of Kathy S i m mons. Truv y ’ s be auty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, is where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done.

Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich, including Ouiser, an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, is about to marry a “good ole boy.” The play is filled with hilarious repartee and more than a few humorously revealing verbal collisions. The sudden realization of their mortality, when tragedy hits, draws on the underlying strength and love, which give the play and its characters the special quality that makes them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad. Showtimes are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. “A DICKENS CHRISTMAS CAROL” The final main stage production of the year will be Mark Landon Smith’s adaptation of “A Dickens Christmas Carol.” The play is a twist on the classical story of holiday spirit directed by Norma Bean. The play will open Friday Nov. 27 and continues through Dec. 13. For tickets and information for all productions call the box office at 706-632-9223. The theater occupies a 10,000 square foot building on East First Street in Blue Ridge. Seating is provided for 171 people. ■

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LIVE MUSIC IS BETTER Musical groups take the theater’s Main Stage

he Blue Ridge Community Theater’s “Live Music is Better” series includes five musical groups that take to the main stage in between the regular theater productions from June through November. JOE GRANSDEN On Saturday June 12, at 7:30 p.m. Joe Gransden will take the main stage. Gransden has already performed worldwide and released eight CDs under his own name. Known for the hard bop approach of his trumpet, Gransden’s singing voice has been compared to that of Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra. Like many developing jazz men, Gransden’s early influences, which include Kenny Dorham and Miles Davis, were easily recognizable in his playing throughout his formative years.

“Emulating the jazz greats is always the very first step,” the historically-rooted Gransden said. “But obviously, in order to be true to myself – who I am, what I believe in, my family background – I need to have a sound that’s my own. It’s taken me until recently to hone in on that voice and explore its potential. One of the truly enjoyable things about my career has been finding that my audience appreciates my individual talents.” DIANE DURRETT Saturday Aug. 1, Diane Durrett, known as the “blue-eyed soulstress” takes the main stage for a 7:30 p.m. performance. A Memphis reporter once wrote that Diane’s performance was so powerful that “If you don’t go see her she may just come see you!” Continued on page 34➣

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➣Continued from page 32 Her music is a blend of raw soulful vocals, sultry tones and strong original songs. Durrett has sung with Sting, the Indigo Girls, Gregg Allman, Chuck Leavell of the Rolling Stones, and Peter Stroud. She has long reflected the musical passions that inspired her while growing up in Atlanta. Her albums include the energy-driven breakthrough debut “50,000 Volts of Soul” in 1993, “Rhythm of Life” in 1998, “CHILL” in 2004, a live CD, “Georgia On the Groove” in 2007, and the groovy “Blame It On My DNA” in 2009 produced by Ike Stubblefield, as well as her latest holiday CD, “Georgia Christmas” recorded in 2011. DENNY JIOSA Jazz guitarist Denny Jiosa will take the Blue Ridge Community Theater stage Saturday, Sept. 12, at 7:30 p.m. Jiosa, best known for his success in contemporary jazz both as a guitarist and producer, is stepping into a new world. With six chart-topping contemporary jazz CDs of his own and four Grammy nominations for gospel artist Yolanda Adams and polka queen Lynn Marie, he is no stranger to diversification. Jazziz Magazine said, ”If Eric Clapton played jazz he’d be Denny Jiosa.”

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KURT THOMAS BAND On Saturday, Oct. 24, the Kurt Thomas Band will bring their brand of country music to the main stage. An inspiring high school graduation performance and $80 were all it took to get singer/songwriter Thomas hooked on the music business. Now, the small town country boy from Dahlonega, has recorded four CDs and opened for some of the biggest names in country music including Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, LeAnn Rimes, Darius Rucker, and the Zac Brown Band. After opening for Chesney, Thomas went on to win Country Music Televison’s Music City Madness, a nationwide contest that led to his doing an Unplugged Studio 330 session on CMT. MICHELLE MALONE For 2015’s final Live Music is Better session, Michelle Malone will be back by popular demand Friday, Nov 13, at 7:30 p.m. Armed with a bottleneck slide, a harmonica and her signature soul-filled vocals, Malone will be rocking the theater. Over her 20-year career, Malone has appeared on countless “best of” lists and has been the recipient of such awards as Best Female Vocalist (five times) and Best Acoustic Guitarist (three times) Studio Album of the Year by Atlanta Magazine, and Live Album of the Year. For tickets and other information about the Live Music Is Better series, call the theater at 706-632-9223. ■

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Trout capital open to all fishermen

annin County is designated the Trout Capital of Georgia. It has fishing and hunting opportunities for both beginners and experts. Within Fannin County are numerous public fishing locations regularly stocked with trout, including the Toccoa River, Tammen Park, Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park, Rock Creek, Cooper’s Creek, Noontootla Creek and the Jacks and Conasauga Rivers. Information on how to reach these locations is available at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce or on its website, www. blueridgemountains.com. Licenses are required for most of these activities. Children age 12-16 can hunt on wildlife management areas without a hunter education certificate while under the direct supervision of an adult.

Since the cost of the different licenses varies depending on the age of the individual and the length and type of license, individuals should contact a local vendor for cost information.

Among the stores selling Georgia hunting and fishing licenses in Blue Ridge or Fannin County are: • Blue Ridge Walmart 92 Commerce Drive Blue Ridge, 30513

706-632-9500; • Cooper’s Creek Store 5 Coopers Creek Road Suches, 30572 706-838-4514; • Unicoi Outfitters 490 E. Main St. Blue Ridge, 30513 706-632-1880; • RaceWay, 4581 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, 30513 706-946-7223. Licenses may also be purchased online at www.georgiawildlife. org, or by phone at 1-800-3662661. Disabled, commercial, veteran and lifetime licenses may be purchased by mail from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, License Office, 2189 Northlake Parkway, Suite 108, Building 10, Tucker, Ga. 30084. ■

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RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FANNIN OFFERS ACTIVITIES ALL YEAR LONG

he Fannin County Parks and Recreation Department is a year-round department that provides facilities and recreational programs to all youth, adults, and senior citizens of Fannin County The recreation department offers a variety of programs for individuals ages 4 through 18 such as soccer, basketball, softball, baseball and football, as well as summer camps for football, soccer and basketball. The Fannin County Sports Complex, the county’s main park, is located on Tom Boyd Road off Hwy. 5 and includes 107 acres of recreational activ-

ities for everyone. It includes approximately 10 acres of sports fields for soccer, football, softball, baseball, and an outdoor paved, 1.25-mile walking and exercise track with 18 exercise workout stations strategically placed throughout it.

Located inside the recreation complex is the multipurpose recreation center. It includes approximately 43,000 square feet of floor space for four hardwood regulation high school basketball and volleyball courts.

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The center includes an elevated walking track that is open to all citizens year-round. The facility has conference and meeting rooms, administrative offices, a large kitchen, pantry, Continued on page 38➣

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➣Continued from page 36 and concession areas. The recreation park includes a concession area, two large picnic shelters with individual tables and grills. Each shelter has a restroom, along with a separate playground area. There are also two additional large playground areas located within the park, and a small fishing pond surrounded by several park benches. In addition to the main Sports Complex, the recreation department operates Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park on the Toccoa River off Hwy. 60 east of McCaysville. The park offers a weekly music event known as Pickin’ at Horseshoe Bend each Thursday evening from May through September. The park has two covered shelters, restrooms, playgrounds, volleyball court, grills and picnic tables. The recreation department also manages Tammen Park, located off Hwy. 515 alongside the Toccoa River. The park has two picnic shelters, tables, a playground, restrooms and a large baseball/softball field, all located next to the river. The Fannin County Recreation Department’s main office is in the multipurpose building on Winding Drive inside the Fannin County Sports Complex. For more information about county recreational programs call 706-632-7696. ■

Blue Ridge, McCaysville parks offer variety of space for organized sports or relaxation

This memorial is located at Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park near McCaysville.

annin’s municipalities of Blue Ridge and McCaysville both offer amenities for recreation. The city of Blue Ridge has both a recreation park and a downtown greenspace park.

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The Blue Ridge Recreation Park is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and offers baseball and softball fields, batting cages, outdoor basketball courts and a children’s playground, according to park supervisor Tim Towe Jr.

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The Blue Ridge park includes ballfields, a swimming pool, tennis courts and a children’s play area.

Also located in the recreation park is the city’s municipal swimming pool, which is open generally from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. The pool operates from

12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. although some times are restricted for swimming lessons or recreation day camps. Sign-ups for swimming lessons begin shortly after Memorial Day,

Towe said. The downtown greenspace park offers a children’s playground, as well as pavilions and a gazebo for picnics and events. Permits are required.

For more information, contact Blue Ridge City Hall at 706632-2091. The McCaysville city park Continued on page 40➣

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S HO P The downtown Blue Ridge park offers picnic tables, benches and a pavilion for relaxation.

➣Continued from page 39

is located near the downtown area on the bank of the Toccoa River, and offers a children’s play area and a pavilion that can be reserved for events and

family reunions. Permits are recommended for pavilion use, and there is a $25 fee for family reunions. Contact the McCaysville City Hall at 706492-4921 for more information or to make a reservation. ■

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The Toccoa River Park in McCaysville overlooks the river and has picnic tables and a children’s play area.

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VETERANS PARK Area veterans organizations maintain the Fannin County Veterans Memorial Park just off Old U.S. 76 west of the Blue Ridge city limits. The park features a variety of memorials and a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter.

ENJOY A WALK IN THE FOREST BENTON MACKAYE ONE OF MANY TRAILS THROUGHOUT AREA

lue Ridge is now an official Benton MacKaye Trail Association “Trail Town” after having been given that designation in a special ceremony in April 2013. The designation recognized Blue Ridge because of its proximity to a number of north Georgia trails that offer excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. There is even a canoe trail on the Toccoa River and a Trout Adventure Trail utilizing parts of the Benton MacKaye Trail and Appalachian Trail. The Benton MacKaye Trail, known as the BMT, is a footpath that passes through Fannin County and travels nearly 300 miles through the Appalachian Mountains. It is similar to the Appalachian Trail, both

of which begin on Springer Mountain on the Fannin/Gilmer county line. The BMT’s southern terminus is located on the AT two tenths of a mile from the start of the AT. From Springer Mountain the BMT runs to Big Creek Campground near Davenport Gap at the northern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains national Park, BMT spokesman Ralph Heller said the trail passes through some of the most remote back country in north Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina, including eight federally designated wilderness areas and wilderness study areas, including the Smokies, which is managed

as a wilderness area. There are numerous access points and trailheads along the BMT, which can create many one-way and loop hikes, alone or in combination with other local trails. Heller said the association offers monthly trail hikes, many on the BMT, while others take place on other north Georgia and Tennessee/North Carolina trails. “We post the hikes on the BMT website along with the name and contact information of the hike leader,” he said. The BMT intersects the Appalachian Trail at several points creating several additional hiking loops. Access points to the Benton MacKaye in Fannin County include Wilscot Gap on Hwy. 60, Dial Road crossing and Shallowford Bridge on Aska Road and on Hwy. 515 just south of the Fannin-Gilmer County line in Gilmer County. The BMT publishes Trail Guides for Georgia, Tennessee/North Carolina and

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the Smokies which gives driving directions to trailheads and information about each section. The guides are available for sale on the BMT web site and various outfitting stores. For information on the BMT, go to www.bmta.org.

APPALACHIAN TRAIL’S PATH INCLUDES FANNIN COUNTY ROUTE The Appalachian Trail ranges from 2,500 feet to more than 4,400 feet over the 75 miles the trail covers in the Chattahoochee National Forest, some of which is in Fannin County. The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, which manages the AT in Georgia, says that September and October are some of the best times to hike the AT because of the cool weather and

color of the foliage. However, spring is also a popular time because of the flowers and full flowing streams that time of year along the trail. The trail offers unlimited hiking adventure and challenge, with ascents and descents that are sometimes steep. White blazes mark the Appalachian Trail, while other blazes designate side trails and trails to water. Water is available along the trail, but it is not suitable for drinking and must be filtered. Shelters for camping are also available along the AT. For information about the Appalachian Trail in Fannin County, call the Chamber of Commerce at 706-632-5680. The Chamber also has maps and driving directions to various trails and trailheads throughout the area available at the organization’s Visitors Center. ■

Hikers of all ages can find plenty of adventure.

The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 45

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Several courses are within easy driving distance of Blue Ridge

or golf lovers, two courses in the immediate area offer scenic views and challenging play, and two others are just a short drive away. Copper Basin Golf Club offers a nine-hole course for members and golfers who like to walk and play. The course is located at 5765 Hwy. 64, Copperhill, Tenn. Green fees for non-members Monday through Sunday is $25 for 18 holes and $15 for 9 holes before 3 p.m. Twilight golf is available after 3 p.m. The fees are $16 for 18 holes and $10 for 9 holes. All fees include carts. There is also a special junior rate for students. Senior non members can play 18 holes for 18 or 9 holes Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to noon for a discount rate. Fee includes tax and cart. Club memberships are available for $350 for a family and $275 for individuals that include use of the pool and clubhouse. Members pay cart fees of $12 for 18 holes and $6 for 9 holes. Private lessons are available and golf cubs are available for rent and balls, caps, and T-shirts are also available for purchase at the clubhouse. For more information, call 423-496-3579. Whitepath Golf Club in nearby Ellijay offers 18 holes of scenic golf for members and non-members. Individual, family and corporate memberships

are available. Fannin and Gilmer County residents receive special rates Monday through Thursday. Fees are slightly higher Friday through Sunday. Seniors also get special rates on Mondays. All rates include use of a cart. For membership and other information, call 706-276-3080. Butternut Creek Golf Course in Blairsville is a majestic, 18-hole course with dramatic mountain fairways and is open year round. Tee times are required. Fees include cart, tax and sleeve of golf balls. For information and tee times, call 706-439-6076. Old Union Golf Club is an 18-hole golf course located off U.S. 19 in Blairsville. The course is open year round for golf and golf lessons. Individual and family memberships are available, as well as a multi-play pass. The club is located at 78 Scores Point, Blairsville. For tee times and information call 706-745-4653. Brasstown Valley Golf Club and Resort in nearby Young Harris has been ranked as one of the top golf courses in Georgia. It offers 18 holes of scenic and championship golf, full practice facilities, a well-equipped pro shop and golf lessons. For information, tee times and golf lessons, call 706-3794614. ■

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Blue Ridge Lake provides unmatched beauty

lue Ridge Lake is a popular destination for recreational boating, but operators must be aware of and observe Georgia boating laws when operating a vessel, including several key changes to the law that have been enacted in recent years. There are five classes of vessels on Georgia waterways: personal watercraft such as Jet Skis, WaveRunners and similar craft; Class A boats which are less than 16 feet in length; Class 1 boats which are 16 to less than 26 feet; Class 2 boats which are 26 to less than 40 feet; and Class 3 boats that are 40 feet in length or longer. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, there are restrictions on who may operate vessels and watercraft on state waters.

Blue Ridge Lake offers an opportunity for all types of outdoor water recreation.

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Children under age 12 may only operate a Class A boat that is unpowered or powered by a motor of 30 horsepower or less, but only if the child is accompanied by an adult. Children under 12 may not operate personal watercraft or any Class 1, 2 or 3 boats. Children ages 12 to 15 may operate a Class A boat or personal watercraft only if they have passed a DNR approved boating safety course and they are accompanied by an adult. They may not operate Class 1, 2 or 3 boats. Persons age 16 and over may operate any vessel on Georgia waterways provided they are carrying proper identification, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID card. Anyone born after Jan. 1, 1998, must also have passed a DNR-approved boating safety course and have the card on

board to operate any vessel. For information on where to find an approved boating safety course, call the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division Region 1 Law Enforcement office in Calhoun at 706-6241367. Other regulations include a requirement that all children age 13 and under must wear personal flotation devices when aboard any moving vessel, and a change in the Boating Under the Influence law that lowered the blood alcohol limit to 0.08, the same as for driving under the influence. It is illegal for a person to operate any boat or watercraft at higher than idle speed within 100 feet of any other vessel that is moored, anchored or adrift outside of normal traffic channels, or within 100 feet of any dock or other structure, person in the water, or the shoreline of

any residence or public area. Another regulation that is not new, but is commonly violated, is a restriction that operators

of personal watercraft may not jump the wake of another vessel if they are within 100 feet of that vessel. ■

Camping opportunities abound.

CAMPING SPOTS EVERYWHERE

annin County is a great place to plan a camping trip in the north Georgia mountains, especially with Continued on page 50➣

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➣Continued from page 49 four campgrounds and recreation areas in close proximity to Blue Ridge. Among the campgrounds is the Morganton Point Recreation Area that overlooks Lake Blue Ridge. This recreation area offers camping, picnicking, boating, swimming, fishing and hiking opportunities, including a paved boat launch ramp. Morganton Point has 43 campsites, each with a picnic table, tent pad, and grill. Through a recent partnership with Tri-State EMC, the campground now has electric hook-ups at the majority of sites in the campground. There are also 13 separate picnic tables and a shelter for use by non-campers. Reservations can be made two days in advance for campsites 1-37 and A-F, while 38-43 are available on a first-come, firstserved basis. The area is open mid-April through mid-September. To get to Morganton Point, take Hwy. 515 north from Blue Ridge to Hwy. 60. Turn right and travel three miles to Morganton. In Morganton, turn right on Lake

Drive for 1 mile. Morganton Point is managed by the Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association. For information call 706374-1645 or visit www.recreation.gov to reserve a site or get information on site specific amenities. Frank Gross Campground is located on Rock Creek and offers camping, hiking and fishing. There are eight campsites with picnic tables, tent pads and grills. The campground is open year-round. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. From Blue Ridge, take Hwy. 515 north to Hwy. 60. Turn right and continue south on Hwy. 60 through Morganton. Once Hwy. 60 turns right outside of Morganton travel south for 15 miles toward Dahlonega. Turn right on Rock Creek Road and travel five miles to Frank Gross Campground. Coopers Creek Recreation Area offers a total of 26 campsites with picnic tables, tent pads and grills. Some are of the sites are creekside. The campground is open year-round, and is situated next to the 1,240 acre Coo-

pers Creek Scenic Area, with over 30 miles of hiking trails through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. From Blue Ridge travel north on Hwy. 515 to Hwy. 60 and turn right. Follow Hwy. 60 through Morganton then south for 16 miles toward Dahlonega. Then turn left on Coopers Creek Road and travel six miles to the campground. Deep Hole Campground is located on the Toccoa River and offers eight campsites with tent pads and picnic tables. The 13.8 mile Toccoa River Canoe Trail begins at the Deep Hole Canoe Launch and ends at the Sandy Bottoms Canoe Launch in Fannin County, GA. Deep Hole Campground is open all year and is located 16 miles south of Morganton on Hwy. 60. Campgrounds require camping fees, while day use fees are required for parking to fish or using the canoe launch at Deep Hole Campground. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For information about the campgrounds call 706-745-6928. ■

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Multi-Car 50 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

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T VA OCOEE #2 DAM WATER RELEASE SCHEDULE APRIL 2015 MAY 2015 JUNE 2015 MARCH 2015 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 29 30 31 31 SEPTEMBER 2015 JULY 2015 AUGUST 2015 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 1 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 30 31

Legend (Eastern Time)

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52 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

WHITEWATER FUN The Ocoee River offers whitewater excitement whether alone or with a group of people. “Outdoor Wear with Indoor Style” 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!

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661 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, GA The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 53

VISITORS FLOCK TO OCOEE REGION

RECREATION DIVERSIFIED

he Ocoee River was the site of the canoe, kayak, and slalom events for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, with the Ocoee Whitewater Center becoming a hub of activity. The center now attracts over 300,000 visitors annually to enjoy the river, over 30 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, camping, swimming, and picnic facilities. The Center lies within the Cherokee National Forest. Its 650,000 acres represent the largest tract of public land in Tennessee. For more information about the Center, visit www.fs.fed. us/r8/ocoee or call 423-4960100. ■

The Ocoee Whitewater Center, inset, overlooks the site of the 1996 Olympic Games. The scenes lie just off U.S. 64 in Polk County, east of Ducktown.

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56 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

ROCK CREEK FACILITY RAISES TROUT, HOSTS SEVERAL EVENTS

ishing has been one of America’s leading forms of outdoor recreation. In the north Georgia area trout fishing brings sports fishermen from all over the United States to try catching rainbow, brook and brown trout for fun and food. In Fannin County, the Trout Capital of Georgia, trout fishing gives a multi-million dollar economic boost to not only the county, but the entire north Georgia area. Located on Rock Creek in Fannin County is the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery, a federal hatchery administered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Nine out of 10 trout in north Georgia waters come from the federal fisheries system either as eggs, fingerlings, or stockables. The primary purpose of the hatchery is to raise rainbow trout for mitigation below federal dams such as Blue

Ridge, Hartwell, and Lanier. The hatchery has a poundfor-pound trade-off agreement with the state of Georgia to stock local waters. The hatchery was constructed in 1937 by the U.S. Forest Service, but was transferred to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in the spring of 1960, where it has remained. More than a million trout are produced each year that are stocked into the tail waters, streams and lakes of northern Georgia in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. It takes approximately 14-16 months to raise trout from eggs to 9-inch stockable fish. During the year the hatchery holds special events for children and adults. These include a special Kids Fishing Rodeo and Veterans Appreciation Rodeo in May, and a Seniors Fishing Rodeo and Family Fishing Festival in June. Visiting hours for the hatchery are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and admission is free. For information about the hatchery, call 706-838-4723. ■

CIVIC GROUPS REACH OUT Numerous organizations offer opportunities to volunteer, participate, and give back to Fannin County and the Copper Basin in a variety of ways.

arious organizations providing civic services in the Fannin County and Copper Basin areas include: AMERICAN LEGION •American Legion Post 248 Purpose: helping veterans and the community; Contact: Richard Crosley, Phone: 706632-3611 or George Pletcher, Phone: 706-632-5002, e-mail: pletcher@tds.net; meeting time: first Monday of each month, 7 p.m.; AMVETS •AMVets Purpose: open

to any honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces to provide information on veterans programs and help veterans and the community; Contact: John Grizzell, Phone: 706-492-3464, e-mail: pletcher@tds.net; Meeting time: last Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.; HORSEMEN •Back Country Horsemen of North Georgia Purpose: bring the enjoyment of trail riding to the community, Contact Website: www.bchng.org; Continued on page 58➣

This Vietnam-era Huey helicopter is being added as part of the Veterans Memorial Park in Fannin County.

RCB Randall C. Brown & Associates, P.C.

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

706-946-1107 www.randallbrowncpa.com buzzfarouk@etcmail.com

 Audits  Reviews  Compilations  Payroll  Monthly Bookkeeping  Tax Return Preparation  FRAUD & FORENSIC ACCOUNTING The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 57

➣Continued from page 57 TRAIL ASSOCIATION •Benton MacKaye Trail Association Purpose: leaving a footpath for generations to follow. The BMT is a 292 mile long trail stretching through three states – Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina; Contact: Ralph and Marge Heller, Phone: 706-636-3499; Website: www.bmta.org;

residents and tourists to the area with the best of the best in local businesses, Contact: Cindy Trimble, Phone: 706455-0216, Website: www. bestofblueridge.biz; LODGING ASSOCIATION •Blue Ridge Lodging Association Contact: Tabetha Whitaker, Website: www. blueridgelodgingassociation. com;

BLOOD ASSURANCE •Blood Assurance Purpose: to provide a safe and adequate supply of blood and blood components to every area patient in need; Contact: Linda Hisey, Phone: 800-962-0628; Website: www.bloodassurance. org;

BLUE RIDGE CARVERS •Blue Ridge Carvers Purpose: to promote the vanishing art of woodcarving; Contact: blueridgecarvers@yahoo.com; Meeting time: Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 W. Main St., Blue Ridge;

BUSINESS ASSOCIATION •Blue Ridge Business Association Purpose: welcome

THEATER •Blue Ridge Community Theater Purpose: performanc-

es of contemporary and classic theater and to enrich theater knowledge and awareness; Contact: Patricia Webb, Phone: 706-632-9223, e-mail: info@ blueridgecommunitytheater. com or pjwebb@tds.net; Website: www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com;

The Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge sponsors the STAR student recognition program.

MY MOUNTAIN V

BLUE RIDGE KIWANIS •Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club Purpose: to serve the youth of the community Contact: Stan Hamm, 706-455-0187; Meeting times: every Monday at noon at the Circle J Steakhouse in Blue Ridge. Website: www. blueridgekiwanis.org;

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BLUE RIDGE LIONS •Blue Ridge Lions Club Purpose: a community service organization promoting projects such as White Cane Day, Relay for Life, Heart Association and Fannin County Family Connection; Contact: Jim Veal, 706-258-2213; Meeting time: first and third Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Tin Loong Restaurant in Blue Ridge; HOMEMAKERS •Blue Ridge Homemakers Purpose: a Christian community service organization whose primary goals are to help its members to be better homemakers while providing monetary support for student scholarships and other causes with the community. Contact: Shirley Copeland, Phone: 706258-3578; Meeting time: third Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at Blue Ridge United

Methodist Church;

COPPERHILL KIWANIS •Copperhill Kiwanis Club Purpose: to benefit the youth of the Copper Basin area; Contact: Don Wirtz, Phone: 706-632-9011; Meeting time every Tuesday at 6 at Copperhill City Hall;

DAV •Fannin Chapter 28, Disabled American Veterans Purpose: assist veterans through a variety of activities including a Christmas party and monthly ice cream social for veterans in Heritage Healthcare and Life Care of Copper Basin, support school and Scouting programs and participate in all patriotic holidays; Contact: Paul Hunter, Phone: 706-632-2536 or George Pletcher, Phone: 706632-5002, e-mail: pletcher@ tds.net; Meeting time: second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.;

DAV TRANSPORTATION •Disabled American Veterans Transportation Network Purpose: transport area veterans to and from VA Medical Center in Atlanta and Oakwood Clinic; Contact: Connie: 706851-5204;

EMPTY STOCKING •Fannin County Empty Stocking Program Purpose: to assist the less fortunate children of Fannin County at Christmas, Contact: Denise Place, Phone: 706-632-9262, Website: www.fannincoun-

BASIN HEALTHCARE •Copper Basin Healthcare Organization Purpose: to provide thorough healthcare to residents in and around the Copper Basin; Contact: Julie Queen, Phone: 423-496-8126;

Go Beyond Your Symptoms

tyemptystocking.org; FIRE EXPLORERS •Fannin County Fire Explorers Post 401 Purpose: to open the minds of young men and women ages 14 and not yet 21 years old to an interest in fire and rescue careers, Contact: Rodney Patterson, Phone: 423-761-9985; FARM BUREAU •Fannin County Farm Bureau Purpose: to support agriculture in the community, Phone 706-374-5967; HERITAGE FOUNDATION •Fannin County Heritage Foundation Purpose: to preserve the history of Fannin County for current and future generations, Phone: 706-2582645; Continued on page 60➣

Brian Rowan, MD is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon who can help you move like you’re meant to. ∙ General Orthopedics ∙ Joint Pain ∙ Fracture Care ∙ Knee & Shoulder Arthroscopy ∙ Sports Related Injury Dr. Rowan is currently seeing patients at RiverStone Medical Campus Fridays 9 am – 1 pm

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The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 59

Springfest is sponsored by the Fannin Fire Explorers.

➣Continued from page 59 VFW •Fannin County Post 6570, Veterans of Foreign Wars Purpose: serve the needs of other veterans, promote patriotism through community outreach; Contact: Richard

Pierce, Phone: 706-633-7211 or George Pletcher, Phone: 706-632-5002, e-mail: pletcher@tds.net; Meeting time: last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.; MEMORIAL PARK •Fannin County Veterans Memorial Park Purpose:

honoring veterans in a central location and park maintenance; Contact: George Pletcher, Phone: 706-632-5002, e-mail: pletcher@tds.net; Meeting time: on call and park ceremonies;

Blue Ridge Mountains Purpose: a non-profit organization whose members help preserve and maintain the natural beauty of our area; Contact: President Barbara Newman; Phone: 706632-1203;

FEED FANNIN •Feed Fannin Purpose: to work together to educate and encourage the community towards self-sufficiency while providing food for those in need and to eliminate hunger in Fannin County and the Copper Basin, Contact: Connie Galloway, Phone: 706374-4372, Website: www. feedfannin.com;

EDUCATION CENTER •Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center Purpose: to provide environmental education to youth and adults in the North Georgia area, Contact: Stephen Mullis, Phone: 706-745-2655, Website: www.gmrec.uga.edu;

MOUNTAIN GATEWAY •Gateway to the Beautiful

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY •Fannin Regional Hospital Auxiliary Purpose: to support Fannin Regional Hospital, the patients and the community; Contact: President Joyce Mitchell, 706-492-7726; Continued on page 62➣

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60 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Stop in today. You’ll be glad you did!

6337; Meeting time: third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Habitat ReStore in the Valley Village Shopping Center in Blue Ridge, Website: www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org;

➣Continued from page 60 CLASSIC CAR CLUB •Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club Purpose: to assist individuals less fortunate through the Community Helping Hand Fund and those whom “the system” has forgotten. Contact: Annette Long at 706-838-4701;

MARCH OF DIMES •March of Dimes-North Ga. Division Purpose: work to improve the health of babies and support families if something does go wrong, Contact: Michele Beal, Phone: 678-564-5231, Website: www. marchofdimes.com;

HOSPICE •Georgia Mountains Hospice Purpose: providing quality end-of-life care to the North Georgia area; Phone: 706-2534100; e-mail: gmh@ellijay. com;

NARFE •National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Purpose: to keep retired federal employees informed of new legislation and benefit changes; Contact: Jim Veal, president, Phone: 706-258-2213; Meeting time:

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY •Habitat for Humanity of Fannin and Gilmer Counties Purpose: to eliminate substandard housing for all people; Contact: Executive Director Ann Moffit Phone: 706-632-

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HONOR GUARD •North Georgia Honor Guard Purpose: provide military honors at veterans’ funerals; Contact: George Pletcher, Phone: 706-632-5002, e-mail: pletcher@tds.net; Meeting time: funerals and ceremonies free of charge, on call; MASTER GARDENERS •North Georgia Master Gardeners Purpose: to promote good horticultural practices in cooperation with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service, Contact: Randy Blankenship, phone 706-25803546, Website: www.caes.uga.edu/extension/

fannin; CRISIS NETWORK •North Georgia Mountain Crisis Network Purpose: services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault; Contact: Christina Cioffi, Phone: 706-632-8400, e-mail: dvshelter@etcmail.com; Website www.ngmcn.com; BLUE RIDGE ROTARY •Rotary Club of Blue Ridge Purpose: Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and build peace in the world. Rotary is the world’s first service club; Contact: Jackie Seabolt, 706-632-7850; Meeting time: every Tuesday at noon in the Community & Southern Bank community room;

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third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at various Blue Ridge and Ellijay restaurants;

Taking Care Of YOur real esTaTe needs!

The Rotary Club of Blue Ridge meets every Tuesday.

BARBERSHOP MUSIC •Smokie Mountain Melodies Purpose: to practice and sing barbershop style music, Contact: Lee Dunham, 706-781-4486, practice every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., Blairsville First United Methodist Church, Website: www.smokiemountainmelodies.com; SNACK IN A BACKPACK •Snack in a Backpack

Purpose: to provide food for children who get their meals at school and have little or nothing to eat on weekends. Backpacks are filled with non-perishable food items by volunteers and delivered to all Fannin County schools. The backpacks are returned to schools on Monday, and the supplying process starts all over. The group is headquartered at 91 Overview Drive, on the hill behind Ingles, in Blue Ridge. Contact: Program Director Tammy Holloway, 706-633-8616, snackinabackpack@gmail.com; Website: snackinabackpack.org; ARTIST GUILD •Southern Appalachian Artist Guild Purpose: to promote the business and professional development of the guild’s member artists, Contact: 706-632-2144, Meeting:

second Thursday of the month at 5 p.m., 0at the Art Center, Website: www.southernappalachianartists.org; CRADDOCK CENTER •The Craddock Center Purpose: exists to enrich the lives of the people of Southern Appalachia through programs of education, cultural enhancement, and service, encouraging communities, families, and children to advance educationally, socially and spiritually, Contact: Julie Jabaley, Phone: 706-632-1772, Website: www. craddockcenter.org; TRI-CITIES BUSINESS •TriCities Business Association Purpose: promote businesses in McCaysville, Copperhill and Ducktown, Contact: Duchess Dailey, Phone: 706-964-6531, Website: www. greatercopperbasin.com;

You Got A Friend In The Insurance Business. “We’ve got YOU covered”

MODEL RAILROADERS •Tri-State Model Railroaders Inc. Purpose: public education, instruction and enjoyment in the art of model railroading; Contact: www.tsmri.org, Meeting time: the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m., Dec.March: first Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. the historic Mineral Bluff depot; TROUT UNLIMITED •Trout Unlimited, Blue Ridge Mountains Chapter #696 Purpose: to protect and provide education on cold water fisheries and ecosystems. It sponsors the Trout in the Classroom program at the middle school and other projects; Contact: President Gary Peterson, Phone: 772-812-7628, Meeting times: second Saturday of each month at 9 a.m., at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce office. ■

The

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ANIMAL RESCUE Fannin County, volunteer groups work to protect, save animals County impounds, then offers dogs for adoption

annin County has several animal rescue groups in addition to Fannin Animal Control that provide help with animals. Fannin Animal Control is responsible for impounding stray or abandoned dogs only, for the health and welfare of county residents. Approximately 300 dogs were handled through animal control in 2014. The office also handles com-

plaints about animals and investigates cases of animal abuse or neglect in Fannin County, as well as in the cities of Blue Ridge, McCaysville and Morganton. Animal Control impounds stray dogs, but no cats, and offers the suitable dogs for adoption at the office located at 1001 Industrial Park Road in Fannin County Industrial Park. The office is open for adoptions Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, and closed on Sunday. Photos of animals that are available for adoption are posted online at www.petfind-

Fannin County Animal Control Manager John Drullinger is shown with a dog that was available for adoption.

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er.com. To use the pet finder site, enter 30513 in the search bar and click “Go” to view the photos. Animal Control does not charge an adoption fee for dogs adopted, but Georgia law requires all adopted animals to be spayed or neutered, and have a rabies vaccination.

When a pet is adopted from Animal Control, the animal will be delivered by an officer directly to a veterinarian selected by the adopting party for the procedure, which is done at the adopting party’s expense. For information call Fannin Animal Control at 706-6323845. ■

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www.SpaAndDeck.com The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 65

A huge crowd was on hand when the Humane Society of Blue Ridge broke ground April 8 for a new facility off Mineral Springs Road in Blue Ridge. Funds for the organization come from a thrift store, two major fund-raisers during the year, and donations.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF BLUE RIDGE IS VOLUNTEER-BASED

he Humane Society of Blue Ridge is a volunteer-based, nonprofit organization that raises funds to provide for the welfare of abandoned, injured, or mistreated animals and to find them loving, permanent homes.

The group works to increase awareness of animal issues through public education and strives to end euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals and promote affordable spaying and neutering. The Humane Society has a facility on Mineral Springs Road called The Haven which houses homeless cats, and there is also a leash-free dog

park located there. The Haven is the society’s office for its Animal Operations Team which directs their fostering, adoption and SNIP (spay and neuter incentive program) efforts. The Haven also provides a free monthly dog and cat food pantry for Fannin County pet owners in need. These programs are funded through sales from the Humane

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Society of Blue Ridge Thrift Shop located at the corner of East First Street and Windy Ridge Drive. The thrift store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and closed on Sunday. The store welcomes donations of items that can be resold. In addition, other financial

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66 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

TRI-STATE PET RESCUE FINDS LOVING HOMES

support for the Humane Society of Blue Ridge comes from its two annual fundraising events, A Taste of Blue Ridge is held in April, and Paws in the Park takes place in October. Both community-based activities are run by the Humane Society’s volunteers. The thrift store may be contacted at 706-6325224. For other Humane Society of Blue Ridge information, including adoptions, call 706-6324357. Donations can be mailed to the Humane Society of Blue Ridge, P.O. Box 2126, Blue Ridge, Ga., 30513, or given through its website at www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org. ■

Large crowds enjoy Taste of Blue Ridge.

riState Pet Rescue is a volunteer organization dedicated to placing pets in loving homes by traveling to the Northeast. Approximately twice each month, President Jan Eaton loads her van with cats and dogs from Fannin and Gilmer county animal control offices and transports them to no-kill animal rescue sanctuaries in New York and New Jersey. Most of the transported pets are taken in by foster families until a carefully screened and approved home is found for them. Over the past several years, TriState Pet Rescue has delivered thousands of cats and dogs to loving, permanent homes. The organization’s newest program takes dogs from Fannin and Gilmer county animal control facilities and puts them through a 10-week socialization and grooming program with detainees at the Carlton H. Colwell Probation Detention center in Blairsville to make them more adoptable. These dogs are then transported to a no-kill shelter in Washington, D.C., area for adoption. To contact TriState Pet Rescue, or to make a donation, call 706-633-7282. ■

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706-632-9900 northgeorgiaspas@gmail.com The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 67

LABOR DAY BAR-B-Q

The annual Labor Day Bar-B-Q fills downtown Blue Ridge with food, fun and people. The event begins Sept. 6.

TRI-CITIES BUSINESS ASSOCIATION McCAYSVILLE, GA

•

COPPERHILL, TN

2015 Copper Basin/McCaysville Area Events & Festivals

April 4: EASTER EGG HUNT, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. Steve Taylor Ballfield, W. Tennessee Avenue, Copperhill, TN. May-September: PICKIN’ IN THE PARK, 6 pm - Dusk. Horseshoe Bend Park, McCaysville, GA. Come and enjoy a great time. MAY 16: COMMUNITY YARD SALE / CRAFT FAIR, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Locations in McCaysville & Copperhill. $10 per space. JUNE 26-27: MINER’S HOMECOMING WEEKEND – 40th Year. Ducktown, TN. Walking parade, pancake breakfast, bean soup dinner, fireworks on Saturday. 423-496-3546. JULY 3: SOUTHERN NIGHTS FIREWORKS, 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Duck race at 1:00 pm along with other pre-fireworks activities. Sponsored by: TCBA, Fannin Chamber, Christian Resources Visitor Center. AUGUST 15: COPPER BASIN RIVERFEST, Kicking it off, duck race at 1:00 pm, tube race at 1:30 pm, starting at McCaysville City Park to cement bridge. Prizes will be given for both events.

SEPTEMBER 19: COMMUNITY YARD SALE / CRAFT FAIR, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Locations in McCaysville & Copperhill. $10 per space. OCTOBER 30: HALLOWEEN SAFETY ZONE, 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm. Costume contest, scream contest & parade, starting at First Baptist Church McCaysville/Copperhill. Join everyone for candy walk in Copperhill & McCaysville. NOVEMBER 11: VETERANS WALK, McCaysville/Copperhill. NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 31: LIGHT UP BASIN, 5:30 pm 8:00 pm. Light Up begins Nov. 28th with lighting of the tree, bridge and best of all Christmas Village. Cookies and cider will be served at Woodland Express, 108 Blue Ridge Drive, compliments of Woodland Express & Cider House Café. DECEMBER 5: KIWANIS 57th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE, 2:00 pm. Sponsored by the Copperhill Kiwanis Club. Events subject to change or cancellation without notice.

For more information: 706-964-6531 » www.greatercopperbasin.com 68 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

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Property Updates

GuideToBlueRidge.com 770.402.1908 | 706.632.7211 252 West Main Street, Blue Ridge GA 30513

Fannin County Chamber of Commerce: 2014 Annual Report

2014 Highlights Leading the way to economic vitality and quality of life in Blue Ridge, McCaysville, Morganton and all of beautiful Fannin County.

Promoting Georgia’s Blue Ridge

Online Business Directory Referrals: 195,636

BlueRidgeMountains.com

Online:

Visitors: 769,533 Page Views: 2,992,095 New Visitors: 68.8% Facebook Fans: 40,000+

Attracting Visitors and Customers Supporting Local Businesses Online

Estimated Overnight Visitors:

200,000

2014 Tourism Economic Impact:

Website Referrals for Lodging: 169,871 Website Referrals for Events: 64,253

Website Referrals for Restaurants: 74,391 Website Referrals for Things To Do: 124,380

$126.5 million Lodging: $26.5 million Transportation: $18.8 million Grocery/Restaurant: $21.3 million Shopping: $27 million Entertainment: $19 million

The Chamber’s Buy Local Program has been a great success.

The Chamber’s 2014 Visitor Survey showed shopping as the number one activity for tourists, followed by relaxation, dining out, scenic drives and sightseeing. Some favorite places are downtown

Blue Ridge, McCaysville & Morganton

Educating Visitors & New Residents:

Connecting Business to Business

Main Welcome CenterVisitors: 15,129 Caboose Info Center Visitors: 7,195

Business After Hours (10) Ribbon Cuttings (40) Operation Appreciation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Contacted 550 members 30th Anniversary Celebration Annual Banquet & Picnic SCORE Workshops Customer Service Training

Building a Better Community Leadership Fannin Class of 2014: 27 Graduates; 277 Alumni Primary Candidate Forum Georgia Department of Economic Development Tour Georgia Council for the Arts Case Study TVA Community Visits Buy Local Program

Serving Members & the Community 139 New Members in 2014

Total Membership: 722

Marketing Fannin County in Print: Southern Living AAA Magazine

Georgia Accredited Chamber by the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

Blue Ridge Country

2015 Board of Directors

Atlanta Magazine

Georgia Magazine

Get Away Together. BlueRi d g e Mo u n t a in s . c o m

Garden & Gun Georgia Travel Guide Georgia Trend Points North Southbound Southern Lady

Blue Ridge, Mercier Orchards, local waterfalls, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Toccoa River and downtown McCaysville.

Lisa Hood, Chairman Cynthia Panter, Chairman Elect Manda Gwatney, Secretary Rene Bidez, Treasurer Kevin Panter, Past Chairman Leland Rymer Anita Weaver Richard York Angela Stewart DeLorme C.J. Green Paul Gribble Tommy Vannoy Tabetha Whitaker Joe Foster Steven Miracle Glenn Harbison Susan Kiker Greg Norton Kim Knutzen Frankie Rigdon Bill Simonds, Ex Officio

Welcome Center: 152 Orvin Lance, in Blue Ridge 706-632-5680 BlueRidgeMountains.com

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Business Naturally. FanninDevelopment.com

706-632-4450

Call Stephanie Scearce

Executive Director of Economic Development

Development Authority promotes Fannin HIGHLY ACCESSIBLE LOCATION Fannin County is situated on the Tennessee-North Carolina line 90 miles north of Atlanta via I-575 and Hwy. 515, and in close proximity to the metropolitan areas of Chattanooga and Asheville, 1.5 hour and 2.5 hour drives, respectively. The county has three incorporated areas: The city of Blue Ridge (the county seat), the city of Morganton and the city of McCaysville, which shares a downtown with Copperhill, Tennessee. With over 40 percent of its land area in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia Trend Magazine’s April 2010 issue describes the Blue Ridge area as “a refuge of sorts for an assortment of expatriates fleeing the congested cities and big corporations of America. The wide natural expanses of Fannin have proven highly attractive to folks who are absolutely sick of the traffic, crime and taxes of the big city.” AVAILABLE, TRAINABLE, LOYAL WORKFORCE Fannin County’s available and trainable workforce is one of the area’s greatest strengths. In addition to being a Georgia Work Ready Certified Community, Fannin area employees are exceptionally loyal and do not “job hop,” which means lower recruiting and training costs and higher productivity for companies that choose to locate. The Georgia Department of Labor confirms the average turnover rate for the five Georgia counties (Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Towns and Union) is a low 10.40 percent (GDOL 2014). Fa n n i n C o u n t y ’s l a b o r force is 10,252. Of that, 686 are unemployed, resulting in a 6.70 percent unemployment rate for 2014 (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Local Area Unemployment Statistics).

Located on the Georgia/ Tennessee/North Carolina line, the regional work force actually contains workers from three states. Fannin County’s regional labor force consists of 96,211 workers and includes Fannin (GA), Gilmer (GA), Union (GA), Towns (GA), Polk (TN), Cherokee (NC), Lumpkin (GA), Dawson (GA) and Murray (GA). ATTRACTIVE SITE & FACILITY OPTIONS The Fannin County Development Authority offers attractive location options, including the Blue Ridge Industries Facility, with 10,000 SF of space ready for light industrial, office or distribution use. Located i n s i d e t h e Fa n n i n Co u nt y Industrial Park, the building currently has two tenants, Pulse Medical Inc., a manufacturer of X-ray imaging apparel, and A&S Clothing, a manufacturer specializing in denim and khaki products. Site options include a 4.54 acre site, also in the Fannin County Industrial Park adjacent to the Blue Ridge Industries Facility, and a 10.87 acre pad-ready site located on Georgia Hwy. 5 just south of the city of McCaysville. E a c h s i te h a s a d va n ce d telecommunications infrastructure to support the needs of a shared services center of small manufacturer. Currently, the FCDA is developing a plan for constructing a 20,000 SF shell speculative facility expandable to 40,000 SF with 24’ ceiling height clearance, and unfinished floors on its 10.87 acre pad-ready site located in McCaysville. Versatility is the basis of design, and will equip the FCDA with product to attract targeted industry sectors (back office operations and small manufacturing). The FCDA is in the process of securing construction financing via state and federal grant/loan programs. Construction is proposed to

commence during the fourth quarter of 2015 should the FCDA achieve its desired financing. EXCELLENT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Fa n n i n Co u n t y h a s t wo excellent technical colleges, North Georgia Technical College in Blairsville and Chattahoochee Tech in Jasper. These colleges have economic development programs to assist with training employees and developing curriculum for future staffing needs. The technical colleges also assist with the state’s nationally recognized Quick Start training, which is provided as an incentive by the State of Georgia. ADVANCED TELECOMMUNICATION SUPPORT Fannin County stands wellpositioned to provide the level of connectivity, reliability and overlap necessary to allow a back office operation or small manufacturing company not only to survive, but to also thrive in the vibrant North Georgia co m m u n i t y. Th e a re a h a s excellent telecommunications companies offering multiple overlapping high speed fiber optic networks. While at first blush the community appears to be small, it has the ability to provide telecom and broadband services on par with much larger metropolitan areas, a competitive advantaged use to surprise prospects. COMPETITIVE INCENTIVES FCDA and the state of Georgia, a s we l l a s T VA E c o n o m i c Development, are committed to supporting the needs of prospects considering Fannin County as a business location or expansion, and wish to provide the necessary resources and business environment to help a company grow and thrive. There are numerous cost savings that can be offered by the FCDA and in partnership with federal and state partners. Such incentives

include Job Tax Credit, Quick Start training, and discretionary funding on a case-by-case basis. RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY In September 2011, Pulse Medical Inc., a Florida-based textile manufacturer, executed a lease with the FCDA for 10,625 SF for relocating business operations inside the Blue Ridge Industries Facility. As a result, Pulse Medical Inc. created 33 new full-time jobs and a $500,000 private investment resulting in a $1,750,000 total project cost. By 2015, Pulse Medical Inc.’s employment will increase to 50. I n S eptember 2012, the FCDA was pleased to announce A&S Clothing’s expansion into 21,875 SF of the Blue Ridge Industries Facility. A local textile manufacturer of 20 plus years, A&S Clothing specializes in denim jeans and khaki products that are 100% made in the USA. The FCDA accepted A&S Clothing’s lease-purchase offer of $415,000 for the 21,875 SF space, which immediately resulted in the creation of 10 new full-time jobs, increasing A&S Clothing’s total employment to 30. A&S Clothing will also expand to 50 job by 2015. The FCDA contributed approximately $30,000 toward the facility buildout, while A&S Clothing invested $800,000 into the expansion. The total project cost of $2,465,000 includes FCDA’s initial $1,250,000 investment and $1,215,000 in private capital. The FCDA recently assisted Walmart with its site selection process for evaluating Blue Ridge, Georgia, as a potential location. In June 2014, Walmart opened its 121,000 SF supercenter while investing approximately $7,000,000 into the community and creating 199 new jobs. To learn more call the Fannin County Development Authority at (706)632-4450 or visit www. FanninDevelopment.com. ■

The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 73

FACTS TELL FANNIN’S STORY POPULATION & LABOR

UTILITIES

2010 POPULATION • City of Blue Ridge: • City of McCaysville: • City of Morganton: • Fannin County: • Percent Population Growth (2000-2010):

1,290 1,056 303 23,682 19.6%

ECONOMIC PROFILE • 2010 Households: • Median Household Income: • Median Disposable Income: • Per Capita Income (2010): 2013 LABOR PROFILE • Labor Force: • Employed: • Unemployment:

16,207 $34,239 $28,903 $19,164 10,252 9,566 686 (6.7%)

* Georgia Work Ready Certified Community * Georgia is a right-to-work and an employment-at-will state

TAXES PROPERTY • Effective tax rates per $1,000 of property at 40% of fair market value. This rate applies to all land, buildings, machinery, equipment and inventory. EFFECTIVE RATE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED IN • Blue Ridge • McCaysville • Morganton (does not charge city tax) • Fannin County

5.77 5.0 0 17.79

INVENTORY • Freeport Tax Credit – 100 percent exemption on inventory for businesses that apply and qualify. SALES • City and county have 3 percent local sales tax in addition to the 4 percent state sales tax.

TRANSPORTATION GROUND ACCESS • Interstate 75 • U.S. Highway 76 • Georgia Highways 515/575, 2, 5, 60 and 60 Spur AIR ACCESS • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, 100 miles •0Blairsville Municipal Airport, 20 miles •0Martin Campbell Field Airport, 12 miles

ELECTRIC POWER Served by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and distrubuted by: • Tri-State Electric Membership Corporative • Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporative *Power costs among the lowest in the Southeast. TELECOMMUNICATIONS • AT&T Communications • Ellijay Telephone Company (ETC) • TDS Telecom • Blue Ridge Mountain EMC WATER AND SEWAGE CITY OF BLUE RIDGE WATER Water Plant Capacity: Ground Storage Capacity: Pumping Capacity: Consumption: SEWER Plant Capacity: Plant Load:

1,300,000 gal/day 2,500,000 gallons 800 gal/min 806,800 gal/day 1,000,000 gal/day 350,000 gal/day avg

CITY OF MCCAYSVILLE WATER Water Plant Capacity: 2,000,000 gal/day Ground Storage Capacity: 3,000,000 gallons Pumping Capacity: 1,400 gal/min Consumption: 680,000 gal/day SEWER Provided through Copperhill, Tennessee NATURAL GAS Natural gas is available in the Blue Ridge area. For information regarding services and hook-ups, please contact Atlanta Gas Light’s Energy Connection Center at 770-994-6105 or 1-800-564-6040

PUBLIC SERVICES FIRE PROTECTION • 120 volunteers and 25 paid staff • 16 fire stations • 6 rescue trucks • 11 tankers • 18 engines • Fire insurance classification 5 in city and 5-9 in county. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES • Three 24-hour staffed, one 12-hour staffed ambulances • Enhanced 911 systems POLICE PROTECTION • Fannin County Sheriff’s Department Officers: • Georgia State Patrol Officers: • Blue Ridge Police Department Officers:

(8 full-time, 4 part-time)

FANNIN COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

• McCaysville Police Department Officers:

Stephanie Searce, Executive Director 152 Orvin Lance Drive, P.O. Box 1689 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-4450 Office; 706-632-2241 Fax Website: www.FanninDevelopment.com Email: sscearce@fannindevelopment.com

GARBAGE • Service provided by private contractors

74 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

22 10 12

ZONING • Blue Ridge has zoning ordinance • County has land use plan

Fannin County Development Authority Shell Speculative Facility Conceptual Site Plan

Fannin County

722 Black Dog Trail P.O. Box 639 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 404.309.4988

FARM MARKET Nature’s Artistry Minerals ~ Fossils~ Gems Jewelry ~ Driftwood

The Downtown Market features a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

DOWNTOWN MARKET OPEN SATURDAYS

T 524 E. Main Street Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 706.632.6036 pezrok@gmail.com /pezrok • pezrok.com

76 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

he Blue Ridge Downtown Market opened May 2 this year on West Main Street in front of the Fannin County Courthouse. Market spokeswoman Libby Stewart said plans are to open at 8 a.m. each Saturday except Memorial Day weekend and continue through September for crafts, produce, plants and baked goods. Stewart said. “We hope to offer our customers locally grown vegetables, flowers and native plants, including lettuce, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and maybe strawberries.” The market will also showcase the Fannin County Library’s seed bank that allows anyone to check out various

seeds for free, and after growing them, return the same amount back to the library with the information on seed pack so they can be available for others, Stewart said. “Anyone who has seeds that they would like to share with the community can bring them to the market or the library and they will be added to the seed bank,” she said. The market will also include craft vendors, some regulars and hopefully some new vendors as well, she said. “New farmers and gardeners are encouraged to participate so we can have a larger variety of fresh produce, Stewart said “Bakers, especially those who bake bread, are especially encouraged to participate, as well as those who can offer jams and jelly.” For information visit the market website at www. brfarmersmarket.com. ■

SNACK IN A BACKPACK Volunteers off all ages work with Snack in a Backpack.

NEVAEH

Cabin Rentals, LLC

1-800-488-1644 NEVAEH Cabin Rentals of Blue Ridge is nestled in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains only 80 minutes north of Atlanta. This beautiful area is perfect for your next cabin vacation getaway experience! Make your mountain getaway reservations today! (online booking available)

VOLUNTEERS PROVIDE FOOD ON WEEKENDS

nack in a Backpack is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on eliminating hunger in Fannin County. The volunteer organization purchases food directly from regional food banks at minimum cost and fresh seasonal fruit is donated by local growers as well. The program presently serves more than 390 students in seven schools in Fannin County including three elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, the Pre-K Head Start program, the North Star program and Milestones Learning Center. Snack in a Backpack provides food for students who get their meals at school, and may have little or nothing to eat on the weekends. A bag is filled with non-perishable, healthy food items by volunteers and delivered to their designated schools for the children to take home over the weekend.

This food may help feed other family members as well. According to Program Director Tammy Holloway, donations of: •$2.75 will feed one child for a week; •$11.00 will feed one child for a month. •$110.00 will feed one child for the school year. She said the cost of the food for the program is approximately $38,500 for the current school year. “All donations are tax deductible,” Holloway said. “We sincerely appreciate personal and corporate donations, including cash, checks, and donations by PayPal.” Local businesses can also support Snack in a Backpack by donating food in bulk. For information contact Holloway, the program director, at P.O. Box 336, Epworth, Ga., 30541, by phone at 706-2584090, or by e-mail at backpackfannin@gmail.com. The Snack in a Backpack office is located at 91 Overview Drive, in Blue Ridge, behind Ingles in the Georgia Prime Real Estate complex. ■

E-mail: contactus@NevaehCabinRentals.com Visit us online for more information at: www.NevaehCabinRentals.com

Wolf Creek Builders is a fully licensed and insured construction business with over 35 years experience.

Call 706-455-3662 or visit us at: www.wolfcreekbuilders.com

The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 77

TRICITIES BUSINESS ASSOCIATION GROUP COORDINATES McCAYSVILLE AND COPPERHILL EVENTS

he TriCities Business Association coordinates the activities of the downtown areas of the twin cities of McCaysville and Copperhill including a variety of arts, antique and craft events, as well as promoting specialty shops, restaurants and tourism. Some events include River Fest, Halloween Safe Zone, Veterans Walk, Christmas Village, Light Up the Basin and the annual Christmas parade sponsored by the Copperhill Kiwanis Club. Sponsored events are: •Pickin’ at Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park, Thursday nights, 6 p.m., May through September; •Community Yard Sale & Craft Fair, May 16, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., various locations in McCaysville and Copperhill; •Miner’s Homecoming, Ducktown, June

26-27, walking parade, pancake breakfast, soup bean dinner and fireworks; •Southern Nights Fireworks July 3, Duck Race at 1 p.m. along with other pre fireworks activities, sponsored by the TriCities Business Association, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and Christian Resources Visitor Center; •Copper Basin RiverFest, Aug. 15, Duck Race at 1 p.m., tube race at 1:30 p.m. from McCaysville City Park to the Hwy. 5 concrete bridge; •Community Yard Sale & Craft Fair, Sept. 19, various locations in McCaysville and Copperhill, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; •Halloween Safe Zone, Oct. 30, begins at 5 p.m. with a costume contest on the parking lot of First Baptist Church of McCaysville/Copperhill, followed by a costume parade and scream contest; •Veterans Walk, Nov. 11, from McCaysville to Copperhill; •Light Up The Basin, Nov. 28, activities begin at 5:30 p.m. with the lighting of the Christmas tree and the steel bridge, and the

Mayor Tom Seabolt threw the switch for Light Up the Basin.

opening of the Christmas Village, cookies and cider provided by Woodland Express and Cider House Cafe. The treats will be available at Woodland Express, 108 Blue Ridge Drive in McCaysville; •Copperhill Kiwanis Club’s 57th annual Christmas Parade, Dec. 5, 2 p.m., starting from the Steve Taylor ballfield in Copperhill. For information about any of the evens or the TriCities Business Association call 706-964-6531 or visit www.greatercopperbasin.com. ■

Fine Cigars & Accessories

Wine Bar & Bistro Restaurant

SERVING LUNCH & DINNER

Wine Tastings ∙ Private Parties Fresh Food ∙ Gluten Free Outdoor Patio ∙ Pet Friendly Chocolate Tastings 632 E. Main Street Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

DOWNTOWN Middle of Main Street

706-946-8463 78 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Larger Lounge — Larger Humidor 1901 Appalachian Hwy., Ste 101 Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 706-946-2442

Your Connection to the

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“I have enjoyed the Blue Ridge area for 15 years, and would love to help you make your mountain dream come true. Mountain, lake & river homes…there is sure to be a setting that is special for you!”

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annieboland@atlantafinehomes.com 500 E. Main Street #302, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

TOCCOA WILDERNESS

FARM NEEDS

TUBING $

PER P

ERSON

706-455-7427

Life Vest & Shuttle Service Cooler Tube Rentals Available Picnic Tables & Gazebo On-Site Restrooms & Changing Rooms Available

April Holcombe has managed the Fannin County Farmers Co-op for 11 years.

Fannin County Co-Op offers variety of agricultural items

S TWT Coo l rips ers permi tted on rafting t 80 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

ince 1935, the Fannin County Co-Op has served the needs of the local farm community with a variety of seeds, fertilizer and other agricultural items. It is located at 370 E. Main Street in Blue Ridge. For the past 11 years, April Holcombe has been co-op manager looking after the needs of local farmers and gardeners.

The co-op is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. On Wednesday and Saturday, the co-op is open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. “We are here to serve the needs of our local farm community,” Holcombe said. “If we don’t have what someone needs, we can get it.” The phone number is 706632-5425. ■

Tri-State EMC members help communities

embers of Tri-State Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) support their communities through Operation Round Up. This program provides financial assistance to organizations within the three counties served by the EMC. All that is required of members is the “round up” of their power bill to the nearest dollar every month. This is done automatically unless a member chooses not to participate. The average EMC member will contribute $6 a year. This small, individual contribution results in over $70,000 being given annually to local

Area schools are among organizations that received Operation Round Up grants in early 2015. Here, representatives of Fannin County schools receive checks from Operation Round Up directors.

organizations. The Tri-State Electric Membership Corporation Foundation was created to disburse the money collected by Operation Round Up. It’s board of directors consists of volunteer mem-

Blue Ridge

bers from Tri-State EMC’s three counties. Requests for assistance are evaluated and grants are awarded by the board. One hundred percent of Round Up contributions go

toward improving the communities. For more information, contact Tri-State EMC at 706492-3251, visit the office at 2310 Blue Ridge Drive, or visit www.tsemc.net. ■

The Most Diversified Dealer In The World! Ford’s · RV’s · Campers · Motorcycles · Boats

NORTH GA FORD

WE WILL TRADE FOR JUST ABOUT ANYTHING!

7525 E Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 706-632-8900 NorthGAFord.com Welcome to Blue Ridge North Georgia Ford, the most diversified dealer in the world! Not only do we have new Fords and used vehicles, we also sell used RVs, campers, motorcycles and boats. In addition we also have the full line of new Bryant Boats and South Bay Pontoons. We are also a certified Mercury Marine service center and we will service any make or model boat!

WE HAVE THESE AND SO MUCH MORE... The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 81

Agricultural, consumer information offered EXTENSION SERVICE CONTINUES LEGACY

he Fannin County office of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Program has been open for over 70 years. Nationwide, the extension program has been active since 1914. The Fannin County Extension Coordinator is Eddie Ayers, the secretary is Becky Ratcliff and the 4-H program assistant is Kim Cheves. The Cooperative Extension offers unbiased, educational information about agriculture, 4-H and youth and family consumer science. For the gardener or agricultural operator, the office can provide information about insect identification, insect control and plant and animal disease control. Soil and water testing is also available through the office, as well as information about livestock and pasture management. Commercial farmers and homeowners

can receive advice about what varieties of plants grow best in the area. The extension office also has information about what time of year is best for planting in north Georgia. The extension office conducts the 4-H education program for youth in grades 5-12. Through 4-H, youth can participate in community service projects, public speaking competitions, judging events and summer camp The extension office is also a source of information for the home such as food preservation, nutrition, health, family development, resource management and child care provider training. The Fannin County Extension Office is located on the second floor of the EMA Building, 205 Church St., in Blue Ridge. Office hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information call the extension office at 706-632-3061, or visit the extension website, www.ugaextension. com/fannin. ■

Qualit Quality Homes Built Qualit on Your Land!!! oo Extension Coordinator Homes for Every Budget From $67,000 Eddie Ayers to $425,000

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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

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 CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500 From $67,000 to $425,000 MAGNOLIA $152,100 ELLIJAY CHALET II $129,500 MAGNOLIA $152,100 ELLIJAYII $162,100 CHALET II $129,500 THE CHATTAHOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500 $193,500 CHALET II $162,100 $129,500 THE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500 Modify any2½½plan to meet YOUR needs! 3333CHALET The Prices are Unbelievable and Prices Unbelievable Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 3 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths 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 Baths ½Baths Baths Bedrooms, 22 ½ Baths CHALET II $129,500 $193,500 2,592 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof 1,924 Square Feet 1,924 Square Feet Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 2,592 Square Feet Under Roof 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof So Is the Quality! 2,706 So IsFeet the Quality! 1,924 Square Under Roof 2,548Square SquareFeet FeetUnder UnderRoof Roof 1,924 Under Roof So Is the Quality! 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof Modify any plan to meet YOUR needs! Modify plan to meet needs! Modify anyany plan to meet YOURYOUR needs! 1,924 Square Feet Under Roof

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THE CHATTAHOOCHEE $193,500

MAGNOLIA $152,100 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2½$193,500 THECHATTAHOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE THE $210,000 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 $140,600 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 $165,100 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 $176,100 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof 2,520 Square Feet2Roof Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under 3 Bedrooms, ½ Baths

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

PARKVIEW $146,200 PARKVIEW $158,900 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 FARMHOUSE FARMHOUSE CHARLESTON MANOR $286,300 CHARLESTON MANOR “B” “B”$137,300 $286,300 CHEROKEE $137,300 4 5 Bedrooms, 2 3½ Baths

5 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 4 2 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $137,300 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $152,100 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 2,495 Square Feet Under Roof 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof 1,924 2,548 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

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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 COLUMBUS $146,600 MANOR “B” $286,300 CENTERVILLE $155,700 CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE PARKVIEW COLUMBUS $146,600 CHARLESTON $286,300 CENTERVILLE $155,700 CENTERVILLE $155,700 $155,700 COLUMBUS $159,200 CHARLESTON CHARLESTON MANOR “B”$137,300 $310,600 CENTERVILLE $169,400 PLAN“B” • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors S • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors 4 Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 2 2 Baths Baths 4 Bedrooms,2 Baths 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 54 Bedrooms, ½ Bedrooms, 323½ ½ Baths Baths 5 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 43Bedrooms, Bedrooms, 22Baths Baths 4 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 2,376 Square FeetUnder UnderRoof Roof 2,612 Square Feet 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 Square Feet Under Roof 2,612 • 5/8” 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

110

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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

M M M

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

COLUMBU COLUMBU 3 3 Bedroom Bedroom COLUMBU 2,376 Square 2,376 Square F F 3 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 Hung Low E Windows Granite Kitchen Counter Double Hung Low E Glass GlassTops Windows COUNTRY CAPE $227,000 COUNTRY CAPE $227,000 COUNTRY CAPELow $246,300 •• R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors Double Hung E Glass Windows R-19 4 Insulated Bedrooms, 22½ ½ Baths 4 Bedrooms, 2 ½Walls Baths 4 Bedrooms, Bathsand Floors 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

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Members of the Fannin County Scholarship Foundation Board of Trustees work to help graduates further their educations. From left are, front, secretary Debbie Seabolt, Angela De Lorme, treasurer Jackie Seabolt, Melissa Mercier Lillard; back, Clarence “Junior” Mason, Glenn Harbison, Dr. Jack Roof, chair man Bill Prather and Norman Kaye.

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Foundation works to help students continue education

he Fannin County Scholarship Foundation Inc. is a group of local citizens working to ensure that talented and deserving Fannin County High School graduates have the opportunity to excel in life through furthering their educations. The foundation awards scholarships as a one-time, first-year grant. Students are selected by the Fannin County High School Scholarship Steering Committee. The committee uses a formal point system to evaluate applicants based on financial need and academics. The majority of students who apply do receive some type of financial assistance. Class of 2014 graduates received over $100,000 through the foundation. But, there is still much more the foundation wants to accomplish. Besides continuing to recognize academic success, directors’ goals include

increasing support to Fannin students from one-year to multi-year awards, and funding additional resources at Fannin High School such as an SAT prep course. The foundation needs help to achieve its goals. Donations can be made in a variety of ways, including direct, tax-deductible donations, planned giving, memorials, named scholarships or matching funds. To learn more about the foundation or make a contribution, contact the foundation at P.O. Box 183, Blue Ridge, GA, 305132, or visit its website at www.fanninscholarship.com. Anyone interested can also contact any member of the foundation’s board of trustees: William L. “Bill” Prather, Angela DeLorme, Clarence W. “Junior” Mason, Norman Kaye, Jack Roof, Glenn Harbison, Debbie Seabolt, Melissa Lillard or Jackie Seabolt. ■

Feed Fannin works toward eliminating area hunger

eed Fannin was founded in 2009 as a volunteer organization to educate and encourage the Fannin County community towards self-sufficiency while providing food for those in need. “We are committed to eliminating hunger in Fannin County and the Copper Basin,” according to chairwoman Connie Galloway. A diverse group of volunteers apply their time and energy to help Feed Fannin through programs such as the community garden located on Ada Street in Blue Ridge, and at other sites in Fannin County, that provide space for local residents to grow fruits and vegetables. Members work in the gardens to provide over 10,000 pounds of fresh produce to the Family Connection Food Pantry. In addition, Feed Fannin participates in the Downtown Market held on Saturday mornings from late May through October

where local residents and farmers offer fruits, vegetables and crafts for sale. Feed Fannin supports the food pantry by providing volunteer workers, food, and money to feed the hungry in Fannin County. “Our volunteers also provide information, education, and training to those who want to learn to be more self-sufficient in growing, preserving and preparing their own food,” Galloway said. The organization also sponsors several fundraising events throughout the year to provide funds to support its activities. The activities include Bowls of Hope, Arts in the Park, and Light Up Blue Ridge. For more information on fund raising, contact Galloway at 706-374-4372, or e-mail feedfannin@gmail.com. Feed Fannin is located at Fannin County Family Connection office at 101 Industrial Park Drive in Blue Ridge. ■

Feed Fannin volunteers work to eliminate hunger.

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Cleaning party helps kick off annual event that features food, music, crafts, contest

he annual Ramp Festival is one of the largest events of the year for residents of East Polk County, Tenn. It takes place at Camp McCroy, in the Polk County 4-H Camp in Greasy Creek, on the last weekend in April. The Polk County Extension Service hosts the annual festival. The event begins with the annual ramp dig in the mountains near Tellico Plains on Wednesday before the festival. Ramps are wild plants that belong to the lily family, and are found in the Appalachian Mountains at or above 3,000 feet. Once the ramps are gathered, volunteers have a ramp cleaning party at 9 a.m. that includes bluegrass music on Friday and a white bean dinner at 7 p.m.

The actual festival begins Saturday at 10 a.m., with more bluegrass music and the ramp meal that includes fried ramps with eggs, fried potatoes, streaked meat, white beans, corn bread and sassafras tea. There is a small charge for the meal and all proceeds benefit the Polk County 4-H camp. The Saturday festival includes a variety of craft vendors and participants are invited to enter a ramp-eating contest. The Ramp Festival began in 1958 when 4-H club members and volunteers tramped up Big Frog Mountain in Polk County to dig the ramps and prepare a meal. For more details, call the Polk County Extension office at 423-338-4503. ■

POLK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Group works to promote tourism, business, economic development

he Polk County Chamber of Commerce has more than 150 members and promotes business interests, economic development and tourism in Polk County and the Copper Basin area. Annual membership dues range from $75 for a nonbusiness individual, to between $100 and $525 for a business, based on the number of employees. The chamber is governed by

a 12-member board of directors from the Benton and Copper Basin areas of Polk County. The chamber office is located at 1697 Hwy. 64, in Ocoee, Tenn. For more information, contact Office Manager Adrian Lambert at the Benton office at 423-338-5040. The e-mail address is westoffice@ocoeecountry.com or visit the chamber’s website at www.ocoeecountry.com. ■

HEALTH CARE Services center around four area facilities FANNIN REGIONAL HOSPITAL Fannin Regional Hospital is a general, acute-care hospital offering a 24-hour, physician-staffed emergency room. The 50-bed hospital is a Medicare/Medicaid approved facility, certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The hospital was named one of the top hospitals in Georgia by Georgia Trend magazine in 2012, 2013 and 2014 in the small hospital category, rep-

resenting hospitals 150 beds and below. It was named one of the nation’s top performers on key quality measures by the Joint Commission, one of the leading healthcare accreditation organizations in America, as well. The Joint Commission also recognized Fannin Regional for exemplary performance in using evidence-based clinical processes shown to improve care for certain conditions. Fannin Regional offers general surgery, gastroenterology, cardiology, obstetrics & gynecology, nuclear cardiology, pulmonary, urology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otolaryngology (ENT), hematology, Continued on page 88➣

The Hospital Auxiliary, commonly referred to as the Pink Ladies, plays a big role at Fannin Regional Hospital. Auxiliary members are honored quarterly for their volunteer hours and other special contributions. Judy Evans, center, was honored in March 2015 by Volunteer Services Director Cindy Querry and hospital CEO David Sanders.

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Turning Leaf Fine Art Gallery receives Best of Blue Ridge Award for Art Dealers in 2013 and 2014! The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 87

➣Continued from page 87

sleep studies, physical therapy, speech therapy and cardiac rehabilitation. Services offered in the specialty clinic include cardiology, gastroenterology, neurosurgery, vascular surgery, anti-coagulation clinic, wound clinic and the area’s only high-definition video endoscopy. The hospital operates the Rehabilitation Center, a full-service outpatient physical therapy and wellness facility, at RiverStone Medical Campus. For information call 706-9464261. Fannin Regional Hospital also operates the Appalachian Physicians Group Walk-In Clinic at RiverStone Medical Campus. The clinic is open seven days a week, 365 days a year, with extended hours and no appointment necessary. The

phone is 706-946-4200. Additionally, Fannin Regional provides a full range of diagnostic services including radiology and laboratory. The 24-hour radiology department offers digital mammography, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, echo-cardiology, stereo tactic biopsy, bone density, and nuclear medicine. The full-service laboratory offers routine laboratory tests as well as microbiology, and is joint commission accredited. The hospital also operates community outreach, education, and wellness programs, as well as birthing classes free of charge. For more information on these programs call 706-2584606. Fannin Regional also sponsors the Healthy Woman program, which focuses on educating women of all ages about

health and well-being topics in a monthly seminar series. For information, on the Healthy Woman program call 706-632-4269. Another program sponsored by the hospital is Senior Circle, a membership program designed to help people age 50 or over get more out of life through health talks, benefits at the hospital, and many more valuable, member-only discounts and privileges, For information on Senior Circle call 706-258-4671. Fannin Regional Hospital is located at 2855 Old Hwy. 5, between Blue Ridge and McCaysville. For more information call the marketing office at 706-258-4673.

• Bed & Breakfast Est. 1890

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COPPER BASIN MEDICAL CENTER Copper Basin Medical Cen-

ter is a community-owned, non-profit hospital serving the healthcare needs of the residents of Polk County, Tenn., Fannin County, Ga., and Cherokee County, N.C. Since opening its doors in 1955, Copper Basin Medical Center has been dedicated to providing high quality, affordable healthcare to the tri-state area. It is a Medicare/Medicaid approved facility, certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Copper Basin Medical Center offers a full range of services, including general surgery, diagnostic radiology, ultrasound, echo-cardiology, mammography, computed tomography (CT), MRI, nuclear medicine, and a state-of-the-art laboratory. Continued on page 90➣

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

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88 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

The House of Threads is a 3,300 sq. ft. one-of-a-kind creative shopping experience for Men and Women. Designed for people seeking the most beautiful clothing, fine provisions and objects found. A Life Force helicopter takes off from Copper Basin Medical Center.

Customer Lounge, Flat Screen TV, Shuffleboard, lots of love and fun people ts and nd sunse d new a s p o h ffee s passports an han need co “You’ll . Airplanes and people more t P LE s t roadtrip d old son gs, bu NEED OTH E R P EO to n a IL W L person son gs lse. YOU be that other creamin g e g n i h t ,s any d to reathin g will nee and you else, a livin g, b er thin gs.” ski t e someon n to believe bet Jamie Tworkow ~ invitatio

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90 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

➣Continued from page 88

Specialty services include gastroenterology, cardiology, urology and oncology. Copper Basin Medical Center is located between Copperhill and Ducktown on Hwy. 68. For more information, call 423-496-5511.

GEORGIA MOUNTAINS HEALTH

Georgia Mountains Health main office is located at 165 Blue Ridge Overlook in Blue Ridge. There are also locations in Ellijay, Dahlonega, Dalton and

Chatsworth that provide family medical care and laboratory services. The medical staff includes full-time physicians, advance practice nurse practitioners, and a specialty clinic. Georgia Mountains Health also has a dental office in downtown Blue Ridge, staffed by a dentist and a dental hygienist. Services are available to everyone and most all insurance is accepted, with fees based on a sliding scale according to individual ability to pay. For more information call 706947-4647.

RIVERSTONE MEDICAL CAMPUS RiverStone Medical Campus is celebrating its 13th anniversary as a health care provider in Blue Ridge. Located above the Ingles Shopping Center, RiverStone is a physician-owned medical facility including physicians, a dentist, a specialty clinic and other medical personnel who provide healthcare for

All area health care providers encourage patients to keep a close check on their own health, and especially blood pressure. Here, Jill Holloway takes a reading from Justin Nicholson. In addition to regular services, providers throughout Fannin County and the Copper Basin offer a variety of free and reduced-price health screenings throughout the year. Classes on weight management have also become regular events.

individuals and families. Available services include home health care, dental, laboratory services, cancer treatment, Respi-Care, imaging, dermatology, rehabilitation services, pharmacy, and childcare services. River Birch Research Alliance is also located at RiverStone. For information about RiverStone Medical Campus, or to reach one of the medical offices, call 706-258-4100. ■

RiverStone Medical Campus sits on the hill above Ingles just off Hwy. 515 in Blue Ridge. It houses a wide variety of medical professionals, including specialists.

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319 Hell’s Hollow Road, Blue Ridge GA The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 91

EDUCATION SUPERINTENDENT, BOARD OVERSEE FANNIN SYSTEM

he Fannin County School System is governed by an elected five-member board and an appointed superintendent. There were approximately 2,968 students enrolled systemwide in the fall of 2014, and the school system had 462 employees at that time. In the spring of 2015, the enrollment and the number of employees at each school were: •Blue Ridge Elementary, 706-632-5772. There are 455 students and 70 employees; •East Fannin Elementary, 706-374-6418. There are 411 students and 59 employees; •West Fannin Elementary,

Fannin County school board members are required to take Georgia training. With 2015 certificates for successful completion are, from left, Steve Stanley, Sandra Mercier, Lewis DeWeese, Terry Bramlett and Bobby Bearden.

706-492-3644. There are 466 students and 62 employees; •Fannin County Middle,

706-632-6100. There are 712 students and 83 employees; •Fannin County High, 706-

632-2081. There are 862 Continued on page 94➣

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24 Hr. Monitoring www.automatedcreations.net 92 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

The Helpful Place for anything you need for the home.

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â&#x17E;ŁContinued from page 92

students and 98 employees, Systemwide, including central office, maintenance and transportation, there are 81 additional employees. Beginning July 1 this year, the Fannin County Schools will become a charter system giving the Board of Education more flexibility with school operations. It will also allow each school to have a governance committee made up of school administrators, teachers and parents that will have decision-making authority over various school activities.

CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL OFFERS RESOURCE Mountain Education Charter High School is an educational resource for many Fannin

County high school students. Its main objective is to help individuals who have left a traditional high school to complete the necessary requirements to received a diploma. Classes are taught through a computer-based program with the assistance of qualified and supportive teachers. Students work independently on classes they need and move forward as they successfully complete each module. Each student also has a mentor who monitors their weekly progress, which adds another layer of support. In addition to classes on campus at Fannin Middle School, there is a push to get students enrolled in the dual enrollment program with area colleges. That way students earn college credit and high school credit at the same time. Classes meet Monday

through Thursday evenings from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Middle School and go through the summer. For information about classes call 706-632-6100.

AREA COLLEGES PROVIDE MORE OPPORTUNITIES Several colleges and universities are in close proximity to Fannin County. They include North Georgia Technical College in Blairsville, Dalton State College in Dalton with a branch in Ellijay, the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, Young Harris College in Young Harris and Reinhardt University in Waleska. In addition, North Georgia Technical College operates the Fannin Literacy Action Group adult education center in Blue

Ridge to help individuals earn a General Equivalency Diploma. To reach North Georgia Technical College call 706439-6300. Dalton State College in Ellijay can be reached at 706635-1260. The phone number for the University of North Georgia is 706-864-1400. For Young Harris College information call 800-241-3754. To contact Reinhardt University call 770-720-3524. For information about Fannin Literacy Action Group and GED classes call 706946-3524.

UNIVERSITY SITE COMING TO FANNIN COUNTY State funding has been approved and, as of the end of April 2015, plans were in the

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500 East Main Street, Suite 204, Blue Ridge, Georgia 706.946.0772 www.crawfordcollections.net 94 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

â&#x20AC;˘

works for the University of North Georgia to open an instructional site in Blue Ridge. Initial planning was for the site to be open by the fall of 2015. The University of Georgia System Board of Regents approved $943,000 for the site. Initially, the instructional program was built on the university’s dual enrollment courses offered in collaboration with high schools in Fannin and Union counties.

COPPER BASIN HIGH RECOGNIZED BY TENNESSEE Copper Basin High School averages more than 350 students and more than 40 employees during the current school year. In 2013-14 the high school was named a Tennessee Level Five school for academic

growth. High school and middle school age students from throughout eastern Polk County, Tennessee, attend classes in the high school building. For information about the high school call 423-496-3291. Copper Basin Elementary, averages more than 400 students and approximately 50 employees during the school year. In 2012 the elementary was named a “Reward” school placing it among the top 5 percent of performing schools in the state. The elementary school has completely separate facilities from the high school/middle school complex. Both are located on the Copper Basin campus, off Hwy. 68 just south of Ducktown. For information about the elementary school call 423496-3271. ■

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706.946.1030 www.presentsofmine.com The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 95

UTILITIES

Tri-State EMC, Blue Ridge Mountain EMC provide power to Fannin County The Fannin County and Copper Basin areas have several sources for electrical power as well as water and wastewater treatment services.

serves residents of the Dial, Hemptown and Morganton areas. For information, call 706-379-3121 or 800-2926456 (toll free).

ELECTRICITY

WATER AND SEWER

Tri-State EMC, Hwy. 5, McCaysville, Ga., serves residents in many areas of the county, including those living in and around McCaysville, Blue Ridge and Mineral Bluff in Georgia, as well as residents of Copperhill, Ducktown, Isabella, Turtletown and Farner in Tennessee. For information, call 706-492-3251. Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Young Harris, Ga.,

City of McCaysville, Hwy. 5, McCaysville, provides water resources for the residents in the northern half of Fannin County and the Copperhill area of Polk County. For information, call 706-492-4921. City of Copperhill, Tenn. provides wastewater treatment for the residents in McCaysville and the northern area of Fannin County, and, as well as Copperhill area. For informa-

96 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Tri-State hosts an annual Earth Day celebration.

tion call 423-496-5141. City of Blue Ridge water and sewer, East First Street, Blue Ridge, Ga., serves the greater Fannin County area. For information, call 706-6322091. City of Morganton water department serves Morganton, the east side of Blue Ridge Lake area, Lakewood, parts of Hwys. 60, 515 and 76. For more information, call the city

hall at 706-374-5770. Fannin County Water Authority currently provides water to the My Mountain and Hidden Valley areas. Additional areas are under development. For information, call 706-2585160. Copper Basin Utilities, Hwy. 68, Turtletown, serves Ducktown, Turtletown, Farner and Isabella. For information call 423-496-5744. â&#x2013;

GOVERNMENT FANNIN COUNTY

annin County is governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners, which includes a full-time chairman who also serves as the county’s chief executive, and two part-time post commissioners, all of whom Fannin County Commission are elected Chairman at large and Bill Simonds serve fouryear terms. For 2015, the commission chairman is Bill Simonds, the

Post 1 commissioner is Earl Johnson, and the Post 2 commissioner is Larry Joe Sosebee. The current chairman and Post 1 seats expire at the end of 2016 while the Post 2 seat expires in 2018. The Board of Commissioners office is located in the Fannin County Courthouse at 400 West Main Street in Blue Ridge, and can be reached at 706-632-2203. The Board of Commissioners meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month in the jury assembly room on the third floor of the courthouse at 6 p.m. Within Fannin County are three incorporated cities, each with their own municipal government.

BLUE RIDGE

he city of Blue Ridge is governed by a mayor and five-member council. The mayor is Donna White n e r, a n d the council members are Angie Arp, Harold Herndon, Rodney Kendall, Bruce Pack and Rhonda Thomas. City of Blue Ridge The Blue Mayor Donna Ridge City Whitener Hall is located at 480 West First Street, and can be reached at 706-632-2091. The city council meets on the second Tuesday of the month at

city hall at 6 p.m.

McCAYSVILLE

he city of McCaysville is also governed by a mayor and five-member council. The mayor is Thomas Seabolt, and the council members are Larry Collis, Charles “Brownie” Pittman, City of Tommy McCaysville Mayor Quintrell, Tom Seabolt Richard Continued on page 100➣

The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 97

Town & Country Welcome to My Hometown! W

elcome to the beautiful Blue Ridge area, where the people are friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed! This small town is surrounded by clean, crisp air, and everyone who visits falls in love with the rolling mountains and sparkling Lake Blue Ridge. Don’t miss the Toccoa River, a wide variety of hiking and biking trails, and the historic downtown, which is the home of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, as well as an abundance of antique shops, coffee houses, parks, quaint restaurants, and fine dining. If you find yourself falling in love with the area, and you are interested in checking out some of the fabulous available properties, don’t hesitate to give me a call! I am a full service realtor with a background in staging, land development, and new construction ~ and my roots are deep in North Georgia. I believe in building lasting relationships with my clients and I continually strive for excellent service with rewarding results...Work with someone who knows the area, and the people and the market!

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Helps regain basic functions such as eating, drinking or working to improve memory. We have added E-Stim, Ultrasound, Shortwave Diathermy and VitalStim therapies. These units will record treatment sessions and document your progress with rehab electronically. E-Stim is a non-invasive therapy that uses controlled neuromuscular electrical stimulation to strengthen the muscles and increase circulation. • Ultrasound Therapy uses high-energy sound waves to help ease painful joints and muscles. • Shortwave Diathermy is a method of controlling pain and increasing the blood flow to damaged muscles. • VitalStim Therapy is designed to help swallowing through the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation. •

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➣Continued from page 97

Win Pound, MD CERTIFIED AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Pound is a native Georgian and the fifth generation doctor in his family. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with more than 25 years in private practice. A caring physician, he treats patients as if they were family. Dr. Pound is currently seeing patients at RiverStone Medical Campus.

A MENU OF OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Trans-Umbilical Breast Augmentation – the ONLY plastic surgeon in Georgia offering this procedure • Facelift (full or mini) • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) • Surgery for protruding ears • Earlobe repair • Lip augmentation/reduction • Cheek/chin implants • Botox/Dysport/injections • Restylane, Radiesse, Juvederm, Sculptra injections • Breast Augmentation, Breast lift, Breast reduction • Repair of inverted nipples • Nipple shortening • Areola reduction • Liposuction/SlimLipo (body contouring) • Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) Thigh lift • Body lift • Arm lift • Brazilian butt lift • Gynecomastia (male breast) repair • Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) • Scar revision • Fat transfer ASK ABOUT OUR MEDICAL SPA PACKAGES. For more detailed information about our practice visit www.winpound.com. Call today to schedule a free consultation!

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404.256.1400 100 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Wagner and Rusty Whittenbarger. The McCaysville City Hall is located at 223 Blue Ridge Drive, and can be reached at 706-492-4921. The city council meets on the second Tuesday of the month at city hall at 7 p.m.

MORGANTON

he city of Morganton is governed by a mayor and three-member council. The mayor is Mike England, and the council members are Robert Craig, Gail Corbett and Bill Kendall. The Morganton City Hall is located at 57 ByCity of pass Road, Morganton and can be Mayor r e a c h e d a t Mike England 706-3745770. The city council meets on the second Tuesday of odd-numbered months at city hall at 5 p.m.

FANNIN SCHOOLS

chools in Fannin County are run by an elected five-member Board of Education, together with appointed Schools Superintendent Mark Henson. The board members are Bobby Bearden, Terry Bramlett, Lewis D e We e s e , Sandra Mer- Fannin School c i e r a n d Superintendant Steve Stan- Mark Henson ley. The Fannin County Schools central office is located at 2290 East First Street in Blue Ridge, and can be reached at 706-6323771. The board meets at the central office on the second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.

FANNIN TAXES

very property owner in Fannin County is subject to county and school taxes. For every driver, there are tags to be renewed Continued on page 102➣

Fannin County Government

• Board of Commissioners • Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) • Land Development • Tax Commissioner • Tax Assessors • Clerk of Courts • Probate Court • Magistrate Court • Emergency Management • Fire Department • Emergency Medical Services • Registration and Elections • Road Department • Recreation Department • Board of Education

706-632-2203 706-632-2044 706-632-8361 706-632-2645 706-632-5954 706-632-2039 706-632-3011 706-632-5558 706-632-1958 706-632-4711 706-632-4755 706-632-7740 706-632-5481 706-632-7696 706-632-3771

Blue Ridge Community Theater

Beyond The Main Stage of BRCT

2015 2015 LINE UP

1 2 3

Friday January 16

Copious Jones

Brighton Beach Memoirs

Sunday March 8

Franklin Pond String Quartet

The Moving of Lilla Barton

Friday & Saturday March 27 & 28

Roxie Watson Band

Saturday May 2

Gretchen Peters

Friday June 12

Joe Gransden – Cabaret Style

Saturday August 1

Diane Durrett

Saturday September 12

Denny Jiosa

Saturday October 24

Kurt Thomas

Friday November 13

Michelle Malone

by Neil Simon (PG-13): February 12-March 1 by John MacNicholas (PG-13): April 9-26

Breakfast with Les & Bess

by Lee Kalchaim (PG-13): May 14-31

Radio TBS (Trailer Broadcasting Scandals)

A Night In The Theatre

6 7

by Mark Landon-Smith (PG-13): July 9-26

by Lawrence Casler (PG-13): August 20-Sept 6

Steel Magnolias

by Robert Harling (PG-13): October 1-18

Dickens' Christmas Carol

by Mark Landon-Smith (G): Nov 27-Dec 13

Visit our Box Office at 2591 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • Or call 706-632-9223 and as always, you can order online at www.BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com

copiousjones.com franklinpond.org

roxiewatson.com

gretchenpeters.com joegransden.com

dianedurrett.com jiosa.com

KurtThomasMusic.com michellemalone.com

www.facebook.com/livemusicisbetter

Sunny D Children's Theater The Secret Garden

SPECIAL EVENT

Reader's Theater: Love, Loss and What I Wore*

March 13–22

September 24-27, Performance times Thurs, Fri, Sat at 7:30p Sunday at 2:00p

June 8–21

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Sunny D Summer Camps: Drama & Musical The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

October 30–November 8 Blue Ridge Community Theater, Inc. d/b/a Sunny D Children's Theater and d/b/a Live Music Is Better is a 501-(c)3 volunteer-based non-profit corporation.

➣Continued from page 100

or issued.

VEHICLE TAGS

Persons needing to register a motor vehicle or buy a tag in Fannin County should go to the tax commissioner’s office on the first floor of the Fannin County Courthouse in Blue Ridge. The annual deadline to buy a motor vehicle tag is the birthday of the person in whose name a vehicle is registered. Persons may apply 30 days prior to their birthday. The regular tag fee is $20 for standard motor vehicles. These fees increase with weight of vehicle and specialty tags. Trailer tags are $12. The title fee is $18. County and/or state ad valorem taxes on vehicles are additional. For more information, call 706-632-2645.

COUNTY AND SCHOOL TAXES

Notices are issued in the fall each year by the tax commissioner’s office, located on the first floor of the Fannin County Courthouse in Blue Ridge. Property tax payments are generally due by Dec. 20 each year, and can be mailed or made in person at the office. Debit or credit cards (MasterCard and Visa) are accepted for payments. Ad valorem property taxes on homes and land are assessed on 40 percent of the fair market value as determined by the Fannin County Board of Tax Assessors. The county millage rate for 2014 was set at 17.794 mills, or $17.794 in taxes for each $1,000 of assessed value. Of that 17.794 mill tax rate, 12.90 mills was for school taxes, 4.794 mills was for county taxes, and 0.10 mills was for

state property taxes. There are various homestead exemptions that can reduce the taxable value of a home used as a person’s primary residence. Persons wishing to apply for a homestead exemption should apply at the tax assessors’ office, also on the first floor of the courthouse. Applications must be completed by April 1 for the current tax year. This office also takes applications for senior citizen school tax exemptions. For more information, call Tax Commissioner Shirley Sosebee at 706-632-2645 or the Fannin County Tax Assessors Office at 706-632-5954. Persons who own property in incorporated areas must also pay city taxes. For information, residents should call the city hall of the municipality in which they reside.

GARBAGE COLLECTION

Residents can dispose of garbage and solid waste by taking it to one of three convenience centers in Fannin County, or there are a number of private haulers who offer disposal services. The convenience centers are operated under contract with Fannin County by Advanced Disposal. The centers are located at Advanced Disposal’s Mineral Bluff transfer station at 10169 Lakewood Hwy. (Hwy. 60), just north of its intersection with Hwy. 515; on Aska Road beside the county Road Department barn just south of Old Hwy. 76; and on Old Hwy. 5 next to Fannin Regional Hospital. Convenience center hours are Monday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday,

THE

Fernbrook Inn OF BLUE RIDGE

ysteria arbors create a shady respite to enjoy morning coffee or afternoon cocktails. Take a stroll by the brook and build a warm fire on chilly evenings. Or, simply rock on the porch and watch the sunset. If you feel like getting out, visit historic Blue Ridge, just minutes away. Shop, dine, and play. Built in 1908, the Fernbrook Inn combines the romance of times past with modern simple elegance.

Jane Whaley, Proprietor 174 Oakridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513 102 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

404.272.0080 www.thefernbrookinn.com reservations@thefernbrookinn.com

Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The facilities are closed on Sunday. Dump fee is 9.8 cents per pound, and white goods may be dropped off for a fee of $12.50 per piece. The convenience centers also offer recycling of cardboard, plastics, aluminum and glass. All aluminum that is taken for recycling is donated to the Fannin County Fire Department, which uses the proceeds from it for equipment purchases. For more information, contact the Advanced Disposal transfer station at 706-9006500.

STATE/FEDERAL GOVT.

David Ralston was elected District 7 representative to the State House in 2002. The district includes Fannin County.On Jan. 11, 2010, he was elected Speaker of the Georgia

House of Representatives. Previously, he served six years in the State Senate. T h e Speaker can be reached at 404-656David Ralston 5020 at the State Capitol; 706-632-2221 at his law office in Blue Ridge or by e-mail at david.ralston@house. ga.gov. Steve Gooch was first elected to the Georgia Senate from District 51 in 2010. The district includes Fannin County along with all or part of seven other north Georgia counties.

Gooch serves as chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee and is vice chairman of the Economic Development Committee. Steve Gooch He can be reached at the capitol at 404-656-9221 or at his office in Dahlonega at 706-482-2648. His e-mail address is steve. gooch@senate.ga.gov. Doug Collins has served the 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2013. He previously served as a state representative before being elected to Congress.

He curr e n t l y serves as a member of the House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on Rules. C o l lins can Doug Collins be reached through his Gainesville, Ga., office at 770-297-3388, or his Washington, D.C., office at 202-225-9893. Correspondence should be sent to his Gainesville office at 210 Washington St. NW, Suite 202, Gainesville, GA 30501. To contact Collins by e-mail, use the link on his website, dougcollins.house.gov. Continued on page 104â&#x17E;Ł

Enjoy a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, visit our newly extended bar, or relax on our patio!

187 Depot Street | Blue Ridge | 706-632-6611 For information about our menu, hours of operation and special events, visit our website at blueridgebrewery.com or follow us on Facebook. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 103

➣Continued from page 103

POLK COUNTY

Polk County is governed by an elected county executive and a nine-member commission board that is elected by districts. Hoyt Firestone is the county executive. Commission board members are, District 1, Wendall “Buster” Lewis, John Pippenger, James Woody; District 2, Greg Brooks, Mike Curbow, Issac “Buster” Bramblett; District 3, Randy Collins, Sheena Gaddis and Daren Waters. All of eastern Polk County, including Copperhill, Ducktown, Turtletown and Farner, falls within District 3. The Polk County Commission meets monthly at 7 p.m. Meetings in even-numbered months are held in the Copper Basin Recreation Center at 840 Cherokee Trail off Hwy. 64 in Ducktown, and meetings in odd-numbered months are held at the courthouse in Benton. The county executive’s office can be reached at 423338-4527. Eastern Polk County has two incorporated cities with their own municipal governments.

COPPERHILL

The city of Copperhill is governed by a mayor and four-member council. The mayor is Eric Waters, and

council members are Robbie Payne, Bill Standridge, Kathy Stewart and Ray Tanner. The Copperhill City Hall is located at 152 Main Street, and can be reached at 423-4965141. The council meets on the third Monday of the month at city hall at 5:30 p.m.

central office is located at 131 Stephens Street in Benton, and can be reached at 423-2990471. The board meets at various schools throughout the county on the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

DUCKTOWN

Every property owner in Polk County is subject to county and school taxes. For every driver, there are tags to be renewed or issued.

The city of Ducktown is governed by a mayor and two-member council. The mayor is Douglas Collins, and council members are James Cearley and Dennis Trentham. The Ducktown City Hall is located at 340 Main Street, and can be reached at 423-4963546. The council meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.

POLK SCHOOLS

Schools in Polk County are run by a nine-member Board of Education elected by districts, together with appointed Director of Schools James Jones. The board members are, District 1, Tracy Bishop, Jayson Lamb, Mark Williams; District 2, Harmon Harden, Stan Howard, Shawn Pritchett; District 3, L.W. Smith (chairman), James Davis and Stephanie Loudermilk. As with the county commission, all of eastern Polk County is within District 3. The Polk County Schools

POLK COUNTY TAXES

VEHICLE TAGS

Persons needing to register a motor vehicle or buy a tag in Polk County should go to the county clerk’s office in the Polk County Courthouse in Benton, Tennessee. County Clerk Angie Sanford also operates a satellite office in the Copper Basin Senior Center at 840 Cherokee Trail off Hwy. 64 in Ducktown on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The annual deadline to buy a motor vehicle tag is determined by when the vehicle was originally titled. The regular tag fee is $24 for standard motor vehicles. Specialty tags are $60, and there are various rates for other commercial and agricultural vehicles. The title fee is $11. Sales tax is additional. For more information, call 423-338-4526.

COUNTY AND SCHOOL TAXES

Notices are issued in the fall each year by the trustee’s office, located in the Polk County Courthouse in Benton. Tax bills are sent out in October each year, with property tax payments generally due by the end of the following February. Payments can be mailed or made in person at the Benton office or on Thursdays at the satellite office in the Copper Basin Senior Center at 840 Cherokee Trail off Hwy. 64 in Ducktown. Debit or credit card payments may also be made by telephone at 1-877-768-5048, or online at www.polk.tennesseetrustee. com. Monthly payment plans can also be arranged. Ad valorem taxes on residential properties are assessed on 25 percent of the fair market value, and commercial properties are assessed at 40 percent of their value. The 2014 tax rate was set at $2.4021 on each $100 assessed value. For more information, call Polk County Trustee Gina Hicks-Burchfiel at 423-3384545. Persons who own property in incorporated areas must also pay city taxes. For information, residents should call the city hall of the municipality in which they reside. ■

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WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND Denominations, independent churches provide community’s spiritual leadership

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS Apostolic New Hope Holiness Church Elder John Prater/ Pastor Jeremy Tipton Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 6 p.m. Wed. worship 7 p.m. 200 Harris Rd. Murphy, NC 706-455-0795 apostolicnewhopechurch. com

Solid Rock Apostolic Lighhouse Church Pastor Mike Jarrett Sunday 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. 255 Goss Rd. Epworth, GA 706-455-5926

6 p.m. Wed. worship 6 p.m. 281 College St. Ducktown, TN 423-496-2973 423-496-2558 Big Creek Baptist Church Pastor Max Curtis Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. 2890 Big Creek Rd. Blue Ridge, GA. 706-838-4701 Apostolic New Hope Holiness Church is located on Harris Road, which is just off Burgertown/McAllister Road in east Polk County.

BAPTIST Barnes Chapel Rev. Harold Weeks Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Bible study Barnes Chapel Road

706-492-7149 Berean Missionary Baptist Interim pastor Rev. Toby W. Cribbs Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and

Colwell Baptist Church Rev. Nathan J. Chancey Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Third Sunday night 6 p.m. Wed. prayer 7 p.m. 380 Colwell Church Rd. Epworth, GA 706-258-2318

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Concord Baptist Church Pastor Jimmy Ritter Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 3.5 miles from Morganton on Hwy. 60 South.

First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge Rev. Bob Richardson Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday blended worship 10:45 a.m. Sunday blended worship 6 p.m. in the Activity Center Wed. prayer 6 p.m. 907 East Main St. Blue Ridge, Ga 706-632-2763 www.blueridgefbc.com

Coopers Creek Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George Burch Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. 2814 Old Morganton Hwy. Suches, GA 706-838-4100 Fairview Baptist Church Rev. Scott Graves Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. worship 6 p.m. On Frytown Road in McCaysville, 3/4 miles above Quinn’s Greenhouse on right

First Baptist Church Epworth Rev. Tom Jordan Sunday School 8 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. Sunday worship 8:45 a.m., 11 a.m., and 6 p.m. Wed. youth 6:30 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. For other children’s activities call the church. 447 Madola Rd. Epworth, GA 706-492-4242

First Baptist Church of Epworth is located on Madola Road in Epworth.

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706-632-2041

Wed. Bible study 7 p.m. Singing Convention first Saturday in May, 6 p.m. Hwy 76 at Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-3674

First Baptist Church of McCaysville/Copperhill Rev. Matthew McDaniel Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. AWANA 6 p.m. Wed. worship 6:30 p.m. 104 Toccoa St. McCaysville, GA 706-492-5301 Friendship #2 Baptist Church Pastor Jesse Sisson Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Hwy. Spur 60 Mineral Bluff 706-455-3879 Friendship #3 Baptist Church Rev. Ronnie Dilbeck Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Friendship #2 Baptist Church is at the Georgia, North Carolina state line on Hwy. Spur 60.

Wed. worship 6 p.m. 94 Friendship Rd. (off Galloway Road) Blue Ridge, GA 706-492-2256 Gospel Light Baptist Church Pastor Freddy W. Thomas Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and

6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 1194 East Main St. Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-1215 706-455-7099 Harmony Baptist Church Pastor Jamie Akins Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m.

Hemptown Baptist Church Pastor David Whitener Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. AWANA 6:15 p.m. Wed. adult Bible study 6:15 p.m. 4394 Star Creek Rd., (off Old Hwy. 76) Morganton, GA Highland Baptist Tabernacle Rev. Rusty Thomas Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday service 10:30 a.m. Children’s church Sunday, 1030 a.m. Wed. prayer 7 p.m. 631 Industrial Blvd. Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-5440 www.highlandtabernacle.com

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We are located ½ mi. from the Georgia State Patrol Bldg. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 107

p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 257 N. Church St. McCaysville, GA 706-492-4411 Lebanon Baptist Church Rev. David McLendon Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 845 Lebanon Road Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-5492 Mineral Bluff Baptist is at the intersection of Axxxxxx highways 60 and Spur 60.

Hothouse Baptist Church Rev. Danny Queen Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. service 7 p.m. Highway 60

Mineral Bluff Kingtown Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Gary Parris Sunday service 11 a.m. and 6

Mineral Bluff Baptist Church Rev. Randy Hughes Sunday School 10 a.m. for all ages Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible study 7 p.m. 8545 Lakewood Highway Mineral Bluff GA 706-374-6393

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Mobile Baptist Church Rev. Travis Davenport Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 4971 Mobile Rd. McCaysville, GA 706-900-6039 Morganton Baptist Church Pastor Eric Kincaid Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. Bible study 6:30 p.m. Clothing and Food Ministry: first, second and fourth Wednesdays – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; third Saturday – 1 to 3 p.m. Corner of Loving Road and Old Hwy. 76 Morganton, GA 706-374-5100 www.morgantonbaptist church.com

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Rev. James Worley Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. prayer 7 p.m. 4127 Old Hwy. 2 Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-2490 New Canaan Baptist Church Rev. Don Hood Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. 1032 Pack Creek Rd. Blue Ridge, GA 706-374-1498 New Ground Baptist Church Rev. Mitchell L. Taylor Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. worship 7 p.m. In the old Akins Funeral Home (Tennessee Avenue next to ballpark) Copperhill, TN

706-492-5781 New Prospect Baptist Church Pastor Nathan Stuart Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 3 miles out Hardscrabble Road off of Hwy. 60 in Mineral Bluff 706-633-8374

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Pastor Doug Pritchett Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and third Sunday night at 7 p.m Wed. prayer 7 p.m. 610 Watkins Road in Blue Ride off Ada Street 706-632-4077 Salem #1/Sugar Hill Baptist Church Rev. Tim Garrett

New Ground Baptist Church is in Copperhill on West Tennessee Avenue, next to the Copperhill ball park.

Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Second Sunday of the month 7 p.m. Wed. worship 7 p.m. Corner of Hwy. 60 and Skeenah Gap Rd. Morganton, GA 706-838-4532

Salem #2 Baptist Church Rev. Randy Hooper Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 2971 Salem Road Mineral Bluff, GA 706-374-5244

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Temple Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Roger Beck Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 8:30 a.m. 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. Cafe 5-5:45 p.m. Wed. AWANA, prayer and Bible study 6 p.m. 28 High Country Circle Morganton, GA 706-374-5096 www.templebaptistchurch. us

4664 Mineral Bluff Hwy Mineral Bluff, GA 706-492-7930 Wilscot Baptist Church Rev. Eric Davenport Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. worship 7 p.m. Hwy. 60 south at Daves Rd., Morganton, GA 706-374-4706

The Branch Church Rev. Wesley Davenport Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m Wed. 7 p.m. Hwy. 60, east of McCaysville 706-632-8086 706-455-8657

Young’s Chapel Baptist Church Pastor Scott Watkins Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. 4th Sunday night at 7 p.m. Off of Scenic Drive, 3 miles out on Sugar Creek Road

Union Baptist Church Rev. Kenneth Montgomery Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. worship 7 p.m.

CATHOLIC St. Anthony’s Catholic Church Father John Conway

St. Anthony’s Catholic Church is on the outskirts of downtown Blue Ridge on East Main Street.

Saturday Mass 4 p.m. Sunday Mass 11 a.m. Mon., Tues., Wed. Mass 9 a.m. First Friday of each month and Holy Days 11 a.m. Regular Fridays 7 p.m. 967 E. Main St. Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-5970

St. Catherine Labouré Catholic Church Mass: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.; Saturday evening 5:30 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. and Spanish service 6 p.m. 270 E. Main St. Copperhill, Tenn. 423-496-3498

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CHURCH OF CHRIST Blue Ridge Churchof Christ Minister Lonnie Jones Jr. Sunday Bible study 9:30 a.m. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Wed. Bible study 7 p.m. 227 Harris Dr. Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-8923 Macedonia Church of Christ Minister Justin Mason Sunday 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. (summer 7 p.m.) 20 Bearden Rd. Blue Ridge, GA 706-455-1742 www.macedoniacoc.org CHURCH OF GOD McCaysville Church of God Steve Lamb Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Wednesday 7 p.m. Blue Ridge Dr. McCaysville, GA 706-492-4660 COOPERATIVE BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP Harbor Ministries Rev. Denise Bryson Caldwell Sunday School 10 a.m. Anchor groups Sunday worship 11 a.m. Wed. prayer service 6 p.m. Thursday Ladies group 1:30 Children K-5 3:30-5:30 35 W. Tennessee Ave. McCaysville, Ga 706-455-3769

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Cherry Log Christian Church Pastor Dr. J. David Griffin Sunday Celebrate Early 8:25 a.m. Christian education Sunday 9:30 a.m.

The McCaysville Church of God is located just south of McCaysville on Blue Ridge Drive, also known as Hwy. 5.

Sunday worship 10:55 a.m. 1149 Cherry Log St. Cherry Log, GA

706-632-1048 www.clccdoc.org clcc@tds.net

370 East Main Street • Blue Ridge, GA

Stop in and let one of our experienced gardners help you today! Lawn & Pasture • Grass Seed • Fertilizer Bird Feeders & Seed • Horse Supplies Pet Supplies 706-632-5425 Hours: 7:30 - 5:30 M-Tu & Th-F 7:30 - 2 pm Wednesday, Saturday

nts a l p n w o r Locally g ed Variety se ds Raised be ardening rg Containe for wildlife es Plot mix

The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 111

EPISCOPAL St. Clare’s Episcopal Church Priest-in-charge Liz Schellingerhoudt, Adult Christian education (Sept. through May 9:15 a.m. Children’s Sunday School 10:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist-Rite II 10:30 a.m. (Rite I last Sunday of the month) Wed. Healing service and Holy Eucharist 11:30 a.m. 777 Ledford Rd., Blairsville, GA 706-745-0607 stclareblairsville@gmail.com St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (Anglican) Rev. Victor H. Morgan Sunday 8:15 a.m. and 10 a.m. 7 Ewing St. Blue Ridge, Ga. 706-632-8245 www.stlukesblueridge.org St. Mark’s’ Episcopal Church Rev. Dr. Clyde Y. Stewart Sunday 10:30 a.m. 124 Hill St. Copperhill, TN 423-496-4681 HOUSE OF PRAYER Congregational Holiness Church M cG ee Town House of Prayer Rev. Joseph A. Kemper, Ph.D Sunday morning 10 a.m. Sunday night 6 p.m. 822 Golf Course Rd Copperhill, TN 706-851-6509 INDEPENDENT Hipps Chapel Church Rev. Delmar Davenport Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday night Teen’s class 6-7 p.m. (12 and up) Sunday Young People’s class (11 and under) 6-7 p.m. First Sunday night monthly choir practice Wed. worship 6 p.m.

7212 Hwy. 2 Epworth, GA 706-632-3946 or 706-455-2082

LUTHERAN Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church Pastor Deryck Durston Sunday School 9:45 Sunday worship 10:45 a.m. 823 Forge Mill Rd., Morganton, GA 706-374-2321

METHODIST Blue Ridge United Methodist Church Rev. Doug Burell Sunday contemporary worship 9 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday traditional worship 11 a.m. 322 W. Main St. Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-2327 Epworth United Methodist Church Rev. Byron Ahrens Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday Bible study and prayer service 6 p.m. Youth outing, second Saturday 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fellowship pot luck, third Saturday of the month 6 p.m. 585 Madola Rd. Epworth, GA 706-492-2043 epworthumc@etcmail.com www.historicepworthumc. org First United Methodist Church of Copperhill Rev. David G. Anderson Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. Community meal every Monday from 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

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Hipps Chapel Church is located on Old Hwy. 2 in the Epworth area. To reach the church, turn onto Old Hwy. 2 from Hwy. 5 at Gravely Gap north of Blue Ridge.

146 Scenic Dr. Copperhill, TN 423-496-4931 (turn on Colonial Drive and follow signs to the church) www.fumc-copperhill.org McCaysville United Methodist Church Rev. “T” Reamsnyder Sunday school 9:30 a.m. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed. Bible study 6:30 p.m. 712 Blue Ridge Dr. McCaysville, Ga 30555 706-492-5125 706-492-5700 Williamstown United Methodist Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and youth 6 p.m. 37 Williamstown Rd. just off River Road near Horseshoe Bend Park 706-492-4377

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Bethel Church Rev. Doug Payne Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Wed. service 7 p.m. 159 Bethel Church Road McCaysville, GA 706-492-3211 Calvary Chapel Blue Ridge Rev. Daniel Postell Sunday worship 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Wed. Bible study 7 p.m. (classes for all ages) 51 Overview Dr. (on the hill behind Ingles) Blue Ridge, GA 706-258-2727 calvarychapelbr@gmail.com Helping Hand Fellowship Rev. Denny Hawkins Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Wed. service 6:30 p.m. 3141 Lebanon Rd. Epworth, GA 706-632-7411 McCaysville Gospel Tabernacle Pastor Scott Baugh Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wed service 7 p.m. West Central Ave., McCaysville, GA 706-492-2145

The Ridge Community Church Pastor Chan Mitchell Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday worship 11:15 a.m. Wed. 6 p.m. 5004 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 706-258-2330 The Rock Community Church Rev. Renny Ryder Sunday worship 10:30 a.m. Wed. children, youth and adult classes 6:30 p.m. 5260 Hwy. 64 Copperhill, TN 706-455-2486 www.trcc2013.org Sacred Seed Ministry Pastor Paul Cannaverde Sunday 10:30 a.m. Wed. meal 5:30 p.m., Bible study follows 942 Blue Ridge Drive McCaysville, GA 706-851-6220 sacredseedministry@gmail.

com PRESBYTERIAN Faith Presbyterian Church Dr. James Simpson Sunday 10:30 a.m. 56 Mountain St. Blue Ridge, GA 706-374-5912 SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Seventh-day Adventist Church of Fannin County Rev. Valentin Rusu Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. (Saturday) Worship 11:00 a.m. Sabbath Wed. worship service 7 p.m. Free community meal Tuesdays 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Clothes closet and food pantry Tuesday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 527 Forge Mill Rd. Morganton, GA 706-374-5149 UNITERIAN UNIVERSALIST Mountain Light Uniterian Universalist Church Lay led with twice monthly,

The Ridge Community Church is located just off the Appalachian Hwy. in Blue Ridge.

regular scheduled guest ordained ministers Sunday fellowship 10 a.m. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m.

2502 Tails Creek Rd., Route 282, Ellijay, GA 706-636-4935 www.mluuc.org

Keep your money where your house is. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 113

FANNIN COUNTY CHAMBER The Chamber of Commerce boasts over 740 members

These are the members of the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce staff who greet visitors at the chamber office on Orvin Lance Connector in Blue Ridge. They are, from left, Information Specialist Lynn Johnson, President Jan Hackett, Membership & Events Director Dianne Mallernee, Information Specialist Tammy Stafford and Welcome Center Manager Jode Hanson.

he Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, with over 740 members, is a business organization with the mission of growing the economy through promotion of tourism, economic development and services to existing businesses and industries. The chamber contracts with Fannin County to administer the hotel/motel excise tax to market tourism in the county. It also supports and promotes local business endeavors, and serves as a clearinghouse for tourist and newcomer information on the area. The chamber operates a Georgia regional Visitor Information Center at its 152 Orvin

Lance Drive location, greeting more than 15,000 visitors each year. The chamber also operates the Caboose Welcome Center adjacent to the Blue Ridge Depot. It had over 6,000 visitors last year. Both the main office and the Caboose Welcome Center are open year round, seven days a week. The mission of the chamber is to provide services to members, support existing business, promote tourism and positive economic development, while preserving the community’s natural resources and enhancing the quality of life of its citizens. The chamber sponsors an

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annual community leadership program and is involved in encouraging local and state governmental policies that are conducive to business and job creation. The organization also sponsors local candidate forums in election years and an annual Eggs and Issues breakfast. In addition, the chamber sponsors Business After Hours and other networking opportunities for its members, including a new Leads Group, SCORE and other workshops for small businesses. The chamber participates in the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and is a member

of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus, Georgia Economic Development Association, Southeastern Tourism Society, Historic High Country Travel Association, Northeast Georgia Travel Association and Southern Highroads Trail Association. Annual membership dues begin at $150 for businesses, depending on the number of employees. For more information about membership, contact Membership Director Dianne Mallernee at 706-632-5680, or visit the chamber’s website at www. blueridgemountains.com. ■

2015-16 Fannin County Chamber Of Commerce Membership Directory 152A Orvin Lance Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-5680 â&#x20AC;˘ 800-899-mtns www.blueridgemountains.com

FANNIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The members of the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee include, from left, President Jan Hackett, Secretary Manda Gwatney, Vice Chairman Cynthia Panter, Chairman Lisa Hood, past Chairman Kevin Panter and Treasurer Rene Bidez.

Angela Stewart DeLorme

Joe Foster

C.J. Green

Paul Gribble

Glenn Harbison

Susan Kiker

Kim Knutzen

Steven Miracle

Greg Norton

Cynthia Panter

Frankie Rigdon

Leland Rymer

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Tommy Vannoy

Anita Weaver

Tabetha Whitaker

Richard York

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E ACCOUNTANTS Hayes-Tipton Accounting & Tax Service, Inc., Sharon Hayes, 231 Tipton Trail, Morganton, GA, 30560, 231 Tipton Trail, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 838-2328, http://www.hayestiptontax.com. Jackie E. Seabolt, CPA, PC, Jackie Seabolt, 6082 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1018, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7850, http://www.seaboltcpa.com. R. L. Jennings & Associates, Inc., Lee Jennings, 14224 Hwy 515 North, Suite 700, Ellijay, GA, 30540, P.O. Box 2683, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 276-3700, http://www.ellijaycpa.com. R. Moore, PC, CPA, Richard Moore, CPA, 125C Five Points Rd, Ducktown, TN, 37326, 125C Five Points Rd, Copperhill, TN, 37317,(423) 761-0201, http://www.blueridgecpa.com. Randall C. Brown & Associates, P.C., Randy Brown, 460 W. Main Street, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,460 W. Main Street, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1107, http://www.randallbrowncpa.com. Rene Bidez, CPA, Rene Bidez, 1700 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1179, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 964-9000. ADULT DAY CARE PruittHealth Community Services, Marianne Tomashefski, 74 Ouida Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 74 Ouida Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2819, http://www.pruittcorp.com. ADVERTISING Appalachian Country Magazine, Alice Sexton, 488 River Drive, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-5070, http://www.aclivingmagazine.com. Blonde Anarchy, Abigail Summar, 1896 Pack Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1896 Pack Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (305) 336-8962, http://www.blondeanarchy.com. Content Creative, LLC, Steffen Smith, 1831 Weeks Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1831 Weeks Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 838-5230, http://www.contentcreative.net. Media Marketing Group, Robert Renneke, P. O. Box 607, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 607, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 218-1134. Visual Outdoor Advertising, LLC, Terry Poteete, 379 Bee Tree Lane, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 379 Bee Tree Lane, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-9322, http://www.visualoutdoor.com. AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION Classic Transportation of the Tri-State, Inc., David Hopes, 155 Sonya Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, P.O. Box 138, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 633-3668, http://www.classictransportationofthetristate.com. ALPACA FARM Big Creek Alpaca Farms, Trip Martin, 193 Bear Mountain Lodge Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, 193 Bear Mountain Lodge Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 838-4801, http://www.bigcreekalpacafarms. com. ANIMAL CONTROL Fannin County Animal Control, John Drullinger, 1001 Industrial Park, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1001 Industrial Park, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3845, http://www.fannincountyga.org. ANIMAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL Mountain Emergency Animal Center (MEAC), Kristen Lewis, 1163 Windy Ridge Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1163 Windy Ridge Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7879, http://www.ngaeh. com.

ANTIQUES & GIFTS 3 Monkeys Antiques, Inc, Kitty Ray, 2380 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2380 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6111, http://www.3monkeysantiques.com. 631 E. Main Street, LLC, Gary Herring, 631 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 631 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-5066. Blue Ridge Antiques and Mall, Joyce Herring, 733 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1841, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7871. Blue Ridge Mountain Mall, Cecil Neal, 618 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 618 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1063. Estate Liquidation, Kathy Green, 126 Josh Hall Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,127 Dry Branch Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 4552529. Sycamore Crossing, Jane Whaley, 531 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 531 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6323366. Woodland Express Mini Mall, David Nelson, 108 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 390 Atoah Loop, Murphy, NC, 28906, (706) 964-6531. APARTMENTS Brooks Stone Apartments, Bibi Ray, 85 Brooks Stone Way, Box 200, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 85 Brooks Stone Way, Box 200, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-3304. Brooks Summit Apartments, Bibi Ray, 70 Brooks Summit Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 70 Brooks Summit Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4788. Mountain Lane Apartments, Beverly Patterson, 40 Mountain Lane, #100, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 40 Mountain Lane, #100,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-2894, http://www.boydmanagement. com. APPRAISERS Junnier Appraisal Services, Troy Junnier, P. O. Box 2259, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2259, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6329300. Mountain Gateway Appraisal, Jason Farmer, 6082 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2714, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2442, http://www.mountaingatewayappraisal.com ARCHITECTS Goodspeed Architects, Inc., David Goodspeed, 119 Grice Woods Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 145, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (813) 480-5519, http://www.goodspeed-architects.com. R Design Works, Rick LaRosa, 722 Black Dog Trail,Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 441, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-4304, http:// www.rdesignworks.com. ART GALLERIES Fishbone Studio, Betty Wassmer, 723 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2554, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 402-8265, http://www.fishbonegallery.com. High Country Art & Antiques, Cheryl Engledow, 715 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 715 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6882, http://www.highcountryart.com. High Country Picture Framing, Mike White, 491 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 491 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2987, http://www.highcountrypictureframing.com. Multitudes Gallery, Michael Lacy, 723 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 723 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6321718, http://www.multitudesgallery.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 117

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Organic Artist Tree, Mark Hendry, 701 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2639 Maxwell Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-5616, http://www.OATree.com. Pezrok, Jim Korzep, 524 E. Main Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 524 E. Main Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6326036, http://www.pezrok.com. Turning Leaf - A Fine Art Gallery, Sherry Darling, 651 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 651 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6625, http://www.turningleafwoodart.com. ARTS Ande Cook Studio, Ande Cook, 1820 Briarwood Industrial Court, Atlanta, GA, 30329,1820 Briarwood Industrial Court, Atlanta, GA, 30329, (706) 489-9765, http://www.andecookstudio.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Assn/The Art Center, Nichole Potzauf, 420 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 420 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2144, http://www.blueridgearts. net. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY Cameron Hall of Ellijay-Five Star Senior Living, Alesia Chambers, 114 Penland Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 114 Penland Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 515-4100, http://www.cameronhallofellijay. com. Stonehenge Senior Living, Linda Thompson, 168 Stonehenge Drive, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 168 Stonehenge Drive, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-7703, http://www.stonehengeassistedliving.com. ATTORNEYS Angela Stewart DeLorme, P.C., Angela DeLorme, 730 E. 2nd Street, Ste. 101, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1549, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0444, http://www.angellaw.net. Blue Ridge Law, Susan Little, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2409, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2582900, http://www.blueridgelaw.com. Clark & Clark, Attorneys at Law, Herman Clark, 84 River Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 84 River Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 6351010,http://clarkandclarkpc.com. David E. Ralston, David Ralston, 266 Orvin Lance Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1838, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2221. Doss & Associates, Lynn Doss, 710 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1277, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2083. Laura J. Ray, LLC, Laura Ray, 506 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2710, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2000, http://www.laurajray.com. Mountain Injury Law, Rosalind Henderson, 4176 E. Hwy 515, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 101 Devant St., Suite 705, Fayetteville, GA, 30214, (706) 781-7246, http://www.mountaininjurylaw.com. Terry L. Wilson, LLC, Terry Wilson, 2403 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2403 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 9466808, http://www.tlwlaw.com. The Farnham Law Firm, David Farnham, 282 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 282 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6340, http://www.farnhamlaw.com. The Law Office of Manda C. Gwatney, Manda Gwatney, 710 W. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2082, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2083, http://www.GwatneyLaw.com. Wyndham & Associates, J. Bryon Wyndham, 2460 East First Street, Suite B-6, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2460 East First Street, Suite B-6, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-6222, http://www.relawyer. com. ATV’S & MOTORCYCLES Blue Ridge Yamaha & Polaris, Brenda Thistle, 5719 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2277, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8700, http://www.blueridgeyamaha.com. 118 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

AUTHOR Sharon Schuller Kiser, Sharon Kiser, 2673 River Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 2673 River Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 964-4000, http://www.SharonKiser.com. AUTO DEALERS Blue Ridge North Georgia Ford, Inc., Tim Ford, 7525 E. Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1469, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8900, http://www.northgeorgiaford.com. June Walker Chevrolet, Jeff Walker, 1851 Old Hwy. 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 547, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3071, http:// www.junewalkerchevrolet.com. Mountain Valley Motors, Brad Rose, 7531 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2260, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5375, http://www.mountainvalleymotors.net. Roeland Motors, Maureen Roeland, 58 Willow Street, E. Ellijay, GA, 30540, 711 Echo Rd., Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 635-6522, http:// www.roelandmotors.com. AUTO PARTS Kaye’s Auto Parts, Norman Kaye, 2445 E. First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 427, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2233. AUTO RENTALS Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Arron Tibbetts, 5025 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5025 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6301. AUTO REPAIR Automotive Specialties, Inman Born, 8204 Appalachian Hwy, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 1547, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-1477. Mr. Fix It Automotive, Mark Keaton, 1933 Old Hwy 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1933 Old Hwy 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-7209. Nicholson Tire Shop, Dennis Nicholson, 3956 Murphy Hwy, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, Hwy. 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513. Ray’s Tire and Auto, Chad Ray, 810 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2593, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5557. Southern Car & Truck Center, Shawn Seabolt, 4038 Murphy Highway, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 4038 Murphy Highway, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-2252, http://www.southerncar.vpweb.com. BAKERY Blue Ridge Bagel Depot, Michele Burlew, 11 Mountain Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11 Mountain Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2243, http://www.blueridgebageldepot.com. Boo Bear’s Bake Shoppe, Ronald Williams, 3139 Blue Ridge Drive, Highway 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 99, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 964-6554. BAMBOO FLY RODS Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods, Shannen and Bill Oyster, 494 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 494 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-4239, http://www.oysterbamboo.com. BANKS BB&T, Mike Scearce, 3831 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3831 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6554, http://www.bbandt.com. Community & Southern Bank (CSB), Ruth Jordan, 150 Orvin Lance Connector, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2469, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4000, http://www.thecsbank.com. Park Sterling Bank, Lori Boucher, 220 Orvin Lance Connector, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 220 Orvin Lance Connector, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8682, http://www.parksterlingbank.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E United Community Bank, John Chastain, 4000 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1749, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6000, http://www.ucbi.com. BAR & GRILL Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar & Grill, Stuart Arp, 733 East Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1381, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2539, http://www.chestersblueridge.com. BARBER SHOP Blue Ridge Barber Shop, Butch Morton, 11 Mountain Street, Suite 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11 Mountain Street, Suite 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1114. Reuben’s Barber Shop, Paul Shumway, 3153 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 851 Hilltop Circle, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 964-7467. BED & BREAKFAST Aska Lodge B&B, LLC, Janet Clemons, 178 Calen Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 178 Calen Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0178, http://www.askalodge.net. Aska Mountain Mill Vacation Cabin, Chanda Nystedt, 928 Stanley Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 33316, 757 SE 17th St #777, Ft Lauderdale, FL, 33316, (888) 854-1968, http://www.mountainmillcabin.com. Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast, LLC, Rick Watts, 477 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 477 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0222, http://www.blueridgeinnbandb.com. English Manor House Bed and Breakfast, Angie Arscott, 300 Forest Dr., Morganton, GA, 30560, 300 Forest Dr., Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 838-4269, http://www.englishmanorbandb.com. Horse Creek Stable Bed and Breakfast, Lester Aradi, 574 Postell Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 129, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 455-3060, http://www.horsecreekstableandlodging.com. The Fernbrook Inn, Jane Whaley, 174 Oak Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,59 Mountain Side Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 2720080, http://www.thefernbrookinn.com. The Hearthstone Lodge, Phil Cunniffe, 2755 Highway 282, Chatsworth, GA, 30705, 2755 Highway 282, Chatsworth, GA, 30705, (706) 695-0920, http://www.hearthstonelodge.net. The Martyn House, JoAnn Antonelli, 912 Flat Branch Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 912 Flat Branch Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 635-4759, http://www.themartynhouse.com. BICYCLES Pedego Electric Bikes, Chip Cipcic, 757 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 338, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0020, http://www.pedegobr.com. BILLING & CLAIMS SERVICE Premier Billing Solutions, Kathryn Teat, 1564 Hidden Lake Drive, Cherry Log, GA, 30522-0225, P. O. Box 225, Cherry Log, GA, 305220225, (706) 632-2317. BLINDS Blinds by Design, LLC, Lynne Pitters, 24 East Park Court #4167, Ellijay, GA, 30536, 24 East Park Court #4167, Ellijay, GA, 30536, (706) 635-7656, http://blindsbydesignllc.com. Budget Blinds, DeeDee Siefken, 379 Bee Tree Lane, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 379 Bee Tree Lane, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-0009, http://www.budgetblinds.com/blairsville. BOAT LIFT SALES/SERVICE North Georgia Boat Lift, Jon Pack, 13944 Appalachian Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, 13944 Appalachian Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 632-0390, http://www.northgeorgiaboatlift.com.

BOTTLING COMPANIES Georgia Crown Distributing, Clay Bell, 2000 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2000 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-4600. Sequoyah Water, LLC, Joel Burger, P. O. Box 310, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P. O. Box 310, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-9283, http:// www.sequoyahwater.net. BOWLING Fannin Lanes Bowling Center, Lynne Hurst, 4115 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4115 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2064, http://www.bowlfanninlanes.com. BREWERY Fannin Brewing Company, Tom Fennell, 3758 E. First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3758 E. First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 2291331. Grumpy Old Men Brewing, LLC, Jim McKnight, 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 331-8870, http://www.grumpyoldmenbrewing.com. BUILDERS Baugh Home Builders, Inc., Kristy Baugh, 396 Wolf Creek Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 517, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0315. Blue Ridge Mountain Builders, LLC, Mark Griffith, 42 Overlook Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 42 Overlook Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-3061. Brown Haven Builders, Mike Stewart, 603 W. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, 603 W. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, (706) 896-0891, http://www.BrownHavenBuilders.com. John Soave, 649 E Main St, Suite 9, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 649 E Main St, Suite 9, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6345, http://www. buildingblueridge.com. Keith Sumner Custom Homes, Keith Sumner, 1508 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2760, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-5521, http://www.keithsumner.com. Scenic Mountain Construction, Inc., Larry Maynard, P. O. Box 2655, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2655, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 639-9491, http://www.mynewcabin.com. Tommy Wosyluk Residential Contracting, Tommy Wosyluk, 3850 Highway 515, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P.O. Box 1961, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-6274, http://www.tommywosyluk.com. Tru Built Mountain Homes, LLC, Tony Watkins, 771 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O . Box 1703, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-6741, http://www.trubuiltmountainhomes.com. Winkler & Winkler, Chad Winkler, 423 Bowling Gap Circle, Blairsville, GA, 30514, P. O. Box 2282, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 835-1458, http://www.winklerandwinkler.com. Wolfcreek Builders, Mary Jo Towe, 2401 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2066, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2313, http://www.wolfcreekbuilders.com. BUILDING SUPPLY Ace Hardware Blue Ridge, LLC, Sherry Alford, 4344 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1280, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8002. Home Depot #1771, Heather Johnson, 10012 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 10012 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3555, http://www.thehomedepot.com. Sisson Log Homes, Jim Sisson, 715 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 29, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3053, http://www.sissonloghomes.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 119

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E BURGLAR & FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS Automated Creations, Inc., Wyndle Bates, 1133 Pack Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513-3082, 1133 Pack Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513-3082, (706) 258-4418, http://www.automatedcreations.com. CABIN RENTAL COMPANIES 1 My Mountain Cabin Rentals, LLC, Chris Middlebrook, 3945 Old Loving Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, P.O. Box 388, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (800) 844-4939, http://www.1mymountain.com. A Blue Ridge Vacation, Holly Nelson, 1095 Windy Ridge Rd, Ste C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1095 Windy Ridge Rd, Ste C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7100, http://www.ablueridgevacation.com. A Mountain Place Cabin Rental, Rhonda Thomas, 342 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2484, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1520, http://www.mountainplacecabinrentals.com. Above the Rest Luxury Cabins, Jeanette Jenkins, 1662 My Mountain Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 1662 My Mountain Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-2057, http://www.abovetherestcabins.com. Acorn & Mountain Escapes Cabin Rentals, Bryan McMillian, 199 Burra Burra Street, Ducktown, TN, 37326, P. O. Box 519, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (423) 496-4901, http://www.mountainescapesproperties.com. Avenair Mtn. Cabin Rentals, Vern Turner, 39 Mountain Laurel Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 39 Mountain Laurel Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0318, http://www.avenairmtncabins.com. Black Bear Cabin Rentals, Anne Seay, 21 High Park Drive, Suite 7, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 21 High Park Drive, Suite 7, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4794, http://www.blackbearcabinrentals.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins, Theresa Meehan, 3691 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1182, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8999, http://www.blueridgemtncabins.com. Blue Sky Cabin Rentals, Danielle Ledford, 587 Highland Crossing, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, 587 Highland Crossing, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 636-2226, http://www.blueskycabinrentals com. Cabin Rentals of Blue Ridge, Diane Young, 160 Tammen Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 429, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6600, http://www.cabinrentalsofblueridge.com. Cabin Rentals of Georgia, Gary Knight, 1690 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1690 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2246, http://www.cabin-rentals-of-georgia.com. Copperhill Country Cabins, Richard Scott, 496 Deal Road, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 496 Deal Road, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 496-5225, http://www.copperhillcabins.com. Crossrock Cabin Rentals, Christopher Guadian, 48 Crossrock Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 405 Carter Avenue, S. E., Atlanta, GA, 30317, (770) 597-8212, http://www.cabinsinblueridgega.com. Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals, Inc., Keri Williams, 224 Blue Ridge Highway, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P. O. Box 760, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 964-6032, http://www.cuddleupcabinrentals.com. Enchanted Mountain Retreats, Inc., Luis Reyes, P.O. Box 298, Blairsville, GA, 30514, P.O. Box 298, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 7813892, http://www.georgiaemr.comm. Escape to Blue Ridge, Pamela Miracle, P. O. Box 4825, Alpharetta, GA, 30023, P. O. Box 4825, Alpharetta, GA, 30023, (866) 618-2521, http://www.escapetoblueridge.com. Georgia Mountain Cabin Rentals, Paul Gribble, 3608 East First St., Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2501, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5751, http://www.georgiamtncabins.com. Hidden Key Properties, LLC, Taylor Eubank, P. O. Box 1504, Ellijay, GA, 30540, P. O. Box 1504,Ellijay, GA, 30540, (770) 715-9818, http:// www.hiddenkeyproperties.com. JP Ridgeland Cabin Rentals, Renada Martin, 340 Hillbilly Hollow, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1234, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 669-4882, http://www.rentblueridgecabins.com. 120 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Majestic Mountain Getaways, Inc., Wendy Adwell, 253 E Hwy 515, Suite B, Blairsville, GA, 30514, P. O. Box 22, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 379-9929, http://www.majesticmountaingetaways.com. Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals, Amy Dazey, 1402 Villa Drive #5081, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 1402 Villa Drive #5081, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (678) 701-3857, http://www.morningbreezecabinrentals.com. Mountain Getaway Cabin Rentals, Misti Butler, 3387 E. First Street, Suite E, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2376, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4480, http://www.mtngetawaycabins.com. Mountain Laurel Cabin Rentals, Teresa Haney-Bailey, 1844 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1844 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3200, http://www.mountainlaurelcabinrentals. com. Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals, Debbie Osborne, 14224 Hwy 515 W, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 14224 Hwy 515 W, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 2764343, http://www.mountainoasiscabinrentals.com. Mountain Paws Cabin Rentals, Luis Reyes, Blairsville, GA, 30514, P.O. Box 298, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (877) 307-3367, http://www. mountainpawscabinrentals.com. Mountain River Cabins, L.L.C., John Orr, 1530 Wood Valley Drive, Marietta, GA, 30066, 1530 Wood Valley Drive, Marietta, GA, 30066, (678) 429-8741, http://www.mountainrivercabins.com. Mountain Top Cabin Rentals, LLC, Tabetha Whitaker, 44 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2488, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-6220, http://www.mountaintopcabinrentals.com. Naples Blue Ridge, LLC, Jackie Larson, 674 Magnolia Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3845 Beck Blvd. #803, Naples, FL, 34114, (239) 331-8854. Nevaeh Cabin Rentals, Mary Jo Towe, 2401 E. 1st St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2066, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2460, http://wwww.nevaehcabinrentals.com. Rainbow Cabins, Kim Wood, P. O. Box 590, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 590, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 455-2313, http:// www.rainbowcabins.com. Sliding Rock Cabins, Jerri Nowlen, 41 River Bend Ct., Ellijay, GA, 30540, 41 River Bend Ct., Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 636-5895, http:// www.slidingrockcabins.com. Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals, C. J. Stam, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3737, http://www.southerncomfortcabinrentals.com. Stress Buster Vacation Rentals & Property Management, Joy Lyle, P. O. Box 1764, Ellijay, GA, 30540, P. O. Box 1764, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 635-3952, http://www.stressbustercabinrentals.com. Sundance Cabin Rentals, Tom Stone, 661 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 661 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3286, http://www.sundancecabinrentals.com. The Last Resort, Joe Hooper, 45 Last Resort Pass, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 45 Last Resort Pass, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3864, http://www.thelastresort.com. CABIN RENTALS BY OWNER 3 Bears Cabin, Mark Hollums, 965 Virginia Avenue, Hapeville, GA, 30354, 965 Virginia Avenue, Hapeville, GA, 30354, (404) 762-5515, http://www.bluejaycabins.com. A River Retreat, JoAnn Seabrook-Pizel, 234 Brookcliff Trace, Marietta, GA, 30068, 234 Brookcliff Trace, Marietta, GA, 30068, (770) 509-1043, http://www.ariverretreat.com. A Shady Springs Cottage, Gary Glasgow, 301 Mill Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 301 Mill Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-3513, http://www.shadyspringscottage.com. A Simple Pleasure, Vickie Bailey, 970 Clay Road, Monticello, GA, 31064, 970 Clay Road, Monticello, GA, 31064, (706) 318-0705, http:// www.simplepleasurecabins.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Bellcamp Cabins, Bill Prather, 3608 E. First Street, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 456, Blue Ridge,GA,30513, (706) 632-5751, http://www.georgiamtncabins.com Black Dog of Blue Ridge, Natalee Kelaher, 808 Price Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3102 Castlewood, Houston, TX, 77025, (706) 4135321, http://www.escapetoblueridge.com. Blanche Manor Lodge, Blair Redlhammer, 160 Blanche Manor Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 160 Blanche Manor Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 258-7936, http://www.vrbo.com/498133. Blue Ridge Luxury Cabin - Solitude, Barbara Miracle, 187 Raintree Bend, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5006 Towne Lake Hills North, Woodstock, GA, 30189, (678) 462-7911, http://www.blueridgeluxurycabin.com. Cabintheclouds, Donna Cecere, 450 Bell Camp Rd, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 260 Old Country Road, Wellington, FL, 33414, (954) 562-6271, http://www.cabintheclouds.com. Cox Farmhouse, LLC, Cathy Cox-Brakefield, 5070 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2166, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 630-0242, http://www.vrbo.com/461437. Creekside Cabin Sleeps 8, Sherry Daniele, 109 Quail Run, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 167 Picketts Lake Drive, Acworth, GA, 30101, (678) 296-8696, http://www.vrbo.com/302556. Deer Watch Cabin Rental, Gail Roper, Aska Adventure Area, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 12 Downing Lane, Decatur, GA, 30033, (404) 6331957, http://www.deerwatchcabinrental.com. Eagles Rest, Cathy Limbaugh, 118 Glidewell Ave., Lincoln, AL, 35096, (205) 763-7510, http://www.vbro.com/188378. Eskape Rentals, LLC, Haifa Karram, 7025 Beracasa Way 102H, Boca Raton, FL, 33433, 7025 Beracasa Way 102H, Boca Raton, FL, 33433, (561) 866-9350, http://www.vrbo.com/313039. Georgia Luxury Vacation Rentals - Buckhorn Lodge, Gary Davis, 261 Robinson Thomas Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 129 Highline Dr., Ellijay,GA,30536, (770) 548-0669, http://www.blueskycabinrentals.com. Mountain Hideaway, LLC, Carol Keith, 187 Mountain Hideaway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 816 Jefferson Way, West Chester, PA, 19380, (706) 455-2313. My Father’s House, Bobby Rugan, 163 Gold Springs Rd., Cherry Log, GA, 30522, 6239 Southridge Rd. S., Mobile, AL, 36693, (251) 753-6409. River Dwelling, Heather Kaufman, Toccoa River, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3 Spring Circle, NW, Atlanta, GA, 30318, (404) 309-7248, http:// www.riverdwelling.com. Shady Springs Cabin, Kathy Allison, 371 Bobcat Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 238 Brickyard Road, Etowah, NC, 28729, (828) 606-9655, http://www.shadyspringscabin.webs.com. The Cabin on Pretty Pond, John Thompson, 86 Mattie Mitchell Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 2470 Squirrel Hunting Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-4100. Toccoa House Properties, LLC, Greg Spencer, 83 Riverview Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 83 Riverview Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 661-4531, http://www.toccoahouse.com. Tuckaway Ridge, Steve Tucker, 200 Fox Mountain, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 17844 NW 15th Court, Pembroke Pines, FL, 33029, (954) 663-3036, http://www.tuckawayridge.com. Valhalla, LLC, Helen Taylor, 340 Kateri Ridge, Ellijay, GA, 30540, P. O. Box 634, East Ellijay, GA, 30539, (404) 314-8454, http://www. vrbo.com/97700. CABINETS All Custom Cabinets, Daniel Allen, 7134 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 7134 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6329, http://www.cabinetsallcustom.com. CABINETS & FURNITURE T & D Designs, Inc., Dwight (Tuse) Mallernee, 61 Sunset Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 61 Sunset Circle,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 964-7841, http://www.tusedesigns.com.

CAMPGROUNDS Blue Ridge Mineral Springs RV Park and Tent Camping, Rick Penley, 803 Mineral Springs Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 803 Mineral Springs Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5010, http://www. blueridgemineralspringsrvparkandtentcamping.com. Jonica Gap Campground, Paula Tremblay, 1412 Haygood Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 1412 Haygood Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-5465, http://www.jonicagapcampground.com. Whispering Pines Campground, Francis Scranton, 290 Whispering Pines Rd., Morganton, GA, 30560, 290 Whispering Pines Rd., Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-6494, http://www.whisperingpinescampground.com. CANCER SPECIALIST Georgia Cancer Specialists, Bobbie Holder, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4140, http://www.gacancer.com. CANDIES The Chocolate Express, Dennis Farr, 634 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 634 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6517, http://www.thechocolateexpress.com. The Sweet Shoppe, Nikki Gribble, 576 East Main Street, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2701, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6886, http://www.sweetshoppeblueridge.com. CANOPY TOURS Blue Ridge Canopy Adventure, Todd Fox, 319 Hell’s Hollow Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1272, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1010, http://www.theblueridgecanopyadventure.com. Zip Line Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge, Angie Arp, 891 Old Cashes Valley Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 925, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (800) 251-4800, http://www.zipblueridge.com. CARPET CLEANING CitruSolution, Michael Flowers, 3223 Burt Creek Road, Dawsonville, GA, 30534, P. O. Box 1056, Dawsonville, GA, 30534, (404) 3125123, http://www.citrusolution1.com. CATERING A Taste of Joy Catering, Chris McInnish, 10150 Ballground Hwy, Ste. 107, Ballground, GA, 30107, 310 Brittany Dr., Canton, GA, 30115, (678) 986-1575, http://www.VALFOODS.com. Catering By Cindy, Cindy King, 8 Stites Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 8 Stites Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-5898, http:// www.cateringbycindy.com. In Sister’s Kitchen, Nancy Blackadar, 3669 Squirrel Hunting Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 3669 Squirrel Hunting Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 781-7004, http://www.insisterskitchen.com. CELLPHONE REPAIRS & SALES Blue Ridge iClinic, Don Plankey, 5764 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5764 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-8624, http://www.blueridgeiclinic.com. CELLULAR PHONES AT&T dba/Global Solutions, Nadir Banjweni, 2800 Scenic Dr., Suite 17, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11555 Medlock Bridge Rd., Suite 100, Duluth, GA, 30097, (706) 258-2424. CHEF SERVICES Cabin Cuisine, Doug Olsen, 57 Maple Street, Morganton, GA, 30560, 57 Maple Street, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 633-3138, http://www.cabincuisine.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 121

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CHIROPRACTORS Blue Ridge Chiropractic and Life Center, Dr. Brandon Fuzi, 5 West Fain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5 West Fain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1215, http://www.drbrandondc.com. Family Life Chiropractic Center, Stacey Davis, DC, 351 E. Highland Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2671, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2707, http://www.areyoulivinglife.com. Grant Chiropractic, Lori Grant, 2910 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2910 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6574, http://www.adjustyourspine.com.

North Georgia Christian Fellowship, Bill Cole, 4400 Old. Hwy 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4400 Old. Hwy 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 760-6423, http://www.northgeorgiachristianfellowship.org. Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Pastor Cheryl Kester-Schmidt, 823 Forge Mill Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 823 Forge Mill Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-2321, http://www.shlclutheranmorgantonga.com. St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Rev. John Conway, 967 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1448, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5970,http://www.stanthonyblueridge.parishesonline.com. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Victor Morgan, 7 Ewing St., Blue Ridge, GA, 3051, P.O. Box 1821, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8245, http://www.stlukesblueridge.org. Temple Baptist Church, Dr. Roger Beck, 28 High Country Circle, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 143, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-5096, http://www.templebaptistchurch.us.

CHRISTMAS & GIFT SHOP Christmas Is Here!, Rip Mann, 111 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN, 37317, P. O. Box 73, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 496-1166, http:// www.christmasishere.net.

CIGAR SHOP Havana Day Dreaming Cigars, LLC, Glenn Martin, 576 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 576 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2442, http://www.havanadaydreamingcigars.com.

CHILD CARE CENTER MileStones Learning Center & Childcare, LLC, Jody Davis, 101 RiverStone Vista, Suite 112, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 RiverStone Vista, Suite 112, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4188, http://www. blueridgemilestones.com.

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM Southern Tree Plantation, Howard McCombs, 2226 Owltown Road, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 2226 Owltown Road, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-0601, http://www.southerntreeplantation.com. CHURCHES Bethel UMC, Michael Morton, Old Highway 76, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 674, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-4262. Blue Ridge United Methodist Church, Rev. Doug Burrell, 322 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 85, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2327, http://www.brumc.org. Calvary Chapel Blue Ridge, Pastor Daniel Postell, 51 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 51 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2727, http://www.calvarychapelbr.com. Cherry Log Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), J. David Griffin, 1149 Cherry Log Street, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, P. O. Box 289, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 632-1048, http://www.clccdoc.org. Crossover Community Church, Rick Cortis, 101 George Curtis Road,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513-4128, 101 George Curtis Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513-4128, (706) 632-7872, http://www.crossoverchurch. net. Faith Presbyterian Church, USA, Jim Simpson, 56 Mountain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2668, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-5912, http://www.faithpresbyterianusa.org. First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge, Bob Richardson, 907 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 907 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2763, http://www.blueridgefbc.com. First Baptist Church of Epworth, Tom Jordan, 447 Madola Rd., Epworth, GA, 30541, P.O. Box 187, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 4924242, http://www.fbcepworth.org. Friendship Baptist Church #3, Billy Chastain, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 46, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 492-2256. McCaysville Church of God, Steve Lamb, 1477 Blue Ridge Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 129, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-4660. Morganton Baptist Church, Keith Jones, 9511 Old Hwy. 76, Morganton, GA, 30560, P.O. Box 87, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5100, http://www.morgantonbaptistchurch.com. Morganton/Mountaintown Baptist Association, Martha Kreis, 64 Tammen Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1167, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5741, http://www.morgantonmountaintownmissions.org. 122 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS Back Country Horsemen of North Georgia, Martha Fillingham, P. O. Box 1471, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1471, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-5198, http://www.bchng.org. Benton MacKaye Trail Association, Ralph & Marge Heller, 344 Appalachian Hwy Route 515, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 6, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 636-3499, http://www.bmta.org. Blood Assurance, Linda Hisey, 705 E. 4th Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37403, 705 E. 4th Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37403, (800) 962-0628, http://www.bloodassurance.org. Blue Ridge Business & Professional Association, Tiffany Ritter, P. O. Box 2527, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2527, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2898, http://www.best of blueridge.biz. Blue Ridge Lodging Association, Tabetha Whitaker, 44 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2488, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, http://www.blueridgelodgingassociation.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Trout Unlimited, M. L. Brincks, 145 Tommy Trail, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 145 Tommy Trail, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (678) 457-1849, http://www.blueridgetu.com. Blue Ridge Rotary Club, Jackie Seabolt, P. O. Box 2495, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2495, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6345, http://www.rotaryclubofblueridge.org. Copper Basin Healthcare Organization, Julie Queen, 144 Medical Center Drive, Copperhill, TN, 37317, PO Box 122, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (423) 496-8126. Craddock Center, Julie Jabaley, 186 Fred Craddock Dr., Cherry Log, GA, 30522, P. O. Box 69, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 632-1772, http://www.craddockcenter.org. Epworth Community Club, Jim Crawford, 125 Schoolhouse Rd., Epworth, GA, 30541, P.O. Box 89, Epworth, GA, 30541, (404) 274-4365. Fannin Area Children’s Charity, Ken Williams, 71 Porter Raod, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 158, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0998. Fannin County Empty Stocking Program, Inc., Kevin Cochran, P. O. Box 2563, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2563, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9262, http://www.fannincountyemptystocking.org. Fannin County Farm Bureau, Janet Hawkins, 10856 Lakewood Hwy., Morganton, GA, 30560, P.O. Box 276, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5967. Fannin County Heritage Foundation, Lynda Fitch, 411 E. First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2062, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2645.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Fannin County Homemakers, Shirley Copeland, 391 Kimberly Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 391 Kimberly Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3578. Fannin County Tea Party Patriots, Ramona (Mona) McCrickard, 279 Bell Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30555, 279 Bell Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30555, (706) 374-9090, http://www.fanninteapartypatriots.com. Feed Fannin, Connie Galloway, 101 Fannin County Industrial Park, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1085, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-2120, http://www.feedfannin.com. Habitat for Humanity, Ann Moffit, 4187 E. First Street, Valley Village Shopping Center, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 51, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 632-6337, http://www.habitat.org. Humane Society of Blue Ridge, Anne Williamson, P. O. Box 2126, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2126, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4357, http://www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org. Kiwanis of Blue Ridge, Ken Williams, 124 Jones Street,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 7, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6644, http:// www.blueridgekiwanis.org. Lake Blue Ridge Civic Association (LBRCA), Tiffany Towery, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2362, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, http://www. LBRCA.org. March of Dimes-N. Georgia Division, Michele Beal, 1776 Peachtree St, Ste 100, Atlanta, GA, 30309, 1776 Peachtree St, Ste 100, Atlanta, GA, 30309, (678) 564-5231, http://www.marchofdimes.com. Mineral Springs Center, Inc., Gayle Harper, 35 Circle Dr, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 28, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2094, http:// www.mineralspringscenter.org. North Georgia Master Gardeners, Anne Corco, 205 Church St., Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 205 Church St., Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3061, http://www.caes.uga.edu/extension/fannin. North Georgia Mountain Crisis Network, Vicki Van Deilen, 4118 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1249, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8400. Open Arms of Blue Ridge, Inc., P. O. Box 2223, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2223, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2029, http:// www.openarmsofblueridge.org. Second Wind Retreat, Inc., Marti Nunn, 2430 Devils Den Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, 2187 Devils Den Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 632-5567, http://www.secondwindretreat.org. Snack in a Backpack, Tammy Holloway, 91 Overview Dr, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2123, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2584090, http://www.snackinabackpack.org. Southern Appalachian Artist Guild, Brooke Nations, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 915-7056, http://www.southernappalachianartists. org. Tri-Cities Business Association, Duchess Dailey, 184 Maynor Rd., McCaysville, GA, 30555, 184 Maynor Rd., McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 964-6531, http://www.greatercopperbasin.com. Tri-State Model Railroaders, Thomas Roskelly, 150 Railroad Avenue, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 792, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (423) 496-2870, http://www.tsmri.org. CLEANING SERVICES Blue Ridge Cabin Cleaning, LLC, Connie White, 2800 Scenic Dr# 4, 43, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2800 Scenic Dr# 4, 43, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (615) 347-8132, http://www.blueridgecabincleaning.com. Carmen’s Cleaning, Carmen Booth, 7227 Doublehead Gap Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 7227 Doublehead Gap Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 838-5204. Complete Home Services, Cindy Cohen, 288 Notla Vista I, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 288 Notla Vista I, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (678) 4399125, http://www.gahomeservices.com.

Huff’s Cleaning Service, Karen Huff, 556 Highland Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 556 Highland Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 815-7080. Johnson Cleaning, Marion Rath, 252 Kelly Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 252 Kelly Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6330221. CLOTHING Blue Ridge Adventure Wear, Cesar Martinez, 661 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 661 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3991, http://www.blueridgeadventurewear.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters, Linda Rice, 500 East Main, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 314 Sunrock Mountain, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3232, http://www.blueridgemountainoutfitters.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters - Copperhill, Linda Rice, 108 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 314 Sun Rock Mountain, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (423) 548-0000, http://www.blueridgemountainoutfitters.com. Crawford Collections, LLC, Candace Youngberg, 500 E. Main St., Suite 204, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 500 E. Main St., Suite 204, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-0772. Discount Boutique, Lisa Foster, East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 127 Dry Branch Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-5961. Gracious Me!, Mary LeRoy, 705 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 705 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2683, http://www.graciousmeblueridge.com. Humble Pie Boutique, Steve Wile, 636 East Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 636 East Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-3311, http://www.humblepieboutique.com. Juliana’s Boutique, Drew Dillard, 594 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 473 Wolf Creek Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 9467467, http://www.shopjulianas.com. Majestic Girl, Paige King, 624 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 624 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8327. Mountain Casuals, Ann Adkins, 4199 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4199 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6327820. Parker’s Clothing, Donnie Parker, 39 Lance Street, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 122 Tanglewood Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5151, http://www.parkersclothingllc.com. POSH On Main, Millie Hughes, 721 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 721 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge,GA,30513, (706) 258-2237. The House of Threads, Cynthia LeCornu, 588 E. Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 588 E. Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1850. COINS & COLLECTIBLES Blue Ridge Coin Shop, Cory Peterson, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3127, http://www.blueridgecoinshop.com. COMPUTER NETWORKING Personal Systems Services, Inc., John Whatley, 3010 Eglantine Court, Marietta, GA, 30062-4988, 3010 Eglantine Court, Marietta, GA, 30062-4988, (770) 485-8954, http://www.pssi-us.com. COMPUTER REPAIR & NETWORKING Axim Technology Solutions, Larry Braziel, P. O. Box 423, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 423, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 4038900, http://www.atso.co. Cohutta Com, Inc., John Mullinix, 2704 Lebanon Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, P. O. Box 214, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 632-3343, http:// www.cohutta.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 123

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E COMPUTER SALES & SERVICES P C MAX, Lee Shornick, 3685 Highcroft Circle, Norcross, GA, 30092, 3685 Highcroft Circle, Norcross, GA, 30092, (770) 729-1418, http:// www.pcmax.com. COMPUTERS - SOFTWARE & TRAINING Hilburn Solutions, Inc., Gail Hilburn, 446 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, Ga, 30540, 446 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 698-4745, http://www.hilburn.net. CONCRETE DECORATIVE Custom Concrete Solutions, Greg Taylor, 138 Campbell Cove Road, Turtletown, TN, 37391, 138 Campbell Cove Road, Turtletown, TN, 37391, (423) 715-6607, http://www.ccsinthemountains.com. CONTRACTORS Allen Construction, Tim Allen, 4092 Loving Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 4092 Loving Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5838. America’s Home Place, Toni Wagoner, 167 Highway 515, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 167 Highway 515, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 781-2945, http://www.americashomeplace.com. Better Homes Systems, Inc., Chad Bowers, 3300 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1863, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8624. Herendon Construction & Custom Built Homes, LLC, Jeremy Herendon, 41 Red Oak Court, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 41 Red Oak Court, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 634-1498, http://www.jherendonconstruction.com. House Calls, Richard Tipton, P. O. Box 343, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 343, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 455-6874, http://www. northgeorgiacontractors.com. Mountain Area Recommended Contractors & Providers, Greg Staffins, P.O. Box 43, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (678) 457-1849. Scotts Contracting, Scott Menzel, 1551 Sugar Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1551 Sugar Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 502-4807, http://www.scottscontractingservice.com. CONVENIENCE STORE Coon’s Country Store, LLC, Pam Lloyd, 12305 Morganton Hwy, Morganton, GA, 30560, P.O. Box 430, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 900-2666. COUNSELING Puzzle2Purpose, LLC, Carol Keith, 187 Mountain Hideaway Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 816 Jefferson Way, West Chester, PA, 19380, (302) 383-1100, http://www.puzzle2purpose.com. CREDIT UNION Copper Basin Federal Credit Union, Rhonda Jacobs, 85 Orvin Lance Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 85 Orvin Lance Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4888, http://www.cbfcreditunion.com. DANCE STUDIO CenterPointe Studios, Jason Boskey, 21 High Park Drive #4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 21 High Park Drive #4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-9642, http://www.centerpointega.com. DAY SPA Serenity in the Mountains Hair, Nails & Body Spa, Georgia Miles, 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2244, http://www.serenityinthemountains.com. Teatrees Boutique Spa, Hope Killingsworth, 588 E. Main Street, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 588 E. Main Street, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (561) 889-7499, http://www.teatreesmassage.com. 124 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

DENTISTS Blue Ridge Dental, Dr. Mark Dlugokinski, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 202, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 202,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4166, http://www.blueridgedental.net. Ronnie L. Hold, Jr., D.D.S., P.C., Ronnie Hold, Jr., 823 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 823 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2085, http://www.blueridgedentistry.com. Russell Seabolt, D.M.D., Russell Seabolt, 21 Kimberly Lane, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 21 Kimberly Lane, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6800. DERMATOLOGIST Gardner Dermatology & Med Spa, Tammy Horton, 526 Maddox Dr., Ste. 101, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 2550 Windy Hill Rd., Ste. 200, Marietta, GA, 30067, (706) 515-0001, http://www.GardnerDermatology.com. DOG OBEDIENCE TRAINING Kit Miracle - K9 Obedience Training, Kit Miracle, 156 West Pierceville Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 156 West Pierceville Road,, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-5253. EDUCATION Dalton State College, Sandy Ott, 103 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 103 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 635-1260, http:// www.daltonstate.edu. Fannin County Board of Education, Mark Henson, 2290 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2290 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3771, http://www.fannin.k12.ga.us. FLAG Adult Education, Amanda Callihan, 71 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 71 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-3524, http://www.flagadulteducation.com. Mountain Education Charter High School, Steve Shamblin, 4560 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 65 Kenimer Street, Cleveland, GA, 30528, (706) 632-6100, http://www.mountaineducationcenter. net. North Georgia Technical College, Renee Deibert, 121 Meeks Avenue, Blairsville, GA, 30512, P. O. Box 65, Clarksville, GA, 30523, (706) 439-6300, http://www.northgatech.edu. EMBROIDERY Coosa Creek Marketing Products, Julie Wolff, 244 Industrial Blvd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, P. O. Box 2387, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 7455535, http://www.coosacreek.com. X-Trem Print Graphics, Brian Burgess, 7787 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1052, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 946-2050. ENERGY EFFICIENCY/CONTRACTING Home Energy Shield, Keith Jensen, 203 Blackberry Dr., Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P.O. Box 517, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (866) 8021306, http://www.HomeEnergyShield.com. ENTERTAINMENT Ann’s Pickin’ Parlor, Ann Williams, 15 Kingtown Street, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P. O. Box 100, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 455-7771. Blue Ridge Community Theater, Patricia Webb, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9223, http://www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com. Deuce and the Wildcards, John Rath, 252 Kelly Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 252 Kelly Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-8545, http://www.flashbackoldiesband.com. Singing in the Mountains, Ryan Norton, 546 Hillcrest Dr., McCaysville, GA, 30555, 546 Hillcrest Dr., McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 633-9848, http://www.hellonorthgeorgia.com. Swan Drive-In Theatre, Steve Setser, 651 Summit St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 113 Simmons Circle, Fayetteville, TN, 37334, (706) 6325235, http://www.swan-drive-in.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E EVENT FACILITY Aska Farms of Blue Ridge, Justin LeSesne, 2807 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 150, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-7019, http://www.askafarmsofblueridge.com. Epworth Grove, Catherine Branch, 79 Schoolhouse Rd., Epworth, GA, 30541, P.O. Box 7, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 632-5926, http:// www.epworthgrove.org. Hightower Creek Vineyard, Liz Green, 7150 Canaan Dr., Hiawassee, GA, 30546, 7150 Canaan Dr., Hiawassee, GA, 30546, (706) 8968963, http://www.hightowercreekvineyards.com. Southern Soirees of Blue Ridge, Emmie Allmon, 931A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 931A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 273-9795, http://www.southernsoireesblueridge.com. FARM STORE Blue Ridge Beef, Inc., Dean Bryant, 11 Mountain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 649 Dean Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 633-7469. Mountain Valley Farm Store, Suzi Wright, 2021 Homer Wright Road, Ellijay, GA, 30536, 2025 Homer Wright Road, Talking Rock, GA, 30175, (706) 889-0999, http://www.grassfedgeorgia.com. FARMER’S MARKET Blue Ridge State Farmers Market, Libby Stewart, 787 Summit St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 480 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4552, http://www.cityofblueridgega.org. Downtown Market Blue Ridge, Tina Rice, 400 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 90 Goff Street, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 492-1152, http://www.brfarmersmarket.com. FEED & SEED STORE Cohutta Country Store, Laurie McClearen, 83 Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 907, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 946-6366, http://www.cohuttacountrystore.com. FENCE COMPANY Chapman Fence Company, Chris Chapman, 4955 Athens Hwy, Jefferson, GA, 30549, 4955 Athens Hwy, Jefferson, GA, 30549, (706) 367-9511, http://www.chapmanfence.com. FINANCE COMPANY Lendmark Financial Services, LLC, Kelly Henson, 5687 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2645, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1919, http://www.lendmarkfinancial.com. FINANCIAL ADVISOR Financial Guideposts, John White, 649 E Main St, Ste 7, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 908, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-9190, http:// www.financialguideposts.com. FINANCIAL CONSULTANT Edward Jones / Mike Hamby, Mike Hamby, 4295 Old Hwy. 76, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4295 Old Hwy. 76, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (888) 632-8896, http://www.edwardjones.com. FISHING GUIDE Blue Ridge Fly Fishing, Jess Turner, 490 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 193 Toccoa River Forest, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 258-4080, http://www.blueridgeflyfishing.com. Fly Fishing Blue Ridge, Gene Rutkowski, 81 Little Creek Crossing, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 974, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-5640, http://www.flyfishblueridge.com. Lake and Stream Guide Service, Jenny Crowley, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 254, East Ellijay, GA, 30539, (706) 669-4972, http:// www.lakeandstreamguideservice.com. Reel Angling Adventures, A Division of Toccoa Bend Images, Bob Borgwat, 103 Red Oak Road, Suches, GA, 30572, 103 Red Oak Road, Suches, GA, 30572, (706) 838-5259, http://www.reelanglingadventures.com.

Reel’em In Guide Service, James Bradley, 1890 Burnt Mountain Rd., Ellijay, GA, 30536, 1890 Burnt Mountain Rd., Ellijay, GA, 30536, (706) 273-0764, http://www.reeleminguideservice.com. SharperBites, Natalie Sharp, P. O. Box 1199, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1199, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7051, http://www. sharperbites.com. Southern Highroads Outfitters, David Hulsey, 253 Hwy 515 East, Bldg. 1 - C, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 253 Hwy 515 East, Bldg. 1 - C, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 781-1414, http://www.southernhighroadsoutfitters.com. FITNESS CENTER/GYM Body Renovations, Tom Watson, 83 Dunbarton Farm Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 145 Rocky Top Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 276-0179. Bodyplex Blue Ridge, Stephanie Damian, 140 Progress Circle, Suite 7, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 512 Winder Trail, Canton, GA, 30114, (706) 946-2639, http://www.bodyplex.com. TruFitness, Londa Hipp, 105 Mountain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 980 Birmingham Road, Suite 811, Milton, GA, 30004, (706) 946-3488, http://www.trufitnessga.com. FLORISTS Blue Ridge Flower Basket, Cindy Day, 8024 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 8024 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2035, http://www.blueridgeflowers.net. FLY FISHING GUIDES GA Trophy Trout/The Valley at Suches, Bobby Still, 2939 Gaddistown Road, Suches, GA, 30572, 2939 Gaddistown Road, Suches, GA, 30572, (706) 747-9750, http://www.GATrophyTrout.com. Get Hooked Fishing Guide, Crystal Gaddis, 1512 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 125, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 633-8484, http://www.gethookedfishingguides.com. FLY FISHING SHOP The Fly Shop Company of Blue Ridge, William Taylor, 1408 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 863 3rd Street, South Naples, FL, 34102, (706) 946-5555. FOOD TOURS Blue Ridge Mountain Food Tours, Beth Raque, 1204 Brookhaven Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1204 Brookhaven Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (678) 697-1120, http://www.blueridgemountainfoodtours. com. FUNERAL HOMES Akins Funeral Home, Doug Akins, 7871 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1627, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2267, http://www.akinsfuneralhome.com. FURNITURE STORE Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings, Jason Queen, 3310 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3310 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-3071, http://www.abernathysfurniture. com. Design Re-Find, Cindy Trimble, ASID, 146 Depot Street, Suite One, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1169, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2030, http://www.designrefind.com. Jerry’s Mountain Furniture, Charlotte Sisson, 1014 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1014 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6464, http://www.jerrysmountainfurniture.com. Town & Country Furniture, Donna Whitener, 266 Orvin Lance Drive, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 266 Orvin Lance Drive, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8280, http://www.tccabinfurniture. com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 125

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Walhala Ridge Furnishings, Marla Buss, 679 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 679 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0332. GARBAGE PICK UP Grant’s Garbage Service, Timothy Grant, Jr., 336 Galloway Street, Epworth, GA, 30541, 336 Galloway Street, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 851-5605. GAS/GROCERY Murphy USA # 7524, William Stinson, 435 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 435 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3227, http://www.murphyusa.com. GAS/PROPANE Ferrell Gas, Michelle Mathis, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5754, http://www.ferrellgas.com. Folger Gas-Blue Ridge, L.L.C., Kim Folger, 4955 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2155, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7606, http://www.folgergas.com.

Fannin County Department of Family and Children Service, Kathy Henson, 990 E. Main, Suite 10, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 990 E. Main, Suite 10, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2296, http://www. georgia.gov. Fannin County Development Authority, Stephanie Scearce, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1689, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4450, http://www.fannindevelopment.com. Georgia Department of Labor, Sharon Spurling, 946 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 488, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2033, http://dol.state.ga.us. GRADING SERVICES Patrick Outdoor Service, LLC, Jason Patrick, 753 Russell Scenic Hwy, Blairsville, GA, 30512, P.O. Box 1757, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 897-9236. GRAPHIC DESIGN Blue Ridge Design Workshop, Inc., Steve Martin, 501 Ada Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 501 Ada Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1889, http://www.brworkshop.com.

GHOST TOURS Blue Ridge Ghost Tours, Kathy Thompson, 691 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 85 Nacoma Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2665.

GREENHOUSE Quinn’s Greenhouse, Ginger Montgomery, 1060 West Tennessee Avenue, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 1060 West Tennessee Avenue, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-4219.

GLASS & MIRROR Blue Ridge Glass & Mirror, Edell Pinter, 3781 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1867, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8138. Clearviews Unlimited, Matthew Dye, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2171, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9039.

GROCERIES Fresh ‘n Frugal, Tim Williams, 4177 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 977, Gainesville, GA, 30503, (706) 632-8064, http:// www.freshnfrugal.com. Hometown Foods IGA, Lisa Vest, 23 Toccoa Avenue, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P. O. Box 236, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-3222, http://www.hometownfoods.iga.com. Ingles Grocery, Jeff Harris, 5679 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5679 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8060, http://www.ingles-markets.com. Taste of Amish, Peggy Rush, 83 Dunbarton Farm Rd., Suites 107 & 108, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 83 Dunbarton Farm Rd., Suites 107 & 108, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8989, http://www.tasteofamish.com. Wal-Mart, Connie Lambert, 97 Commerce Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 97 Commerce Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9500.

GLASS TINTING Best Solar Control, Ray Dison, 93 Pine Ridge Tr., Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 93 Pine Ridge Tr., Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-4515, http://www.bestsolarcontrolinc.com. GOLF COURSE Old Toccoa Farm, Peter Knutzen, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, The Blue Ridge Club, LLC, Kevin Hermetz, 10 Glenlake Pkwy, South Tower Ste. 1000, Atlanta, GA, 30328, (404) 277-4980. Old Union Golf Course, Ryan Scott, 78 Scores Point, Blairsville, GA, 30512, P. O. Box 428, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 745-4653, http:// www.olduniongolf.com. GOVERNMENT CASA of the Appalachian Judicial Circuit, Dianne Scoggins, 1 Broad Street (Gilmer Co Courthouse), Suite 201, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 1 Broad Street, Suite 201, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 276-2272, http:// www.appalachiancasa.com. City of Blue Ridge, Mayor Donna Whitener, 480 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 480 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2091, http://www.blueridgega.gov. City of McCaysville, Mayor Thomas Seabolt, McCaysville City Hall, 223 Blue Ridge Dr, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 6, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-4921. Fannin County Board of Commissioners, Bill Simonds, Chairman, 400 W. Main Street, Suite 100, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 400 W. Main Street, Suite 100, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2203, http://www. fannincountyga.org. Fannin County Clerk of Superior Court, Dana C. Chastain, 400 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1300, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2039. 126 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

HAIR SALON Hair Heaven, Heather Meredith, 101 West Tennessee Avenue, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 187, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 455-8118. Lisa Mitchell Hair Design, Lisa Mitchell, 245 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 245 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8824. Miracles for Hair & Nails, Sheila Welch, 2662 East First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2157, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6328868. HANDYMAN Alpha to Omega Contracting Services, LLC, Chris Mull, 3790 Chestnut Gap Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3790 Chestnut Gap Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 889-8150. Gator Done, LLC, Larry Gumm, 233 Shallow Creek Vis, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 233 Shallow Creek Vis, Blue Ridge, GA,30513, (210) 7601030, http://letsgatordone.com. Inside & Out Home Maintenance, Erik Lowe, 1511 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 530 Marble City Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (574) 870-7181, http://www.insideandouthomemaintenance.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E HEALTH & WELLNESS Anne Merkel, PhD., Energy Therapist - Auto Immune Specialist, Anne Merkel, PhD, Mt. View Retreat @ 515 Evening Shade , Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 305, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 3746460, http://www.arielagroup.com. doTerra Wellness Advocate, Joan Thompson, 282 Old Baldmountain Rd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, 282 Old Baldmountain Rd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, (678) 451-7734, http://www.mydoterra.com/aromacine. GA Earth Oils, Becky Fox, 96 Craig Street, 112-206, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, 96 Craig Street, 112-206, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 889-5680, http://www.gaearthoils.myameo.com. HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING James Thomas Air, Noreen Thomas, 3801 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3801 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1241. King Heating & Air, Ray King, 3870 Chestnut Gap Rpad, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3870 Chestnut Gap Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9276. Mundy’s Heating & Air, Inc., Brian Mundy, 14120 W. US 64, Murphy, NC, 28906, 14120 W. US 64, Murphy, NC, 28906, (828) 494-5048, http://www.mundyshvac.com. Roper’s Heating and Air Service, Jeff Roper, 3240 Douthit Rd, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 3240 Douthit Rd, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-5250. Total Comfort Systems, Inc., Jim Wooten, 8163 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1055, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4880. Tri-State Heating & Air, Robert (Bob) Newman, 4160 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1295, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9666. HEMODYNAMIC SERVICES Tri-State Hemodynamic Services, LLC, Tonya Nuelle, 35 Hospital Rd, Suite 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 35 Hospital Rd , Suite 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 439-6805, http://www.bloodrecycling.net. HOME HEALTH CARE Assist Homecare Services, William Gibbs, 2800 Scenic Drive, Suite 13, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2630, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2978, http://www.assistathome.com. Amedisys Home Health, Tammie Jones, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 213, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 213, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5043, http://amedisys.com. ResCare Home Care Services, Leanne Masten, 990 E. Main St., Suite 6, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 990 E. Main St., Suite 6, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2695, http://www.rescarehomecare.com. Southern Companions, LLC, April Cummings, 623 Green St. Suite B, Gainesville, GA, 30501, 623 Green St., Suite B, Gainesville, GA, 30501, (678) 971-4147, http://www.southerncompanions.net. United Home Care of Blue Ridge, Jeri McConnell, 6050 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 249, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6898, http://www.uhs-pruitt.com/homecare. HOME INSPECTION Southern Premier Home Inspections, Inc., Keith Jensen, P. O. Box 517, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 517, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (866) 802-1306, http://www.southernpremierhomeinspections.com. HOMEWATCH Getaway Valet, Mark Smith, 118 Rustic Ridge, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 118 Rustic Ridge, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-6736. HORSEBACK RIDING A Step Above Stables, Curtis Teague, 696 Mauney Circle, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 696 Mauney Circle, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-9051, http://www.astepabovestables.com.

Adventure Trail Rides, Derrick Callihan, 933 Cashes Valley Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, 933 Cashes Valley Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 258-2276, http://www.adventuretrailrides.com. Blanche Manor Horseback Riding, Peggy Blanche, 181 Deal Hollow Road, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 177 Deal Hollow Road, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 455-7433, http://www.blanchemanor.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow, Lisa Mitchell, 319 Hells Hollow Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 245 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 408-7433. North Georgia Equestrian Tours, Martha Fillingham, P. O. Box 122, Epworth, GA, 30541, P. O. Box 122, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 851-5198, http://www.cohuttastables.com. HOSPICE Georgia Mountains Hospice, Gina Pendley, 70 Caring Way, Jasper, GA, 30143, P.O. Box 580, Jasper, GA, 30143, (706) 253-4100, http:// www.georgiamountainshospice.org. PruittHealth Hospice (Blue Ridge), Cami Ledford, 6050 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 6050 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0027, http://www.pruitthealth.com. Regency Hospice, Neal Bowles, 350 S. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, P. O. Box 494, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, (706) 896-1251, http:// www.regencyhospice.com. HOSPITALS Fannin Regional Hospital, David Sanders, 2855 Old Hwy. 5 North, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Hwy. 5 North, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3711, http://www.fanninregionalhospital. com. HOT TUBS & SPAS North Georgia Spas, Carrie Carroll, 105 Mountain Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2319, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9900, http://www.northgaspas.com. Spa & Deck Creations, Inc., Richard Goode, 5772 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1441, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 632-1833, http://www.spaanddeck.com. HOTELS Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, Charles Burton, 6321 U. S. Highway 76, Young Harris, GA, 30582, 6321 U. S. Highway 76, Young Harris, GA, 30582, (706) 379-4600, http://www.brasstownvalley.com. Blue Ridge Lodge & RV Park, Lynn Rechsteiner, 7077 Old Highway 76, Morganton, GA, 30560, 7077 Old Highway 76, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-0032, http://www.brlodgervpark.com. Comfort Inn & Suites, Nathan Fitts, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-3333, http://www.comfortinnofblueridge.com. Copperhead Lodge, Michelle Evans, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville, GA, 30513, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville, GA, 30513, (706) 835-7433, http://www.copperheadlodge.com. Blue Ridge Inn, Umesh Patel, Hwy. 515 & Connector 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1869, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (800) 325-2525, http://www.daysinn.com. Douglas Inn & Suites, Leah Rock, 1192 Windy Ridge Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1192 Windy Ridge Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3600, http://www.douglasinn.com. Reid Ridge Lodge, Claudia Laughridge, 30 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1629, Cartersville, GA, 30120, (706) 6324444. Serenity Luxury Suites, Lynda Cole, 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2244, http://www.serenityinthemountains.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 127

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E HUMAN RESOURCES CONSULTANT ADP (Automatic Data Processing), Terry Croke, 5680 New Northside Dr., Atlanta, GA, 30328, 5680 New Northside Dr., Atlanta, GA, 30328, (404) 510-2968, http://www.ADP.com. HYDROSEEDING Appalachian Hydroseeding, Tim Gibbs, P. O. Box 2530, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2530, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3693, http://www.appalachianhydroseeding.com. INDIVIDUALS Bennie Gunter, 6469 Victory Drive, Acworth, GA, 30102, (770) 926-7577. Carlie Hammond, 5756 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-3818. Carlos & Carol Martel, 1066 Douthit Rd., Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, PO Box 735, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-7075. Elma Ettman, P.O. Box 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 838-4727. Jan Kantor, 285 Grande Way, # 1202, Naples, FL, 34110, (239) 566-8912. Janice Burger, 250 Grandview Rd, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 357, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-3051. John Hicks, 246 Seven Pines Trail, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P.O. Box 837, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-5302. Joe Webb, 4458 Double Head Gap Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 838-4575. Len Crawford, 2267 Old Highway 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2601, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3788. Marie Havron, 485 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513. Mark Staley, 618 Hideaway Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (678) 772-8038. Melanie Rothchild, 19 High Point Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-2907. Nathan Campbell, 512 Weaver Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-4823. Patrick Hogan, 292 Bear Foot Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 292 Bear Foot Dr., Blue Ridge,GA, 30513, (404) 217-3617. Rich Davis, 3039 Chestnut Gap Rd, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 900 Richards Avenue, Clearwater, FL, 33755, (727) 441-2070. Ron Zadroga, 44 Dancing Sun Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6829. Simon St. John, 91 Bear Claw Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (813) 951-5124. Todd Blalock, 1097 Columbus Drive, Jonesboro, GA, 30236, (770) 603-0829. Tom Glaser, 1525 Kingtown Street, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 3 Wishmoore Retreat, Savannah, GA, 31311, (404) 694-4731. Tom Owenby, 990 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 810 WD Anderson Rd., Marietta, GA, 30066, (770) 926-3357. INSURANCE Apex Benefit Services, Ben Thatcher, P. O. Box 700, Epworth, GA, 30541, P. O. Box 700, Epworth, GA, 30541, (770) 474-1402, http:// www.apexbenefits.biz. Appalachian Insurance & Financial Services, Danny Rhea, 3441 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 640, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-9009, http://www.appalachianinsurance.net. Blue Ridge Insurance, Trevor Prince, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1244, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 9462100, http://www.blueridgeins.net. Dickey McCay Insurance, Leland Rymer, 146 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN, 37317, P. O. Box 1161, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 4963366, http://www.dickeymccay.com. Fannin County Farm Bureau Insurance, Phil Wilson, 10856 Lakewood Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, PO Box 276, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5967. 128 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Farmers Insurance, Donald Curtis, 4195 East First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4195 East First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-5030. Kevin Panter Insurance, Kevin Panter, 95 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1198, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6323400, http://www.kevinpanterinsurance.com. Purchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc, Shan Ricketts, 1265 Minhinette Dr., Suite 150, Roswell, GA, 30075, 1265 Minhinette Dr., Suite 150, Roswell, GA, 30075, (770) 579-1214 x 3035, http://www. purchasingalliance.com. State Farm Insurance/Charles Edmondson, Charlie Edmondson, 3354 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2550, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2287. The Insurance Mart, Nick Nicholson, 4507 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4507 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-3234, http://www.theinsurancemart.biz. Thomas Insurance Group, Nancy Kay, 3990 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 577, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2274, http://www.thomas-insurance.com. Woodmen of the World Insurance, Richard York, 3608 East First St., Ste. 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2877 Mountain Tops Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-4273, http://www.woodmen.org. INTERIOR DECORATORS & DESIGNERS Julie Ford Designs, Julie Ford, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2364, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-9344, http://www.julieforddesigns.com. Trimble Kelly Studios, Cindy Trimble, ASID, 146 Depot Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1169, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2030, http://www.trimblekellystudios.com. INTERNET MARKETING Blue Ridge Highlander, Sherry Bell Dukes, 33 Valley River Ave, Suite C, Murphy, NC, 28906, 33 Valley River Ave, Suite C, Murphy, NC, 28906, (828) 835-9982, http://www.theblueridgehighlander.com. INVESTIGATIONS Leckinger Private Investigations, Inc., Randy Leckinger, P. O. Box 76776, Tampa, FL, 33675, P. O. Box 76776, Tampa, FL, 33675, (813) 731-5170. INVESTMENT SERVICES Edward Jones/Amanda Wishon, Amanda Wishon, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Suite D, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1348, , Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8118, http://www.edwardjones.com/ en_US/fa/index.html&CIRN=516377. JANITORIAL SUPPLIES North Georgia Paper & Specialty, Nelson Dean, 86 Morganton Industrial Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 930, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-1415. JET SKI RENTALS Young Harris Water Sports, Dustin Burch, 1525 Mining Gap Rd., Young Harris, GA, 30582, 1525 Mining Gap Rd., Young Harris, GA, 30582, (706) 896-0834, http://www.yhwatersports.com. JEWELRY/GIFTS Benchmark of Palm Beach, Ken Burns, 678 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1976, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3553, http://www.benchmarkofpalmbeach.com. GawdyBobbles/Canoe Retail Store, LLC, Lynn Kemp, 624 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 624 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2999, http://www.gawdybobbles.com. Glitzy Chix, Shirley Martin, 723 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 723 B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3202, http://www.glitzychix.us.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Origami Owl - Blue Ridge, Cathy Holloway, 274 W. Main, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 745, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 8516301, http://www.BlueRidgeGA.OrigamiOwl.com. The Diamond Center, Sandi Stepp, 5701 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5701 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2299, http://www.blueridgediamondcenter.com. The Owl’s Nest of Blue Ridge, Jennifer Sullivan, 709 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 189 Mountain Tops Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6378. KAYAKING Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking, Alanna Flanagan, North River Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2650 East First St., # 15, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2411, http://www.blueridgemountainkayaking. com. LANDSCAPING Vista Scapes, Cindy Cohen, 288 Notla Vista 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 288 Notla Vista 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (678) 439-9125. LAUNDROMAT Blue Ridge Coin Laundry, Howard Slaughter, 3761 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 296, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 946-2646. LAWN CARE 4-V Ranch Yard & Estate Maintenance, Roland Vaughn, 2702 Macedonia Church Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 2145 Millers Chapel Road, Conyers, GA, 30094, (706) 258-3234, http://www.4vranch.com. Green Leaf Lawn & Ornamental, LLC, Kevin Johnson, 830 Damascus Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 830 Damascus Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2420, http://www.wetreatlawns.com. Luis Landscaping, Luis Cuevas, 10 Orchard Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 10 Orchard Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 889-7433. LIBRARY Fannin County Public Library, Clare Barton, 400 W. Main Street, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 400 W. Main Street, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5263, http://www.mountainregionallibrary.org. LOCKSMITH Larry’s Lockshop & Services, LLC, Larry Waters, P. O. Box 841, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 841, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-7400. LODGES 5 Star Lodge & Stables, Julia Butler, 775 Burgess Gap Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, 4547 Shiloh Ridge Trail, Snellville, GA, 30039, (888) 875-5669, http://www.northga5starlodge.com. Firefly Fishing Lodge & Retreat, LLC, Kevin McCreary, 1414 Robert Miller Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 1414 Robert Miller Lane, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-4489, http://www.fireflyfishinglodge.com. Oyster Cast & Blast Inn, Shannen Oyster, 494 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 193 Toccoa River Forest, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 374-4239, http://www.oysterbamboo.com. LOG HOME BUILDERS Satterwhite Log Homes, Lisa Salman, 14378 Hwy. 515 N., Ellijay, GA, 30536, 14378 Hwy. 515 N., Ellijay, GA, 30536, (706) 636-6881, http://www.slh.net. MANUFACTURERS A & S Clothing, Salma Adam, 1130 Ada Street, Suite C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1310, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2133. Ameratex, LLC, Jason Crawford, 219 Fain Street, Morganton, GA, 30560, 219 Fain Street, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5649, http:// www.ameratexllc.com.

DaCorp, Inc., David Crawford, 215 Fain St, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 531, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-7005. Inner Dimensions, Inc., Bill Adams, 1506 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1506 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7004. Kismet Rubber Products Corp., Carol Petty, 215 Industrial Blvd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 215 Industrial Blvd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2261, http://www.kismetrubberproducts.com. Pulse Medical, Inc., Barbara Boyce, 1130 Ada Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1130 Ada Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1370, http://www.pulsemedical.net. WildSide Custom Trailers, Dale Eavenson, 201 Ashloop Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 201 Ashloop Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3936, http://www.wildsidellc.com. MARINAS Lake Blue Ridge Marina, Eve Windham, 335 Marina Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 150, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2618, http://www.lakeblueridgemarina.com. Mountain View Marina @ Bear Paw Resort, Mary Maul, 200 Dean Aldrich Road, Murphy, NC, 28906, 200 Dean Aldrich Road, Murphy, NC, 28906, (828) 644-5451, http://www.mountainviewmarina.com. MARKETING CONSULTANTS DOTSGOOD, Chip Cipcic, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2554, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 402-8264, http://www.dotsgood.com. MASSAGE THERAPISTS New Leaf Naturally, Barbara Border, 83 Dunbarton Farm Road, Suite 103, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 96 Craig Street, Suite 112-301, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (404) 217-0041, http://www.newleafadventures. net. MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Kelley’s Home Health Service, Shannon Hutson, 118 Professional Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 118 Professional Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3689. North Georgia Respi-Care, Allison Johnson, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 103, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 103, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4545. Peachstate Prosthetics and Orthotics, Inc., Susan Semmes, 5425 Appalachian Hwy, Suite 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5425 Appalachian Hwy, Suite 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-8009, http://www. peachprosthetics.com. Scooters and More Factory Outlet, Bret Benson, 3331 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3331 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7527, http://www.samfoinc.com. MEDICAL LABORATORIES CK Laboratories, John Greenwald, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4145, http://www.riverstonemd.com. METAL FABRICATIONS G & N Iron, Glenda Green, 4646 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4646 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 4924350, http://www.gandniron.com. MILITARY TANK DRIVING TANK TOWN USA, Todd Liebross, 10408 Appalachian Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, 58 Everett Botts Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 633-6072, http://www.tanktownusa.com. MINI GOLF Cohutta Cove Mini Golf, Brian Briggs, 64 Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 64 Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1920, http://www.cohuttacoveminigolf.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 129

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Lilly Pad Village, Geza Csuros, 24 Adelaide Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 24 Adelaide Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 534-1317, http://www.lillypadvillage.com. MORTGAGE COMPANY First Community Mortgage Group, Tracie Griffith, 21 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 21 Overview Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5800. MOTORCYCLE TOURS Moto-xcursion, LLC, Tom Watson, 25 Mountain Top Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 145 Rocky Top Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 276-0179, http://www.moto-xcursion.com. MOVERS Blue Ridge Mountain Moving & Packing, LLC, Billy Joe Messer, 626 Weaver Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 626 Weaver Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5449. Men on the Move, Ray Stooksbury, 7195 Highway 76 West, Young Harris, GA, 30582, 7195 Highway 76 West, Young Harris, GA, 30582, (706) 258-4493, http://www.mountain-movers.com.

ORCHARDS Hillcrest Orchards, Janice Hale, 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA, 30536, 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA, 30536, (706) 273-3838, http://www.hillcrestorchards.net. Mercier Orchards, Tim Mercier, 8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 425, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3411, http:// www.mercier-orchards.com. Mountain View Orchards & Cider House Cafe, Mary Jo Dickey, 2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-7753. ORGANIC FOODS Right Choice Organics, Lori Grant, 2710 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2710 E. 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6574, http://www.rightchoiceorganics.com. ORTHODONTICS - BRACES Blue Ridge Orthodontics, Dr. Dustin Tipton, 65 Josh Hall Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 65 Josh Hall Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6334824, http://www.tiptonbraces.com.

MUSEUMS Ducktown Basin Museum, Ken Rush, 212 Burra Burra St., Ducktown, TN, 37326, P.O. Box 458, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (423) 496-5778, http://www.ducktownbasinmuseum.com.

OUTFITTERS Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters, Ron Edwards, 15 Black Ankle Creek Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, 15 Black Ankle Creek Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 838-0200, http://www.jonrontro.com.

NEWSPAPERS Fannin Focus, Mark Thomason, 2680 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 278, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5655, http:// www.fanninfocus.com. Fannin Sentinel, Elaine Owen, 29 State Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 799, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3406, http:// www.fanninsentinel.com. fetchyournews.com, Lisa Pritchard, 23 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 801 Industrial Drive #405, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 276-6397, http://www.fetchyournews.com. The News Observer, Glenn Harbison, 5748 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 989, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2019, http://www.thenewsobserver.com. The Newspaper Publishing Co., LLC, Cheryl Buehler, P.O. Box 129, Benton, TN, 37307, P.O. Box 129, Benton, TN, 37307, (423) 496-4066, http://www.polknewsonline.com.

PACK & SHIP The Mail Box Company, Frank Van Houten, 2800 Scenic Drive, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2800 Scenic Drive, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-7447, http://www.themailboxco.net.

NURSING HOMES Life Care Center of Copper Basin, Shirley Williams, 166 Copper Basin Industrial Basin Park, P.O. Box 518, Ducktown, TN, 37326, P.O. Box 518, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (423) 496-3245, http://www.LCCA.com. PruittHealth Blue Ridge, Gregg Martin, 99 Ouida Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1227, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6322271, http://www.uhs-pruitt.com. OFFICE EQUIPMENT Duplicating Products, Inc., Matthew DeLong, 2305 Centennial Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30503, P. O. Box 1548, Gainesville, GA, 30503, (770) 532-9932, http://www.duplicatingproducts.com. OILS-LUBRICATING Blue Ridge Oil Change, Joey Stanley, 1166 Windy Ridge Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1283, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2161, http://blueridgeoilchange.com. Brotherhood Oil, LLC, Shawn Hood, 126 Orvin Lance Dr, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2528, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 9465823, http://www.brotherhoodoil.net. OPTOMETRISTS Jabaley Eye Care, Chris Jabaley, 1333 Damascus Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1333 Damascus Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 9462020, http://www.jabaleyeyecare.com. 130 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

PACKAGE STORE Appalachian Beverage, Brady West, 399 Mountain View Drive, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, 399 Mountain View Drive, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 273-0780, http://comwww.facebook.com/appalachianbeverage. PACKAGING FILMS Done Wright Packaging, Mike Wright, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2320, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 401-5239, http://www. donewrightpackaging.com. PAINTING John B. O’Neal, John B. O’Neal, 3315 Weaver Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3315 Weaver Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 597-8878. Man Around The House, Stewart Carmack, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 511, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-4512, http://www. manaroundthehouse.org. S & S Painting, John Stephens, 1123 Cutcane Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 1123 Cutcane Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 4550098. PAMPERED CHEF Pampered Chef, Channing Hamby, 730 E. 2nd St., Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 730 E. 2nd St., Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (828) 361-0892, http://www.pamperedchef.biz/hambypc. PAVING Johnson Paving, LLC, Justin Foster, 302 Tom Boyd Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 302 Tom Boyd Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2255. TRC Hauling & Paving, Inc., Tim Cook, 119 Loving Road, Industrial Park, Morganton, GA, 30560, P.O. Box 2104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-7500.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E PERIODONTIST Mountain Periodontics, Gregg R. Codelli D.D.S., Kathleen Rankin, 980 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 980 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7272, http://www.mtnperioimplant. com. PEST CONTROL SERVICES Terminator Pest Control Services, Amy Mason, 675 Industrial Park Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1714, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2807, http://www.terminatorpcs.com. PET CARE Evolutionary K9, Billy Pruitt, 8586 Appalachian Highway, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 8586 Appalachian Highway, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (770) 733-2621, http://www.evolutionaryk9.com. PET GROOMING Groomed to Perfection, Christina Snyder, 439 Scenic Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 439 Scenic Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2583814, http://www.groomedtoperfection.vpweb.com. Krafty Kuts Pet Boutique, Robin Laws, 3139 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1036 Goss Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 6330891. PET GROOMING & BOARDING Doggie Dips and Doos, Charles Ferguson, Jr., 2636 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 290 E. Overbend Tr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-4788. PHARMACIES Blue Ridge Pharmacy, Chrystal Trent, 793 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 793 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2244. McCaysville Drug & Gun, Hugh Rogers, 131 Blue Ridge Hwy, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 338, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-4126, http://www.mccaysvilledrugcenter.com. PHOTOGRAPHERS F stop...A Photo Shop, Chris Hefferen, 11 Mountain St., Suite F, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11 Mountain St., Suite F, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6200, http://www.fstopaphotoshop.com. J.K. Jenkins Photography & Fine Art, Jeanette Jenkins, 1662 My Mountain Rd., Morganton, GA, 30560, 1662 My Mountain Rd., Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-2057. Skydrone Logistics, Sandi Strickland, 61 Little Falls Drive, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 572 Lanarkshire Place, Apopka, FL, 32712, (407) 9213368, http://www.skydronelogistics.com. Smith Photography, Cody Smith, 360 West 2nd Street, Apt. # 3, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 360 West 2nd Street, Apt. # 3, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-4568, http://www.codytsmith.com. Willow Wind Photography, Sarah Tipton, 17625 Morganton Hwy, Morganton, GA, 30560, 17625 Morganton Hwy, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 455-4004, http://www.willowwindphoto.com. Zolu Photography, Rhiannon Lundquist, 1090 Madola Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, 1090 Madola Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, (716) 397-8302, http://www.zoluphotography.com. PHYSICAL THERAPHY North Georgia Physical Therapy, Mike Darnell, 5425 Appalachian Highway, Suite 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 411 Lakeshore Drive, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 632-8535, http://www.ngpta.com. PHYSICIANS Appalachian Physicians Group - Dr. Kimberly Denton, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3661, http://www.appalachianPhysiciansGroup.com.

Appalachian Physician’s Group - Internal Medicine/Pulmonary/ Sleep, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 207, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4210, http://www.appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - Family Practice, 4799 Blue Ridge Drive, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Hwy 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-3200, http://www.appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - General Surgery, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 212, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4253, http://www. appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - Internal Medicine, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 111, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4248, http://www. appalachiansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, 2855 Old Hwy 5, Suite 111, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Hwy 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4215, http://www. appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - Walk-In Clinic, 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 111, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Hwy 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4200, http://www.appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Appalachian Physicians Group - Dr. Benjamin Harris OB/GYN Women’s Care, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 110, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 104, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-1100, http://www.appalachianphysiciansgroup.com. Blue Ridge Integrative Healthcare, Dr. Marc Berger, 10152 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,P.O. Box 700, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-3621, http://www.blueridgeintegrativehealthcare. com. Blue Ridge Orthopedics, Inc., Douglas Nuelle, 35 Hospital Rd, Suite 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 35 Hospital Rd, Suite 1, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 439-6805. Edwin C. Pound, III, MD, PC, Edwin C. Pound, Riverstone Medical Campus, 101 Riverstone Vista , Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 993-C Johnson Ferry Rd., Suite 210, Atlanta, GA, 30342, (404) 256-1400, http://www. winpound.com. Georgia Foothills Hand Surgery, Rhonda Worthingstun, 980 East Main Street, Suite 300, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 980 East Main Street, Suite 300, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-7300, http://www.georgiafoothillshandsurgery.com. Georgia Mountains Health Services, Inc., Steven Miracle, 165 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 540, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 946-4647, http://www.gamtnhealth.org. North Georgia Family Medicine, Steve Rook, 809 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 809 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1155, http://www.ngfmonline.com. Piedmont Heart Institute, Lacey Smith, 2855 Old Highway 5, Suite 106, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 95 Collier Road, Suite 2075, Atlanta, GA, 30309, (706) 632-2066, http://www.piedmont.org. Riverstone MD PC, Jody Davis, 101 Riverstone Vista, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 101 Riverstone Vista, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2584100, http://www.riverstonemd.com. PLUMBING SERVICES & REPAIRS All Choice Plumbing, Ken Gaddis, 193 Sierra Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 125, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 964-7586, http:// www.allchoiceplumbing.com. Ridge Plumbing, Inc., Marilyn Guerra, 220 Songbird Avenue, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 220 Songbird Avenue, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2304, http://www.ridgeplumbing.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 131

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E POTTERY Coopers Creek Pottery, Linda Woody, 28252 Morganton Hwy., Suches, GA, 30572, 28252 Morganton Hwy., Suches, GA, 30572, (706) 258-7699, http://www.cooperscreekpottery.com. PRESCHOOL Blue Ridge United Methodist Pre-School, Denise Campbell, 322 W. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 85, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5590, http://www.BRUMC.org. PRINTERS American Wholesale Print Shop, LLC, Carlie Hammond, 5756 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5756 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6122, http://www.awprint.net. Excel Graphic Services, Tammy Johnson, 401 Fannin Industrial Park Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2609, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4600, http://www.excelgraphic.com. Perfect Word Data Services, John Phillips, 3135 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 459, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 4927937, http://www.perfectword.com. PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Blue Ridge Promotional Products, LLC, Lora Rogers, P. O. Box 2161, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2161, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 374-2200, http://www.blueridgepromoproducts.com. PSYCHOLOGISTS Blue Ridge Psychological Services, David Raque, 9757 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 9757 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-2490, http://www.blueridgepsychological.com. QUILTING MATERIALS & SUPPLIES Country Stitches, Inc., Priscilla Ryan, 30 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 30 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3070, http://www.countrystitchesinc.net. RADIO BROADCASTING STATIONS Fannin County Broadcasting, Teresa Locke, 333 West Highland St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 938, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9775, http://www.mountaincountryradio.com. RAFTING COMPANIES A Rolling Thunder River Company, Bobbye Miller, 20 Hughes Street, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 20 Hughes Street, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-5720, http://www.rollingthunderriverco.com. Ocoee Adventure Center, Larry Mashburn, 4651 Highway 64, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 5637 Highway 411S., Benton, TN, 37307, (888) 723-8622, http://www.ocoeeadventurecenter.com. Ocoee Rafting, Greg Griggs, 1548 Hwy 68, Ducktown, TN, 37326, P.O. Box 966, Ducktown, TN, 37326, (800) 251-4800, http://www. ocoeerafting.com. Wildwater Limited, Grant “Woody’’ Woodruff, 4596 Highway 64, Ducktown, TN, 37326, P. O. Box 309, Long Creek, SC, 29658, (423) 496-4904, http://www.wildwaterrafting.com. RAILROAD Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Larry Dyer, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (877) 413-8724, http://www.brscenic.com. REAL ESTATE AGENCIES Anchor Brokerage, LLC, Tiffany Towery, 13944 Appalachian Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, 13944 Appalachian Highway, Morganton, GA, 30560, (855) 632-5253, http://www.anchorbrokerage.co. 132 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Better Home and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers, Phyllis Rodkin, 801-A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 801-A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0547, http://www. metrobrokers.com. Blue Ridge Realty, Inc., Jerry Whitehead, 37 West Fain Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 4682 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5596, http://www.blueridgerealtyga.com. CENTURY 21 in the Mountains, Melinda Hadden, 2460 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 368 Craig Street, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 632-2041, http://www.century21inthemountains.com. Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, June Slusser, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 295, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7311, http://www.cbhighcountry.com. Cornerstone Properties of Blue Ridge, Nicki Tipton, 144 Oak Court, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 144 Oak Court,, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-1578, http://www.nickitipton.com. Country Corners Realty, LLC, Keri Williams, 224 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 760, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 964-6032, http://www.realestate-northgeorgia.com. Georgia Mountain & Lake Properties, LLC, Lucy Wade, P.O. Box 574, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 574, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9700, http://www.georgiamountainandlakeproperties.com. Harry Norman, REALTORS, Kim Knutzen, 252 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 252 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7211, http://www.harrynorman.com. Johnson & Johnson Realty, Roy Johnson, 3792 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 85 John Smith Way, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 632-2424, http://www.johnsonsrealty.com. Keller Williams Realty, Tanya Pertschi, 220 Heritage Walk, Suite 101, Woodstock, GA, 30188, 220 Heritage Walk, Suite 101, Woodstock, GA, 30188, (678) 494-0644, http://www.KW.com. Mountain Country Realty, Holly Nelson, 1095 Windy Ridge Road, Suite C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1095 Windy Ridge Road, Suite C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7100, http://www.mtncountryrealestate. com. Mountain Property Limited, Tim Helton, 2050 State Hwy 60, Suches, GA, 30572, P.O. Box 58, Suches, GA, 30572, (706) 747-4020, http://www.mountainpropertylimited.com. Mountain Tracks Realty of N. Georgia, LLC, Tina Hall, 1665 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1043, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3737, http://www.mountaintracksrealty.com. North Georgia Cabins & Land Realty, Mark Burger, 44 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2396, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7111, http:// http://ngcabinsandland.com. RE/MAX - Town & Country, Molly McGrory, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3760 Sixes Road, Suite 108, Canton, GA, 30114, (706) 632-7653, http://www.northgeorgiahomebroker.com. RE/MAX Highlands, Nicole Nicholson, 534 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1124 NorthTennessee St., Suite 103, Cartersville, GA, 30120, (706) 632-4422, http://www.highlandsbrokers.com. Real Estate Around the Mountains, Forrest Hamm, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2468, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-2775, http://www.northgeorgiahomes.com. Sharp Real Estate Services, CJ Stam, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3737, http://www.sharp-res.com. Summit Real Estate Group, LLC, Anna Dorn, 697 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 697 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1212, http://www.blueridgewaterfront.com. The Mountain Life Team, Rhonda Hood, 108 Blue Ridge Highway, Suite 101, Blairsville, GA, 30512, 108 Blue Ridge Highway, Suite 101, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 633-8186, http://www.TheMountainLifeTeam.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Tru Mountain Realty, LLC, Louanne Watkins, 771 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 771 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-0367, http://www.trumountainrealty.com. REAL ESTATE AGENTS Andy Walter, Century 21 Professional Realty Group , 950 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1892 Pack Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-5880, http://www.andywalter.com. Anne Williamson, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 295, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-9847, http://www.buyblueridgeproperty.com. Bill Banzhaf, Harry Norman Realtors, 252 West Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 116 Blueberry Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 851-5865, http://www.harrynorman.com. Carol L. Smith - Coldwell Banker / High Country Realty, 274 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2689, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 540-0259, http://www.cbhighcountry.com. Cindy West, RE/MAX Town & Country, 661 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 776, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 2739033,http://www.gocindywest.com. Dana Nazerian Spencer, Real Estate Consultant, 83 Riverview Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 83 Riverview Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 894-1889, http://www.danaspencer.harrynorman. com. Donna M. O’Neal, LLC, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3315 Weaver Creek Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(770) 3569034, http://www.realestate-blueridge.com. Gene Rutkowski, Mountain Place Realty, 342 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 974,Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(706) 4555640, http://www.cabinsonthestream.com. Janken Daniels - BHGRE Metro Brokers, 801 A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,43 Hunters Ridge Road, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 633-9910, http://www.metrobrokers.com/janken.daniels. Julie Fitts Queen, Re/MAX Town & Country, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 205 Lake Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-4075, http://www.juliefittsqueen.com. Kenny Schrader, North Georgia Cabins & Land Realty, 44 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,1424 Damacus Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(706) 632-7111, http://ngcabinsandland.com. Kim Kimball - ReMax Town & Country, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1978, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,http:// www.kimkimball.com. Kimberly Bruner, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-5703, http://www.cbhighcountry.com. Linda Baker, Re/Max Town & Country, 661 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 661 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(706) 455-0262, http://www.LindasNorthGACabins.com. Linda Gregory, Coldwell Banker Commercial Business Brokerage, 801A E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 370 Davis Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 210-4349, http://www.lindagregory.metrobrokers.com. Mike Holloway, Coldwell Banker High Country, 24 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 295, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(706) 851-7513, http://www.HollowayRealtors.com. Nancy MacLean, Century 21 In The Mountains, 950 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 508 Bear Paw Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2041 x 0608, http://www.noplacelikeblueridge. com. Nathan Fitts, Nathan Fitts & Team, REMAX Town & Country, 83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Suite 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,P. O. Box 1170, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3000, http://www.NathanFitts. com.

Rachel Callihan, Harry Norman Realtors, 544 E. Main Street, lue Ridge, GA, 30513, 37 Cashes Valley Road, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 258-8067, http://www.harrynormanblueridge.com. Rose Van Dyke, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, 274 West Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 147, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 583-1035, http://www.cbHighCountry.com. Sandy Wilbanks, Sharp Real Estate Services, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,(678) 333-7907, http://www.liveinblueridge.com. Scott Nichols, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, 274 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 199 Amy Creek Circle, Ellijay, GA, 30540,(706) 455-2414, http://www.mountainsofgeorgia.com. Teresa Bidez, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty, 274 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 937, Blue Ridge, GA, 3051-, (706) 455-2911, http://www.cbhighcountry.com. The Ledford Team, Re/Max Town and Country, Terry Ledford, 534 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2424, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-2503, http://www REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS Ridgeline Vistas, Nathan Nicholson, 697 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 697 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, http:// www.ridgelinevistas.com. Sisson Company, Cheryl Dupont, 344 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 965, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7000, http://www.thesissoncompany.com. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT Blue Ridge Heights, LLC, CJ Stam, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA,30513, 240 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-9400, http://www.blueridgeheights.com. Blue Ridge Village, Tanya Davenport, P. O. Box 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 8, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6415. Wilderness Creek Falls & Ridge Brook of Blue Ridge, Glen Frank, 20019 Highway 64 West, Murphy, NC, 28906, P. O. Box 128, Epworth, GA, 30541, (828) 494-7778, http://www.wildernesscreekfalls.com. REPURPOSED GOODS Ain’t What It Used To Be, Amy Hensley, 304 West 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 205 Lickskillet Rd., Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 8517636, http://www.aintwhatitusedtobe.com. RESTAURANTS Angelina’s Italian Gourmet Market & Delicatessen, Randy Porch, 3640 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3640 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3354, http://www.angelinasitalianmarket.com. Arby’s, Rhonda Jamieson, 3997 Appalachian Hwy, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 339, Calhoun, GA, 30703, (706) 632-0104. Black Bear Bier Garden, Dan Ruud, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 205, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 205, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4440. Black Sheep Restaurant, Carrie Hefferen, 480 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 480 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-3663, http://www.blacksheepblueridge.com. Blue Jeans Pizza & Pasta Factory, Lou Truemper, 11 Mountain St, Ste C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11 Mountain St, Ste C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6503, http://www.bluejeansgeorgia.com. Blue Ridge Brewery, Pat Walker, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6611, http://www.blueridgebrewery.com. Blue Ridge Grocery, Michelle Moran, 560 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 576 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513,http:// www.blueridgegrocery.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Bar-B-Q, Bob Oldroyd, 3870 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3870 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6996, http://www.blueridgemountainbbq.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 133

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Boro Inn Irish Pub & Restaurant, N. Brendan Doyle, 150 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 150 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-7686. BumbleBee’s Cafe, Inc., Linda Davidson, 5850 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 89 E. Dream Catcher, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2337. Burger King, Jim Frady, 3960 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 219, Tallulah Falls, GA, 30573, (706) 632-6790, . Cantaberry Restaurant, Case Bruner, 53 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 51 River Street, Ellijay, GA, 30450,(706) 946-7687,http:// www.cantaberry.com. Checkers, Corey Roberts, 6 Windy Ridge Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 891, Dalton, GA, 30722, (706) 632-2054. Chick-fil-A, Michelle Bentley, 475 Howard Simmons Road, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, 475 Howard Simmons Road, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 636-0475, http://www.ellijaychick-fil-a.com. Christy Lee’s Courtyard Grille, Brenda Battaglia, 588 E. Main Street, Suite C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 588 E. Main Street, Suite C, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-5100, http://www.christylees.com. Circle J Family Steakhouse, Wesley Jones, 4004 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1294, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5955. Cucina Rustica, Isabella Molinari, 76 Forge Mill Crossing, Morganton, GA, 30560, 76 Forge Mill Crossing, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-7474, http://www.cucinarustica-ga.com. Danielle’s Great Eats Deli, 611 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 611 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3094, http://www.daniellesgreateats.com. DQ Grill & Chill, Joe Cipolla, 380 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 380 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2883, http://www.dairyqueen.com. El Rio Mexican Restaurant, Elizabeth Villasana, 23 Ocoee St., Copperhill, TN, 37317, P.O. Box 1077, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 496-1826 Fightingtown Tavern, Jim Carruthers, 511 East Main Street, Suite 200, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 511 East Main Street, Suite 200, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2006, http://www.fightingtowntavern.com. Habanero’s, Luis Flores Lima, 120 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN, 37317, P.O. Box 631, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 548-2111. Harvest on Main, Michelle Moran, 576 E. Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 576 E. Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6164, http://www.harvestonmain.com. Joe’s BBQ, Joe Ray, 3365 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2245, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2727, http://www. joesbbqblueridge.com. L & L Beanery Bakery Cafe, Lynda Thompson, 260 West Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 260 West Main Street, Suite A, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3242, http://www.llbeanerycafecoffee.com. Los 3 Sombrero, Pedro Godinez, 39 Lance Street, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 39 Lance Street, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-0078. Masseria Kitchen + Bar, Michelle Moran, 67 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 67 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1511. Mike’s Trackside BBQ, Mike Akers, 3950 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 143, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, (706) 258-2533. Monte Alban Mexican Restaurant, Jose Perez, 5004 Appalachian Highway, Suite B1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5004 Appalachian Highway, Suite B1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3998. Papas Pizza to Go, Jerry Angel, 140 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 140 Progress Circle, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8551. Pat’s Kountry Kitchen, Pat Long, 1212 Blue Ridge Dr., McCaysville, GA, 30559, P.O. Box 1156, McCaysville, GA, 30559, (706) 492-5477. 134 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Pink Pig, Sam Callihan, 824 Cherry Log St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 100, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 632-2403, http://www. budspinkpig.com. Serenity Garden Cafe, Warren Diana, 657 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 264 Tanglewood Cove, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-4949. Southern Charm, Dwayne Sneed, 224 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 224 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9090. Subway/Singleton Food Services, Ed Singleton, 2800 Scenic Drive, Scenic Crossing Plaza, Ste 10 & 11, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 772 Maddox Drive, Suite 136, East Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 632-6699. Sue’s Ice Cream Parlor, Sue Huff, 3855 E. First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1363, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2960. Tin Loong of Blue Ridge, Tech Lim, 5771 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 5771 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6090, http://www.tinloong.com. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant, Tim Richter, 8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6327891, http://www.toccoariversiderestaurant.com. Village Restaurant, Robert Panter, 4131 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2529, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2277, http://www.blueridgevillagerestaurant.com. Waffle House, Monica Keith, 4223 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1021 Cambridge Square, Alpharetta, GA, 30009, (706) 632-7823, http://www.wafflehouse.com. Whatnot Frozen Yogurt, Randy Marchman, 5800 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 97 Tamisi Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2300. Whistle Stop Grill, Elliot Wilborn, 25 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 25 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-2466. Yellow Jacket Restaurant, Joyce Goss, 2755 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 721, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-3475. Zaxby’s, Steve Cocherham, 4017 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 271 Beaver Run Road, Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 6325055, http://www.zaxbys.com. RETAIL SPACE 733 East Main Street, LLC, dba/Old Gartrell Building, Mike Triebert, 733 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2426, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 329-2683. Queen and Court, LLC d/b/a Clock Tower Building, Swan McKnight, 544 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 77 Peachtree Place , # 504, Atlanta, GA, 30309, (404) 317-5687. ROOFING Steve Stacy Roofing, Steve Stacy, 419 Ballewtown Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 419 Ballewtown Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6320474, http://www.ssroofs.com. SANITATION SERVICES Advanced Disposal Services, Bobby Bright, 10169 Lakewood Highway, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, P.O. Box 2195, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-6519. SCREEN PRINTING The Phoenix Company, Mathew Maloof, P. O. Box 970, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (800) 700-2814, http://www.thephoenixco.com. SENIOR CARE Services of North Georgia for Seniors (SONGS), Carol Hurst, 358 N. Ridge Dr., Ellijay, GA, 30540, P.O. Box 389, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 276-6673.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E SEPTIC SERVICE Shamrock Septic Service, Richard Sims, 429 Jones Road, Epworth, GA, 30541, P. O. Box 277, Epworth, GA, 30541, (706) 492-2028, http:// www.shamrocksepticservices.com. Tows Jon Boy & Septic Service, LLC, Glenn Reece, 2436 E. 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 971, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8689. SHOES Ballard’s of Blue Ridge, Lance Langley, 135 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 135 Roberts Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-0022. SOIL TESTING Walter G. George Soil Consultants, Inc., Walter George, 23 Tee Pee Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 23 Tee Pee Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8388, http://www.WaltGeorgeSoils.com. SPECIALTY SHOPS Afrika Corner, LLC, Sharon & Lorenzo Giani, 124 Blue Ridge Drive, Shop 5, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 124 Blue Ridge Drive, Shop 5, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (954) 232-7109, http://www.afrikacorner.com. Blue Ridge Bird Seed Company, Thomas Striker, 611 East Main Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 611 East Main Street, Suite B, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2473, http://www.blueridgebirdseed.com. Blue Ridge Candles, Rodney Merrell, 497 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 514, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2232. Blue Ridge Cotton Company, Joshua Durst, 544 E. Main Street, Suite 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 91, Cherry Log, GA, 30522, (706) 632-8990, http://www.blueridgecottoncompany.com. Blue Ridge Jerky, Christy Kay, 662 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2811 Mountain Tops Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-5088, http://www.mkt.com/blue-ridge-jerky. Blue Ridge Knife Company, Daryl Lee, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 101, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 101, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6634, http://www.dleesports.com. Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company, Donna Harper, 511 E. Main Street, Suite 100, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 511 E. Main Street, Suite 100, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6457, http://www.blueridgeoliveoil.com. Blush 809, Abby Merrell, 771 C East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 514, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3151, http:// www.lottidottiesmagnetic.com/. Daisy Mae’s Delights, Dr. Shawn Newton, 618 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 618 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (800) 6269208, http://www.daisymaesdelights.com. Dawn’s Country Crafts & more, Dawn Ford, 11 Mountain Street, Suite A1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 11 Mountain Street, Suite A1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0324. Elements, Marcus Marchmen, 679 A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 679 A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2583292. Gateway Indian Store, Edna Countryman, 100 Glen Hope Church Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 100 Glen Hope Church Rd., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0464, http://www.gatewayindianstore.com. Gatewood Hall Gracious Home, Corky Gatewood, 165 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 165 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-6246, http://www.gatewoodhall.blogspot.com. Huck’s General Store, Candace Massey, 500 E. Main Street #201, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 500 E. Main Street #201, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4825, http://www.hucksgeneralstore.com. Jumping Mouse Beads, Kathy Benson, 781 East Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 781 East Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 276-1215, http://www.jumpingmousebeads.com.

Love Dogs and Cats Too, Inc., Ricki Smart, 777 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 777 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-8668, http://www.lovedogsandcatstoo.com. Mitzi’s On Main, Mitzi Thomasson, 631 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 20 Grouse Run, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3839, http://www.mitzisonmain.com. Out of the Blue, Inc., Sarah Auman, 647 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 647 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-2750, http://www.outofzbleu.com. Presents of Mine, David Deutsch, 544 East Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 544 East Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-1030, http://www.presentsofmine.com. Smoky Mountain Mist, David Cates, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 500 E. Main Street, Suite 102, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 669-1215. Swings, Sylvia Hamm, 601 E. Main St., Suite 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 601 E. Main St., Suite 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 464-6123, http://www.myswings.com. Wrapsody in Blue, Amy Arant, 652 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 652 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2582700, http://www.wrapsodyinblueridge.com. SPORTING GOODS North Georgia Sports Zone, Tim Smith, 411 E. Main St., Unit 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 411 E. Main St., Unit 2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3700, http://northgeorgiasportszone.com. Terra Outfitters, David Durkin, 801B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 801B East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA,30513, (412) 2668971, http://www.terraoutfitters.com. SPORTING PRESERVE Noontootla Creek Farms, Greg Owenby, 3668 Newport Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2387, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 838-0585, http://www.ncfga.net. STEEL DISTRIBUTOR Swantek Steel, LLC, Dean Swantek, 2521 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2521 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-0810. STONE North GA Stone, Tim Hancock, 244 Industrial Blvd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, P.O. Box 2387, Blairsville, GA, 30514, (706) 745-5532, http:// www.northgastone.com. STORAGE A+ Self Storage LLC, George Junnier, 5550 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2259, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6329300, http://www.aplusstoragega.com. Green Point Sparks Storage, Mike Hoover, 47 Sparks Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, P. O. Box 59, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-6520. Sugar Creek Mini Storage, Horace Sams, 334 Scenic Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 334 Scenic Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 6327422, http://www.sugarcreekministorage.com. SURVEYING, ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING Chastain & Associates, P.C., Chris Chastain, 288 North Main Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, 288 North Main Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 632-6543, http://www.chastainassociates.com. Hayes, James & Associates, Inc., Reid Dyer, 3830 E. First Street, Ste 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3830 E. First Street, Ste 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-4981, http://www.hayesjames.com. The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please | 135

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E SWIM & TENNIS CLUB Blue Ridge Swim & Tennis Club, LLC, Judy Vannoy, 2494 Tennis Court Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 344 Cascade Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-4804, http://www.blueridgeswimtennisclub.com. TAX RETURN PREPARATION Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, Regina Tarpley, 3934 East First St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1599, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-1249. TAXI/SHUTTLE SERVICE Howard Jabaley Taxi Service, Howard Jabaley, 2121 Old Blue Ridge Highway 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 2121 Old Blue Ridge Highway 5, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0082. THRIFT STORE Kathy’s Thrift ‘’Come Shop, We Have Stuff’’, Kathy Gent, 6190 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 6190 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-9046. TRANSMISSION SHOP Brocks Tri-County Transmission, Joe Brock, 5171 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 908, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 455-6836. TRANSPORTATION K & S Tank Lines, Kenny Stuart, 148 Stafford Town Road, Copperhill, TN, 37317, P.O. Box 1168, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 496-4939. Mountain Transportation, LLC, Estelle Hilfslein, 19 The Forest Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 33, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-9465, http://www.mountaintransportation.org. TRAVEL AGENCIES Blue Ridge Travel Team, Debbie Wilcox, P. O. Box 2571, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2571, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 8516455, http://www.blueridgetravelteam.com. Jim Rozelle Agency/Avoya Travel, Jim Rozelle, 237 Meadowood Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 237 Meadowood Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-0800, http://www.jrtrav.com. Luxury Focus International, Lorenzo Giani, 60 Wildwood Trail, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559, 3208 NW 123rd Terrace, Sunrise, FL, 33323, (954) 968-9465, http://www.luxuryfocustravel.com. Vacations by Sally, Sally Pavao, 458 Austin Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 458 Austin Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 3601346, http://www.vacationsbysally.com. TRIATHLON Tri The Mountains Triathlon Club, Barbara Dial, 180 Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 180 Main St., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 713-3493, http://www.GAmultisports.com. TRUCKING SS Transport, Carolyn Seabolt, 494 Mountain View Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 494 Mountain View Road, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 374-5129. TUBING Cool River Tubing, Teri Sims, 590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA, 30545, P. O. Box 817, Helen, GA, 30545, (706) 878-2665, http://www. coolrivertubing.com. Toccoa River Adventures, James Brown, 340 Toccoa Avenue, McCaysville, GA, 30555, 2810 Ritchie Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-5280, http://www.toccoariveradventures.com. Toccoa Valley Campground-Tubing, Gina Golden, 11481 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 9616 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 838-4317, http://www.toccoavalleycampground.com. 136 | The News Observer 2015-16 Information Please

Toccoa Wilderness Tubing, James Clack, 8436 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 345 Horsepointe, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-7427. UTILITIES Atlanta Gas Light, Jodie Jones Huiet, 10 Peachtree Place, Atlanta, GA, 30309, 10 Peachtree Place, Atlanta, GA, 30309, http://www.aglc. com. Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Erik Brinke, 875 Main Street East, Young Harris, GA, 30582, 875 Main Street East, Young Harris, GA, 30582, (706) 379-3121, http://www.brmemc.com. ETC Communications, George Robinson, 2835 Scenic Drive, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 0, 224 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA, 30540, (706) 946-2271, http://www.etcnow.com. TDS-Telcom, Greg Norton, 3233 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 3233 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2211, http://www.tdstelecom.com. Tri-State EMC, Lisa Hood, 2310 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA, 30555, P.O. Box 68, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-3251, http:// www.tremc.net. VACATION RENTAL WEBSITES Flipkey, Tara Gardner, 226 Causeway St, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 2114, 226 Causeway St, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 2114, (617) 849-8883, http://www.flipkey.com. VENDING Tom’s Amusement Company, Emily Dunn, 135 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Drawer 1659, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5050. VETERINARIANS Cohutta Animal Clinic, Karen Oertley-Pihera, 83 Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 83 Dunbarton Farm Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-PETS, http://sites.google.com/site/cohuttaanimalclinic.com Ocoee Animal Hospital, Garry Day, 88 All Creatures Place, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 88 All Creatures Place, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7387, http://www.ocoeeanimalhospital.com. VINEYARDS Cartecay Vineyards, Larry Lykins, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA, 30536, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA, 30536, (706) 698-WINE, http://www.cartecayvineyards.com. Cherokee Cellars, Steve Cammick, 23 Hickory Street, Murphy, NC, 28906, P. O. Box 958, Murphy, NC, 28906, (828) 835-9565, http:// www.cherokeecellars.com. Paradise Hills, Winery Resort & Spa, Robert Lander, 366 Paradise Rd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, 366 Paradise Rd., Blairsville, GA, 30512, (706) 745-7483, http://www.paradisehillsresort.com. Serenberry Vineyards, Mark Jernigan, 450 Tipton Trail, Morganton, GA, 30560, 450 Tipton Trail, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 6238463, http://www.serenberryvineyards.com. WATER & FIRE CLEANUP & RESTORATION Elite Response, Travis Coleman, 640 Silver Creek Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2626, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0415. SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties, Tonya Nichols, 117 Industrial Park Dr., Young Harris, GA, 30582, P. O. Box 148, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, (706) 273-7776, http://servproblueridge.com. WATER & WELL SERVICES Miller Well Drilling, Kelly Miller, 5787 Hwy 64 W, Brasstown, NC, 28902, P.O. Box 567, Hayesville, NC, 28904,(828) 837-2997, http:// www.millerwelldrilling.com.

FA N N I N C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Spring Pure dba Applied Technologies Resources, Bill Iverson, 655 Flat Creek River Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 655 Flat Creek River Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (615) 370-0087. http://www. springpure.com. WEB DEVELOPMENT & DESIGN Golden Ink, Inc., Randy Golden, 913 Missy Lane, Woodstock, GA, 30188, 913 Missy Lane, Woodstock, GA, 30188, (770) 235-8430, http:// www.goldenink.com. LG Web Consulting, Pam Fink, 65 Windy Valley Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 65 Windy Valley Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 2582432, http://www.luceygroup.com. Lisa Affordable Websites, Lisa Jacobi, 166 U.S.A. Drive, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 166 U.S.A. Drive, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (706) 455-0694, http://www.lisawebsites.com. m6media, Matt Meeks, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 2846, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (678) 744-3328, http://www.m6media.net. Slick Sketch, Rhett Panter, P. O. Box 2781, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 2781, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 851-5327, http://www. slicksketch.com. WEDDING /EVENT VENUE Mountain Laurel Wedding Chapel, Teresa Haney-Bailey, 1844 Old Hwy 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 1844 Old Hwy 76, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-3200, http://www.mountainlaurelcabinrentals.com. Willow Creek Falls and Vineyard, Shea Wimpey, 35 Trackside Court, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1138, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-7008, http://www.willowcreekfalls.com. Wolf Creek Estates & Stables, Kristy Baugh, 390 Wolf Creek Road, Mineral Springs, GA, 30559, P. O. Box 517, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 455-0315, http://www.wolfcreekestatesandstablesga.com. WEDDING SERVICES The Wedding Minister, Jim Crews, 7 Ewing Street, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 1821, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (770) 633-5434, http:// www.TheWeddingMinister.com. WELCOME SERVICES Welcome Fannin, Pam Leben, 300 Brown Bear Path, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P. O. Box 1019, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 633-0354, http://www.welcomefannin.com. WINDOWN AUTOMATED TREATMENTS Total Lifestyle Concepts, Inc., Alicia Vossen, 1000 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Ste. 6476, Suwanee, GA, 30024, 2800 Scenic Dr., Suite 4-74, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (404) 954-1852, http://www.totallifestyleconcepts.biz. WINE BAR The Vine of Blue Ridge, Glenn Martin, 632 E. Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 632 E. Main Street, Suite 1, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-8463, http://www.thevineofblueridge.com. YOGA Blue Mountain Yoga, Denver Boskey, 21 High Park Dr. #2, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, 21 High Park Dr. #4, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 258-9642, http://www.bluemtnyoga.com. YURTS Blanche Manor Yurts, Peggy Blanche, 160 Blanche Manor Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, 160 Blanche Manor Lane, Copperhill, TN, 37317, (423) 496-1070, http://www.blanchemanoryurts.com.

LIFETIME CHAMBER MEMBERS Bill Prather, P. O. Box 456, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-3193. Bill Walden, Jr., 19 Timberlake Trail, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-2872. Dale Dyer, 65 Westward Lane, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 632-5628. Ferris Maloof, P. O. Box 970, McCaysville, GA, 30555. Gilita Carter, 341 E. Tennessee Ave., McCaysville, GA, 30555, P. O. Box 342, McCaysville, GA, 30555, (706) 492-5371. Kay Kendall, 324 Maple Grove Road, Morganton, GA, 30560, (706) 374-5692. Mardee Kauffman, 50 Mountain Village Way, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 946-5454. Ray Gaines, Tallahassee, Florida. Robert Skelton, 65 Old Flowers Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (706) 492-4409. Steve Eaton, 1210 Eaton Road, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513. Takis Gaitanoglou, 1580 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, P.O. Box 605, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513, (800) 533-9834.

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The News Observer www.thenewsobserver.com · Welcome Magazine 5748 Appalachian Hwy., Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | 706.632.2019 | Fax: 706.632.2577

Your health is our priority at Appalachian Physicians Group.

Mark Beattie, M.D.

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Hospitalist Fannin Regional Hospital 2855 Old Hwy. 5, North Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-3711

Family Practice Walk-in Clinic 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 111 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-946-4200

Family Practice 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 111 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-492-3200

Family Practice 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 114 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-492-3200

General Surgery FACS 101 Riverstone Vista, Suite 212 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-946-4253

As you can see, there are many great reasons to choose Appalachian Physicians Group. These dedicated physicians focus on areas ranging from family practice and internal medicine to orthopedics, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and other specialties. The group is accepting new patients and, for your convenience, same-day appointments are often available. The right care is right here close to home. Call for your appointment today. For more information, visit AppalachianPhysiciansGroup.com.

Fannin Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical staff. Members of the Medical Staff at Fannin Regional Hospital.

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