NWGA Living Magazine Sept/Oct 2023

Celebrating Cedartown Exploring its famous faces and places.

Fall Bucket List

25 fun activities to try Prost!

Get into the spirit of Oktoberfest with traditional German recipes.

AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology

Now Open

The Cardiologists You Know in the Community You Love

Residents of Northwest Georgia can easily access expert heart care provided by AdventHealth Medical Group’s elite cardiology specialists that you know and love.

AdventHealth Medical Group now offers world-class heart care in three new locations:

Cardiology at Calhoun *New Location

1035 Red Bud Road Calhoun, GA 30701

Cardiology at Rome

7 John Maddox Drive NW

Rome, GA 30165

Cardiac Electrophysiology at Rome

100 John Maddox Drive NW Rome, GA 30165

Learn More: GeorgiaHeartExperts.com

Schedule an Appointment: 706-307-6031

J. Christopher Merritt, MD, FACC

Robert Styperek, MD, FHRS, FACC

Himanshu Patel, MD

Spencer Maddox, MD

Charles F. Jackson, III, MD

Andrew McCue, MD

Kipp Slicker, DO, FACC

G. Hunter Myers, MD, FACC

G. Justin Tanner, MD J. Michael Ware, MD, FACC

Photo by Aimee H.

October

Presented by:

Full Disclaimer

If you ever go to a scary movie with me, I’m a screamer. It’s not that I don’t love a good horror flick; my jumpiness and involuntary reaction of screaming just tend to startle others near me in the theater. When I was dating my now husband, Jerry, his son, Jack, loved to go to the movies with us. Their biggest kick was to witness my overreaction, and one of the scariest films we ever saw together was Stephen King’s It. Now, I know why there is such a fear of clowns. If you’re ready for a good scare, the list of 31 movies we included in this issue to get you excited for Halloween has plenty of options. There are also some picks tame enough for the whole family to enjoy.

Most times, I’m more fierce than fearful. According to Time magazine, screaming sends the brain messages to increase alertness and kick-starts the body’s flight-or-fight response. I’ve got this down pat. When my son, Winston, was a toddler, he let a large, imposing man into our house who thought he’d come to fix a plumbing issue, but my husband failed to inform me. When I rounded the corner, surprised to see a total stranger, I let out an ear-piercing scream. The poor man grabbed his heart like he was going to fall out. I apologized, but we never were able to hire this guy again.

Once, while staying in Pigeon Forge, I took my son and his friend to an exotic pet and reptile show that didn’t appeal to me, but the boys wanted an adventure. Our safari-dressed host was ready to entertain us as he displayed a massive python snake that slithered around his shoulders. Baby alligators with large snapping jaws, iguanas, and other interesting animals were in his show. Our seats were just a few rows from the front. Captain Safari realized he had a wideeyed spectator that could jazz up his semi-boring presentation after he’d come too close to me with his alligator. I’d practically jumped out of my seat. After showing off a few tarantulas, he acted like he was falling into me with the open box of them, and the real show began. I screamed bloody murder, and everyone laughed. Grinning and knowing he had a lively one, Captain Safari assured that I endured the rest of the show with more scares and screams, and the boys thought it was awesome.

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure isn’t for the faint-hearted either. Live “undead” actors pop out around every corner, chasing you with chainsaws and grabbing you as you scramble and fall like the girls always do in those B-rated horror movies. Once again, I was coerced into going with my best friend and our two boys. We had fair warning from the staff that it was extremely terrifying. Why didn’t I read the reviews? I was the last one in our group, the caboose, since we had to walk single file through narrow, dark passages. Winston, who was 8 at the time, was in front of me and wrapped his arms around the neck of his best bud, and his mom was the leader. From the first few steps, it was game on, and I was terrified, screaming nonstop through the entire haunted house!

Winston nearly strangled his buddy, and my friend laughed it all off — strange how people react. My throat was sore for two days. But it cured us; neither Winston nor I will ever go to anything like it again.

This time of year, I do have a ball dressing up and going to Halloween parties with my favorite werewolf, Jerry Erickson. He’s always game to wear some crazy costume, and I love that about him. Still, he can be a rascal, hiding behind a door to get a good scream and laugh!

Publisher and Founder

Editor-in-Chief

Laura Wood Erickson

Editor

Alexandra McCray

editor@nwgeorgialiving.com

Creative Director Andi Counts

Designer

Mackenzie Kuhn

Copy Editor

Elin Woods

Contributing Writers

Jennifer Almand

Jill Becker

Ciara N. Carver

Ande Frazier

Aimee H. Madden

Alexandra McCray

Robert Smyth

Elin Woods

Web Master

Tracy Slack & Associates Sales

Laura Wood Erickson

wood.laura@yahoo.com

Contact us at: (706) 346-9858 wood.laura@yahoo.com NW Georgia Living P.O. Box 72546 Marietta, GA 30007

We

Come See our Newly Remodeled Community

The Greater Clarehouse pledges to provide an unmatched level of care and service, providing each resident with a strategic nutrition plan, frequent and stimulating activity, watchful oversight, and regular socialization. All are key factors in making our mission distinctive. We provide a balanced life focused on enriching lives emotionally, intellectually, spiritually, and physically.

Voted #1 Senior Living Community in Rome, GA by Senior Advisor!

10 Highway 411 Rome, GA 30161 Office: 404-747-1524

Leasing:706-236-2500

clarehouseliving@ gmail.com

SEPT

Chapel Hart in Concert

September 8, 7-9pm

Rome City Auditorium

See Chapel Hart light up the stage with hits like American Pride and You Can Have Him Jolene. chapelhart.com/tour-dates

Northwest Georgia Regional Fair

September 8-16

Highway 53/Rome Road, Calhoun

Enjoy local and regional

talents, bands, and dancers every night, in addition to carnival rides and the adorable petting zoo. Livestock and blue-ribbon competitions and pageants are also scheduled. nwgafair.com

Watters Warriors Kickoff Event

September 8, 5:30-7pm Rome Braves Stadium

Discover Chandler Watters Warriors of GA and how it empowers children for leadership, then catch the baseball game and see the organization’s founder, Chandler Watters, throw the first pitch. watterswarriorsofga.com/ special-events

What’s Brewin’ at The Booth? Burgers & Beer

September 9, 6-9pm Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville Devour mouthwatering burger sliders from Doug’s Place, chilled craft beer by Steady Hand Beer Co., and dynamic music by the Whiskey Rose Band. boothmuseum.org/brewin

Rose Lawn Arts Festival

September 16-17

Rose Lawn Museum, Cartersville

See Southeastern artists’ creations in various mediums like oils, watercolors, wood, brass, glass, and more. roselawnmuseum.com

Tacos y Jarritos Fiestas

Patrias Festival

September 17, Noon-7pm

1 Friendship Plaza, Cartersville

Celebrate multiculturalism

traditional dances, live music, kids’ activities, plus food and other vendors. facebook.com/interculturalfest

Copper Creek Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Fest

September 23-October 28

1514 Reeves Station Road, Calhoun

Pumpkins, pony rides, mazes, a candy cannon, exciting new attractions like Cinderella’s Carriage and the Bubble Barn, and more await at the farm. coppercreekfarm.com

Downtown Gallery’s Fall/Holiday Exhibition

Opening Reception

September 23, 3-5pm

Downtown Gallery, Cartersville

Get a first look at juried artworks from the Booth Photography and Art Guilds and speak with the artists about the creative processes behind their works. boothmuseum.org/ downtowngallery

Holloway Hunny Pot Festival

September 23, 10am-3pm

Big Spring Park, Cedartown

Learn more about Sterling Holloway, the original voice of Winnie-the-Pooh, shop handmade unique items,

court, and participate in the Pooh Stick race.

cedartowngeorgia.gov

PigOut and Car Show

Rolater Park, Cave Spring

September 23, 10am-4pm

Arrive early to taste plenty of delicious barbecue and cast your vote for People’s Choice, then check out the car show.

cavespring.ga.gov/events

55th Annual Great Locomotive Chase Festival

September 29-October 1

Downtown Square and Logtown, Adairsville

This affair brings families and friends together for a weekend of fun featuring arts and crafts, live entertainment, a parade, a beauty pageant, carnival rides, and more.

adairsvillega.net

Science Comedy Night

September 29, 7-9:30pm

Tellus Science Museum, Cartersville

Laugh along with Atlanta’s top scientists as they bring the humorous side of science to life, all while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and adult beverages.

tellusmuseum.org/explore/events

Dracula

October 13-15, 20-22

Legion Theatre, Cartersville

See a twist on the classic adaptation of Bram Stoker’s story of blood, lust, and the people who get swept up in Dracula’s dark spell. pumphouseplayers.com

Fiddlin’ Fest

October 14, Noon-6pm

Downtown Rome

Hear bluegrass music performed on two stages and take part in exciting activities throughout the streets. downtownromega.us/ events/fiddlin-fest

BooFest at the Y

October 20, 6-9pm

Georgia Highlands College, Rome

Bring the kids for an evening of Halloweenthemed fun that includes a trick-or-treat village, face painting, games, and bounce houses. ymcarome.org/events

Cave Spring Ghost Tours

October 20-21

Rolater Park

Discover the city’s haunted history during this immersive experience featuring an all-new route and stories. cavespring.ga.gov/events

Haunted on Broad Tours

October 20-21, 27-28

Rome Area History Center

Keep an eye out for ghostly visitors as you hear spinetingling tales about the darker side of Rome’s past. romegeorgia.org/attraction/ haunted-on-broad-tours

BBQ & Brews Presents:

Downtown Alive

October 21, Noon-8pm

Downtown Cartersville

The second BBQ and Brews festival of the year promises plenty of live music, food trucks, beer trailers, and more. facebook.com/

downtowncartersville

To The Limit: The Ultimate Eagles Experience

October 27, 7:30-9pm

Rome City Auditorium

While honoring the spirit of the Eagles, To the Limit gives their timeless catalog new life

and creates thrilling moments for listeners. romegeorgia.org

Barnsley Resort Supper

Club Series: Swine & Wine Barbeque

October 28, 6-8pm

Barnsley Resort, Adairsville

Along with a full-pig barbecue featuring expertly paired wines, attendees can also expect live music, games, and a vibrant atmosphere set against a stunning backdrop. barnsleyresort.com

BOO Bash

October 28, 4-7pm

Bert Wood Park, Cedartown

Enjoy a classic fall experience with free games, hayrides, a costume contest, and treats for kids without the scares. cedartowngeorgia.gov/boo-bash

Chiaha Harvest Fair

October 28-29

Coosa Valley Fairgrounds, Rome Stop by this fall festival destination for artisan goods, live music, and food vendors. chiaha.org

Halloween on the Square

October 31, 4-6pm

Downtown Square, Adairsville Kiddos can don their costumes and safely collect candy.

adairsvillega.net/community/ events/index.php

Rome International Film Festival

November 2-5

Downtown Rome

Everyone from cinephiles to the casual movie-watcher are invited to enjoy screenings from filmmakers near and far. riffga.com

Big Note Music Expands Services to Include Lessons

Big Note Music, a leading provider of instrument rentals and repairs, is thrilled to announce its expansion into music education with the launch of "Big Note Music Lesson Studio."

In response to growing demand from their valued customers and commitment to musical excellence, Big Note Music has seized a remarkable opportunity to expand its services and provide music lessons to the Cartersville area; they are hitting all the right notes.

"Big Note Music Lesson Studio" will offer a symphony of musical instruction, including guitar, drums, piano and all band & orchestra instruments. Catering to students of all ages, from beginners to maestros. The experienced instructors will provide personalized one-on-one sessions in their respective instrument genres, tailoring each lesson to unlock the student's talent.

Conveniently located at 134 Market Square, Cartersville, GA, 30120 in the Market Square Shopping Center, near Hobby Lobby and Big Lots, "Big Note Music Lesson Studio" invites students to immerse themselves in their new facility where creativity and growth flourish in every note. One of the key advantages of "Big Note Music Lesson Studio" is the seamless integration with Big Note Music's existing instrument repair and rental business. This combined operation ensures a seamless customer experience, eliminating the need to search for multiple service providers.

The team of instructors at "Big Note Music Lesson Studio" consists of

highly experienced professionals across various instruments, including guitar, drums, piano and all band & orchestra instruments. Students can choose the instructor who best aligns with their musical aspirations and learning style. Whether seeking guidance from seasoned experts or connecting with younger teachers brimming with fresh perspectives, students can explore various options catered to every individual's needs.

To learn more about "Big Note Music Lesson Studio" and register for classes,

visit bignotemusic.com. You will find comprehensive information about the lessons, instructors, and schedules, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free enrollment process.

"Big Note Music Lesson Studio" will offer classes from Monday through Saturday, accommodating busy schedules and varying availability.

With the launch of "Big Note Music Lesson Studio," Big Note Music strikes a chord, empowering students to unlock their melodic potential and embark on a rewarding journey of self-expression.

"Students can choose the instructor who best aligns with their musical aspirations and learning style."

Big

Spooky Season Read-a-Likes

Gripping horror, fantasy, and sci-fi books perfect for fall.

BY ELIN WOODS

It’s that time of year again when “grim grinning ghosts” come out to socialize. Sometimes it’s rather fun to read seasonally and really get into the “spirit” of things. I’ve gathered some books that are sure to do the trick. Hopefully, they’ll also prove to be a treat. A little something for everyone can be found in the suggestions below.

If you like your houses haunted, à la Stephen King: The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters Sarah Waters is one of my favorite fiction writers because each book is a little different, but they always have a sense of gothic dread about them. My favorite horror novels take place in the close quarters of a house. Home is supposed to be comforting, but in horror, it’s the place you're often trying to escape. In The Little Stranger, we’ve got a family living in a crumbling mansion who seek the help of a doctor to care for one of their maids. He befriends the family, even falling in love with their daughter, but soon discovers that something is amiss in the house and the living aren’t the only ones in the home. Will anyone survive to take care of the house and restore it and the family line back to running condition?

If you wish you could’ve been a member of The Inklings literary group:

The Deed of Paksenarrion by Elizabeth Moon

While there will never be books exactly like Lord of the Rings or The Chronicles of Narnia, there have been some excellent attempts at high fantasy over the years that I’d like to think Tolkien and Lewis would have applauded. A friend, who is very well-read in fantasy, suggested this series to me as the lead character reminded them of Arya from Game of Thrones. I’d never heard of this series before but was immediately intrigued. Paks is 18, the daughter of a sheep farmer, and at the beginning of the

story, is fleeing from a wedding she wants no part of. She does the sensible thing; she joins a band of mercenaries. Full of creatures that show up in the tales of Tolkien, these stories have been added to my list because I love a strong female character and anything set in a sort of medieval world.

If you’re a fan of Mulder and Scully and you totally believe:

Area X: The Southern Reach Trilogy by Jeff VanderMeer

Inspired by the wetlands of Florida, Area X is an ecological oddity, and through the program The Southern Reach, the government has been monitoring it to learn what makes it so strange — especially considering that all previous teams sent to study the location have been met with tragic fates if they returned at all. It’s alien invasion science fiction with a horror-gone-wrong twist that’s perfect for this time of year. Insider tip: Make sure you have a nightlight available for bed.

If your dream vacation is Salem and you watch Hocus Pocus on repeat:

The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow

This story begins like your typical witch trial fiction book, but early on there’s a twist: the sisters in this novel are moved into the late 19th century and are seeking the right as women to vote. That’s right, suffragette witches. The Eastwood sisters, residents of New Salem, have more working against them than just their ability to perform magic. If they want to build a new, more equal future, they’ll have to band together and find other like-minded folks to help them with their endeavors. Witches have never been silenced, and the Eastwood sisters are proof.

If you’re solidly Team Edward and want to weekend with Lestat:

The Beautiful by Renée Ahdieh

I’m decidedly Team Jacob; however, I understand the appeal of vampires, especially when they get to live forever in New Orleans. (There are worse fates.) This is the setting for The Beautiful, equal parts dangerous romance like Twilight but with the gorgeous location of Interview with a Vampire. The dead rule New Orleans openly, and Celine

Rousseau has escaped to the city, running from her past in Paris. But, after falling for one of the underworld’s leaders, Sébastien Saint Germain, her troubles, old and new, may weigh her down too much, and running won’t be an option.

But what if you’re Team Jacob, and you’re also over fantastical romance novels:

The Wolf's Hour by Robert McCammon

If this book has been made into a movie, I need to find where it’s streaming, and if it hasn’t been, well then, I have very strong needs for this to be remedied. I have only three words for you: British werewolf spies. I know what you’re thinking, but stay with me. It’s WWII, and agent Gallatin has been asked to go on one final mission to save occupied France and win this war. The information Gallatin will be holding isn’t his only secret. No, he’s also a werewolf. But when his mission is taking down Hitler, this may prove to be his greatest asset. This is a creative spin I didn’t think I’d ever see in fiction, but I wasn’t disappointed when I did.

Elin Woods is a librarian from the mountains of western Pennsylvania. When she’s not reading, she enjoys spending her time baking, being the coolest of the cool aunts, and exploring all corners of the East Coast. Her favorite books include Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf and Animal Farm by George Orwell plus too many cookbooks to name.

Safeguarding Your Future and Assets

BY ANDE FRAZIER

Essential legal paperwork for protecting both.

Planning for the future involves more than financial strategies and investments. It also requires careful consideration of important legal documents that can protect your interests and ensure your wishes are respected. From powers of attorney to trusts, contracts, and living wills, we'll explore their significance and why they’re essential for safeguarding your future and major assets.

Financial Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, and Health Directives

A financial power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone you trust the authority to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or unable to manage your affairs. This person, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, can handle tasks like paying bills, managing investments, and making financial decisions in accordance with your best interests. Similarly, a medical power of attorney grants someone the authority to make healthcare decisions on your behalf when you can’t do so. These documents ensure that your financial and medical matters are managed by a trusted individual, providing peace of mind during challenging times.

Health directives, including a living will, outline your healthcare preferences in the event of incapacitation or terminal illness. They express your wishes regarding medical treatments, life support, and end-of-life care. Having these directives in place guarantees that medical decisions align with your values and desires and relieves your loved ones of the burden of making difficult choices for you.

Trusts

Trusts are powerful legal tools that allow you to protect and manage your assets during your lifetime and after your passing. By creating a trust, you

can appoint a trustee to hold and distribute assets according to your instructions. Trusts can help minimize estate taxes, avoid probate, and provide for the seamless transfer of wealth to beneficiaries. They also allow you to control the distribution of assets over time, protecting beneficiaries from financial mismanagement or external threats.

Various types of trusts are available, such as revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, and testamentary trusts. Each type serves different purposes, depending on your specific needs and objectives. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney can help you determine the most suitable trust structure for your situation. In addition, make sure you’re working with a financial professional and/or accountant to best understand the financial and tax aspects of any trust.

Contracts

Contracts play a crucial role in safeguarding your interests, particularly in situations involving friends or family members or when substantial assets are at stake. While it's natural to assume that everyone will act in good faith, misunderstandings or unforeseen circumstances can arise, leading to disputes or financial loss.

Having well-drafted contracts that clearly outline the terms, obligations, and expectations of all parties involved provides a legal framework for resolving potential conflicts and protecting relationships. Whether it's a business partnership agreement, a loan agreement, or a property purchase contract, well-documented agreements help ensure that all parties are on the same page and provide recourse if disagreements occur.

“Patience, empathy, and understanding are key to building a shared understanding and a solid financial and estate plan that meets the needs and aspirations of the entire family.”

Wills

While beneficiary designations and transfer-on-death accounts allow for the direct transfer of assets upon death, a will serves as a backup plan and provides instructions for any assets not covered by these designations. A will ensures that your wishes are carried out regarding the distribution of remaining assets, appointment of guardians for minor children, and the settlement of any outstanding debts or liabilities. It provides a complete framework to address all aspects of your estate, offering added protection and clarity for your beneficiaries.

Talking to Family Members

Along with essential documents, it’s critical to share your plans with family members. Having financial and estate discussions with family

members requires open communication and sensitivity. Choose a conducive environment, ensuring everyone is emotionally prepared. Approach with empathy and respect, emphasizing the common goal of long-term family security. Share intentions, goals, and concerns, actively listening to each person's perspective.

Consider involving a financial planner or estate planning attorney for guidance. Transparently discuss existing legal documents and potential changes. Clarify roles and responsibilities. Document decisions and regularly review the plan. Maintain patience, understanding, and open communication throughout the process, fostering a collaborative and informed approach to financial and estate matters within the family.

By integrating legal documents, such

as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, you can establish a smooth transition of assets, protect loved ones, and maintain control over your financial affairs, harmonizing the financial and legal aspects of your comprehensive plan. Remember, these conversations may take time and multiple discussions to reach a consensus. Patience, empathy, and understanding are key to building a shared understanding and a solid financial and estate plan that meets the needs and aspirations of the entire family.

Ande Frazier, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, RICP, BFA™, ChSNC, CDFA®, is an expert in behavioral finance and the author of Fin(anci)ally Free: 11 Conversations To Have With Yourself About Life, Money, and Worth In addition to being a recognized thought leader, author, and speaker, she also serves as a partner at Peachtree Planning Corporation. To learn more, visit andefrazier.com.

Getting to Know …

Maria Guerra-Stoll PAM Studios CEO and Founder

BY ALEXANDRA McCRAY

Last year, for the first time, the signature award of the Rome International Film Festival (RIFF), the symbolic bronze Sylvia statue, was given in the Latinx category.

“We awarded The Sylvia to several filmmakers and screened all the winners. We also had an opportunity to showcase one of our local talents, Diego Silva Acevedo. Diego produced a movie in Georgia, and we screened it at the DeSoto Theatre. He was also awarded The Sylvia,” says Maria Guerra-Stoll, founder and CEO of PAM Studios, the production company that partnered with RIFF to introduce the category.

The addition to the festival, which returns November 2-5, is one way Guerra-Stoll is furthering her mission to highlight the diverse cultures within Latino populations by helping minority filmmakers, screenwriters, and directors not only get their projects made but also introduce them to audiences. “We should empower those to tell their stories by being behind the cameras to tell them the way they’re supposed to be told and not an interpretation from someone who hasn’t experienced it,” she says.

The passion Guerra-Stoll, who’s originally from Venezuela, has for Latino culture can even be found in the name of her company — Playa Azul Media Studios translates to Blue Beach Media Studios. “I love the beach, especially the Caribbean, the way the ocean connects and hugs all the beaches that surround Latin America and the Caribbean. The name represents the feeling of being close to Latino culture, close to home,” she explains.

She fell in love with Rome after visiting it and officially opened a local outpost of PAM Studios in 2022. “My vision for PAM Studios has always been to build a network of satellite studios throughout Georgia serving rural areas and Rome checked every box,” she says.

A resident of Atlanta, Guerra-Stoll is frequently in Rome for work. When there, she enjoys walks along the river and on Broad Street and grabbing a meal from Doug’s Deli Downtown and La Scala Mediterranean Bistro.

A dream project for me would be bringing to Georgia schools Edward James Olmos’ Youth Cinema Project.

My current-day hero is … Lucille Ball. Does that count?

A movie I can quote by heart is … The Holiday.

One of the things on my bucket list is seeing the aurora borealis.

Three words I’d use to describe myself are … caring, honest, and creative.

The most adventurous activity I’ve ever tried is … hiking behind a vigorous waterfall in Venezuela.

If given the opportunity, the kind of book I’d write is … a children’s book.

Other than family, I can’t live without … my yorkies.

Something everyone should try at least once is … to learn how to dance salsa.

One thing that instantly makes my day better is … meditation.

My useless talent is … nothing. I believe there are no useless talents, you might need it along the way.

“My vision for PAM Studios has always been to build a network of satellite studios throughout Georgia serving rural areas and Rome checked every box.”

Photo by Carlos Rivero.

PAM Studios, pam-studios.com; Rome International Film Festival, riffga.com

Altitude with an Attitude

In a mountainous region of southwestern Colorado, you’ll find the charming town of Durango, a true nature lover’s paradise.

BY JILL BECKER

In his iconic 1972 song Rocky Mountain High, John Denver sang of Colorado and climbing cathedral mountains, walking amid the forests in quiet solitude, and the serenity of a clear blue mountain lake. The tune has since been named an official state song and joined the zeitgeist as a quintessential ode to the joys and magic of visiting such a majestic landscape. Durango, located in the southwest corner of Colorado, is one such place. Situated at 6,522 feet along the winding Animas River, Durango may be on the smaller side compared to cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting, especially for those looking to explore all that the great outdoors has to offer.

Natural Attractions

Durango’s name derives from a Basque word meaning “water town,” so there’s no better way to start your outdoor adventure than by whitewater rafting or kayaking on the Animas River as it flows through town. The two miles stretching from Lightner Creek to the Rivera Crossing Bridge are classified by Colorado Parks and Wildlife as Gold Medal waters, a designation given to the top spots in the state for large trout fishing. If you prefer to stay on dry land but still want to enjoy the scenery, you can rent a bike and cruise alongside the water on the paved Animas River Trail. Roll, an outfitter located in downtown Durango, rents e-bikes that make

tackling the high elevation and the trail’s town, you’ll find the main trailhead for a spectacular hike through the stunning San Juan National Forest.

Venture beyond the city limits, and you’ll be privy to even more recreational opportunities, including sandboarding in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Rent a sandboard or sled from a local purveyor and enjoy zipping down the tallest dunes in North America. Just remember that you have to trek back up to go down again, which requires some physical fitness. Equally exciting but far less strenuous is off-roading in an

off-highway vehicle on one of the area’s ATV trails. With a rented ride from Altitude ATV & Side-by-Side Rentals in nearby Bayfield, for example, you can kick up some gravel as you explore Middle Mountain, Vallecito Lake, and other sights.

Of course, when there’s snow on the mountains, you’ll want to hit the slopes. Just 30 minutes north of Durango is Purgatory Resort, or “Purg” as the locals call it, which boasts more than 1,600 skiable acres, as well as activities like snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and horse-drawn carriage rides. That doesn’t mean things are dead

Alpine slide at Purgatory Resort during the summer

Winter fly-fishing on the Animas River

Rafting during Animas River Days in spring

Photo Credit: Visit Durango

there in the spring and summer, though, as visitors can partake in disc golf, go-karting, ziplining, tubing, chairlift rides, and more. A year-round favorite at the resort is the Inferno Mountain Coaster, featuring user-driven cars that reach up to 25 mph speeds.

Naturally, all that activity can take its toll, so a great way to end the day is with a restorative soak at the Durango Hot Springs Resort + Spa. Grab a snack and a beer, glass of wine, or other beverage from the concessions area and retreat to one of the more than 30 mineral-infused hot springs ranging in temperature from 99 to 112 degrees, or, heck, try them all. The springs are open late and even feature live music on select nights.

The Best of the Rest

A visit to Durango would hardly be complete without a ride aboard the

Durango Hot Springs Resort + Spa

Skiing at Purgatory Resort during winter

A scenic offroad drive

A scenic offroad drive

historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, whose steam- and diesel-powered locomotives have been transporting passengers between Durango and the old mining town of Silverton since 1882. Sign up for either a half-day or full-day excursion, and bring your camera to capture all the breathtaking alpine vistas along the way.

Even older than the Durango to Silverton train is Honeyville, a third-generation beekeeping and honey-bottling facility where you can pick up jars of the sweet nectar, along with honey-centric cookbooks, jams and sauces, bath and beauty products, and kitschy kitchen wares. An on-site distillery also serves honeyinfused bourbon whiskey made from locally grown corn and pure Colorado water, ranked among the country’s highest-quality water.

If you really want a taste of the past, head a couple hours west to Mesa Verde National Park and get up close and personal with the ancient remnants of the thriving communities the ancestral Pueblo people carved into the sandstone cliffs before they were abandoned back in the 13th century. Inhabited for more than 700 years, Mesa Verde is considered one of the world’s premier archaeological sites.

Notable Eats and Sleeps

When it’s time to find a place to eat, a top contender should be the James Ranch Grill, a leader in the farm-to-table concept, given that most of the livestock and produce it serves comes straight from their land. Also on the property is a specialty market offering a variety of organic products grown and produced on the James Ranch. When it comes to breakfast, brunch, or lunch, a local favorite is Oscar’s Cafe, a family-owned

diner that has been dishing out everything from omelets to burgers to handmade cream pies for more than 40 years. If you like dinner and a show, then one of the Bar D Chuckwagon suppers is for you. You’ll be serenaded by the melodic and comedic Bar D Wranglers as you savor a cowboy-style meal out under the stars. Live music, in the form of a ragtime pianist, is also part of a meal at the Diamond Belle Saloon, where servers in period costumes deliver your choice of appetizers and entrées along with an array of cocktails with names like Dead Man’s Handle and the Pink Corset.

The Diamond Belle Saloon is in the Strater Hotel, a carefully preserved Victorian property designated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a Historic Hotel of America. Scattered throughout are pieces making up what is said to be the world’s largest collection of American Victorian antique walnut furniture. Another historic area lodging is The Rochester, a former boarding house transformed into a boutique-style hotel with 15 bespoke rooms. Enjoying a cup of tea or glass of wine in its cheerful

garden is a great way to relax and reflect on everything that makes a trip to Durango so special.

Know Before You Go

It’s important to note that many of the places and activities in Durango and the surrounding areas are seasonal and thus are only open during certain times of the year, so always check first regarding availability and accessibility during your visit.

Durango, Colorado

For more information, visit durango.org.

Jill Becker’s travel writing has appeared in dozens of magazines and websites, including more than 25 stories for CNN.com.

Durango train at the Elk Park Flagstop during spring

Mesa Verde National Park

James Ranch in the summer Shopping at Honeyville, photo by Rhyler Overend

Southern Dining, Redefined

Rice House Restaurant at Barnsley Resort

Garden-to-table is a way of life at Barnsley Resort, the idyllic, award-winning 3,000-acre destination steeped in history and outdoor adventure just a short drive from north Georgia landmarks in Cartersville and Rome. While the resort’s close connection with nature is infused throughout the property’s three culinary experiences, this philosophy is perfected into an art form in the Rice House restaurant.

Upon arrival, diners are welcomed into the 19th century farmhouse — now converted into an elegant yet relaxed setting for dinner on weekends. After savoring a signature cocktail in the lounge while admiring a dramatic gallery wall of collected art, guests enter the dining room, where hem-stitched linen napkins, Vietri bud vases, and glass chargers set the mood — and table — for the experience to follow. In the distance, dramatic views of the landmark Manor House Ruins of Godfrey Barnsley’s former Woodlands estate complement the menus created by Executive Chef Javier Cuesta. While Chef Cuesta oversees all menus on the property, he finds particular joy in bringing the Rice House experience to life. Here, the

Spanish-born chef seamlessly infuses his classical French techniques and training with inspiration found from treasured Southern methods, local farmers, and the resort’s on-site gardens. Working alongside a talented team of culinarians (who hail from as near as Rome to as far as Indonesia), Chef Cuesta and his team thoughtfully design menus that intentionally tell a story of the Barnsley’s location and place.

Before preparing the evening’s dishes, the culinary team cultivates seasonal ingredients in the gardens at the farm to incorporate them into the menus. To add another layer of menu inspiration, Chef Cuesta and team studied the global influences experienced by Godfrey Barnsley in the 19th century to weave international flavors into legacy Southern dishes, such as fried flounder and country captain. Okra is presented in the more traditional Indian pakoras presentation, with a crispy batter infused with spices, including coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom.

In addition to a memorable dinner experience, Barnsley Resort’s reputation as a culinary destination is on the rise thanks to featured events and gatherings within one of two private dining rooms.

The Rice House is open for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Reservations are requested by calling 770.773.7480, ext. 1. While staying overnight offers a complete resort experience, a room reservation is not required to dine in the Rice House.

Rice House Guest Chef Günter Seeger

House Guest Chef Series With Günter Seeger

Legendary chef and James Beard award winner Günter Seeger creates an exceptional culinary weekend to celebrate the harvest season. From featured menus in the Rice House to an exclusive lunch at the farm, make plans now to visit for a special culinary weekend.

September 28 & 29, 2023

Barnsley Resort Executive Chef Javier Cuesta

Whole Body Health

Whole Body Health offers an array of services designed to restore balance to the body, thereby creating better health. We start with a non-invasive Computerized Health Evaluation, which will test all the major systems in your body, such as the circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, and nervous systems.

The primary purpose of this test is to assist you in finding out the cause of your illness. Next, the test reveals why these areas are out of balance as well as what to do to restore balance. When the root cause of your medical condition is addressed, the symptoms go away

Based on the test results, a fingerprinted protocol is recommended to address your unique health issues. The answers to many people's health concerns have been as simple as addressing issues such as viruses; bacteria; Lyme disease; chemical-pesticide or herbicide exposure; parasites; yeast; mold; poor circulation; heavy metal toxicity; low trace minerals, and these are just a few examples.

We also offer Emotional Release Therapy. It is estimated that 90% of all physical problems begin with an emotional upset or trauma. A growing body of evidence indicates that virtually every ill that can befall a body — from acne to arthritis, headaches to heart disease, and cold sores to cancer – is influenced for better or worse by our emotions. Emotional Release Therapy removes the interference and/or distractions that demand the body’s healing power. These distractions cause an IMBALANCE in the autonomic nervous system, ultimately leading to disease.

Other Services Offered:

• Bio-Magnetic Therapy: Balances electromagnetic fields by the use of magnets. It can benefit those experiencing: arthritis, back and joint pain. Our therapist trained at the renowned Mexican College of Bio-Magnetic Therapy.

• Detox – Foot Bath

• Cold Laser

706-238-0900

Rome's Only Wellness Center

• PEMF-Pulse Therapy

• Cyma Sound Therapy

For more information or to schedule an appointment: Call Mellissa Llewellyn at 706-238-0090.

Whole Body Health, 1202 Shorter Avenue Rome, Georgia

Located next to Uptown Auto Sales.

“As a mother, I had tried every doctor and had multiple tests run to find answers to my child's health issues. I had a typical teenager who loved life, driving, and hanging out with friends, and all of that stopped due to his health issues. I would stay awake at night, making sure my son was still breathing. We were dealing with blood sugar dropping, chest pains, anxiety, and heart racing, with no answers why. I was stressed. I reached out to Whole Body Health, and we finally got the answers and help needed. Today, I have my life-loving teenager back. After three weeks of doing supplements and detoxing foot baths, my child can live a normal life. I cannot say enough about the importance of holistic and natural supplements. It’s truly life-changing.”

– Tammy Glass, mother of a 17-year-old son.

25 Ways to Enjoy Autumn

BY CIARA N. CARVER

1. Craft an autumn wreath.

Sip hot cider at the Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay.

3. Roast pumpkin seeds.

4. Tell ghost stories around a campfire.

5. Make up a signature s’mores recipe.

6. Navigate a corn maze.

7. Take a hayride.

8. Create fall candles with a friend.

9. Bring home the best pumpkin from the patch.

10. Knit a scarf.

11. Stroll through the woods on a quiet morning.

12. Picnic under the turning leaves.

13. Bake a rhubarb crumble.

14. Buy a handmade treasure at a craft fair.

15. Pick apples at R & A Orchards.

16. Donate warm clothes or take blankets to an animal shelter.

17. Host a soup swap.

18. Have a fall foliage photo shoot.

19. Play cornhole.

20. Set the mood with a simmer

21. Find the perfect cozy sweater.

22. Snuggle in with a spooky book.

23. Bake cinnamon rolls.

24. Take a ghost tour.

25. Attend a costume party.

31 Nights of Halloween Watchlist

1. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

2. Frankenstein (1931)

3. Shutter Island

4. Black Swan

5. House on Haunted Hill (1959)

6. The Addams Family (1991)

7. Gothika

8. Stir of Echoes

9. Trollhunter

10. Scream (1996)

11. Cursed

12. Beetlejuice

13. Shirley

14. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

15. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

16. The Blob (1958)

17. Crimson Peak

18. Casper

19. Train to Busan

20. Renfield

21. The Sixth Sense

22. Rosemary’s Baby

23. Bewitched

24. Fright Night (1985)

25. Constantine

26. The Mummy (1999)

27. Zodiac

28. Happy Death Day

29. Candyman (1992)

30. Trick ’r Treat

31. Halloween (1978)

Famous Faces & Places of Cedartown

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY AIMEE H. MADDEN

When you think of day trips around Northwest Georgia, which cities pop into your mind first? Blue Ridge, with its picturesque mountain views? Dahlonega, with its glimmering gold rush history? Debunking or proving (whichever way you lean) the legend of Bigfoot sightings in Cherry Log? Whatever destination you’re thinking of, be sure to add one more to your list: Cedartown.

A quintessential Southern town of around 10,000, the “Valley of the Cedars” is home to a historic downtown area, several parks, recreational activities, and three museums. It has a history rich in arts and culture while also being known for cultivating superstars on the athletic field. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident exploring your own neighborhood, Cedartown’s history and attractions just might surprise you.

Sterling Holloway

Cedartown’s Sterling Holloway served as the original voice to Disney’s wildly popular honey-loving, red T-shirt-wearing Winnie-the-Pooh. Born on January 14, 1905 (a Google search will tell you it’s January 4, but don’t believe it), Holloway was a natural at entertaining, a fact proven repeatedly during his career.

Eager to pursue his lifelong ambition of becoming an actor, Holloway dropped out of the Georgia Military Academy and, at age 16, became the youngest student ever accepted for enrollment at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City.

Holloway was the first Hollywood actor drafted into World War II. He co-wrote a variety show for the Army — Hey Rookie! — which paid for a recreation facility for G.I.s. Holloway and his troupe traveled 60,000 miles while exposed to bombing raids, machine gun fire, snipers, and mortar rounds. He was formally mustered out of the Army with a regimental retreat review, “an honor unparalleled in military history for an unwounded, undecorated soldier.”

Following the war, Holloway moved into television and film work. He appeared as a guest star on The Untouchables, Adventures of Superman, Hazel, The Andy Griffith Show, The

Twilight Zone, Gilligan’s Island, and dozens of other shows. Listen closely, and you can hear Holloway’s unmistakable raspy yet soft voice in Dumbo, The Jungle Book, and Bambi.

Holloway’s childhood home in Cedartown is unfortunately long gone, though the site is noted with a historical marker at the corner of College Street and Sterling Holloway Place. However, Holloway’s story lives on in local resident Donnie Jarrell. Jarrell and Holloway forged a close friendship late in Holloway’s life. Upon the actor’s passing in 1992, many of his personal belongings were bestowed to Jarrell — including Holloway’s baby bracelet and baby book, in addition to a large collection of Hollywood mementos. Jarrell has many of those items on permanent display at the Polk County Historical Museum.

A closer look at the creative talent, sports giants, and unique museums connected to this city.

Cedartown’s annual Holloway Hunny Pot Festival on September 23 at Big Spring Park

Donnie Jarrell, a close friend of Sterling Holloway’s, shows some of the star’s personal items and Hollywood mementos on display at the Polk County Historical Museum.

Folks wishing to learn more about Holloway are in for a treat if they plan to attend Cedartown’s annual Holloway Hunny Pot Festival on September 23 at Big Spring Park. To read more about the festival, visit cedartowngeorgia.gov/holloway-festival.

Cedartown Museum Of Coca-Cola Memorabilia

Many of Cedartown’s baby boomers fondly remember the days of heading downtown and peering into the large glass window of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company. But in the 1970s, the bottling company shut its doors, and the building remained vacant for many years.

The historical building’s story took a definite turn for the better when local resident Daniel Morris, and the rest of the Morris family, took a leap of faith. They combined Morris’ love of Coca-Cola memorabilia collecting with the newly acquired property and gave it the makeover of a lifetime. The family brought the Cedartown Museum of Coca-Cola Memorabilia to life in 2016.

Eye-catching graphics that line the museum’s walls teach visitors the story of how the Coca-Cola brand’s various marketing strategies saturated American culture. From small items like World War II advertising paper cutouts to massive attention grabbers like the 1926 Ford Model-T delivery truck, the museum offers displays that even the most well-versed Coke collectors have yet to see.

Doug Sanders Golf Museum

Did you know that the “Peacock of the Fairways” was born and raised in Cedartown? Known for his brightly colored — some would say ostentatious — outfit choices, the late Doug Sanders was a master at golf. As a youth in Cedartown, Sanders picked cotton to help his family financially. He served as a caddie

The Cedartown Museum of Coca-Cola Memorabilia offers visitors an extraordinary way to step back in time and into the mind of the American consumer.

to many golfers, eventually teaching himself the game with sticks, Coke bottles, and discarded clubs.

Sanders was the first amateur to win the Canadian Open in 1956 and went on to win several majors in the late 1950s and 1960s on the PGA tour. He eventually joined the senior tour in the 1980s. Today, he has a statue dedicated to his achievements at the Polk County Sports Walk of Fame in Cedartown.

The Doug Sanders Golf Museum is also located in the city. It’s a kaleidoscope of colorful displays, many related to Sanders’ success on the course, but not all are golf related. Expertly curated, the museum is self-guided. If its style reminds you of the Coca-Cola Memorabilia Museum, it’s no wonder — this museum was also brought to life by the Morris family.

Polk County Sports Walk Of Fame

Peeking through the large glass back entrance of the Doug Sanders Golf Museum, visitors can’t help but notice a garden of bronze statues growing nearly six feet tall, towering over a beautifully manicured greenspace. These statues carry incredible attention to detail and unbelievably realistic features of Polk County’s greatest athletic and coaching superstars. Is it hard to believe that one county yielded so many notable sports prodigies? Maybe, but it’s true.

The Polk County Sports Walk of Fame bears tribute to seven distinguished sports icons, all of who also hold a spot in the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. They include Howard “Doc” Ayers, Ray Beck, Edgar Chandler, Jimmy Hightower, Escue Rodgers, Doug Sanders, and Whitlow Wyatt.

Howard “Doc” Ayers was a former football coach of the Cedartown Bulldogs and was the first assistant coach hired by Vince Dooley at the University of Georgia. He amassed a 91-43-5 record at Cedartown High School, including a North Georgia championship in 1956 and the Class AAA football state title in 1963.

Ray Beck was a former football player at Georgia Tech and was drafted by the New York Giants, where his career was interrupted by the Korean War while he served in the Army. He eventually went on to play on the Giants’ 1956 championship team.

Edgar Chandler’s football career included time at the University of Georgia, where he played as a lineman. After UGA, he found success with a professional ball career, being drafted in 1968 by the Buffalo Bills and later with the New England Patriots.

Jimmy Hightower, a former coach in football, basketball, and baseball, compiled a 159-63-5 record in football over a 27-year career at Americus High School from 1954-1971, then at LaGrange High School from 1972-1980. Over that time, his teams won two Class A state titles in football, three state titles in Class A for basketball, and a state title in baseball in 1955.

Escue Rodgers, the most recent addition to the Walk of Fame, was head coach and

Doug Sanders is also honored in the Polk County Sports Walk of Fame.

An interactive exhibit at the Doug Sanders Golf Museum.

athletic director at Cedar Hill High School from 1945 until the late 60s. Rodgers led the Cedar Hill Panthers to a State Championship B title in 1951 and finished second in 1952. They won the North Georgia title for four years (1951, 1953, 1955 and 1957).

Whitlow Wyatt was a baseball pitcher in the American and National Leagues from 1929 to 1945, playing in Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia before taking on a coaching role as manager of the Atlanta Crackers and later serving as a pitching coach for the Milwaukee Braves and Atlanta Braves.

As an interesting note, proving yet again that Polk County produces both incredible sports stars and artistic aces, the talent behind the creation of the sculptures hails from Cedartown as well. Julia Trawick Knight spent countless hours designing and sculpting each statue. Taking inspiration from photos and personal interviews, Knight was able to craft a stunning likeness of each Walk of Fame inductee.

Not only will a visit to these attractions in Cedartown leave you impressed and a little more knowledgeable about the area’s history, but it also provides a great opportunity for a walkable experience in the city’s historic downtown. Visitors can start a leisurely tour beginning at the county’s courthouse and walk a few blocks to the Coca-Cola Memorabilia Museum, the Doug Sanders Golf Museum, and the Polk County Sports Walk of Fame. A few more blocks will have you at the doorstep of the Polk County Historical Society Museum. There, you can view the Sterling Holloway exhibit. Afterward, a short two-minute walk from the museum leads you to the historical marker noting the location of Holloway’s childhood home. Be sure to stop in and shop, grab lunch, and indulge in ice cream or coffee while you’re in the downtown area. Make a day of it and visit Cedartown!

Aimee H. Madden fell in love early with newspapers, The Beatles, and amassing bits of local trivia. She’s worked as a community newspaper editor and a university public relations specialist and is currently a member of the Cedartown’s Economic Development and Tourism Department. She lives in Cedartown with her husband and two daughters.

Sanders’ colorful outfits earned him the nickname of “Peacock of the Fairways.”

Some of the sports memorabilia collected by Doug Sanders himself is also on display at the museum.

Escue Rodgers’ statue was added to the sports walk of fame in 2022 thanks to efforts by the Cedar Hill High School Alumni Association.

The Doug Sanders Golf Museum also includes items gifted to the sports star from U.S. presidents.

The Polk County Sports Walk of Fame bears tribute to seven distinguished sports icons, all of who also hold a spot in the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

Howard “Doc” Ayers Ray Beck

Edgar Chandler

Jimmy Hightower

Escue Rodgers Doug Sanders

Whitlow Wyatt

Age 62 and Older

Prost!

Pair a

Pilsner

Oktoberfest is one of my favorite German traditions I remember while growing up in the country. The celebration starts every year in late September and runs for two weeks until early October. It’s a sight to behold. All six of the main breweries in Munich, Germany, sponsor this gigantic beer festival, with each brewery erecting enormous beer tents called Bierhallen and inviting 6,000 of their closest friends to experience magical companionship, entertainment, dancing, singing, parades, traditional foods and costumes, amusement park rides, arcade games, and most important of all, nearly 2 million gallons of the finest beer produced in the world. As far as the eye can see is a literal sea of people, holding up steins and chanting, “Oans, zwoa, g’suffa!” (One, two, drink!)

Quick history lesson: It all started in 1810, as a grand celebration of the marriage of King Ludwig I of Bavaria, but people had such a wonderful time they decided to celebrate again the next year, adding an agricultural fair. The festival soon became a tradition of sorts, later evolving into a yearly end-ofharvest fête and becoming what we now refer to as “Oktoberfest.”

People from around the world attend this festival and they’ll all describe it the same way, unbelievable fun. Many American beer companies have

The meals pictured are variations of the recipes featured in this article.

sweet

beer with these tasty delicacies from the land of Oktoberfest.

introduced their own seasonally brewed Oktoberfest beers, which tend to fly off the shelves as thousands of Americans want to “taste” that memory again, the sweet taste of a medium amber Pilsner from the forests of Bavaria. Multiple cities and towns in the U.S. host their own mini-Oktoberfest in honor of this grand German tradition.

Besides the beer, the food at Oktoberfest is incredible. Some of the most well-known German delicacies include bratwurst, schnitzel, German potato salad, and of course, sauerkraut.

Bratwurst

I grew up with these wonderful dishes, because my mother is German, and therefore cooked like a German. I also had the privilege of having the recipes for these dishes handed down to me, written in the handwriting of my Oma and my mother — something I’ll treasure forever.

I’m going to share some of those recipes with you just in case you’d like to host your own Oktoberfest party. These are just a few essential dishes and all so easy to make.

Sprechen Sie Deutsch?

(Do you speak German?)

German words and phrases to know for Oktoberfest and beyond.

Guten Tag = Good Day

The most obvious and simplest recipe is, of course, for cooking bratwurst, but I don’t buy mine at an American grocery store. They’re much better from a German butcher shop. The closest one I go to is probably Frankfurt Döner & Meats in Ball Ground. They have all the goods.

1-2 cans dark amber beer

6-10 fresh bratwurst

1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped

6-10 rolls

Butter

Spicy mustard, for topping Sauerkraut, for topping

Bring beer to a simmer in a deep skillet, adding onion and a few pats of butter. Add the brats to the pan and slowly par boil them for about 10 minutes. Make sure you don’t

pierce the skin, and don’t boil them too long or the skin will crack.

Remove the brats and transfer them for browning to a griddle or grill. Brown on all sides.

Serve with toasted rolls, and don’t forget plenty of spicy mustard! Sauerkraut is also amazing as a topping for bratwurst. You can buy a jar from the German section in the international aisle of most grocery stores.

Guten Abend = Good Evening

Meine Damen und Herren = Ladies and Gentlemen

Fraulein = An unmarried woman

Digga = A slang term like “dude” or “bro”

Frau = A married woman, equivalent to Mrs.

Dirndl = A woman’s dress in an Alpine peasant style with a full skirt and close-fitting bodice

Lederhosen = Traditional leather breeches worn by men in Bavaria

Vas ist Los? = What’s happening?

Noch ein Bier, bitte! = Another

Prost! = Cheers! From the first drink to the fourth round, don’t forget to say this quick toast before taking your first sip.

Oans, zwoa, g’suffa! = One, two, drink!

O’zapft is! = It’s tapped!

Ich Liebe Dich = I love you

Auf Wiedersehen = Goodbye, until we

Fried Sauerkraut & Bratwurst Balls

These are an amazing party food, easy to make, and people will certainly say, “Danke!” (Thanks!)

In a small- to medium-size bowl, add breadcrumbs. In another bowl, whisk eggs. Dip the balls into the eggs and then into the breadcrumbs.

Frikadellen

The best way I can describe Frikadellen is that they’re like miniature meatloaf patties. I know that sounds odd but trust me. These are traditionally made in the size of a hamburger patty, but for an Oktoberfest party, they can easily be made into bite-size.

1lb ground beef

1lb ground pork

1 yellow onion, chopped

5 slices white bread, torn into small chunks

1 tbsp salt

1 tbsp pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

¼ cup dried parsley

3-4 tbsp vegetable oil

Dipping sauce

Combine beef, pork, onion, and then add bread chunks. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley flakes. Mix ingredients

together well with your hands, then shape the mixture into small patties (about 2 inches each).

Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the patties until they’re a darker golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the pan and place on a plate covered with a paper towel to absorb the grease. The outside of these little patties should be crispy, so you can pick them up and dip them into any dipping sauce you like. I prefer a sour cream, dill, and garlic mixture. Yum!

squeeze the contents into a pan

Once all the balls are coated, cook the sausage balls using a deep fryer or air fryer until golden brown. I like to pair these German Brat-Kraut balls with Thousand Island dressing, but they’re delicious with any sauce of your choosing.

Jennifer Almand is half-German and the owner of Almand Specialty Painting & Design. She loves to cook and lives in scenic Kingston, GA, with her husband, Rick, and their four dogs. Find her on Facebook or call (706) 346-1590.

• Call ahead to pick your fresh hot meal at our convenient pick up window located just inside the front door before you enter the restaurant or enjoy delivery thru Door Dash or Dinner Delivered!!

• We Cater events big and small. Call for a quote.

595 Riverside Parkway | Rome, GA | 706-204-8381

Hours: Mon–Sat: 10:30am–8pm | Sunday: 10:30am–3pm pickodelicafeteria.com

• Bakery Case with Fresh Baked Desserts, Cookies, Brownies, and Cakes.

• Conference Room can accommodate groups up to 40

Photo Credit (woman in bottom left):

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash used in accordance with Unsplash license.

Terry Simmons, Agent

5 N. Fourth Street Lindale, GA 30147

706-235-3276

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Pepperell Dragon Football 2023 Schedule

Darlington Tigers 10/13 @ 7:30pm

Trion Bulldogs 10/20 @ 7:30pm

Dade County Wolverines 10/27 @ 7:30pm

Armuchee Indians 10/6 @ 7:30pm away

Coosa Eagles 11/3 @ 7:30pm away

“Our

Why am I still wearing shorts in October?

The joy of fall in the South.

BY ROBERT SMYTH

Well, to update you guys, the beach trip I wrote about last issue is in the books and went almost exactly like I said. Refer to the included photo for a good idea of the mayhem and fun we had. We ate too much (I ate all the ice cream in Panama City Beach), spent too much, and laughed almost nonstop. Having so much family around was good for the soul.

Now that that’s in the rearview mirror, please turn off the sun so the cool breezes and warm sweaters of fall can arrive. Who am I kidding? We live in the South, where fall means a slight dip into the 80s. I used to get jealous when I would watch those movies where everyone was bundled up for the football game or was sipping cocoa by the fire under that iconic checkered blanket. Meanwhile, below the Mason-Dixon Line, we’re wearing shorts and T-shirts to the game and sipping cold tea under the ceiling fan while we stare at the stack of blankets on the couch, hoping we might get to use them one or two days after Christmas.

Fall is actually my favorite season. As I’ve said before, I love the colors, the anticipation of holiday magic, and the general feeling of ease that fall usually brings. Oh, wait, I’m a cheer dad, so scratch the easy part. Fall does seem to have a full schedule. We’ll be traveling almost every weekend to a cheer competition or someone’s ball game. You can’t swing a cat without hitting a fall festival of some sort, and you still have to find time to mow the lawn and close the pool. In case you’re one of our readers from above the Mason-Dixon Line, I think we closed the pool in late October last year, and I have to mow usually until late November. In fact,

I’ve had my shorts on while mowing a spot to put up my inflatable snowman for Christmas. It makes your brain lock up just thinking about it.

Once again, I was always envious of kids in movies wearing their elaborate layered costumes and trick-or-treating on a brisk fall evening. Elaborate layered costumes in my neighborhood can cause heat stroke. I remember one Halloween when all the chocolate bars were soft by the time we got home. My dad still took his “candy tax” and put them in the freezer for later.

When the weather finally does start to turn cooler, you have to get on the clothing roller coaster every day, and dress for a cool morning and a blistering afternoon. Have you ever laughed at that person wearing shorts, socks, sandals, a winter vest over a T-shirt, and a toboggan hat? No, he’s not mentally unstable. He’s dressed for a November Thursday in the South.

Maybe this year will be different. Maybe cool weather will come early, and I can, once again, hide my unsuccessful summer diet in a warm sweater. Maybe I’ll get to drive and look at changing leaves with the AC blasting. Maybe I’ll get to cover up the mower for longer than three weeks in January. Maybe I can drink my pumpkin spice coffee without feeling like an idiot because it’s 85 outside, and I’m breaking a sweat. So, if you see me in my sweater and fall jacket while wearing my shorts and a pair of Tevas, mind your business. I’m simply a man hoping for the best fall yet.

“Maybe this year will be different. Maybe cool weather will come early, and I can, once again, hide my unsuccessful summer diet in a warm sweater.”

Another successful beach trip.

This October, join us as we shine a light on breast cancer. While breast cancer affects one in eight women, it is easily treatable when caught early. A mammogram has the power to save your life.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, light your porch pink and increase awareness for early breast cancer detection.

Learn more at PinkPorchGA.com