MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 1 A
Honored as a newspaper of General Excellence 2019
MAY 2020 | | VOL XXXII NO. 5 | www.smokesignalsnews.com SmokeNews and views from Big Canoe Signalsand around North Georgia Friends of Smoke Signals Georgia National Guard Supporting and Sustaining Your Local Independent Newspaper ‘encourages everybody’ ON BEHALF OF THE STAFF AND MANAGEMENT OF SMOKE SIGNALS to get free COVID-19 test moke Signals™, the award-winning, independent free monthly newspaper that has brought you high quality community, local and regional coverage of news, S features, and culture for more than four decades, extends an invitation. We are an exclusively advertiser-supported publication and receive no outside support. We depend on ad revenues to pay all the costs of creating, editing, assembling, printing, posting online and distributing our paper. Publishing a free print and online newspaper is a regular financial challenge. The shutdown caused by the COVID-19 virus has compounded that challenge by forcing many of our loyal advertisers to temporarily cut back or suspend advertising. Very simply, like a growing number of large reader- supported commercial print newspapers, we invite you, our loyal reader, to become an inaugural member of Friends of Smoke Signals with a voluntary donation in support of free, independent, quality journalism. We are not asking for a subscription. Smoke Signals will Members of the Georgia National Guardsmen 3-121 Infantry Battalion were supplied always be free, but if we bring you value each month, your with 100 test kits which would be sent to Augusta University for lab work and with generous donation will provide resources for Smoke Signals results relayed via text message within 24-48 hours. The 3-121 Infantry battalion is part to continue to bring you even more quality, original independent of the 48th Brigade and is headquartered in Cumming, Georgia. PHOTO BY DENISE RAY writing and reporting, not just in current uncertain times but BY DENISE RAY The second part was the actual test, a 15-20 in the future as well. [email protected] second nasal swab. Please consider donating. “We encourage everybody to come Go to smokesignalsnews.com/donate or clip and fill out the embers of the Georgia National out and get tested,” Lt. Col. Jim McKnight, Guard 48th Brigade adminis- battalion commander of the 3-121 Infantry coupon on page 3 of this issue. tered 100 tests at no charge to of the 48th Brigade said. “It kind of feels like The dedicated Smoke Signals staff thanks you for your M members of the community getting water up your nose. It stings a little support! April 26 at Dawson County’s Rock Creek bit and then it’s over.” Park. National Guardsmen were on hand to Wayne Tidwell, Executive Editor, Smoke Signals As individuals drove up to the testing administer the test as part a of the Georgia sight, they were asked preliminary ques- National Guard response to COVID-19. David Howe, Chairman, Smoke Signals Board of Directors tions regarding name, date of birth and tele- Sean Ragland and his dog Money came phone number by guardsmen from the 3-121 for testing. Ragland said he was symptom- Infantry Battalion, in Cumming, Georgia. atic early on but n FREE TEST | Page 2 Windstream to drop cable TV, offer streaming service Multiple TV services available to Windstream internet customers BY BRIAN PLIKAYTIS representative. It is important that those in some televisions is not optimized for services offer local channels, so it is import- who have Windstream cable TV find an streaming and viewers will often encounter ant to check for that if you want to watch indstream has been pro- alternative service by then. buffering issues. This will cause a show to the local channels in our area. There are viding television program- Now that Windstream has upgraded freeze while more of the program is down- several websites that offer advice and com- ming to our community their internet infrastructure in Big Canoe, loaded for playback. parisons of the main streaming services. If W for decades. As technology most residents have access to download There are several inexpensive devices you are a fan of former Big Canoe resident evolved, cable subscribers across the speeds in excess of 100 Mbps. This intro- people can choose that do specialize in and consumer reporter, Clark Howard, country searched for more flexible and less duces a whole new world of opportunities streaming entertainment and, if download his website has several articles discussing expensive sources for their entertainment. for people to stream TV and movies over speeds are fast enough, buffering is rarely these issues (https://www.clark.com). This motivated many people to “cut the the internet. The focus of this article is to an issue. The most popular devices include Television streaming services that cord” to traditional programming conduits offer some guidance to Windstream cable the Fire TV stick from Amazon, Roku, offer local channels include Windstream’s (cable, satellite, etc.) which caused sub- subscribers looking for new ways to watch Google Chromecast, and Apple TV. Each Kinetic TV, YouTube TV, DirecTV, Hulu scriptions to these services to drop. This TV and movies after they lose access to of these come in different versions that will TV, and Sling TV. Services that do not has resulted in several providers transition- their cable system. This article will concen- allow different levels of resolution (HD or offer local channels include Amazon Prime ing their offerings to streaming platforms. trate on the different streaming services high definition, 4K or ultra-high definition Video, Netflix, Tubi, and Vudu. For more Windstream announced last year they and will not discuss aerial antennas, or sat- are the most common) and other options. detailed information about each service, would no longer accept new subscribers ellite such as DirecTV and Dish TV, which Adequate download speeds are re- go to smokesignalsnews.com/site/stream- to their cable system. On July 6, they will are also viable alternatives. quired to enjoy this type of programming. ing.html. discontinue cable service altogether ac- Streaming content simply means TV The following may serve as a guide: While shopping for a streaming ser- cording to a Windstream customer service programming enters the home over the • Constant speed of around 3.0 Mbps vice, it is important to compare the options internet as opposed to a satellite dish, tra- or more: Streaming video content on porta- and add-ons. Most offer some way to ditional cabling system or antenna. One of ble devices such as tablets and phones. This record a program for later viewing, known the many benefits of streaming is consum- would support standard definition (SD) on as cloud DVR. Each service that offers this ers are not dependent on a single provider a TV. has slightly different constraints, so it is im- for entertainment as people can subscribe • Constant speed of around 6.0 Mbps portant to read the fine print to know what to more than one service. In most cases, or more: Single stream of video content on to expect. Common limitations include: a streaming services operate on a month-to- a TV, PC, or Mac. For TVs, this would be limited number of recording hours which month basis, so customers are not locked 1080p high definition (HD). can be increased at an additional cost; into lengthy contracts. Subscribers can try • Constant speed of around 25 Mbps: recordings that are erased after a certain a service for a month or two and cancel, Recommended for households that main- length of time; and recordings that may without penalties, if they wish to try some- tain Internet use on multiple devices. For have imbedded commercials that you may thing else. Many streaming services offer a TVs, this would support 4K ultra-high or may not be able to fast-forward through. free period of one or two weeks to sample definition (UHD). In conclusion, with the internet speeds their programming. It is impossible to do a comprehensive that we now enjoy in Big Canoe, we are Before cataloguing the main services, survey of every service out there, but listed free to explore less expensive and more it is important to decide what hardware here are some of the most popular ones. flexible sources for entertainment. All the you want to use to do the streaming. Many Some services emphasize certain types of services listed in this article operate on a current televisions are so-called ‘smart programming (sports, movies, etc.) so it is month-to-month basis and may be canceled Smoke Signals Arts & Entertainment TVs’ and actually give owners the ability to important to research each candidate and without penalty. If you haven’t done so al- begins on page 19 of this section. stream the more popular services directly see if it covers the channels and types of ready, just jump in and see what’s out there. from their TV menu system. The circuitry programming you enjoy watching. Not all It is all pretty much risk-free.
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20182019 GPA GENERAL A community’s generosity makes Easter a EXCELLENCE little more special for kids in Pickens County BY WAYNE TIDWELL [email protected]
® ig Canoe’s Catrece Morton wanted SmokeNews & Views FromSignals Big Canoe to make sure that kids in need in A publication for Big Canoe and Pickens County would get the food surrounding communities. B they needed during the stay-at- PUBLISHED BY home period mandated by the state during Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. the coronavirus pandemic. “But our school districts were already Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. on top of that,” Morton said. Board Of Directors Jim Braley, Dudley DeVore, CARES (Community Assistance Re- George Thurman, David Howe, sources and Emergency Services of Pickens Wayne Tidwell, Rhonda Stock, County) provides food for those in need in Christine Flaherty, Phil Baldwin, Jon Markey Pickens County. Then Morton was concerned that EXECUTIVE EDITOR CARES recipient kids may not have a mem- Wayne Tidwell - 770-331-2936 [email protected] orable Easter in the midst of the restrictions • of the pandemic. That’s when she decided NEWS/SMOKE SIGNALS to “do some sort of Easter bags” for CARES WEEKLY EDITOR to be given with the food bags. She solicited Barbara Schneider - 404-626-5385 her husband Jim’s help and set out to put [email protected] together 300 Easter bags that would include • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SECTION fillable plastic eggs with candy. “Cares thought it was a good idea and Melissa Lowrie - 678-910-1338 Three hundred Easter baskets ready to go to CARES in Jasper. PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY CATRECE MORTON [email protected] were very appreciative,” Morton said. • In addition to the candy, Morton purchased LIVING SECTION 600 plastic eggs to be filled with the candy "As of April 26, Morton Anita Rosen - 706-429-7775 but decided just candy was not enough. has also helped raise funds [email protected] “I sent an email out on the Big Canoe • for 11 semi trucks of food SPORTS & OUTDOORS SECTION Facebook page and asked people if they Melissa Lowrie - 678-910-1338 would donate a dollar so we could put a for Pickens County. 'I just [email protected] dollar in each egg just for a little surprise for want to say THANK YOU, Anita Rosen - 706-429-7775 the kids,” Morton said. [email protected] She put a box in her front yard for THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!,' • folks to drop in $1 bills. Within 30 minutes EDITORIAL LAYOUT DESIGNER Morton said. 'This was truly Karen S. Webster - 706-268-1437 of putting the plea for dollars on Facebook, [email protected] Morton said she had 50 dollars and some an outpouring of love, • people left money to help pay for the candy sacrifice and giving from ADVERTISING DESIGNER and bags that she and her husband had Barbara Smith - 770-737-2117 already bought. Big Canoe and we were [email protected] “Believe me, Big Canoe came in big • amazed and blessed by our time,” Morton said. “So, we were able to WEBMASTER Big Canoe neighbors Liz Scherer - 678-404-1664 stuff 300 eggs with a dollar bill in each. [email protected] Nancy Derajtys and Beverly Dean did that and friends.'” • for me, and Jim and I put the bags together.” BOOKS EDITOR She said the extra money was turned over that would take that stress away and give Ken Reynolds - 770-894-2664 to CARES. them a little bit of enjoyment during a very [email protected] Asked where she got all that candy, • stressful time.” Catrece and Jim Morton of Big Canoe REPORTING STAFF Morton said “I’m a shopper. That’s my gift.” The CARES organization of Pickens delivering Easter baskets to CARES. Ellen Harrison, David Howe, Morton said she thinks this is a very stress- County was very grateful for the baskets. Laura Link, Barbara Schneider, ful and difficult time for a lot of parents “We appreciate all the generosity and “This was a huge community effort. People Denise Ray, Wayne Tidwell and children who do not understand what’s love that went into the Easter baskets, have stepped up making masks and doing • going on in the world. CARES Executive Director Chris Rumble other things. I am not much of a seamstress, COLUMNISTS “I got to thinking, you know Easter is said. “We are just so grateful that the good Bob Anderson, Tom Attaway, Megan Bianco, so I had to come up with some other way Brent Carroll, Gary Cherry, Wayne Crawford, going to come and go and these kids are folks at Big Canoe, especially Catrece to contribute. There are so many things Debbie Dickson, Doris Dressler, Bonnie East not going to know it because their parents Morton, were kind enough to think about us that people here are trying to do to pass the Christine Flaherty, George Fox, are stressed about how they are going and put together these baskets. The families time, but more importantly to help other Dr. Ray Habermann, Cynthia Hendry, to pay the mortgage, pay the rent, or car were delighted with them and so were the people and that’s what we all need to do.” Fran Holman, David Howe, Will Jackson, payments,” she said. “They wouldn’t be kids, I’m sure, especially with the money Donations to CARES can be mailed to Judy Kaufman, Ann Pike, Bonnie Plikaytis, thinking about Easter for these kids. I think inside. Thank you, folks, at Big Canoe.” Robert C. Smith,Theresa Hartz Rasmussen, 89 Cares Drive, Jasper, GA 30143. Phone: Ken Reynolds, Jim Rice, Clardy Schwarz, there is a lot of stress for children right now Morton deflected praise for her efforts. 706.253.4777. Website: http://www.picken- Margo Vallone, Randy Waters, and I just thought maybe this is something “I don’t want credit for this,” Morton said. scares.org. Artsy Chow Roamer • STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Jim Francis Free test • CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER n Continued from page 1 Steve Papke • never go to the point where he felt poorly. STAFF CARTOONIST “The experience was great,” Ragland said. Bob Glover “It was easy, quick and fast.” ••• Dawson County Emergency Services PRINT & ONLINE ADVERTISING helped coordinate the testing. BUSINESS MANAGER “We had been planning for over a week Jeanne Holbrook - 706-669-7095 with the National Guard to stand this test [email protected] site up, work through all the logistics and • coordinate all the agencies involved to make SALES REPRESENTATIVES this testing site happen,” Dawson County Sarah Mansfield - 770-402-3839 Emergency Management Director Danny [email protected] • Thompson said. Steve Melching - 678-360-3712 Results will be sent via text message to [email protected] Testing was held in several locations, including Dawson County, and the cities of Braselton the individual within 24-48 hours. and Cumming. Staff Sgt. Jason Rustin, a combat medic, has been in the army since 2001 and “For us to know if we truly are flatten- PRINT & ONLINE the guard since 2009. “Anytime we can come out and help the community, we’re more than ing the curve, we have to test as many peo- CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING happy to,” Rustin said. Rustin was one of two soldiers who administered the test. PHOTOS BY ple as we can in our communities statewide. [email protected] This will enable the CDC and DPH officials ••• DENISE RAY CIRCULATION to collect and analyze the data,” Thompson Petr Fechtner - 706-669-7095 said. [email protected] The testing will continue, McKnight said, as quickly as the test kits become avail- SUBSCRIPTIONS able. The test results bring a better under- [email protected] standing of actual cases and if that number FIND US ON is increasing or decreasing. FACEBOOK The previous day the team of military personnel were in Forsyth County running the same tests, where people were in line an hour ahead of the process. Within roughly an hour, a third of the tests were adminis- tered. By noon all 100 tests were dispensed. Dawson was the fourth day of running tests in northeast Georgia. Previous test sights included the Aquatic Center in Cum- ming, and nursing homes in Braselton and
® Cumming, Cpt. Ben Thomas said. Smoke Signals “We’re here to serve the public,” McK- Mailing Address: night said. “These are civilian soldiers. They 11293 Big Canoe, Big Canoe, GA 30143 As part of the response to COVID-19, the Georgia National Guard administered tests all have other jobs, but they’re coming here Office Phone: 706-669-7095 Email: [email protected] throughout the state. Individuals wanting to be tested—at no cost—remained in their on orders to support the COVID pandemic.” Printed and mailed by the vehicles during the two-step process to ensure safety. Staff Sgt. Jason Rustin and Specialist Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. Shemeeka Calloway administered the tests Jasper, GA 30143 Lt. Col. Jim McKnight came in Cumming. © Copyright 2009 Smoke Signals All editorial and Rustin, a combat medic, has been in the advertising material is the property of Smoke Signals and to see how may not be used in any other publication or media without the operation Army since 2001 and the Guard since 2009. the express written consent of Smoke Signals. was running. Calloway is a nurse in civilian world and in Advertiser is solely responsible for the content of all the Army, a logistics specialist. The Missis- advertising published at their request or their agent and “To see how shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the publisher they’re doing is sippi native currently lives in McDonough from any claim or lawsuit arising out of any advertisement. to put myself and has been in the Guard 11 years. “Less than a year ago, these guys were A note from the editor through it,” Smoke Signals is very fortunate to have a dozen regular McKnight said. in Afghanistan looking for terrorists on the contributing columnists and scores of volunteer writers sides of mountains. This shows our versatil- who have expertise in fields ranging from literature to “They’re doing legal matters to pet care and medicine, and a desire to a great job.” ity,” McKnight said. “We come back and do give back to the community. Smoke Signals’ relationship McKnight is the testing. Whatever we need to do to serve, with these volunteers is strictly as publisher, without whether that’s being deployed to Afghani- board interference, of their writings that we find commander of pertinent and of interest to our readers and community. the 3-121 Infantry stan, disinfecting nursing homes or testing The opinions expressed by our op-ed writers are battalion of the people for Coronavirus, we’re here to do it. not necessarily endorsed by Smoke Signals Community We’re proud to do it and happy do to it.” Services, Inc. 48th Brigade. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 3 A Second Front Help us keep Smoke Signals free and independent BY JON MARKEY covering the local news. Newspapers (print and digital) have Board member, Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. supported themselves with advertising and subscriptions; Smoke Signals has relied solely on advertising, which is n this time of social distancing help us maintain virtually gone. social connections. 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POA faces COVID-19 challenges for amenities/budget, new water issues BY BARBARA SCHNEIDER with two opposed. He noted 72 banner [email protected] requests had already been received pending board approval. The board voted to approve here should have been a plan by a 5-2 vote. For more information about for UIG to notify us,” said the Military Tribute Banner Program, go to POA President Bob Crouch “POA approves NGV military tribute ban- “Tat the Thursday, April 23 ner program,” on page 8A of this section. POA board meeting, as he opened discus- Crouch informed the board of the sale sion on a major water issue/subsequent of POA property on Hubbard Road, approx- outage April 14-17 that affected one area of imately one mile past the Dawson County Big Canoe. Fire House. Originally the 5.25 acres were The POA found out about the April 14 purchased by the Big Canoe POA for a pro- problem and resulting water outage from a posed community center to serve western property owner’s email, Crouch said. “Look- Dawson County, including the Big Canoe ing back on the other 28 water outages, UIG community. At the time Dawson County didn’t notify the POA then either, but they believed a community center similar to weren’t extensive.” Rock Creek Park should be built there. Big Crouch is concerned about the way Canoe was going to purchase and then do- communications between Utilities Inc. of nate the land for the proposed community Georgia (UIG) and the POA board were center. The community center request was handled. He noted Facebook posts com- included in that year’s proposed SPLOST plaining about the POA not monitoring but, explained Crouch, “It was so far down UIG. “We need a better process in place to PHOTO BY JIM FRANCIS on the list of projects there weren’t enough hold UIG accountable,” he said. These are changes that will affect POA opening. In the meantime, curbside meal funds to build the community center.” Ron Medders, head of UIG operations employees, Patankar said. “At Big Canoe, pick-up will continue. The grocery store The board recently sold the property and its main contact with Big Canoe, said for the past month we’ve paid our full-time curbside pickup has started and residents for $68,500. POA board member and realtor Tuesday afternoon, April 14 a contractor employees based on an average of each em- are encouraged to participate.” Phil Baldwin said that price is right in line contacted him regarding a leak on Kilmartin ployee’s previous six-months’ salary. With Patankar said he doesn’t expect any with property sales in that area. Crouch Point. There was concern about the prima- the governor’s latest executive order, we changes with golf, tennis, pickleball because said the money will be moved to a board ry station that brings water into Big Canoe have a new set of rules for employees based of the need to maintain social distancing designated fund. and the water main that supplies the station. on new amenity hours of operations and Director of Finance Jayne Hagan an- Bobby Jones Links agreement The problem allowed extra loss from those property owner needs. But we are working nounced net income for March operations The board is working on a management two tanks. as much as we can; it’s business as usual was $64,600 with March operating expens- agreement for a three-year contract with “All 11 tanks were at very low tank based on the needs of the business.” es under budget at $51,000. There were no Bobby Jones Links (BJL). Each of the board levels,” Medders told the board. The Rid- Two salaried positions—director of banquets and events after mid-March due to members contacted a current BJL client (as geview and Disharoon tanks were affected tennis and community programs/event COVID-19 cancellations. Outdoor amenities similar as possible to Big Canoe) for feed- Wednesday night [April 15], he said. “Big planning—are not required based on lost 11 days to inclement weather in March back on performance and results. The board Canoe doesn’t have the ability to fill the current conditions, he said. Matt Motil is and a total of 43 days lost to weather Janu- expects to vote on the agreement in May. tanks very quickly.” no longer in the director of tennis position ary through March. Big Canoe’s clubhouse lost $775,000 Water service was lost on Ridgeview and Teri Sawyer is no longer planning Big There were 66 property transac- in 2019; the board hoped to reduce that to for 52 hours, he said, adding that UIG will Canoe’s POA events, he told the board. But, tions—58 homes and eight lots through $500,000 in 2020 but Patankar has told the have to make three or four previously op- he added, as a 1099 contractor, Motil can March, she said. Average sale price for board he wants to reduce loss to $250,000. tional improvements earlier than planned. still give lessons. homes was $437,900. This is higher than He also seeks to improve the golf amenity. There is a problem with the current pump- Under the governor’s “Open up Geor- previous months, she explained, due to Analysis by the board and its commit- ing capacity not being enough to fill the gia” executive order, Big Canoe’s Wellness two homes that sold near or over a million tees shows that the Big Canoe employee tanks in a reasonable time. Medders said he Center and clubhouse restaurant are al- dollars each. benefit plan is richer for employees than was engaged in talks with Pickens County lowed to open with restrictions: a maximum “COVID 19 is affecting the budget,” she Bobby Jones Links. Big Canoe’s claims to find a way to facilitate moving water into of 10 people at a time, safe distancing with said. “We will lose clubhouse revenue. We experience—more claims—would create Big Canoe. a minimum of six feet of separation and rig- may not charge Wellness Center dues for difficulties in merging the two groups. From The POA was properly notified for a orous cleaning after each property owner’s April and May and likely will lower golf and HR management and structure, Bobby subsequent much shorter outage in the ear- use. tennis dues. Swim Club won’t open on the Jones Links has a strong program, based on ly morning hours of April 25. Bottled water The Wellness Center was scheduled Memorial Day Weekend,” Hagan said. the POA’s analysis. Employees will remain was provided at the Wellness Center but to open with specified—likely 54—min- North Georgia Vets program on the POA payroll at this time with a likely the outage was corrected within hours. ute--sessions and with a space reservation Representing the North Georgia change to Bobby Jones Links in 2021. Bobby POA Operations Update request emailed to Wellness Center Man- Vets, Phil Anderson talked about the NGV Jones Links has complete firing, hiring Gautam Patankar, interim general man- ager Steve Panetta’s email. The POA sent Military Tribute Banner Program recogniz- authority over the employees but will need ager, reported on the impact of Governor property owners an email with instructions ing deceased vets sponsored by Big Canoe to notify POA before action is taken. Kemp’s April 24 COVID-19 executive order prior to the Friday, April 24 re-opening. property owners and asked the board to May POA meetings are May 14 on Big Canoe’s amenities. The order covers Opening the clubhouse restaurant will approve bringing the program to Big Canoe. work session and May 21 board meeting. Big Canoe’s clubhouse restaurant and the be slower, said Patankar. “We plan to take He said the NGV received 100 emails repre- The meetings will be available through Wellness Center. another week and get ready for a May 4 senting 134 people; of those, 132 are in favor YouTube. 4 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020
"It is now possible to announce the waiving of April and May Wellness Center fees and providing a 25 percent reduction in golf and racquet club fees for two months." POA reviewing opening amenities, water outages, Bobby Jones Links agreement
POA President’s Report
BOB CROUCH
he week of April 17 marked our first significant water outage since Utilities Inc. of Georgia T (UIG) assumed responsibility for management of the Big Canoe system. The communications throughout this out- age were unacceptable. As president of the POA board, I take responsibility for this shortcoming. There Bottled water is unloaded and showers opened at Wellness Center. should have been a communications plan in place, agreed upon by UIG and the POA to PHOTOS BY JIM FRANCIS address this situation. There is also an opportunity to order from decision was prudent. In closing, I want to address recent We are experiencing another outage a limited list of groceries and supplies—toi- Bobby Jones Links agreement comments I have made about social media. on April 25 as I write this. Comments about let paper included!! All of our decisions are Significant progress has been made To be perfectly clear, I have no issue with communication indicate improvement based on safety first while providing some in finalizing the agreement with Bobby anyone posting on social media. Every including some who claim "vast improve- level of access to your amenities. Jones Links (BJL) to manage the POA. This property owner has the right to post what- ment." The communication may have been When the COVID-19 restrictions were agreement would be a significant milestone ever opinion he or she may have. improved but there is room for substantial announced, property owners requested that in the history of governance of Big Canoe. Social media can also be an important progress. there be no fees while the Wellness Center Benefits have been apparent even in vehicle to exchange information, seek ser- The POA Water Committee is leading was closed. As restrictions grew on golf this interim period. Gautam Patankar, the vice references, view some of the beauties the review of the causes of the outage, the it was not possible for all who wanted tee acting general manager, has implemented a of Big Canoe and just to enjoy yourself. recovery process and the communications times to be accommodated. new organization that results in a director There is no attempt by the POA to insufficiencies. Their report will recom- The Spring bocce ball season has been of Amenities and a director of Operations silence or control any communication. mend steps required for improvement. canceled. Tennis and pickleball play have reporting to a GM. This is functionally My statement was that social media is Governor’s Executive Order been curtailed. The board response in clean and cost effective. not the proper venue for raising an issue Governor Kemp recently issued anoth- March was that it was too soon to assess Experienced employees were identi- with the POA. We have multiple formal er executive order related to the COVID-19 the financial implications of the pandemic fied by Bobby Jones Links to fill the director communication vehicles that are working pandemic. The order allowed for opening and we would decide as more information of Amenities and executive chef roles. quite well. It is unrealistic for property portions of the Wellness Center and the becomes available. The initial assessment This was a significant, time consuming owners to expect their posts to be read clubhouse under social distancing miti- was that the financial impact to the POA and challenging effort in the past. BJL will and acted upon by the POA. I do review gation procedures. The Wellness Center would be well over $500K in net income. recommend qualified GM candidates to social media and act, if appropriate, but that is available to a maximum of 10 property The picture is not complete but much has be interviewed by the POA GM Selection is only after addressing property owner owners at a time maintaining a six-foot sep- improved. The March results were signifi- Committee. communications that arrive via our formal aration. The pool is still unavailable based cantly better than expected, April results The open board work sessions and channels. It is hit or miss. This is not about on a previous order. look promising, employee actions and monthly board meetings have been con- ignoring social media; it is about the most The POA has no authority to deviate projections of increased revenue are also ducted via live streaming. Significant topics effective way to com- from the governor’s executive order just as favorable. are openly discussed and owner questions municate with the POA. we can recommend wearing masks in the It is now possible to announce the are answered following the meetings. In There are many Wellness Center but not mandate it. Please waiving of April and May Wellness Center addition to fulfilling our commitment to challenges to face as adhere to the rules to ensure the safety of fees and providing a 25 percent reduction openness, responsiveness and commu- we move forward in owners and employees. in golf and racquet club fees for two nication we have added inclusiveness by 2020 and I believe we The clubhouse requires a great deal of months. We appreciate your patience and reaching out to property owners to fill key are making progress as planning in order to provide safe service understanding as we worked through what positions on these committees: GM Search, everyone works to im- before reopening. In the meantime, the very is an unprecedented situation and trust Capital Contribution, Creek 9 Renovation prove Big Canoe. Thank successful curbside pickup will continue. you share our belief that the timing and and the Bobby Jones Links assessment. BOB CROUCH you for your support.
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©2019 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) Member SIPC. All rights reserved. MWD878-3b (1218-8WCN) (10/19) MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 5 A Now is the Time to Embrace the Beauty of Big Canoe
BUILDER’S PERSONAL HOME! FABULOUS HOME LAKE FRONT
PENDING PENDING SOLD
393 RED COAT PASS 457 SUMMIT DRIVE 100 WATER LILY $379,800 • FMLS #6502449 $999,999 • FMLS #6116357 $995,000 • FMLS #6630949 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Baths 4 Bedrooms/4.5 Baths 4 Bedrooms/3.2 Baths Loaded with Charm Custom Home with Panoramic Views Fabulous Lakeside Home! Beautifully Maintained Loaded with upgrades! Recent updates-Perfection!
VIEW! VIEW! VIEW! NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING
SOLD! PENDING
496 SANDERLIN MTN DRIVE S 161 BLUEBELL CIRCLE 55 HILLSIDE WAY 113 SCONTI KNOLL $599,000 • FMLS #6681495 $250,000 • FMLS #6664148 $425,000 • FMLS #6696306 $547,000 • FMLS #6527391 4 Bedrooms/5 Baths 3 Bedrooms/3 Baths Great Location PANORAMIC SOUTHERN VIEW!! Updated with Covered Parking Loaded with Extras UNDER CONTRACT IN 5 DAYS! Inlaw Suite Walk to Nature Valley
NEW PRICE VIEW! VIEW! VIEW! NEW LISTING VIEW!
SOLD! SOLD! SOLD
11 WOOD POPPY COURT 145 CLIFF FERN POINT 40 LAUREL RIDGE TRAIL 484 HUNTERS TRACE $799,000 • FMLS #6086299 $475,000 • FMLS #6511512 $299,000 • FMLS #6675162 $445,000 • FMLS #6626009 4 Bedrooms/5.5 Baths 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Baths 3/4 Bedrooms/ 3.5 Baths 3 Bedrooms/3 Baths Custom Prairie Style Home Convenient Location and VIEW! Walk to Amenities! 4 minutes from Gate with VIEW! Double Lot-One POA Fee Beautiful Custom Home Cozy, Cottage in a great location! Beautifully Renovated
NEAR GATE WITH VIEW! NEW LISTING BUILDER’S PERSONAL HOME NEAR WALKING TRAILS
PENDING SOLD! SOLD!
85 CLIFF FERN POINT 54 BUCKSKULL BROW 691 TURNBURY LANE 35 GADALUTSEE PASS $450,000 • FMLS #6699065 $189,000 • FMLS #6520607 $775,000 • FMLS #6118927 $439,900 • FMLS #6527302 4 Bedrooms/2.5 Baths 4 Bedrooms/5.5 Baths Custom Home - 4 Bedrooms/4 Baths Recent Updates-Like New! UNDER CONTRACT IN 4 DAYS! 3 Car Garage - Golf Course and Lake Views 2 Bedrooms on the Main Owner is a licensed Real Estate Agent Minutes from North Gate
PRIVATE LOT! NEW LISTING PRIVACY AND A VIEW! RIDGE LINE VIEW
PENDING SOLD! SOLD!
63 THE PADDOCK 77 CHEROKEE KNOLL 776 BLACK BEAR TRAIL 95 TREETOP KNOLL $499,000 • FMLS #6651022 $435,000 • FMLS #6631184 $725,000 • FMLS #6585058 $149,900 • FMLS #6536163 5 Bedrooms/4.5 Baths 3 Bedrooms/2.5 Baths 6 Bedrooms/6.5 Baths 2 Bedrooms/2 Baths 3 Stone Fireplaces~Sunroom Close to North Gate and Wildcat Hiking Inlaw Suite with Kitchen and Private Entry Centrally located 2 Bedrooms on Main~Private Location Trails. Spacious Rooms, Office & Workshop 3 Car Garage/6 Minutes from North Gate Walk to Amenitie
NEW PRICE NEW LISTING VIEW! NEW LISTING
SOLD! SOLD!
291 WOODLAND TRACE 64 HIGHLAND FARMS COURT 1239 MCELROY MTN DRIVE 142 BLACK GUM DRIVE $375,000 • FMLS #6650834 $275,000 • FMLS #6539935 $350,000 • FMLS #6643625 $425,000 • FMLS #6564242 3 Bedrooms/3 Baths 3 Bedrooms/2 Baths 4 Bedrooms/3 Baths 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Baths Custom Home with recent Updates! Convenient to Village and Amenities Convenient to North Gate Beautifully Maintained and Updated Flowing Stream and Privacy! Beautiful Renovation-Wheelchair Ramp 2 Bedrooms on Main Near Amenities and Nature Valley
NEW PRICE NEW PRICE NEW PRICE NEW LISTING
SOLD! PENDING
811 MCELROY MTN DRIVE 40 TROUT LILY TRAIL 84 SOURWOOD CIRCLE 34 SCONTI RIDGE, UNIT 405 • $134,900 $599,000 • FMLS #6562660 $215,000 • FMLS #6539718 $375,000 • FMLS #6547506 48 SCONTI RIDGE, UNIT 409B • $136,000 4 Bedrooms/4.5 Baths 3 Bedrooms/2 Baths 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Baths 2 Bedrooms/2 Baths One of the best views in Big Canoe!!! Walk to Nature Valley Beautifully Maintained. Sunroom, UPDATED! Updated and Move in Ready Seasonal Interior View 2 Fireplaces, Private Guest Spaces Lake and Golf Course View
BIG CANOE LOTS SHELBY COLLINS n Pickens County Board of Realtors 2592 Summit Dr. West $110,000 Harry Norman Top Producing Realtor-2018 Great View of Lake and Mountains - SOLD n 112 Disharoon Realtors is a proud Cell 404-863-2676•Direct $80,000 VIEW, VIEW, VIEW!! supporter of the 706-268-2904•Office 770-893-2400 n 160 Yanegwa Knoll E-mail: [email protected] $25,000 Big Canoe Website: www.ShelbyCollins.com n 327 Woodland Trace $10,000 Wellness Collaborative RESOURCE CERTIFICATION - SFR Corner of Woodland Trace and Lone Wolf - SOLD
A subsidiary of Berkshire ® Hathaway Inc. HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS 200 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2400 List, Sell & Buy with the BEST! ... 6 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020 Chapter Two: NQ inside ‘the circle of trust’
• I don’t really need the two closets full of clothes I have. I’ve been managing with just the few I brought to my You Don't friend’s house six weeks ago. Does this mean I will stop Say... shopping? Absolutely not, it just means I recognize my late husband could have been right. • My peaceful place is on the water. Thank you, Big JILL PHILMON Canoe Marina for staying open. I have been on a boat in Lake Petit every day the sun has shone. • I look better tanned. (A result from the above). call this article Chapter Two of the Big NQ. That is • As much as we have spent on groceries, we still have what my friends and I have tagged for “in quarantine.” not spent as much as we would have if we were going out In my last article I was working out this whole social to eat. I’m sure there is a lesson there but I’m ignoring this distancing with just me and Meggy, my dog. I knew I one. I can’t wait for Home Restaurant to open. I miss Matt’s I White Cosmos and Alex’s beautiful smile! was I trouble when my best friend, my four-legged confidant started running away in the middle of one of our heartfelt • Haircuts and coloring, manicures and pedicures are conversations! This is where Chapter Two starts. not necessary. I never plan to do without them again. A group of us made the decision to socialize, normally, • I will never again take having toilet paper and paper and promised not to go outside of the “circle of trust.” We towels for granted! made a conscious decision if one of us would get the virus • You don’t have to be related to someone to consider then we all would! We did use masks, gloves, hand sanitizers them family. and antibacterial wipes. We didn’t just throw caution to the • If you have to be quarantined, the best place in the wind. world is Big Canoe. It’s my happy place. That was six weeks ago and I’m happy to report that we Who knows what the future brings or how long it will are all still healthy, knock on new wood. More importantly be before we get back to normal—whatever that may look we are all mentally healthy. like—at the end of COVID-19? I’m pretty sure by now I would have been institutional- I also don’t know what the future holds for me but I do ized for impersonating a squirrel monkey in a cage! Howev- know for right now, here is where I want to be. I’m sur- er, after this many weeks with the same group I think we all rounded by beauty, friends and wonderful loving support. miss our other friends and are ready for the veil to be lifted. Life is an adventure and all you can do is figure it out From all of this I have learned several valuable lessons. one day at a time. Here they are: Everyone stay safe and happy—and I look forward to • Really good friends will overlook the lack of a shower hugs again! and use of underwear. PHOTO COURTESY OF JILL PHILMON
Please share your garden shots with Smoke Signals readers each month. Send your photos PHOTO TAKEN IN BARBARA SCHNEIDER'S SIDE GARDEN, APRIL 25. to: [email protected] with a brief description of what's in the photo.
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homas (Tom) Reginald Gilliam, loving husband and father of four children, passed away on April 6 at age 76. T A former resident of Big Canoe, Gilliam was born on May 7, 1943 in Columbia, Tenn. He was honorably dis- charged from the United States Air Force and worked for L&N CSX Railroad as a conductor. He was a Mason and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion. His hobbies included playing the guitar/spoons, singing and cards. He also enjoyed listening to music, traveling, and watching University of Tennessee Football. Gilliam is preceded in death by his father Thaddeus Hazel Gilliam, mother Regina Catherine West and his previous wife Dianne Kaye Gilliam. Surviving are his wife; Peggy Dempsey Gilliam, daugh- ter Cynthia Gilliam Hubbs (Bart), from his former marriage to Martha McDonald; son John Thomas Gilliam (Crystal); daughter Summer Gilliam Mahan (Chad) son Anthony Welsh (Brandy) sister Beverly Jean Tresch and seven grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Founda- tion (www.helpfightra.org).
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PAID ADVERTISEMENT Re-Elect JEFF JOHNSON YOUR Dawson County Sheriff
It’s been my honor and privilege to serve as your sheriff. Together, we have made our community a safer place to live, work, worship and play.
I humbly ask for your continued support and your Vote on June 9th.
A friend and Partner to Big Canoe!
Humbled to be voted YOUR Best of Dawson 2019 and 2020 Best Elected Official and 2020 Best Boss
Sheriff Jeff Johnson is proud and honored to be your only sheriff’s candidate endorsed by the Police Benevolent Association of Georgia.
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Jeff Johnson, Dawsonville, GA 8 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020 POA approves NGV military tribute banner program
BY PHIL ANDERSON as a fitting tribute to the brave service Property Owners wanting to sponsor members we honor and will convey proudly a banner should visit the North Georgia n Thursday, April 23 the Big that Big Canoe is a patriotic and apprecia- Veterans website at http://www.ngvets. Canoe POA Board approved the tive community that will never forget their org/ and scroll down to click on the “NGV North Georgia Veterans (NGV) sacrifices. Military Tribute Banner Instructions” post- O Military Tribute Banner Program As pictured with this article the ed on the bulletin board portion of the home for Big Canoe Property Owners to honor two-sided color banners are 18” x 36” in size page. There you will find all of the details their deceased military veteran family and made of reinforced vinyl. Each banner to make your application on line and make members and close associates. At the time will be supported by two metal brackets payment by check. of the approval, supportive property owners attached to individual 2”x4” cedar posts. For the first 100+ banners ordered not had already committed to sponsoring 75 When the banners are on display, the cedar later than September 15, in time for receipt banners, subject to approval of the program posts will be installed in wooden “holsters” and display on Veterans Day, November 11, by the board. or sleeves attached to the guard rail support 2020, the price per banner has been reduced The NGV, in concert with the POA, posts on Lake Petit Dam. 10 percent from $150 to $135. Payment will boy scouts and wood workers, are proud Thanks to the Big Canoe Wood be by check to the NGV to cover the cost of to sponsor this program. Property owners Workers for their invaluable assistance in fabrication, supporting brackets, shipping, will now be able to sponsor military tribute the design and construction of the banner wood, hardware, storage, and any needed banners to honor their fathers, mothers, displays. Also, thanks to the Troop 20 Boy repairs and replacements. This program is family members and fellow veterans, who Scouts who will handle the placement and fully funded by the NGV and the banner are deceased former U.S. military service removal of the markers three times each sponsors and no POA funding is required. members, who were willing to make the year. As the scouts place and remove the When a sponsoring property owner per- ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedom. markers, it will be a re-occurring reminder manently relocates from Big Canoe, their While on display during the weeks that of the men and women who have served banner will be given to them as a special include Memorial Day, Independence Day before them and the importance of service keepsake. and Veterans Day, these banners will serve to the nation, in or out of the military. Department of Public Safety March Report COMPILED BY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETYAND FIRE CHIEF RICKY JORDAN
Public Safety reports were a regular monthly feature of Smoke Signals for years. After an extended absence from these pages, we are delighted to once again provide our readers with this Public Safety Department Report from Ricky Jordan. The report gives readers a good overview of Public Safety’s importance to the community and the life- saving role they play on a daily basis.
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Paid for by Committee to Elect Billy Thurmond MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 9 A
m Listing and Selling the Best of Big Canoe ... has earned its reputation for m QUALITY LISTINGS & SUPERIOR SERVICE
AUTHENTIC ALPINE LOG HOME SHOWCASE HOME NEW LISTING GENTLEMAN’S ESTATE FABULOUS VIEW AND DESIGN
SOLD
32 RACCOON RUN RIDGE 164 BOBCAT RIDGE DRIVE 1358 COX MOUNTAIN DRIVE 3088 SKITTS MOUNTAIN RD. 10 SUMMIT DRIVE WEST Exquisitely furnished Mtn Lodge “Cooking Light” Magazine’s Luxurious Mountain Living The Ultimate Country Retreat 180° Lake Petit Views! w/spectacular views, masterful Showcase Home 5BR, 4F, 2H BATHS ~ $1,000,000 4BR, 3BA, 2HLF BA, ~ $975,000 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $949,000 craftsmanship & complete tranquility 4BR, 6.5B ~ $1,150,000 6BR, 4.5BA ~ $1,200,000
30 MILE VIEWS LUXURY WITH A VIEW PRICE REDUCTION BEST SCHOOLS FABULOUS TIMBER FRAME
UNDER CONTRACT
476 WILDCAT DRIVE 80 TEABERRY LANE 18 NUGGET LANE 630 PORTICO POINT 371 MYSTIC TRAIL, THE Pristine custom David Hall Wildcat home Warm and Gracious Home in a great Quality Custom Home on 1.59 Acres Large Family Home on Private lot in PRESERVE AT SHARP MTN. with 30 mile long range views location w/Beautiful Mountain Views 4BR, 4.5BA ~ $689,000 Highly Sought Alpharetta SD Elegant Timber Frame Home in 4BR, 4.5BA ~ $949,000 5BR, 5.5BA ~ $775,000 7BR, 6 BA ~ $639,000 Premier Gated Community 3BR, 2FULL/2 HLF BA ~ $625,000
STYLE AND LOCATION NEW LISTING NEW LISTING MOTIVATED SELLERS! WONDERFUL FAMILY HOME
UNDER CONTRACT COMING SOON
234 PETIT RIDGE DRIVE 109 RED BUD PASS 113 SCONTI KNOLL DRIVE 78 HIGHLAND FARMS COURT 369 CHEROKEE TRAIL Custom Built Home in Prime Location Fabulous Family Home with Curb Southern Living Show Home Charming LIKE NEW Craftsman near Ken Rice built Custom 4BR, 3 FULL BA, 2 HALF BA Appeal in Blackwell Creek 4BR, 5BA ~ $547,500 Club w/Views Home on Corner Lot $599,000 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $599,000 3BR, 3.5BA ~ $499,000 4BR, 4BA ~ $459,000
PRISTINE COND W/PERFECT LOCATION FULLY FURNISHED HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE WALK TO INDIAN ROCKS PARK NEW LISTING
UNDER CONTRACT SOLD
74 CHEROKEE WAY 367 WINDFLOWER DRIVE 158 WOODSTREAM POINT 211 FALLEN DEER PATH 429 GROUSE GAP Beautiful Home in Great Neighborhood Turn Key! Total Remodel, Handicap Accessible, Beautifully Updated and Exceptional Custom Features and Best Location 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $389,000 Close to North Gate Move-In Ready! on 2.5 acre Estate Lot 4BR, 3BA ~ $434,500 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $375,000 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $375,000 3BR, 2.5BA ~ $350,000
PRICE REDUCTION FABULOUS LIKE NEW CONDO ADORABLE MOUNTAIN COTTAGE NEW LISTING FRESHLY PAINTED & NEW HVAC
SOLD SOLD UNDER CONTRACT
78 PONY LANE 1070 BROOK KNOLL LANE 57 SHAGGY MAPLE 21 YEARLING LANE 1752 RIDGEVIEW DRIVE Custom Built/Great Value & Location The Orchards at Brannon Oak Farm Open Plan exudes “Mountain” Charming Cabin in Great Location Wonderful Opportunity! A little 4BR, 3.5BA ~ $349,000 Cumming’s Nicest Active Adult charm on secluded cul-de-sac 3BR, 3BA ~ $249,000 vista pruning a you’ll have a Community 3BR, 3.5BA ~ $325,000 gorgeous interior BC view. 3BR, 3BA ~ $347,900 3BR, 2.5BA ~ $249,000 FEATURED HOMESITES...
• 2641 Sconti Point - Easy build end of cul-de-sac lot ON BOTH SIDES OF BLACKWELL CREEK with Lake Sconti and golf course views for only $30,000! SOLD • 6501 Buckskull Ridge - $149,000 • 238 Sanderlin Mtn Dr - $165,000 - Level entry lot with • 1264 Grouse Gap - $79,900 - Large Lot - BIG View! Big View to Amicolola, Dahlonega and Mt Yonah. • 470 Falcon Heights Lane - $90,000 - Views to Amicalola & Beyond! • 8133 Wilderness Parkway - $57,500 - Mature • 8256 Cox Mtn Rd - $99,000 - Big Canoe’s Finest View Lot - See it all! trees, natural hardwoods and 2 Streams! • 8188 Willow Dr, $55,900 - Great Lot with View SOCIAL DISTANCING? Safely visit all Big Canoe Homes on my website - NO registration required! www.CampriniandCompany.com Berkshire Hathaway Home Services|Georgia Properties|#1 Real Estate Company in greater Atlanta Y Prestigious Phoenix Award (11 Years Board of Realtors Circle of Excellence) Y Leading Edge, President, and Chairman’s Circle Gold Awards Y Lifetime Member Multi-Million Dollar Club Cell: (770) 856-9725 Berkshire Hathaway Home R Member 400 North Board of Realtors Services Georgia Properties R Accredited Buyer’s Representative (678) 513-2023 Jack Camprini R Certified Fine Home & International Property Specialist 325 Brannon Rd. Ste 200, Cumming GA 30041 REALTOR R Certified Skilled Negotiator Email: [email protected] BIG CANOE RESIDENT Information provided is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. 10 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020
The Pickens Report Coordinated response to COVID-19 main focus of county government BY TUCKER GREEN total calls; 720 were medical responses or Pickens County Public Information Officer fire related. • Animal Shelter brought in 28 ince the pandemic began months animals, and 36 went out through vari- ago the coordinated response to ous forms of adoption. Animal Control COVID-19 has been at the forefront responded to eight cases. S of Pickens County Government’s • Recreation Department made mission. The county government under the the difficult decision to cancel baseball, direction of the board of commissioners softball, and T-ball seasons in the interest has worked hand in hand with local, state, of public safety. Everyone who signed up and health officials. The situation in our will receive a refund. If you have questions county has been aided by citizens follow- concerning that process contact PCRD at ing the advice of public health officials. We 706-253-8863. encourage our citizens to continue to prac- • Road Department has been perform- tice social distancing and limit travel to es- ing routine road maintenance, and prep- sential activities. If citizens have a question ping roads for the upcoming paving season. regarding COVID-19 they can contact our Pickens County 911 Operations Center received 1,602 total calls in March; 720 were The Pickens County government information line at 706-253-8978. medical responses or fire related.PHOTO COURTESY OF PICKENS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS departments continue to stay busy working While COVID-19 is the main area of Board of Elections and Registration office www.census.gov. A more accurate count for the citizens of Pickens County. The focus for many, there is still important located at 83 Pioneer Road. allows for better service to the citizens. Pickens County Board of Commissioners events taking place. The Georgia Secre- Voters can also participate via absen- During the month of March, the Pick- continue to do a great job of leading these tary of State announced that the General tee ballot but must return the absentee bal- ens County: efforts. Stay connected with us by liking Primary is rescheduled for June 9 at local lot application mailed to them. If you have • Department of Planning and Devel- our Facebook page: Pickens County Ga precincts. Early voting will take place questions, contact the Board of Elections opment issued 33 new building permits. Government, follow us on Twitter: @pick- beginning May 18 and run through June 5 and Registration at 706-253-8781. Also, it is • Water Department installed three ensgagov and monitor our website: www. with a Saturday advanced vote option on important for citizens to participate in the new meters. pickenscountyga.gov for updates. May 30. All early voting takes place at the 2020 Census. It can be filled out online at • 911 Operations Center received 1,602 Good Sam now testing patients for COVID-19 asper’s Good Samaritan Health and Good Sam’s CEO, operations manager, Wellness Center is testing patients for and one of the part-time registered nurses all COVID-19. Good Sam continues to provide received their pharmacy tech certifications and Jvisits at a reduced rate based on income are out working the demanding front lines of the level with no additional cost for testing. Every pharmacy. The case manager has set up in the person entering the building has his or her tem- entryway of the clinic, taking temperatures and perature taken and is screened. screening every person who walks through the If COVID-19 testing is required, the staff doors. administers tests from the patient's vehicle. In In one week Good Samaritan set up ad- order to keep patients healthy and safe, Good ministrative staff and healthcare professionals Sam has implemented Telehealth visits for those with laptops and necessary software to work who do not need to be physically seen by the remotely from home. The entire Good Sam staff medical or behavioral health staff, and they are is dedicated to providing quality healthcare to not requesting up-front payment for these visits patients even with social distancing and quaran- at this time. To limit exposure for Good Sam’s tine barriers. at-risk patients, medications from its pharmacy Good Samaritan Health and Wellness Cen- will be delivered to Good Sam’s parking lot. ter is located at 175 Samaritan Drive, Jasper, GA The Good Samaritan staff has always come 30143. For more information go to http://www. together in times of need and its “all hands on goodsamhwc.org/ deck” spirit has allowed them to respond quick- ly and efficiently. To fill gaps left from at-risk Information provided by Good Samaritan Health volunteers and employees, the staff has gone and Wellness Center April 2020 Newsletter above and beyond their usual job descriptions to help keep operations running and patients safe. PHOTO BY JIM FRANCIS
PAID ADVERTISEMENT Ronald Reemsnyder ATTORNEY
Re-Elect ROB JONES Pickens County Commission Chair “EXPERIENCE MATTERS” 25 Year Resident of Big Canoe
3 ENHANCHING EMERGENCY SERVICES I have been selected by my peers as a 3 ADDING WATER RESOURCES “Super Lawyer” and also serve, when needed, as the Judge for the City of Dawsonville. 3 SAVING TAXPAYERS DOLLARS WHILE REDUCING DEBT 3 IMPROVING ROAD CONDITIONS My practice includes: 3 EXPANDING PARKS & RECREATION LIVING WILLS It’s been my honor to serve Pickens County since 2005. POWERS OF ATTORNEY I pledge to keep working for the citizens as we move WILLS our County forward. LITIGATION I am asking for your vote and support on June 9, 2020 Tel. 404-861-9798 UPDATED 2020 ELECTION DATES: Fax. 404-250-9355 Mail-in Absentee Ballot Application – NOW Vote Early May 18 – June 5, 2020 | Vote on Saturday – May 30, 2020 [email protected]
3 Vote on Election Day – June 9, 2020
www.FaceBook.com/RobJones2020PickensCommissionChair www.robjonespickens2020.com - 1211 South Main Street Jasper, GA 30143
Paid for by the committee to re-elect Rob Jones Commission Chair MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 11 A Ga COVID-19 cases climb; 51 in Dawson, 21 in Pickens as of 4/27 BY DENISE RAY nosed—and 942 deaths or 3.96 percent of on restricted duty to minimize contact with meetings, but all policy-making functions of [email protected] those diagnosed. others, before testing positive for the virus. the board, beyond those related to address- The Dawson County Sheriff's Office The deputy continues to recover at home. ing the COVID-19 pandemic, have been sus- s of April 27, there have been announced on April 5 that a deputy had Procedures at the Dawson County pended. Citizens are strongly encouraged to 51 reported cases of COVID-19 been diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease Detention Center have been stepped up to watch future meetings via online streaming. in Dawson County and one caused by the novel coronavirus. include more detailed medical screening, Those that choose to attend future meetings A death, 21 cases in Pickens with “The deputy is doing well and will be mandatory temperature checks, medical will be required to observe social distancing two deaths and 23,773 cases in Georgia, returning to duty soon,” Dawson County quarantines, and increased cleaning and measures, as stated in the resolution. Angela according to the Georgia Dept. of Health. Sheriff Jeff Johnson said. The affected depu- disinfections, Johnson added. Davis, Dawson County attorney, stated that The Georgia statistics include 4,433 ty, who is not a patrol officer, was originally The Dawson Board of Commissioners the 60-day period could be extended by the hospitalized—18.65 percent of those diag- diagnosed with a sinus infection and placed will continue to operate and hold public board, if needed. Pickens County man arrested for arson in April 20 Marble Hill fire nvestigators with the Insurance and Commissioner John F. King. “Inter-agency William Lanier Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office communication is very important in investi- Cantrell arrested recently assisted with the arrest of Wil- gating suspicious fires and finding the indi- for arson. I liam Lanier Cantrell, 47, of Marble Hill, viduals responsible for setting them. Thank PHOTO COURTESY OF Ga. for one count of arson in the first degree. you to the local and state investigators who INSURANCE AND SAFETY The charge stems from his alleged involve- worked together to quickly apprehended FIRE COMMISSIONERS ment in setting fire to a fifth-wheel camper this suspect.” OFFICE located off Old Harbin Road in Marble Hill Investigators with the Insurance and The arrest brings the total on April 20. Cantrell was booked into the Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office assisted number of individuals arrested Pickens County Jail on April 21, where he the Pickens County Fire Department and in Georgia with the assistance remains awaiting a bond hearing. the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office with this of the State’s Fire Investigations “The camper was completely destroyed investigation. Unit in 2020 to 28. by this unlawful act and just one day after First Degree Arson is a felony punish- Submitted by Georgia the fire occurred, the suspect was appre- able by a fine of no more than $50,000 or by Insurance and Safety hended by the Pickens County Sheriff’s a prison term between one and 20 years, or Camper destroyed by fire in Marble Hill.PHOTO COURTESY Fire Commissioner’s Office Office,” said Insurance and Safety Fire both. OF INSURANCE AND SAFETY FIRE COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE Georgia Primary absentee ballot applications on their way—again BY DENISE RAY es. Ferguson and her team did a self-ini- and will be held on June 9. The general Tractor Supply on Hwy. 53. [email protected] tiated mass mailing to residents of Big primary planned for May 19 will be held Personal protective equipment, Canoe for absentee ballot applications. on June 9. commonly referred to as PPE, and new rroneous absentee ballot applica- “It just about killed us, but we got it The June general primary includes voting machines will be used during this tion forms have wreaked havoc done,” Ferguson said. “We included inac- races for several county, state and federal election season for those wishing to vote for Dawson County residents. tive voters, post office box addresses and government positions, including two in person. E The third-party vendor’s residents of Big Canoe.” seats on the Dawson County Board of “The state originally said it would blunder resulted in completed applica- The next round of issues was the Commissioners, the Georgia State House supply items, but we’ve since been told to tions being misdirected to Decatur Coun- handling of mail by both Dawson and 9th District seat and the office of Dawson reach out ourselves, so I’m going to have ty, rather than Dawson County. Pickens county post offices. County Sheriff. hand sanitizer, face masks and gloves. Decatur County has been forwarding Many applications went to the Jasper Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 We will practice social distancing too,” each ballot as it is received, Glenda Fer- post office because of zip codes, but they p.m. on Election Day. Voter registration Ferguson said. “It’ll probably take longer guson, Dawson County Board of Elections were sent back to Dawson County, Fergu- cutoff for the June 9 election is May 11. to vote, so I hope people will be patient.” and Registration director, said, adding son said. Advance Voting begins May 18 and runs Practicing social distancing with that the slipup will not affect ballots for “The post office sent the majority until June 5 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 a limited number of people allowed to the June 9 primaries. to Jasper, which was the proper way to p.m. There will be Saturday voting on gather will also impact the voting process. “Decatur County is keeping a report process the mail, based on zip codes,” May 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All Saturday Most of the allowed number of people and all applications were sent immediate- Ferguson said. “They came back to us, and Advance Voting is at the Board of will be poll workers inside the voting ly to Dawson County,” Ferguson said. “It’s and when we received them, we re- Elections and Voter Registration Offices area, but the situation will be gauged and all straightened out.” mailed them.” in Dawson and Pickens counties. handled appropriately, Ferguson said. For voters who have not yet received “Residents should have received The following precincts serve Should the majority of voters cast an an application, Ferguson said voters may them by now,” Ferguson said. “I know Dawson County residents: West-Dawson absentee ballot, Ferguson said it would request one by emailing bpayne@daw- some haven’t because we’ve been getting County Fire Station #6 located at 2142 set a precedent. soncounty.org. phone calls.” Hubbard Road, Central- Dawson County “It takes a group of three or four to The state mailed absentee ballots State officials announced that the Board of Elections & Registration Office, open, slit and handle absentee ballots, based on street addresses and so began a presidential preference primary originally located at 96 Academy Avenue and the plus it’s got to be open to the public, too,” myriad of issues for Big Canoe residents scheduled for March 24, would be post- East precinct, Dawson County EMS sta- she said. “It’ll be a challenge, but we will whose mail is delivered to post office box- poned for a second time due to COVID-19 tion #2, located at 145 Liberty Drive, near do our best.” 12 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020
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TESTIMONIALS Level of service and Twice Over Goes the distance. It was a pleasure to work with Steve twice over. Our experience sound advice buying in Big Canoe with Steve as our realtor was such a positive Steve is by far the most I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you again for experience several years ago, it was obvious to us that we should trustworthy and calming agent the expertise you provided in marketing and selling my Big entrust him to list and sell it years later. that I have ever dealt with, and Canoe home. I especially appreciated your level of service Steve is an aggressive marketer and always accessible. his integrity and willingness to “go and sound advice in the process. With a large inventory He utilized all tools available to showcase our home to both the distance” for both his buyers of available homes on the market, I feel very fortunate to potential clients and other realtors. Finally, his wealth of knowl- and sellers is truly an amazing have sold the home so quickly, and credit you largely for edge and personality is such that he truly gains the confidence asset in our crazy World. the positive outcome. If I ever have the opportunity to recommend you to a friend or collegue, I would do so of the buyer or seller, simply because he always puts his client’s — Jamie and Charlie best interests, first. — Ed with no hesitation. — Shirley
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18 BLUEBIRD COURT 73 SUNUWA WAY 185 CRESTED FERN LANE $799,000 • 4BDS/3.5BA $849,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA $479,000 • 4BDS/4BA Lake Petit home w/270 feet Spectacular long-range NE mtn Master and guest room of shoreline. Park-like setting. views from custom designed on main. 3 plus acres with High quality, Ken Rice built home. Loaded with upgrades. mountain views and streams.
100 SUMMIT DRIVE 18 CHOCTAW RIDGE 329 REDBUD PASS $399,000 • 5BD/3.5BA $449,000 • 5BDS/4.5BA $589,000 • 4BDS/3.5BA Mountain Views, Level yard, Near Clubhouse/Trails, Blackwell Creek neighborhood, Near Gates/Amenities. EarthCraft & Energy Efficient Near Main Gate & hiking trails
898 PETIT RIDGE 263 HICKORY TRAIL 64 WILD TURKEY BLUFF 837 WILDCAT TRAIL $550,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA $189,000 • 4BDS/3BA $369,000 • 3BDS/3BA $719,000 • 5BDS/4.5BA Beautiful Mountain Views Cabin w/inlaw suite. Stream. 2car garage - Terrific long range 2Bd on main - Near North Gate. Freshly painted interior Circular drive. As is. NE mtn views. 2Bds on main. Like new construction (2013).
183 DEER RUN RIDGE 532 RED FOX DRIVE 1105 VALLEY VIEW DRIVE 33 CHOCTAW RIDGE $295,000 • 3BDS/2.5BA $685,000 • 4BD/4.5BA $285,000 • 3BDS/3.5BA $439,000 • 5BDS/4.5BA Beautiful Plummer Cabin on Private on 1.6 acres. Built by 2004 Built with Privacy Near Clubhouse & hiking trails. private setting w/Mtn view premier builder David Hall. Open floor plan EarthCraft Energy Efficient Home.
80 SANDERLIN DRIVE 52 CRESTED IRIS CIRCLE 316 HUNTERS TRACE 289 SANDERLIN MTN DR. $444,900 • 5BD/4BA/2HBA $329,900 • 4BR/4BA $750,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA $799,000 • 3BDS/3.5BA Beautiful long range Mtn views Great value/Mtn views Beautiful Mountain View New construction to be built. Level circular drive Two beds on main near Gate. Gorgeous home Long range mountain views. UNDER CONTRACT
356 BLAZINGSTAR TRAIL 75 BUCKSKULL HOLLOW 6 LAUREL RIDGE POINT 112 TWIN CREEKS DRIVE $750,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA $199,900 • 5BD/2BA $310,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA $489,000 • 4BDS/4.5BA Master Suite with study/FP Cabin near amenities Excellent rental potential 2 Car Garage/Private Guest on entire 2nd floor Excellent rental history Potential view of lake/mtns Suite - Close to Gate/Amenities SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD
7 CRAFTSMAN TRAIL 51 INDIGO BUNTING TRL 19 THRASHER WAY 201 ROYAL FERN $535,000 • 5BDS/4BA $599,900 • 5BD/4.5BA $375,000 • 4BDS/2.5BA $549,900 • 3BDS/4.5BA HOMESITES 7320 Skyline Dr @ $169k - flat lot w/long range views, end of cul de sac/The Bluffs. 5573 Red Fox Lane @ $124.9k - Private 3.28 acre homesite w/beautiful NE views towards Amicalola Falls. 3576 Blazingstar @ $92k - Mtn views w/hiking trail behind homesite, end of cul de sac, in Wildcat. Price Reduced 3419 Bluestern NW @ $69k - Terrific value in Wildcat neighborhood. Easy build homesite. Price Reduced 7207 Ridgeview @ $40k - Big views towards Atlanta skyline. Great value. - Seller Very Motivated. Price Reduced 8171 Post Oak Lane at $25k - easy built, views, builder willing to build spec. 64 Wrens Nest @ $25k. Beautiful mountain views, Level 3 Soil Survey approved by County for 3 bed home.Terrific value. 6235 Windflower Drive at $8.9k - Great value SOLD Steve Yambor 678-848-3630 cell www.bigcanoe.com Email: [email protected] Remember to Ask For Steve MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 13 A
News SMOKE SIGNALS | MAY 2020 | 13A ‘Let’s do this:’ Rotary, area volunteers respond to need for face masks to protect the community
BY DON MARTIN District Governor, Rotary District 6910
ometimes a very small event sets a much larger one in motion. On the morning of March 20, Pat- S tie Kenney, who is an assistant governor from Blairsville, forwarded me a short note from Mike and Jennie Priven from the Rotary Club of Union County. The Priven’s daughter had seen an article about the need for surgical masks and wanted to know if maybe we could mobi- lize Rotarians to help meet that need. The short answer is: Yes. Within hours there were emails, texts, photos, and serious questions bouncing around the internet. There was immediate con- Miriam Hardage, a volunteer Eva Roberts Saur, a volunteer cern that these homemade masks were from First Mountain City from Pickens County. not appropriate for front line use; but Quilters. there was an equally immediate response that they could be used by non-front line folks who just needed some protection and could use these masks instead of the N95 masks. Then almost as quickly it was said frontline folks could wear them over their N95 masks to make them last longer. Within a day, all those questions were overcome by Rotarian “let’s do PHOTOS COURTESY OF JASPER ROTARY CLUB this” attitude, and the project was off and running. Regina Martin, past president of "They are sewing two types. the Rotary Club of Jasper, started working the phones and within hours a sewing One is to provide cover for the N95 brigade was growing. The ladies from The masks to extend the life and the other First Mountain Quilters, were joined by the Pine Needle Quilt Guild in Big Canoe, is for the general public known as PPE Volunteer Connie Kirk from Regina Martin, past president the ladies from Fellowship Presbyterian or personal protective equipment." Fellowship Presbyterian Church. of Jasper Rotary. Church, Jasper First United Methodist Church and others were recruited. masks in to be distributed here. working to produce as many masks as Risk Children. If you have masks available Word spread to Canton where Lil- Over in Athens, Elaine Cook, the possible. They are sewing two types. One or would like to make masks, please reach liane and Laney Cline, the granddaughters president of the Rotary Club of Athens is to provide cover for the N95 masks to out to Nancy Anderson of Trio Com- of Canton Rotarian Marguerite Cline, was rallying the troops to support Pied- extend the life and the other is for the munity Meals at 770-315-8482. Or nancy. were hard at work making masks while mont Hospital, getting thousands of masks general public known as PPE or personal [email protected] on their school “holiday.” There was including even a company to make them protective equipment. So far, they have During this time of unprecedented plenty of work for all kinds of skills, so from recycled plastic. (They don’t call delivered over 400 masks to the Greene challenge, we can come together to help Monique Vinelli of Bent Tree volunteered her “The Queen of Masks” for nothing.) County Food Pantry, Three Rivers Re- others and ourselves. Rotary Connects to identify specific requirements and help Down in Greene and Putnam counties, habilitation, The Harbor, The Glenn and the World is not just a theme—it is what get hundreds of masks delivered to Rock Tina Fischlin, the district governor elect, various businesses in our area. we do and this year we are doing it by Creek Manor, The Retreat at Jasper, Sun- published a “call to action” on Next Door As we go to press, Regina just had protecting one precious face at a time. shine Mansion, Hospice, Piedmont Moun- in the Lake Oconee Community and found a call requesting support for perhaps tainside Hospital and the Jasper Police many folks who were willing to do just 2,000-3,000 masks for the 100 kitchens Reprinted with permission Department. We even have participation that. A friend of hers, Dipti Steele, agreed and delivery personnel across the coun- from Rotary Club of Jasper from South Dakota as Lillian Rost, who is to help organize the team and they now try that provide the meals for “Meals on a part of an on-line sewing group, mailed have over 15 runners, cutters, sewers Wheels,” adult day care centers and At- Boys & Girls Clubs of North Georgia continue to change lives, make a difference BY MELISSA HARVEY threat of serious illness looms over every- bicycle. The grandest prize, of course, is to one; people are isolated and stressed. Now see youth in these clubs thrive and continue very Friday, when the world is nor- more than ever, communities need signs growing into “productive, caring, responsi- mal, John Daher makes his way to of hope. People need to be reminded of the ble citizens.” Boys & Girls Clubs of North Geor- beauty inherent in the spirits of generous Boys & Girls Club of America E gia (BGCNG) in Pickens County to souls who freely give to support each other. (BGCNG’s parent organization) was found- play pool. And make crafts. And—Mr. John That is precisely where BGCNG shines ed as an outreach to youths in communities as he is known by the kids—mentors young brightest. across the United States. Clubs serve as minds and hearts. Daher, a resident of Big BGCNG’s stated mission is “To enable safe spaces for youth to explore, learn, grow Canoe, is one of many volunteers whose all young people, especially those who and connect. Trained staff work one-on-one time and presence is invaluable to the more need us most, to reach their full potential with each child to cater to individual needs than 300 youth served by the BGCNG as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” and learning requirements. of Pickens County and its sister clubs in All while having as much fun as humanly BGCNG proudly runs debt-free. Staff Fannin and Gilmer counties (plans to found possible. BGCNG is making more than 700 are careful and conscious stewards of all a Club in Dawson County in the near future In stressful times, it can be a challenge “Learning Kits” each week to hand out incoming donations. Even in crises like the are underway). to keep these things in mind, but the staff at to families that come to get meals. PHOTO one the world currently faces, BGCNG is But the world is not so normal right BGCNG is dedicated to staying connected COURTESY OF BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF NORTH GEORGIA diligent with resource use. Staff are commit- now, and it falls to the reaches of our hearts with their club members. For that reason, ted to making necessary cuts and changes and imaginations to find solutions that BGCNG has a number of programs and more the young people thrive. to keep their clubs sailing above water. keep us connected and safe. At BGCNG, tools available to parents and kids that help Just because the buildings are empty Every dollar donated is a dollar going to that is exactly what the staff is dedicated to them stay engaged. And the outpouring of does not mean the clubs are inactive. Quite support an organization putting everything achieving. The kids in these clubs don’t stop volunteer support is nothing short of heart- the opposite. BGCNG staff take proactive it has back into the communities it serves. needing mentors and guiding hands when warming. steps to reach out to club members and For this reason, volunteers are worth times turn strange. If anything, they need Outreach is not limited to club mem- families weekly. Their goal is to remain their weight in gold at BGCNG. All are them more. bers. Entire families are cared for and con- engaged in their lives and to make sure their welcome to join in the fun. Like Daher, In this crisis, many things are uncer- nected with club activities and programs. needs are being met. Because they know the volunteers mentor and guide and support tain. People face job and food insecurity; the Because the more the families thrive, the importance of reminding people they are youth in a variety of ways. The most im- cared for. portant function of these clubs is the work A major focus currently underway for volunteers and staff put into showing each the hard-working BGCNG staff of nine is child their own value and ability. Learning Kits, a virtual learning program All clubs are individually owned and I’ll help you to prepared and delivered in collaboration operated. Donors wishing to support a with the Pickens County Board of Educa- specific club are encouraged to give to that tion. Each week, volunteers gather to put organization directly. BGCNG is thankful drive happy... together more than 800 kits stuffed with for every donor and volunteer, and staff family friendly activities and games, learn- are working tirelessly to ensure each club Switch and ing tools, arts and crafts, science projects is ready to welcome members and families and more. The kits are passed out to any back with open arms once it is determined youth and their family at locations around safe to re-open their doors. Save the county each Thursday where lunches While their doors might be closed, are provided to children. their hearts are still open. And their mission The Gilmer County Kiwanis Club remains the same. Now, when they need us Call us to get our Rates recently sent five volunteers to the Pickens most, the BGCNG wants to do whatever it County BGCNG center to help put these takes to continue to support the children in FRAN FARIAS, Agent kits together. The spirit of community and their clubs and throughout the community coming together to help each other through and to help them achieve their dreams. Phil Farias, Marketing this crisis is a prominent theme among all Times are strange and stressful, but Tim Fore, Business Mgr. who support BGCNG. with organizations like BGCNG actively www.FranFarias.com BGCNG recently launched a new engaged to make a difference in communi- 770-668-0222 program called the GIVE365 Society. Partic- ties, those same communities will emerge ipating individuals, companies and organi- from this crisis stronger than ever when the zations commit to investing $1 per day for world returns to normal. ® Here to help life go right. Big Canoe Resident Since 2000 365 days to the ongoing work and efforts For more information on the many of BGCNG. To help get things started, a ways you can become involved and donate, generous donor has offered to match dollar contact the BGCNG administrative office at for dollar donations made in 2020. 706-253-2582, ext. 2 or visit bgcng.org. You To sweeten the deal even further, can also follow them on Facebook (Boys & donors to the GIVE365 campaign will be en- Girls Clubs of North Georgia) and Insta- State Farm tered to win a number of prizes, including a gram (bgcnorthgeorgia). 1708158 Bloomington, IL limited-edition Harley Davidson collector’s 14 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020 Books
Doing around while social distancing social contact and when he announced that it was time to do around, it was his polite TURNED way of letting us know he wanted to avoid talk that held no interest for him. PAGES I last saw Burl more than 50 years ago but I still think of him, mostly when I piddle around in my shop, where I have several KEN REYNOLDS uncompleted projects, one undertaken when I knew him. Were he still alive, Burl would be concerned about COVID-19, but y wife and I take the corona- I think he would pay no attention to the virus pandemic seriously. We social distancing. And I suspect the rate at are chronologically old and we which he repaired his equipment would not M have an immunosuppressed change. His wife, I am sure, would miss her daughter. Going full bore with physical evening chats with neighbors. distancing and staying at home is not an There are many folks for whom social option for us. Like most people, social or interaction is vital. Some will get cabin physical distancing is bothering us. Our fever and others will get so bored they will family hugs, and it is difficult to change a piddle with their uncompleted projects or way of life. We are retired, and the little bit start new ones. Staying away from other of work we do happens at home. people may drive them to do real work on, Our daily routine remains intact, but and maybe complete some of their projects. we miss visiting friends, going to movies Somebody’s idea of paradise. PHOTO BY JOHN TORNOW VIA FLICKR.COM Using the few hours gained by staying and eating out. No interaction with other living with someone with no interest in Over time, I came to understand doing home to finish my projects seemed like a people has given us a few more hours each socializing brought to my mind a family I around was his version of something like promising idea, but I expect it won’t hap- week. Filling those hours will be a problem lived with my senior year in college. piddling. Doing around might mean think- pen. Maybe I am emulating Burl. Back then, for some people, but not for me. In addition The patriarch, Burl, was president of ing about repairing something, or getting I admired his doing around. Now, when I to hours I spend reading, I also occasionally the local machinist union and a part-time things arranged so that he could repair decide to work on a project, I find it neces- venture into my little workshop, ostensibly farmer. If he was not at his farm, after the something in the future. He did often do the sary to think about my course of action, and to work on a project. evening meals, he inevitably said something repair work, although his wife told me most there is always a lot of necessary prepa- When we talked through our decision like, “I’m gonna mosey out back and do of the equipment had been there for years. ration. Sometimes I get through the prep to stay apart from other people, I thought around.” His wife enjoyed sitting on the The taciturn Burl appeared happy to work and make actual progress. But most of my list of unfinished and not-yet-begun front porch visiting with neighbors, but just “do around” by himself, but if I asked a times, if I am not reading, I just do around projects, speculating I would make progress Burl—not inclined to talk unless the subject question about the equipment or his farm, —a way of life I see no need to change. on them. Full disclosure: I am a world- was machinery or farming—disappeared he became downright chatty. Don’t think class procrastinator. Yesterday, I spent into his enormous backyard. Burl as lazy. He was not. He was a highly Ken Reynolds is two hours piddling around rearranging my I assumed “do around” meant work on productive and competent machinist, a Smoke Signals’ Books shop. the machines lining two sides of the yard. multi-term president of his local union and Feature Editor. He is We are both introverts and com- His farm was several miles away, but his he raised cattle, corn and soybeans on his addicted to books and fortable being alone. We are, however, backyard held a tractor, a harrow, a welder, 200 acres with only occasional help. to questioning why concerned about our friends who are a truck, and miscellaneous other pieces Burl’s doing around combined piddling things are the way they extroverts, particularly those who live of equipment, all in need of repair. One and loafing—although the only work he are. Email kreynolds@ with an introvert. Most of them have been evening I wandered into the yard and found avoided was repairing equipment to make smokesignalsnews.com. together for decades and cope well with Burl sitting on one of the machines filling his farming easier. I find it hard to justify their differences. Thinking about extroverts his pipe. There were no tools in sight. calling that loafing. What he did avoid was KEN REYNOLDS BOOK REVIEW Help save independent book shops
By KEN REYNOLDS the dynamics, and those shops like other Presidents vs. the Press [email protected] small businesses are closing, and many will not reopen. BY STEVE DONOGHUE “The Presidents ames Patterson donated $500,000 to James Patterson knows those shops vs. the Press: help struggling booksell- are important. Some people he title of renowned Lincoln The Endless ers across America. He consider books and book scholar Harold Holzer’s new Battle Between J and Reese Witherspoon shops and libraries as book is not The Presidents and the White ask book lovers to help. non-essential, but Patterson the Press. There’s an antago- T House and the Coronavirus is wreaking knows better, and the prolif- nism in the title’s “vs” that has been re- Media - from havoc on all kinds of indus- ic author is doing something flected in reality since both the free press The Founding tries, and small businesses are to help the independent and the presidency were enshrined in the Fathers to Fake suffering. Many of the independent shops booksellers; he donated $500,000 to the United States Constitution. News.” By selling non-essential items likely will not Save Indie Book Stores Fund. Partly this is understandable. At its Harold Holzer. survive the upheaval. Among the casual- His publisher says Patterson personally best, the press is intended to represent the Dutton, 464 pgs. ties will be large numbers of independent is encouraging other people to help with the people’s interest, uncovering corruption Aug. 2020. bookstores. Before the internet, almost fund. Literacy and libraries are Patterson’s and abuses that the general public should every town had at least one independent passion. Last year he gave $1.25 million to very much know about. At its worst, the dling press briefings, and so on. However, bookseller but the change in marketing and help fund classroom libraries. Some sources presidency is an autocracy that very much as Holzer points out, “The biggest impact the advent of Amazon almost destroyed the indicate he has donated at least $75 million, likes to keep its own secrets —and deeply Kennedy exerted on American television business. The number of independent book- mostly to help assure that young people can dislikes being challenged, much less in- audiences came with his untimely mur- stores fell to approximately 1,650 locations enjoy and benefit from reading. vestigated. Too often in the last 240 years, der.” in 2009. Patterson joins Reese’s Book Club, these two vital American institutions have Some details may not be so famil- Then an amazing thing happened. The the Book Industry Charitable Foundation brought out the worst in each other. iar. Younger readers may not know, for country began to recognize the value in (Binc), the American Booksellers Associ- Americans in 2020 are getting a daily instance, that President Carter often had places where readers could have a face-to- ation (ABA) in supporting the fund. They reminder of this fact, which demonstrates a witheringly negative view of the press, face conversation about reading and get encourage book lovers across American to the prescience of Holzer’s book. Donald which, Holzer points out, was quickly knowledgeable advice on what to read next. donate what you can to help these strug- Trump’s frequent COVID-19 press events reciprocated. “Carter,” he writes, “whose More shops opened and reached 2,550 loca- gling businesspeople. regularly degenerate into shouting match- failures came to outpace his triumphs, tions last year. The steady rise in enthusi- To donate, go to https://www. es between self-righteous reporters and soon gave press critics ample fodder for asm for bookshops indicated a bright future. saveindiebookstores.com/ or #SaveIndie- a defensive, deceitful president —specta- filleting.” Likewise, readers will find it In our digital world, book shops were Bookstores. cles that every adult American ought to interesting to learn that part of FDR’s becoming social places. COVID-19 changed find embarrassing. In a series of deeply talent at handling the press might have researched and wonderfully readable come from his days working on the “Har- chapters, Holzer demonstrates that this is vard Crimson.” The chapter on Richard BOOK REVIEW just an outrageous 21st-century version of Nixon, whose presidency was ended by a relationship that’s always been rocky. the investigations of the free press, is par- Holzer doesn’t profile every single ticularly riveting reading. When Holzer Violent storm sinks 10 boats, kills 40 president; rather, he picks and chooses the quotes Ronald Reagan who hoped to be most memorable and pertinent. There’s remembered as “the President who made BY OLIVE T REED and heart wrenching as she Washington and Jefferson and Jackson, Americans believe in themselves again,” describes the lives of the but no Fillmore or Buchanan or Monroe. he goes on to conclude: “his controversial ou know, it seems no matter how women who lost men in There’s both of the Roosevelts and Wood- policies notwithstanding, Reagan will tough life gets, there is always the storm. row Wilson, but no Taft or McKinley. likely go down in history for precisely that someone who has, or had, it The women see no All our modern presidents receive ample achievement.” (Readers can quietly add Y tougher. If I had doubted it be- choice other than to do the treatment, although considering Ronald “$2.7 trillion Federal debt” on their own.) fore, Kiran Millwood Hargrave’s novel “The work their men had done as Reagan’s masterful manipulation of the Holzer handles his material with skill Mercies” convinces me that it didn’t get a there is no one else to do it. press, it’s odd to find him merely sharing and intense readability, choosing quotes whole lot tougher than life in a Norwegian "The Mercies." They receive help and guid- a chapter with George H.W. Bush. And with exquisite precision and display- Arctic fishing village around 1617. We 21st By Kiran ance from the indigenous Donald Trump, who’s been referring to ing everywhere the warm insight that Century Americans have life so easy (by Millwood. Sami. What the women do the press as “the enemy of the American made his earlier books so enjoyable. But comparison). As tough as it was for men, it Hargrave is unheard of and strictly people” since before he was elected, natu- his subject couldn’t be grimmer, as he was worse for women, and even more so for Little, Brown against the social codes of rally commands a chapter of his own. acknowledges in his parting discussion of women who broke tradition and did “men’s and Company, the time. Because of the Some of this will already be familiar Donald Trump and the term “fake news,” work.” Even though violating traditional 352 pages. women’s actions and the to readers of presidential histories; indeed, which Trump has very, very often used to ways was their only means of survival. February 2020. influence of the pagan Sami, Holzer’s own book on President Lincoln describe verifiable facts he simply doesn’t Let me say here that I am not a fan of the local pastor requests and the press had a wide and well-de- like. As the well-known saying goes, you dystopian novels, but I do like stories set in help from Absalom Cornet, a witch burner served readership. All the familiar stories may be entitled to your own opinions, but Scandinavia, and “The Mercies” is not about from Scotland. He pleads for Cornet to help are here: Theodore Roosevelt regaling you’re not entitled to your own facts. Hol- life after a nuclear holocaust or a disease their isolated village, “Even here, at the edge reporters for hours with his most incendi- zer is entirely right to be worried about caused pandemic. It is about life among of civilization, souls must be saved.” ary opinions but declaring virtually all of it the precedents being set. humans who are striving to survive and Cornet arrives with his young Norwe- to be off the record (and creating a special And because they are precedents, we nurture one another and for doing that face gian wife. She is startled and fascinated to “traitors club” for any writer who broke all should be worried, regardless of the condemnation by religious zealots. see women acting independently. Cornet is the pact); Franklin Roosevelt expecting results in November. Hargrave premised her story on real dismayed because he sees a godless place a gentleman’s agreement that the press events. In 1619, off the coast of northeast filled with evil. It is a place he must save. would omit descriptions or photos of his Steve Donoghue is a book reviewer whose Norway, a sudden violent storm sank 10 British author, poet, and playwright physical disability (and his Secret Service work has appeared in the Wall Street fishing boats and killed 40 men from the Kiran Millwood Hargrave is best known for simply blockading anybody who tried to Journal, the Washington Post, the Boston village of Vardo. Hargrave made her debut her writing for children. “The Mercies” is disobey); John F. Kennedy suavely han- Globe, and the Christian Science Monitor. novel for adult readers thought provoking her first novel for adults. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 15 A Books
A Few New Books DIXON BRADSHAW Hilary Mantel was a real factor in new book, Just Like [email protected] closes the hugely America and Wiscon- Us, Borstelmann popular Thomas sin Senator Joseph identifies a paradox- FICTION Cromwell trilogy McCarthy’s name ical perception of for- In his latest nov- with The Mirror & was on everyone’s eigners as different el, The King at the the Light. In this vol- lips and he inspired yet fundamentally Edge of the World, ume, following “Wolf love and respect and sharing American Arthur Phillips, the Hall” and “Bring Up fear and hatred. Be- values beneath the acclaimed author the Bodies.” Anne cause he was so po- layers of culture. of “Prague,” under- Boleyn is dead, larizing, and because He contends that takes the tale of how Henry VIII is with of the long shadow he increasing contact Queen Elizabeth I Jane Seymour, and Cromwell continues to cast in America’s Cold War struggle against with peoples around utilized intrigue and gather power and wealth. But, even when it communism, McCarthy will likely continue the globe during the Cold War encouraged agents to broaden was happening in real-time, one never knew to be the subject of new books as previ- mainstream society to grow steadily more England’s reach and how long Henry’s capriciousness could be ously unknown material surface. Author inclusive. He provides a reflective, exam- expand its interna- avoided. Cromwell has only his wits to hold Larry Tye gained access to a previously ination of how Americans have conceived tional might. Readers who are among the off his ever-growing list of enemies. Good unreleased archive of the senator’s writings of foreignness and our exceptionalism multitudes fascinated by royal intrigue stuff this one, and fans will not be disap- and correspondence. Houghton Mifflin, 608 throughout the nation’s history. Columbia will enjoy this one. A Muslim physician pointed. Plus it is a lengthy tale. Henry Holt pages, July 2010. University Press, 272 pages, May 2020. becomes entangled in the political intrigue, and Co., 764 pages, March 2010. where what is said could be what is meant, or may mean something else. Random NON-FICTION Banished diseas- The Colt House, 288 pages, May 2020. Coffee is indis- es have returned. In pistol, with its pensable for billions The Doctor Who revolving cylin- of people, and it is Fooled the World, der, was the first In a spring with- the source of the award-winning in- practical firearm out spring training world’s most popular vestigative reporter that could shoot and summer without drug. It also is one Brian Deer unmasks more than one baseball, a novel of the world’s most the players and un- bullet without re- titled The Cactus valuable commodities. earths the facts. He loading. Colt’s gun, League must intrigue Augustine Sedgewick, answers: Where did patented in 1836, fans. But Emily Ne- City University of it began? Who was had a profound mens’ book is much New York, focuses on responsible? How did they pull it off. Who impact was on the more than baseball. the highlands of El Salvador. It was there that paid? Thanks to Deer's discoveries, British expansionism of The setting is spring Englishman James Hill applied the principle doctor Andrew Wakefield was banned from the American west, where white emigrants training in Scotts- of industrialization to coffee plantations. medicine, then fled to the United States to and US soldiers came to depend on it. The dale, and the bright light of the Los Angeles Although the local men and women who pursue his ambitions. In an investigation six-shooter became the iconic weapon Lions is M.V.P. Jason Goodyear. Readers get worked the plantations suffered, Hill and his spread across 15, Deer battles medical secre- of gunslingers, outlaws, and cowboys. In to know Jason from the viewpoints of his heirs prospered. Coffeeland: One Man’s cy and insider cover-ups, smear campaigns making the revolver, Colt also changed agent, his ex-wife, a groupie, his manager, Dark Empire and the Making of our Favor- and lawsuits, to uncover rigged research American manufacturing—his factory the team owner, a seven-year-old boy, the ite Drug is a clear-eyed, well written account and moneymaking schemes, the heart- revolutionized industry in the United States. batting coach and a pitcher hiding and of how coffee, over 500 years, morphed breaking plight of families struggling with In Revolver: Sam Colt and the Six-Shooter injury. You may have guessed that Jason is from a mysterious tradition into a necessity. disability, and the scientific scandal of our That Changed America, author Jim Rasen- a character, a man with problems, but each Penguin Press, 448 pages, April 2020. time. Johns Hopkins University Press, 408 berger’s biography brings the ambitious and of the individuals who talk to readers about pages, May 2020. innovative industrialist Samuel Colt to life. Jason has problems. The book is about Scribner, 448 pages, May 2020. baseball, although the action is limited, as it Demagogue: The Life and Long Shad- is about the game and a defective man who ow of Senator Joe McCarthy is about a Thomas Borstelmann, Professor of is a star player. Told by a writer who knows man, who other than the founding fathers, is Modern World History at the University the game. Farrar, Strauss & Giroux, 288 among America’s most written about politi- of Nebraska, explores what foreignness pages, February 2020. cians. In the early 1950s, guilt by association has meant across American history. In his
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Paid for by The Friends of Jeff Perry, Dawsonville, GA 16 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020 OPINION Chaotic November 2020? BY KEN REYNOLDS will not worry about, but there is concern [email protected] that the postage amounts to a poll tax. In America, voting is not supposed to cost the e are six months away from voter money. The last state poll tax laws what could become the most were declared unconstitutional in 1966. contentious campaign and Of course, the Georgia Secretary of W disputed presidential elec- State did not want to spend $3.5 million tion in recent history. The current division by adding postage to the ballot requests. between the two major parties is significant, Historically, only about 7 percent of Georgia and the potential for a greater division is voters vote by mail. In its federal lawsuit, real. the ACLU also says the stamp requirement We have dealt with contentious adds additional burdens on voters who do campaigns in the past, and when they were not regularly use the mail or keep stamps on over, we moved on. Since the Bush vs. Gore hand. By venturing out to buy stamps, they election in 2000, moving on has not gone as risk needless exposure to the coronavirus. smoothly as before. Still, after each election, Another potential problem with voting our government has continued to func- by mail in the November election is that tion—effectively or not, depending upon the nation may not have mail delivery to individual political convictions. every address in November. The US Postal A pandemic during a presidential Service is on the verge of insolvency. Since election is uncharted territory. Already, 2006, the Service has sought congressional the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic has relief from pension funding requirements disrupted some primary elections—the imposed by Congress. Like other busi- tortuous legal scramble over the recent The states and the federal government vote by mail. nesses, the Postal Service is losing income Wisconsin primaries, for example— and have had more than three years to address Despite efforts by public libraries and because of the virus and predicts it will be threatens to disrupt the usual post-con- the security issues raised in 2016. Each state other entities, not every voter has inter- out of cash by the end of September. The vention campaign process for the coming must have a realistic plan for ensuring its net access. To my knowledge, that access administration has refused to include the presidential election. Even when elections election results are legitimate, even if poll- requires personally visiting a public place, Service in the national COVID-19 relief proceed normally, there is justifiable public ing places are understaffed. Although the which is as risky as in-person voting at a packages. concern about divisive campaign rheto- November election is a national election, regular polling place. None of these problems are insur- ric and security of ballots. We still have the states have the Constitutional respon- Vote by mail has promise in that every mountable, but they do require action now. unresolved issues about hacking and foreign sibility for choosing the president. Making voter has access to the US Postal Service, Only the federal government can assure interference. certain the election goes forward smoothly but the mail option means voters must that we have internet service and that mail Complaints about the farcical pseudo is a state responsibility, not the federal decide upon their candidates before election service to every address in the United debates and the unnecessarily long cam- government. day. In Georgia, any voter may vote by mail, States will continue. But each state has the paign period abound. We can adjust to an If one state fails, and and the vote tally but the election office must receive the responsibility for the voting process within unusual campaign, but possible pandemic in that state is challenged in court, we may ballot by 7:00 p.m. on election day. Those its boundaries. If one fails in its prepara- caused disruption of the popular voting all wish for the civility of the 2000 hanging who delay their decision until election day tion…. process, coupled with ballot security issues chad dispute. must deliver the mail-in-ballot in person or Editor’s note: On April 15, the Georgia portend a legally contested outcome. Some states plan to use mail-in-ballots risk it not arriving on time. State Election Board voted to allow primary If the virus threat continues into and or on-line voting. Let me emphasize; An interesting problem concerning election absentee voters to turn in ballots November, voters may be risking their some states are preparing. But, even if every voting by mail in the 2020 Georgia primary at drop boxes. The official boxes will be health by voting in person. At best, only a state prepares one or both of those op- is currently in the news. The state requires installed on government property. The drop small number will be afraid of exposure to tions, other problems require some form of voters to add postage to mail-in-ballot boxes will be optional, because some counties the virus. The fear will be there even if the national attention to assure every voter has requests. The current cost of a first-class might not be prepared to install them in time. pandemic abates, but the threat remains. a voice in November —internet voting and stamp is 55 cents. An amount most people The vote applies only to the primary.
Lockdown Life changes so make sure A reflection written March 13, 2020 retirement plans are flexible by hospice chaplain Fr. Richard Hendrick, OFM Yes, there is fear. BY TEB BOWMAN Yes, there is isolation. Yes, there is panic buying. ost of us have considered and entered into Yes, there is sickness. retirement as a conscious decision. How- Yes, there is even death. ever, to me the events of the last few years, But, which included placing my wife into assist- M They say that in Wuhan after so many years of noise ed living care and her passing, have revealed that it is important to periodically consider a change to whatever You can hear the birds again. retirement plans that may have been made in the past. They say that after just a few weeks of quiet For my wife and me in our early 60s, Big Canoe The sky is no longer thick with fumes seemed like an ideal retirement home location. Now 13 But blue and grey and clear. years later—after several major life changes—things look They say that in the streets of Assisi different. Often, when first considering retirement prior to People are singing to each other across age 65, usually the following are discussed between Two items in particular need consideration. First the empty squares, keeping their windows open so significant others as part of the plan. is medical facility availability. Determining the time to that those who are alone may hear the sounds 1. Do you have appropriate documents up to date reach significant medical assistance is the most basic of family around them. such as will, power of attorney, health care consider- research. Consider what medical resources are now They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland ations, burial considerations, etc.? available and how much time it takes for medical assis- Is offering free meals and delivery to the housebound. 2. Do you have a financial plan? tance to be effective—both to arrive at your home or for 3. Do you have safety concerns? you to transport your loved one. Today a young woman I know is busy spreading fliers 4. Do you have medical concerns? Second is the general concept of safety. A big part with her number through the neighborhood 5. Do you have other family concerns? of this inevitably involves traffic. No matter what, with So that the elders may have someone to call on. 6. Do you have amenity concerns? advancing age most of us find roads more difficult to Today Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and Temples There certainly may be other considerations, but maneuver and they appear to be darker at night. It goes are preparing to welcome and shelter the homeless, these are usually considered minimal and critical to any without further emphasis that all of us will probably the sick, the weary. retirement venture. wish to drive less over time and ultimately give up one’s After such considerations, most of us make a deci- driver’s license. All over the world people are slowing down sion as to where and how we will live. The outstanding This has obvious impacts on our living conditions and reflecting natural surroundings in Big Canoe often drive the deci- over time. Certainly there are other considerations, but All over the world people are looking at their neighbors sion to move here either part time or full time. these two generally remain paramount. Fortunately, in in a new way But there is more. And, it is almost certain that many areas there are voluntary organizations such as Big All over the world people are waking up to a new reality because there is more, we should consider at least Canoe’s Wellness Collaborative that can provide such one more location move in our lives and review those services upon request for those in need. One needs to do To how big we really are. considerations with some degree of regularity for the local research to be aware of such assistance that is avail- To how little control we really have. following reasons: able. To what really matters. Prepare for changing situations Let me return to solutions. I wish that my wife and To Love. In a moment’s notice the status of health, travel, I had more closely followed this advice earlier in our So, we pray and we remember that work and family situations may change. It’s almost cer- marriage. Individuals can avoid some problems with Yes, there is fear. tain we will face changes to our health and family as we a periodic review and assessment of their situation grow older. followed by actions. Here is a quick review with some But there does not have to be hate. Take the time to review the status of these changes specific considerations: Yes, there is isolation. with your spouse, significant other and family—and a 1. Make certain your documents are current, includ- But there does not have to be loneliness. financial advisor if you have one—at least every three ing insurance and family documents. Yes, there is panic buying. years or so. 2. Know where to get help, which includes personal But there does not have to be meanness. The results of these discussions may affect where research, non-profit organizations, professionals, and you live, with whom you live or have access to, how family. Yes, there is sickness. much you travel, what you do and with whom you do it, 3. Do your family research to know what possible But there does not have to be disease of the soul how you spend your time and resources, how much of health susceptibilities there may be in your family tree. Yes, there is even death. those resources remain at any time and how they will be Remember, you are responsible for your future, But there can always be a rebirth of love. expended. even though it may be impossible to predict. In today’s Wake to the choices you make as to how to live now. Making more than one move in retirement may be world we live longer than ever before, but cannot de- Today, breathe. an unexpected but necessary consideration. pend upon others to know and appreciate our situation In many respects, retirement decisions made in without having given serious and periodic thought to Listen, behind the factory noises of your panic our 50s as to how to retire may not be applicable in our it ourselves. As Ben Franklin once said, “An ounce of The birds are singing again 70s. By this time, it’s likely that we collectively have prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The sky is clearing, Spring is coming, decided, overtly or not, to travel away from home less, And we are always encompassed by Love. make less use of amenities, drive less, and be closer to Teb Bowman has been visiting Big Canoe since 1982, been Open the windows of your soul family and healthcare facilities. As an example, my wife a property owner since 1992 and retired here in 2007. A suffered from increasing difficulties over time related graduate of the U. S. Naval Academy he served in nuclear And though you may not be able to touch across to dementia making assisted living a real possibility for submarines before a career in commercial nuclear power the empty square, us. It is not uncommon for one member of a couple to as an engineer, manager and consultant. He additionally Sing. be afflicted with a medical matter that requires some or holds an MBA from Wharton School of the University of even a significant form of living assistance. If even one Pennsylvania and a JD from Duquesne University and has Ed. note: Brother Richard Hendrick is a Capuchin of the above possibilities strikes a chord, you may need taught for the business schools of Southern Catholic and Franciscan living in Ireland. to seriously review your current retirement situation at University of Phoenix. least with respect to location and environment before the situation takes on major restrictions and concerns.
Opinions of contributors do not represent the views of Smoke Signals or Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS 17 A OPINION Rationing healthcare during COVID-19 pandemic: bioethical lessons from the past and implications for the future
BY DR. ALBERT BARROCAS AND What you should do? death healthcare decisions for you without DENISE BAIRD SCHWARTZ, MS, RD Why are these issues important to your input. Completing advance directive those not in healthcare? Regardless of our documents is how the public can assist any questions about the most profession, affiliations or roles in general, in a pandemic with anticipated potential effective COVID-19 treatment we need to be aware of the issues and healthcare resource allocation during remain unanswered, adding events taking place. We need to be con- shortages. Table 1 depicts steps in the ACP M uncertainty to our anxiety siderate of others and assist them in every process, considerations and actions. about the pandemic. This crisis has height- way possible. Individuals in the community Informed Assent ened our awareness of the conundrum we at large should be willing to participate Some decisions, when not anticipated, call the Troubling Trichotomy: What can in bioethics and triage committees as present the clinician and family with bur- be done technologically? What should be public/patient representatives in their densome, emotionally difficult situations. done ethically? What must be done legally? local healthcare institutions (e.g., hospitals, The concept of informed assent rather than nursing homes, etc.). informed consent provides an alternative. Dr. Albert Barrocas and Denise Baird We need to think about and let others In that setting, rather than requiring the Schwartz, MS, RD, have collaborated for know what our personal wishes are if we patient/family to take responsibility for many years as healthcare colleagues dealing become affected by COVID-19 or any other the decision, the clinician asks them to with the subject of ethics and nutrition catastrophic illness. allow the clinician (attending physician) to therapies. PHOTO COURTESY OF DENISE BAIRD SCHWARTZ In the April issue of Smoke Signals, we assume that responsibility. raised the question intubation (“Tu.be or It is interesting (or coincidental) that during mass casualties in civilian and mili- not Tu.be?”) regarding feeding tubes. the pandemic was very much in force tary experiences. Prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, during the recent holidays of Passover and Hospital bioethics committees include the same question should be raised re- Easter. Parallels of those ancient events to a variety of healthcare professionals and garding intubation for ventilatory support. the present pandemic are intriguing. The public representatives who deal with eth- Advance care planning should include that Passover story of plagues, oppression and Footnote 1. ical issues that may occur during patient specific guidance. Advance directives and final freedom and the Easter recalling of These three components are import- care within the facility. proxy designations, are the responsibility suffering, salvation and resurrection leads ant not only for healthcare professionals Critical thinking is crucial in pre- of all of us. If one is in place, it should be us to the conclusion that “this too shall but also for the public at large. The mag- venting ethical dilemmas and assisting in revised with more specificity regarding pass.” nitude and severity of the pandemic has healthcare decision making with a focus scarce resource allocation. resulted in a demand for critical but scarce on patient-centered care. The patient care Advance care planning (ACP) is 1. The Troubling Trichotomy graphic is reprinted with resources not seen before—or not seen in ethical dilemmas that have and continue recommended for all individuals 18 years permission from Barrocas A, Cohen, ML. “Have Answers to Common Legal Questions Concerning Nutrition Support over a century. The potential for scarcity to occur with the COVID-19 pandemic will and older; however, unfortunately many Changed Over the Past Decade? !0 Questions for 10 Years.” of life-supporting resources has prompted need to be incorporated into discussions people have not taken the opportunity to Nutr Clin Pract. 2016; 31(3):285-293. discussions about different decisions deal- within bioethics committees in hospitals complete the needed steps with finalization ing with healthcare rationing. and system-wide to develop policies and of a document called an advance direc- Albert Barrocas MD, FACS FASPEN and Ethical frameworks for treating indi- procedures that could assist desperate tive. In a pandemic, such as COVID-19, Denise Baird Schwartz, MS, RD, FADA, viduals have been proposed recently to healthcare providers who will make diffi- the realization that you would need such FAND, FASPEN have collaborated for facilitate decision-making processes that cult decisions in the future. a document for your healthcare providers many years as healthcare colleagues deal- balance the traditional four ethical princi- Triage Committees becomes frightening. In the void of ACP, ing with the subject of ethics and nutrition ples of autonomy, beneficence, non-malef- The treating healthcare team, risk- essentially strangers could make life and therapies. icence and distributive justice—to do the ing their lives on the greatest good for the largest number. This frontlines, can be helped concept supersedes individual liberties by not avoiding the Table 1. Advance Care Planning Process, Considerations and Actions with the needs of the population or state at burdensome decisions large. of rationing healthcare. Respecting the patient/surrogate de- Ethics committees—func- Steps Considerations Actions cision maker’s autonomy is of paramount tioning in a transdisci- importance. To that end a discussion plinary, cross-functioning 1 Numerous resources are available • The Conversation Project regarding advance directives as soon as process—establish the for the public and healthcare www.theconversationproject.org possible is critical in this pandemic. bioethical institutional professionals to become familiar • Five Wishes — Aging with Dignity If an advance directive exists, it should guidelines and framework be reviewed/updated, and any questions for decision making. On with advance care planning. www.agingwithdignity.org/five-wishes.php answered in a truthful and realistic fashion. the other hand, triage • National Healthcare Decisions Day www.nhdd.org In that situation, because of emotions re- committees, made up of • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment garding “futility” of a proposed treatment, individuals not involved www.polst.org it is recommended that—when referring to in the direct care of pa- interventions with little or no benefit—the tients, work in a synergis- 2 Need to identify an individual Discuss with your healthcare decision maker what term “low yield” be used. tic, but disparate fashion. to be your healthcare decision matters most to you. If possible, provide scenarios and Hospital bioethics and triage commit- They implement the deci- maker (proxy, or agent.) what you would want in various situations. tees can assist in the process of healthcare sions reached with input rationing in similar but more critical fash- from the treating team ion than allocation of scarce resources in regarding the patient’s 3 It is important to complete the Fill out an official form naming your healthcare decision other areas of the healthcare system, such demographics, current advance directive document, for maker. Give one copy of the filled-in form to your as hemodialysis in the 1960s, deciding who condition and prognosis. all individuals 18 years old and up. decision maker and one copy to your healthcare team. receives organ transplants and triaging New in the Big Canoe Law School Curriculum
news report, the woman’s body blocked the vents. Those of you who barbecue Big Canoe know that fat burns; you can probably Law School figure out the rest. A similar incident happened in a Cin- cinnati crematory, and the London Daily GEORGE FOX News reported that an 800-pound body created flames which caused the cremato- rium’s ceiling to catch fire. e are grateful to the many Across town on another day, the readers—well, okay, few Daily News published a story with this readers—who cast a headline: “Decaying Foot Horrifies Griev- discerning eye over real ing Family as They Bury Grandfather.” W The news report said Cleveland news reports and forward the special, meaningful ones on to the Big Canoe Law Butler left behind a large family: four School faculty. children, nine grandchildren and six Here are the latest, in no particular great-grandchildren. The graveside order. Note: in case you miss it, this funeral included a eulogy and some first story isn’t true. All the rest are true. prayers. And then as they were lowering Really. the casket, this leg appeared . . . from an A fellow was stuck on his rooftop in adjoining plot. a flood. He was praying to God for help. A A son said “We all looked down and man in a rowboat came by and shouted to we were looking at what apparently was the man on the roof, “Jump in, I can save a human foot and leg wrapped in plastic, you.” with cloth wrapped around it, sticking out The stranded fellow shouted back, on top of my father’s casket.” “No, it's okay, I'm praying to God and He The cemetery owner tried to have is going to save me.” The rowboat contin- the last word. “There was a casket. It ued on. deteriorated.” And the family hadn’t pur- Then a motorboat came by. The fel- chased a concrete vault when the body low in the motorboat shouted, “Jump in, I was buried in 1969. Added the owner, “It’s can save you.” To this the stranded man To this God replied, “I sent you a A few hours later, a passerby found unfortunate that this happened. But this said, “No thanks, I'm praying to God and rowboat and a motorboat and a helicop- a gurney with the body in a residential is a graveyard.” He is going to save me. I have faith.” The ter, what more did you expect?” area of Brazos County. Police were able motorboat left. For eons, the above story has made to “recover” the body and took it to the George Fox practices Then a helicopter came by and the the rounds of the faculty, some of whom funeral home. However, the hearse is still in Sandy Springs pilot shouted down, “Grab this rope are skeptical about its truthfulness. The missing. and Big Canoe, and I will lift you to safety.” To this the following stories are all true. The New York Post captured a and is also adjunct stranded man again replied, “No thanks, The real headline: “Thief Steals unique story in a headline which read professor in Emory I'm praying to God and He is going to Hearse, dumps body in Bryan, Police say” “Fire that Gutted Austrian Crematorium Law School's Center save me. I have faith.” The helicopter pilot Seems that the funeral home Caused by Obese Woman’s Excessive for Transactional Law. reluctantly flew away. employee parked the hearse next to a Body Fat Blocking Air Filter.” Questions are welcome; And soon the water rose above the McDonald’s early one morning, and left Lest you think this never happens, GEORGE FOX reach him at Fox@ rooftop and the man drowned. it “temporarily unattended.” That’s when similar incidents were reported in Ger- GaLaw.com or on Facebook. He also He went to Heaven. Finally, he got the thief jumped in the hearse and drove many and Switzerland, and ultimately, the cautions that what's above is not legal his chance to discuss this whole situation off. fire chief of the latter country set up “a advice, and you should seek professional with God. The man exclaimed, “I had faith The thief didn’t know that the hearse special crematorium” for XXL-bodies. advice before doing or not doing in you but you didn't save me, you let me had a body in it, on its way to the funeral In this story, the deceased weighed something based on this material. drown. I don't understand why!” home. 440 pounds, and according to another
Opinions of contributors do not represent the views of Smoke Signals or Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc. 18 A SMOKE SIGNALS | NEWS MAY 2020
“We must remain laser-focused on defeating this virus and keeping Georgians safe. We must find ways to revitalize communities devastated by COVID-19. We must identify opportunities for economic growth and prosperity.” Kemp re-opens Georgia ‘incrementally and safely’
BY DENISE RAY Kemp said, through partnerships with the [email protected] University System of Georgia and private sector now offering drive-thru services fter Georgia Governor Brian P. and public health departments across Kemp announced his plan to Georgia to offer testing for all symptom- re-open the State of Georgia in atic individuals. Additional testing will be A a multi-step process, starting added through “an even broader part- April 24, some businesses opened that nership with the state’s dedicated health day but others decided to wait longer. sciences university and its health system Given the favorable data, enhanced to double down on our testing capacity testing and approval of healthcare profes- and meet the requirements necessary sionals, Kemp has allowed gyms, fitness to move forward with the president’s centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, plan.” The Georgia National Guard will barbers, cosmetologists, hair designers, mobilize 10 new strike teams to deploy nailcare artists, estheticians, their respec- to hotspots and long-term care facilities tive schools, and massage therapists to to administer 1,500 tests per day. Testing reopen April 24, 2020. “Unlike other busi- expansions through Augusta University nesses, these entities have been unable to and the guard will complement existing manage inventory, deal with payroll, and initiatives, including the Department of take care of administrative items while Public Health’s capacity, Georgia Tech’s we shelter in place. This measure allows CVS testing site, and private labs. them to undertake baseline operations “As I’ve said before, testing defines that most other businesses in the state the battlefield and informs our long-term have maintained since I issued the shel- strategy,” Kemp said. “These efforts ter-in-place order,” Kemp said. significantly increase our capacity as we Subject to specific social distancing take measured steps forward. Through- and sanitation mandates, theaters, private out this entire process from creating social clubs, and restaurant dine-in the Coronavirus Task Force to today, services were allowed to reopen April 27. sion Chairman Chris Cohilas on a regular "By taking this measured we have relied on data, science, and the Bars, nightclubs, operators of amusement basis to see if further action is warranted. advice of healthcare professionals to park rides, and live performance venues Rest assured, if any community needs action, we will get guide our approach and decision-making. remain closed. “In the days ahead, we the state to intervene, we will do so with Georgians back to We have been surgical, targeted, and will be evaluating the data and conferring their input and partnership,” Kemp said. methodical, always putting the health and with public health officials to deter- “The entities that I am reopening work safely without well-being of our citizens first, and doing mine the best course of action for those are not reopening for 'business as usual.' undermining the progress our best to protect lives—and liveli- establishments. By taking this measured Each of these entities is subject to spe- hoods—in every part of Georgia.” action, we will get Georgians back to cific restrictions, including adherence to that we have all made Moving forward work safely without undermining the Minimum Basic Operations, social dis- in the battle against The shelter in place order was set to progress that we have all made in the tancing, and regular sanitation. Minimum expire at 11:59 p.m. on April 30 for most battle against COVID-19,” Kemp said. Basic Operations includes, but is not lim- COVID-19.” Georgians. Kemp urged everyone to The measure will apply statewide and ited to, screening workers for fever and protective equipment for healthcare facil- continue to follow CDC and DPH guid- will be the operational standard in all respiratory illness, enhancing workplace ities to resume elective surgeries deemed ance by sheltering in place as often as jurisdictions, meaning that local action sanitation, wearing masks and gloves if essential. possible, limiting travel and companions cannot be taken that is more or less appropriate, separating workspaces by "Hospitals should continue dis- to prevent potential exposure. Wearing restrictive, Kemp added. at least six feet, teleworking where at all cussions in their regions to ensure that face masks while in public to slow the “Over the next few days, we will possible, and implementing staggered patient safety—and the safety of their spread of coronavirus is also urged. continue to closely monitor existing and shifts.” workforce—is prioritized,” Kemp said. Kemp added that medically fragile potential hotspots in our state. I stay in For places of worship, holding As of 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25 there and elderly Georgians should make plans regular contact with local leaders across in-person services is allowed, but under were 22,695 COVID-19 cases in Georgia to shelter in place at least through May Georgia, especially those in Dougherty Phase One guidelines, it must be done in with 904 deaths. “We understand that 13—the date Georgia’s Public Health County, to ensure that we are providing accordance with strict social distancing these are more than just numbers. These Emergency expires—given the height- adequate support. Right now, in Albany protocols. are Georgians.” ened risk of adverse consequences from and Dougherty County, we are starting Kemp said he believes Georgia is po- Testing exposure to coronavirus. to see improvements. I talk to Commis- sitioned to secure the necessary personal Testing has increased in availability,
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North Georgia
MAYArts 2020 | The area’s most comprehensive& eventsEntertainment guide and calendar | COVERING ATLANTA & NORTH GEORGIA | www.smokesignalsnews.com Kingston Downs races jump to top of equestrian steeplechase circuit
BY CHRISTOPHER BARKER
eather and virus restric- "It will be one of tions permitting, May 16 the first chances this may offer a rare opportuni- W ty to dress in spring attire, spring for Georgians pack a tailgate lunch and finally not feel to attend an outdoor cooped up, watching horses clear coops – jumps – in the Georgia Steeplechase event – one where Spring Hunter Pace. they still can stay safe The “relaxed competitive event” in which riders take horses over – or, distances away from optionally, around – obstacles on a marked other steeplechase/ cross-country course at Kingston Downs springtime in Kingston was originally scheduled for April 18. Featuring mostly local riders, celebrants." the Hunter Pace precedes professional steeplechase races scheduled for Saturday, May 30, also at Kingston Downs. The Georgia Steeplechase offers horse racing fans the opportunity to dress up in colorful divisions with Junior (19 and younger) and At press time, Georgia’s Shelter-in- Easter/spring attire. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GEORGIA STEEPLECHASE Adult categories: The Chase, for expe- Place rules were to remain in effect until rienced riders at a fast to medium pace several days before the rescheduled Spring (canter/trot); Hacking About at medium Hunter Pace race day. “Right now we’re pace (walk/trot/canter); and Hilltoppers, going ahead,” but “it’s kind of a gamble,” a leisurely pleasure ride. In the fastest says Anthony-Scott Hobbs, who co-chairs division, “horses are going 30-32 miles per the Georgia Steeplechase with wife Phoe- hour at full canter over 3- to 4-foot jumps be Hobbs. in stride,” says Hobbs. But if the horses run and jump May Riders can choose to take jumps over 16, it will be one of the first chances this 3-foot obstacles or can use the marked go- spring for Georgians to attend an outdoor arounds at each jump. Parents must sign event – one where they still can stay safe waivers for children younger than 18, and distances away from other steeplechase/ riders younger than 16 must be accompa- springtime celebrants. Kingston Downs nied by an adult. gates open at 8 a.m. for what is expected to Riders will attack the marked 8- to be a field of about 150 riders and at 10 a.m. 10-mile course without the opportunity to for tailgating, with flights of horses leaving explore the route first, says Hobbs. “They the starting gate from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. won’t know how long the course is,” add- Admission is $55 for competitors and $25/ ing that the 5,000-acre Kingston Downs person for spectating tailgaters. site along the Etowah River “is beautiful English and Western saddles are property.” welcome, and riders can compete in three The Hunter Pace field will consist mostly of local equestrians, and the event is scheduled to include a clinic and trials for volunteer exercise riders. Hobbs said "English and Western a Facebook advertisement produced more saddles are welcome, than 100 applicants wanting to exercise horses at Kingston Downs – almost all of and riders can them female, he adds. compete in three “We have a huge equestrian com- munity here with some very, very good divisions with Junior riders. There’s some talent.” (19 and younger) and Riders will bring their own horses to Hunter Pace, and Georgia Steeplechase Adult categories." officials will evaluate skill levels of those The Georgia Steeplechase Spring Race is the only scheduled steeplechase competition who want to offer help exercising the worldwide May 30. horses. n STEEPLECHASE | Page 2
"Steeplechase racing originated in England around 1750 with horses jumping over natural obstacles between two church steeples." 202 B A SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE | SIGNALSARTS & |ENTERTAINMENT NEWS MAY 2020
is Oct. 24, and both professional races this year in Kingston will “highlight Georgia Steeplechase and the Bartow, Rome and Floyd area, and n Continued from page 1 we’re excited about that,” Hobbs says. Steeplechase racing originated in “These are beautiful creatures,” says England around 1750 with horses jump- Hobbs, “and the worst thing you can do is ing over natural obstacles between two not exercise them right.” church steeples, and the English Grand Finding exercise riders, some of National race started in 1839. Current whom might eventually become amateur steeplechases might include man-made steeplechase apprentices, is part of the and natural obstacles such as stone walls, Hobbs’ goal of building and nurturing coops and water and are meant to resem- a strong foundation for steeplechase in ble what horses might encounter on an Georgia. open-range hunt. “We’re building an ecosystem with Local racing began in 1966 as the owners, trainers and riders,” says Hobbs, Atlanta Hunt Meeting and Steeplechase adding that Georgia had no steeplechase – also known as “Chase Day.” The event trainers until now, and professional jock- started at Horseshoe Bend and moved to eys will lead clinics at Kingston Downs, Cumming in 1971 before the Atlanta Stee- Gates open for tailgating at Georgia Steeplechase events May 16 and May 30 at 10 a.m. providing insight into the lifestyle and plechase found a larger permanent home PHOTOS COURTESY OF GEORGIA STEEPLECHASE what it takes to become a professional in Kingston in 1993. equestrian. But Atlanta Steeplechase struggled Broadening horse ownership expands with solvency and ceased operation the ecosystem and generates excitement “'If it’s a sunny day, come out in fun spring attire— several years ago. Coming from careers about racing, and people interested in the bow ties, seersuckers, big hats,' says Hobbs. 'If it rains, in software and marketing, the Hobbs sport can buy a percentage of a horse’s wear rubber boots and ponchos—it’s all part of it.'” had been “patrons and sponsors of the title as part of a “syndicate.” Owners then Atlanta Steeplechase and had steeplechase can bring friends to watch their horse parties.” When they learned there was no exercise and gallop on a 1.5-mile trail at more local steeplechase, in 2017 the couple Kingston Downs, becoming part of the invested in bringing it back to life as Geor- sport’s infrastructure as well. gia Steeplechase with a new model to run The track and barns are on about 180 both spring and fall races. acres of Kingston Downs. The Catalyst And the model preserves the tradi- Stables barn likely will have 10-12 horses of tions of steeplechase events, including the its own running races this year, including option of wearing Easter or spring attire. races in the northern United States during “If it’s a sunny day, come out in fun the warmer months, says Hobbs. “We’re spring attire – bow ties, seersuckers, big bringing in horses from Europe, flat track, hats,” says Hobbs. “If it rains, wear rubber brood mares and pulling them into the cir- boots and ponchos – it’s all part of it.” cuit” with the goal of developing Kingston Spectators admitted beginning at Downs “into an international steeplechase 10 a.m. are invited to bring picnics, and equestrian racing facility.” Hobbs says food trucks and possibly local Steeplechase riding differs from flat restaurants will offer food at the May 30 track riding in a variety of ways, Hobbs race. Only service dogs are allowed at adds. Flat tracks are shorter, while stee- Kingston Downs. plechase is a cross-country race, making The all-day May 30 race has the steeplechasers similar to long-distance distinction of being the only steeplechase runners requiring great endurance. event in the world that day, says Hobbs. Flat-track jockeys are also lighter at “It’s a unique opportunity to have a field of 100-125 pounds, vs. 145-155 for steeplechase 30-60 horses come in” and “more horses jockeys. committed than ever” in Georgia steeple- And some of the best national and chase racing with eight races on the card, international jockeys plan to race at compared to four in 2018. And determina- Kingston Downs May 30 in the profession- tion to have the race resulted in “street cred al event that is run regardless of weather. on the circuit; they know we don’t give up” Some of the best steeplechase horses trying to run the 2020 Spring Race. and their trainers come from Maryland, The veteran race announcer May 30 Virginia and Pennsylvania, and Hobbs says is Craig Braddick, who was raised near a half-dozen trainers come from Camden, Newmarket, England, where he called S.C., an equestrian hotspot. his first race at age 15 and learned from Cancellation of steeplechase events the United Kingdom’s best race callers. this spring should heighten interest in He has acquired a reputation for fluidity, the Kingston Downs May 30 Spring Race, description and accuracy, and Hobbs says which is part of the Spring/Fall Southern Braddick is trying to get a UK station that Steeplechase Circuit that also features is lacking content to simulcast the May 30 races at Aiken, S.C., Callaway Gardens and race for fans in Great Britain. Charleston. The Kingston Downs Fall Race Georgia Steeplechase officials are expecting about 150 riders at Hunter Pace May 16. n Continued on next page
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We are rearranging our set-building, rehearsal and performance schedules for “Showtime at First Baptist” to accommodate COVID-19 guidelines. We will publish the exact show weekends in July as soon as we have approval from the licensing agent. We have cancelled our summer Youth Theater programs. While we are reducing our production schedule, our expenses do not go away. We are a true non- profit organization (501-C-3). When all is settled and you have time to think of it, please consider www.foothillsiga.com donating to our theater. Access the COVID-10 response fund at taterpatchplayers.org/donate. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE | SIGNALSARTS & |ENTERTAINMENT NEWS 213 A B n Continued from previous page
"Steeplechase is a cross-country race, making steeplechasers similar to long-distance runners requiring great endurance."
Hobbs says that if Shelter-in-Place remains in effect, or if heavy rain occurs May 16, up- dates will be at www.georgiasteeplechase.org and “we’ll figure something else out. We want to do what we can to embrace the community. And we’re strong believers in this sport.”
The Georgia Steeplechase Hunter Pace May 16 will have Adult and Junior (19 and younger) competitors with the option of jumping over or going around obstacles on the Kingston Downs race course. Chinese Snowball Viburnum
Big Canoe Photo Club Photo of the Month
STEVEN D. CARLISLE
idge Dady photographed these beautiful blooms on a Viburnum tree in early April in her Choctaw Village G backyard, which faces the Choctaw Trail. She used a Nikon D750 DSLR with a Nikkor 24-120 mm lens.
The Photography Club meets on the third Saturday every month at 9:30 a.m., at the Swim Club. Guests are always welcome. This is an incredible opportunity to learn more about the art and how you can make better photographs.
PHOTO BY GIDGE DADY
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The Curious Corner
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MARBLE HILL Terraces kicks off summer season
Custom Plantation Shutters ✦ Hand crafted from kiln dried North American Basswood ✦ Furniture Quality Finish and custom color matching ✦ Factory trained, expert installation ✦ For a FREE in-home Consultation The dance floor was the place to be during this 2019 concert.PHOTO BY STEVE PAPKE and Estimate, call Amanda Dame BY GRAHAM NICHOLSON ly known as Texas K.G.B. (Kelly Green Amanda Dame at 706-268-1285. for the Terraces Committee Band). The group blends Americana, coun- try and blues music. The band has three elcome to the Terraces impressive singer songwriters; check out 2020 concert series. their self-titled album. STORAGE SYSTEMS FOR The May 23 concert Mark your calendars for the remain- W features two bands. The der of the season: CLOSETS, PANTRIES & GARAGES Wildermen, an eight-piece Americana Saturday, June 20 – The Brotherhood band from North Georgia and Madam – Doobie Brothers Tribute Band Radar out of Austin, Texas. Friday, July 3 – The Wildflowers – Getting organized is easier ... The Wildermen is headed by Randy Tom Petty Tribute Band and more affordable ... than you think. Dobson and Frankie Sparks who split Saturday, July 25 – A1A – Jimmy Buf- Our storage systems make clutter disappear and time with vocals, guitar and bass. Daniel fett Tribute Band finding things easier. Work with our expert team to Johnson and Dallas Hyde combine on har- Saturday, Aug. 15 – 120 East Band monica and electric guitar. Stephen Clark Saturday, Sept. 5 – MainStreet – Bob create storage solutions that will fit both your space covers the rhythm section and percussion. Seger Tribute Band and budget. Call today for a free, in-home consultation. Andrew Olsen, Blue Goodman and Tyler Should we need to postpone any of “Turtle” Smith provide horn melodies on our planned 2020 concerts, we will make trumpet, trombone and French horn. This the announcement on both our website: group performed with Dolly Parton in the www.bigcanoechapel.org/events/con- 706-268-1285 Netflix series “Heartstrings” and in the certs-at-the-terraces and on Facebook at Clint Eastwood directed movie “Richard The Terraces of Big Canoe Chapel. Please Jewell.” refer to the website for any further infor- Headlining is Madam Radar, another mation. North Georgia band, who now calls Aus- All concerts will start at 7 p.m. See tin, Texas home. The band is made up of you soon at the Terraces Amphitheater for Helping Big Canoe friends and neighbors Kelly Green (lead/slide guitar and vocals), incredible evenings of music, dance and with window treatments and other interior Kody Lee (drums/saxophone/vocals), fellowship. design solutions since 1999. Jace Cadle (rhythm /vocals), and Violet The Terraces Amphitheater is located Lea (bass/vocals). They were previous- at 1849 Steve Tate Highway in Marble Hill. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE | SIGNALSARTS & |ENTERTAINMENT NEWS 235 A B Feel good movies Nature provides in times of crisis inspiration for oil painting
Megan Big Canoe At The Movies Artists Club
MEGAN BIANCO ARTIST GALLERY: MONICA BURNETTE
ith all the emergency and hysteria happening in the world right now from a ma- W jor, global pandemic, one of the many aspects we are experiencing is the film industry going on hiatus until at least The 2011 film, “Contagion” has blown up June. Not only are major releases like “A on streaming sites of late. PHOTO CREDIT WARNER Quiet Place 2” or the new “Mulan” feature BROS. PICTURES/DOUBLE FEATURE FILMS being postponed, but all studio productions as well. Truly an unprecedented event (1964). Musicals, especially family appropri- in pop culture and human history. Some ate ones, are generally good for pick-me-up studios, like Universal, have embraced the material. Faves like “Meet Me in St. Louis” option of streaming, though many of the (1944), “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952), “Mary films being offered online were already Poppins” (1964) and “The Sound of Music” released theatrically in the last couple of (1965) are usually popular for this reason. months. As a regular reviewer, this means I While “Chicago” (2002) isn’t necessarily a will be going long periods of time with- family friendly musical, it’s high up there out any new movies to discuss. To make for me as movie musicals go. up for the lack of content, I’m preparing Comedy is another perfect genre for a series of opinion pieces, retrospectives light content, whether classic comedies and lists until the end of spring. For home like “Bringing Up Baby” (1938), “Blazing viewing recently, Steven Soderbergh’s sci-fi Saddles” (1974) and “Caddyshack” (1980) thriller “Contagion” (2011) has blown up on or cult classics like “There’s Something streaming sites this past month with eerie About Mary” (1998), “Zoolander” (2001) and relevance to current events. As good as this “Horrible Bosses” (2011). Or teen movies, movie is, I’m struggling to see the appeal of which are often a rather nostalgic comedy wanting to actually watch something like sub-genre with hits, such as “Clueless” this while in the middle of experiencing a (1995), “Bring It On” (2000) and “Superbad” health crisis in real life. Same goes for other (2007); and romantic comedies like “The dystopian films like “Perfect Sense” (2011) Philadelphia Story” (1940), “Sleepless and “Children of Men” (2006). in Seattle” (1993) and “Forgetting Sarah So instead, I’m going to be rec- Marshall” (2008). The season is going to be ommending and covering some more interesting, to say the very least, but maybe light-hearted and feel good movies. Starting we can distract ourselves from the chaos with some basics, like my own personal with some upbeat films. favorite films that always cheer me up when I’m down. My favorite movie of all Megan Bianco is a time is the classic romantic comedy “Annie southern California Hall” (1977), which unfortunately has been based movie reviewer tainted by its writer-director-star, Woody and film historian, Allen’s personal life. But for me, I can still providing entertainment separate the art from the artist, though that content exceeding 700 might not be the case for every viewer. This published articles to "Summer Shoreline" oil on canvas, 11x14 inches, by Monica Burnette. is also the case of other Woody comedies I various publications The Big Canoe Artists Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. in the love like “Love and Death” (1975), “Manhat- since 2010. She has a Broyles Community Center at the Big Canoe Chapel. Membership in the club is tan” (1979) and “Midnight in Paris” (2011). MEGAN BIANCO degree in Film Criticism $25 per year, and is open to all Big Canoe property owners regardless of skill level. The rest of my top 10 includes classics like & Screenwriting from California State Members enjoy the camaraderie, educational and collective exhibit and marketing Disney’s “Beauty & the Beast” (1991), “The University, Northridge. You can follow her opportunities provided by association with the club. For information about club Wizard of Oz” (1939), “ET: the Extra-Ter- on Instagram @moviemuses. restrial” (1982) and “A Hard Day’s Night” membership or club artists and their work visit www.bigcanoeartists.com. 246 B A SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE | SIGNALSARTS & |ENTERTAINMENT NEWS MAY 2020
THE NUMBERS ADD UP TO CHARLES VECCHIO! H Top Resale Agent for Big Canoe® in 2016 & 2017 H
The number of appraisals Charles Vecchio completed as a certified residential/review appraiser over his 22 years in the 100,000 business. Who better to accurately price your property?
Total dollar value of real estate sold and closed over the past 11 years inside the gates of Big Canoe. Charles Vecchio is devoted to $90,000,000 selling his own listings with an average annual 80% closure rate.
Charles Vecchio, as an associate broker for Big Canoe Realty over the past eleven straight years, has placed either first or second as 1st or 2nd Big Canoe’s “top producing” resale agent.
Amount of full time experience Charlie has in the real estate business including the last 12 years at Big Canoe Realty. 34 years Charlie knows the local market and he really knows his business. Buying or Selling - Charlie is your BEST choice for Big Canoe Real Estate I Want Your Home Listing!
NEW LISTING/PANORAMIC VIEWS, NEW LISTING/MILLION DOLLAR JUST REDUCED/GOLF & MOUNTAIN VIEWS, JUST REDUCED/TRANQUIL SETTING, TRANQUILITY DESIGN/BUILT IN 2010 VIEWS, JACUZZI/SAUNA RENOVATED/INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY PRISTINE COND/GOLF W/LAKE VIEWS
SOLD AND CLOSED
1363 Cox Mountain Drive 316 Sanderlin Mountain Drive 340 Willow Drive 996 Wedgewood Drive 4BR’s/3.5 BA, $1,150,000 4BR/3.5BA, $795,000 5BR/5BA, $699,900 5BR/4Full BA - 3 Half, $629,900
JUST REDUCED / EXECUTIVE HOME, JUST REDUCED / LEASE PURCHASE JUST REDUCED/LONG RANGE VIEWS, NEW LISTING / 2 BR’S ON MAIN, 3 CAR GARAGE / RUSHING STREAM OPTION CLOSE TO GATE & AMENITIES PRISTINE COND/CENTRAL LOCATION NEW ROOF/HVAC’S /3 FIREPLACES
SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED
191 Sconti Knoll Dr., 4BR/4.5 BA 50 Twin Creeks Drive 931 Summit Drive 62 Soaring Hawk $550,000 3+BR/3.5 BA, $479,999 3+BR’s/3.5 BA, $579,900 5BR/4.5BA, $474,900
JUST REDUCED/CHOCTAW VILLAGE, JUST REDUCED / RUSTIC / MTN VIEWS, JUST REDUCED/SEASONAL VIEWS, OPEN NEW LISTING/CRAFTSMAN STYLE, FURNITURE AVAILABLE/VIEWS UPDATED CABIN/GARAGE FLOORPLAN/PRIVATE SETTING, CLOSE TO LAKE/NEAR STREAM
SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED
186 Choctaw Ridge 423 Ridgeview Drive, 4BR/3.5 BA 3847 Wilderness Pkwy, 4BR/3.5BA 1608 Quail Cove Drive, 4BR/3.5 BA 5BR/4.5 BA, $459,900 $370,000 $350,000 $394,000
JUST REDUCED/UPDATED LOG HOME, JUST REDUCED, LONG RANGE VIEWS, JUST REDUCED/HIGH VOL CEILINGS, JUST REDUCED / UPDATED/ VIEWS, CATHEDRAL CEILINGS/NEAR LAKE 2 B/R’S ON MAIN/OPEN FLOORPLAN RUSTIC FINISHES/INCOME PRODUCER BACKS TO STREAM & TRAILS.
SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED
44 Indigo Bunting Trail, 4BR/3BA 464 Deer Run Ridge, 3BR/3BA 9 Laurel Ridge Way, 5BR/5BA 249 Dogwood Lane, 3BR/2BA $350,000 $379,900 $284,900 $250,000
NEW LISTING / RUSTIC CABIN, T&G NEW LISTING/PLUMMER CABIN, NEW JUST REDUCED / CLOSE TO LAKE, JUST REDUCED/CONDO UNIT, RUSHING CATHEDRAL CEILING/WOOD BEAMS ROOF/UPDATED BATHS/APPLIANCES PORCHES/DECKS GALORE / GAR-1 STREAM/CLOSE TO AMENITIES
SOLD AND CLOSED SOLD AND CLOSED UNDER CONTRACT SOLD AND CLOSED
32 Buckskull Hollow Drive, 196 Crazy Bear Ridge, 2BR/2BA 23 Owls Brow, 5BR/3BA 86 Sconti Ridge, Unit 415-B, 2BR/2 BA + Loft, $182,000 $184,900 $269,900 1BR/1BA, $79,900
Committed To Serve You With Excellence Charles Vecchio Associate Broker 706-268-2327, off. • 770-331-9045, cell Email: [email protected] Website: www.bigcanoe.com
www.linkedin.com/pub/charles-vecchio/19/761/784/ MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING 1 C
MAY 2020 | Food & Drink • Feature ColumnsLiving • Church News • Gatherings • Health | SMOKE SIGNALS | www.smokesignalsnews.com Dear Class of 2020
“You made memories and friends that no one can cancel or postpone.”
BY MELISSA LOWRIE [email protected]
n behalf of your parents, siblings, extended family, teachers, a big chunk of your life dedicated to education. The time flew by, just as we administrators and coaches: CONGRATULATIONS! You made knew it would. It probably didn’t seem like it during class some days, but you it to May 2020, which should be a month-long celebration of made it, and likely learned a few things along the way. your accomplishments, culminating in a commencement ceremony at your Because of an invisible, deadly virus, your senior year was cut short by high school’s football stadium or auditorium. You deserve all the pomp and two and a half months. March became an extended Senior Skip Day, followed circumstance that could be bestowed on a student receiving a diploma. by an agonizing April, then the finish line—May. Instead of going to class, The cap, the gown, the cords and tassel. you engaged in “digital learning” from home, a sad but necessary substitute for The family members bestowing gifts. being there. Due to the efforts to protect ourselves, the celebrations will need to The boring/inspirational speeches followed by a roll call of your classmates. wait, but they shall happen. You deserve to be celebrated. And while there is no The handshake and receiving of a diploma with your name on it. substitute for the loss of a senior prom, senior night, shortened spring sports The cap toss. season or last day of school, we know you can focus on what you’ve received. The hundreds of photos. All the late nights studying, the early morning alarms to get to school on Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond your control, graduation time, endless labs, assignments, papers and projects—you did all of it. No one ceremonies will be modified this year. But know this: graduating from high can take away the knowledge you gained. There was some fun along the way, too. school is a big deal. We are endlessly, amazingly, over-the-moon proud of you. Like Friday night football games, drama productions, field trips, band concerts, May 2020 was always the goal graduation date for your class, the young road trips to away games, lunches in the Senior Café and premier parking spots. men and women born in 2001 and 2002. You arrived in a time of uncertainty There is an essence to being a senior; just2 walking the halls knowing you’d made for our country, a world that was in flux after 9/11, only you didn’t know it it to the best year of high school means something. You did that. then. Your families took care of you, and raised strong, savvy citizens who took You made memories and friends that no one can cancel or postpone. no freedom for granted. That included school. We expect great things from you, Class of 2020. You’ve arrived at the endof We watched you grow up and have been there for the milestones, your high your high school career; welcome to the beginning of a new chapter. school graduation the biggest accomplishment yet. It’s been a journey, from the first day of kindergarten to the first day of your senior year only a few months ago. Since first grade, you’ve spent a better part of 115 months in school. That’s You’re0 ready. 2 0 2 C SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING MAY 2020
“The people with the insight to solve problems are the people who live those problems daily.” Ashley vonClausburg: Looking to the future amid COVID-19
Tapestry: Story Threads From North Georgia
BONNIE EAST
Editor’s Note: Social distancing presents challenges to a writer who depends on face- to-face interviews, but columnist Bonnie East found a subject close to home. Ashley vonClausburg is her daughter and, as noted below, is sheltering in East’s Big Canoe home.
ne week before the United States issued the warning to Americans abroad to get home O ASAP, Ashley vonClausburg was working in Indonesia. Along with her A hired man in India offers Ashley a tour in his canoe. PHOTO BY ASHLEY VONCLAUSBURG co-workers, she began the palm-sweating search for flights home. The consensus was: Decide where you want to be stuck. Her first flight, connecting through Australia, was cancelled. There was one flight left, connecting through Seoul, Korea, a coronavirus hot spot. At the time, a low-grade fever was the symptom of reproach. Ashley was tested in Indonesia and Seoul. “I expected to be Ashley vonClausburg shelters at home in screened in Detroit, my touchdown in the Big Canoe. PHOTO BY BONNIE EAST U.S., by people in hazmat suits and was surprised when I was not screened at all.” Her instructions were clear, however. “I developed an awareness Travelers from abroad must self-isolate. of the disconnect Ashley’s family left her a car at a MARTA station. She never saw them. She drove six between the good people hours to a family-owned cabin in Virginia and want to do and quarantined for 15 days. Decidedly safe and healthy, Ashley is now sheltering in place in the good that is useful.” Big Canoe with her mom and stepdad. Ashley vonClausburg, 33, is a millennial, part of the worry generation. They’re keenly aware of their past, present and future and of their impact on global conditions. Throw in a Ashley is welcomed by a sibling of one of her students in Cambodia during a day spent pandemic that takes down their largest employer—small businesses—and they have even with the family at their home. PHOTO BY ASHLEY VONCLAUSBURG more to worry about (www.sba.gov/advocacy). Weaving threads of innovation into a tapestry designed for social impact, Ashley is motivated to make things better. “Systems that affect our daily lives, that have a social impact, such as healthcare and education, need the same level of thought and care in their design that cars, software and household products already have,” she said. Ashley studied dance at UNC-Greensboro. About 3 years in, she added a second degree, International Studies, to better understand the world. Her first job upon graduation was with a foreign policy think tank in Washington, D.C., set up after World War II to promote European/U.S. relations. She interviewed world leaders and traveled the globe. “Often I found myself in a room full of people who talked but did very little. It wasn’t the impact I wanted to make with my life.” She left her job to travel. “I naively thought I could make the world better by dropping in to volunteer for a week or two. I learned that wasn’t how real impact happened. The people with the insight to solve problems are the people who live those problems daily. Facilitating change requires working with communities and looking at communities and their issues at a systemic level. I needed education on how I could participate.” Ashley became a self-taught graphic designer, intuitively combining design and global awareness by using her writing and photography skills to document what she was seeing behind the scenes. On backroads, she connected with people in a way that filtered out the tourist and gave permission to someone brave enough to visit locals without knowing the language, eat without knowing the food, and sleep without knowing where the sun sets. Reflecting on her time in Cambodia where she taught English and resided with her students, Ashley said: “The children had to live near the school, a remote area far from their A classroom in Laos. PHOTO BY ASHLEY VONCLAUSBURG families, or have no access to education.” She recalled a pivotal moment when she watched a man with a large-lensed camera snap pictures of a disheveled child in a tattered dress and nationwide, as evidence by the American Medical Association putting out a call out for then get back on his bus. “I was appalled and heartbroken at the tourist approach taken with ideas on getting PPE to the front lines (www.ama-assn.org). this small, unknowing child. She was the sister of one of our students.” “We’ve found hospitals are functioning as independent contractors, petitioning for Ashley’s first design job included marketing for a non-governmental organization themselves,” Ashley stated. “Supplies, equipment, medical information, none of the data (NGO) school in Tanzania. “I developed an awareness of the disconnect between the good is connected. Not having any kind of unified system presents a serious roadblock to our people want to do and the good that is useful. For example, well-intentioned volunteers nation’s ability to handle a pandemic. This crisis is making us aware now, more than ever, sent a school expensive projectors which required dark rooms. The school had no walls and the systems and services that shape our lives demand the same level of critical attention enough electricity to power only a few light bulbs.” and thoughtful design we’ve given to for-profit efforts for so long.” Her path led to the global health NGO, Muso, whose goal is to end child mortality in As she continues to weave her tapestry, Ashley noted, “I’m Mali. She worked on branding and funding. “Areas where Muso intervened experienced confident moving forward I want to use my skills to solve problems a 90 percent reduction in child mortality, the biggest drop ever documented, by applying rather than sell products.” principles of human-centered design to healthcare systems,” Ashley stated. Human- centered design is a tool for social impact that leverages the knowledge and innovation of Bonnie East has lived in Big Canoe for four years and is an avid listener the community for which the solution is being designed (www.movingworld.org). of oral history. If you, or someone you know, has a story, big or small, Fast forward to COVID-19 in 2020. Ashley joined Dr. Stephen Yeh, a world-renowned of heart or grit or is a one-of-a-kind pioneer, please contact Bonnie at retina specialist from Emory who is also researching eye diseases in Ebola survivors, on a [email protected]. task force looking at ways to get PPE to Georgia hospitals. This is not a local problem—it’s Living Ridgerunners: Save the date, Sept. 8
BY CHRISTINE FLAHERTY
idgerunners will launch the fall season with a fun and festive “Spring into Fall” luncheon, R Tuesday, Sept. 8. The venue will be the rustic and charming Willows Farm, a short drive from Big Canoe. The Ridgerunners’ Big Canoe Woman of the Year will be announced at this event, which will open the 2020/2021 Ridgerunners’ season. Members for the Mountain Musings • 4 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons will all be invited. Additional details on this Dear Class Of 2020...... 1 May’s Travel Club meeting will feature Viking River Cruises’ Great Lakes and Mississippi cruises. event will be circulated this summer Tapestry: Story Threads From North Georgia..... 2 and posted on the Ridgerunners’ Travel Club...... 2 website, www.bigcanoerr.com. Ridgerunners...... 2 Travel Club goes virtual Ask The Pharmacist...... 3 Ridgerunners is Big Canoe’s largest Mountain Musings...... 4 BY MARGO VALLONE featuring Vikings’ Great Lakes and new women’s social and educational organization. All women residents Healthy Living...... 4 Mississippi River cruises. Viking is the ollowing its successful April vendor sponsor of Dream Vacations’ Big of Big Canoe over the age of 21 are Wayne On Wine...... 6 meeting presented on Zoom, the Canoe Travel Club meetings in 2020. invited to join. To become a member, iTips Of The Month...... 7 Travel Club is offering another A login link will be announced in POA visit our website at www.bigcanoerr. Writers Corner ...... 8 virtual meeting, Wednesday, May e-blasts. Be sure to mark the date on your com. Ridgerunners events are open F exclusively to members. Snapshots: Tales Of Big Canoe...... 9 27, 6 p.m. Barry Johnston of Viking River calendar and join from the comfort of your Word Of Mouth...... 10 Cruises will present details and videos home. MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING 3 C
“Without a vaccine –or antibodies in our bloodstream—against COVID-19 the total mortality rate may prove to be similar to a ‘bad’ flu season, with deaths concentrated in a much shorter period of time.” Math 101 and COVID-19
dles the size of a bandage! The Bill and Me- linda Gates Foundation has pledged billions Ask The of dollars for the construction of factories Pharmacist of several promising vaccine candidates. No frontrunner has yet been identified to treat COVID-19. Despite the president’s suggestion, the use of anti-malarials (with DR. BOB ANDERSON or without azithromycin) have not been adequately examined outside the test tube Editor’s note: This column reflects statistics and can have serious side effects. Anecdotal available for COVID-19 as of April 12, 2020. evidence suggests they may prove effective in reducing viral shedding in mild viral cas- am cautiously hopeful as I write this es. Shortages from hoarding are negatively column that the effect of quarantine impacting patients who require the drug to measures will negatively impact the treat rheumatoid arthritis. spread of the virus and not overwhelm The antiviral drug Remdesivir, an I Ebola virus washout, is now undergoing our healthcare system. Every day the num- bers go up on the virus and down on the treatment against coronavirus in over 1,000 economy. Almost 20K have died as of April patients under compassionate-use pro- 10. Original projections from Dr. Fauci in tocols. There are clinical trials underway late March were in the range of 100-200K on several “anti-inflammatory” biotech U.S. deaths from the virus with a mortality drugs on the market to treat HIV, cancer rate of 3-4 percent. Those are scary stats, cases in mostly symptomatic patients. If we month) timeframe. or rheumatoid arthritis to assess safety especially if you are over the age of 65. combine the symptomatic patients with the Most of us can agree the Princess and efficacy on COVID-19. Plasma from How accurate are these projections? asymptomatic patients, the number of total Diamond cruise ship is like a country of its recovered patients that contains antibodies For comparison, the Spanish flu infected patients may be closer to 5 million! own when out to sea. Of the 3,711 passen- may be helpful when infused in hospital- pandemic of 1918 killed 675K Americans. A more accurate mortality risk? gers and crew tested, 712 patients were ized patients; supply of such plasma is the During the last “bad” flu season, 2017-18, To get a better handle on mortality positive for the virus in relatively “close rate-limiting factor, but synthetic “antibody 61K people died in the USA, for a mortality risk, we need to travel to Iceland. This quarters,” with 12 deaths. The mortality rate drugs” may be developed to solve this rate of 0.14 percent; in general, those deaths small country of 360K has screened nearly 5 was predictably higher at 1.6 percent, most- problem. were primarily over a six-month period of percent of its total population (17,900) thus ly due to a population of predominantly Postscript time or approximately 10K-plus per month. far with the following results: 1,586 patients high-risk elderly patients with pre-existing Probably every one of us knows a How does COVID-19 compare? What tested positive for the virus (50 percent medical conditions. family member or friend who has tested is the latest news on vaccine and treatment of these had either mild or no symptoms) Vaccines and drug treatments positive for COVID-19 and hopefully has development? with 11 deaths, for a mortality rate of almost Abbott Laboratories has received emergen- survived. Of course, the final results are Math worksheet 0.7 percent. The U.S. mortality rate may be cy authorization from the Food and Drug not yet in, but studies suggest the mortality The mortality for any virus is cal- expected to be higher due to more concen- Administration for a rapid “point-of-care” from the pandemic in the U.S. may not be culated by dividing the total number of trated populations in large cities. finger stick test that can be used in clinics, as dismal as initially projected. deaths by the total number of patients In the U.S. so far, we have experienced pharmacies and emergency rooms. Positive Without a vaccine—or antibodies in infected. This is not rocket science but, approximately 20K deaths among nearly results are reported in five minutes (as op- our bloodstream—against COVID-19 the truth be known, it was pointed out to me 500K confirmed positive tests for a mortal- posed to three to four days) with negative total mortality rate may prove to be similar by Jeff Brown, a rocket scientist by training. ity rate of 4 percent. But, if we add another results known in 13 minutes. to a “bad” flu season, with deaths concen- During this crisis, we have had only enough 2.5 million mild or asymptomatic patients Purdue University is developing an trated in a much shorter period of time. lab tests to check patients who were symp- who were exposed to the virus (but not “at-home” test similar to a pregnancy test. With all the American ingenuity at play, tomatic. How many patients were asymp- tested), the mortality rate would lower by Twenty-two other companies and univer- including the use of artificial intelligence, tomatic having no or mild symptoms and a power of 10 or so to 0.67 percent. This sities—including Emory and UGA—have we should have a proven vaccine and treat- not requiring a medical or hospital visit? In would be similar to the Icelandic results if also received emergency FDA approval to ment identified by early 2021. the U.S., we just do not know. the estimate of infected persons is accurate. develop lab tests. Some of these test for the Stay safe till then! The University of Oxford recently This would still be an almost sevenfold presence of the virus while others detect projected 36-68 percent of the entire pop- higher mortality rate than a normal flu antibodies to the virus. All these tests must Dr. Anderson is professor ulation of the United Kingdom has already season (0.1 percent) but much less than the be validated for accuracy before wide- emeritus from Mercer been exposed to the virus; a great majority 3 to 4 percent government estimate. The spread use. University and a full- (with Boris Johnson an exception) were University of Washington has projected Johnson & Johnson has a promising time resident of Big mild or asymptomatic. In the U.S., it is con- 60K deaths from COVID-19, much less vaccine with human trials beginning in the Canoe. servatively estimated the total number of than government estimates and closer to fall; if the results are positive, 1 billion doses infected patients is fivefold greater than the incidence of deaths from the 2017-18 flu. of vaccine would be available worldwide number of confirmed cases; as of today, we The deaths from COVID-19 are just more by early 2021. The University of Pittsburg have approximately 500K-plus confirmed concentrated in a three-month (vs. six- is developing a vaccine with 400 micronee- DR. BOB ANDERSON 4 C SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING MAY 2020
“This new not-so-normal Invited guests may necessitate a bit of creativity.” Welcome to the Mountain Musings new not-so-normal
ANN PIKE, PH.D.
t was innocuous at first. The day was born out of unawareness. There were flowers on the table. Everything was I set with the richness of a sumptuous feast. Shiny, bright surfaces beckoned, sweet aromas enticed and my anticipation The comforting smell of chocolate flowed aroused. I began to wonder who this was, through my senses like a luscious blanket. sitting opposite me, as his features began to darken. His face retreated into the bub- your time,” he said with an impish grin. bling depths of my thoughts. My thoughts “You haven’t summoned me in a very long grew somber. His brow furrowed with time. I was starting to wonder what you doubt. Worry swirled like storm clouds were up to.” around him. He left me with news of the He had made a list of my favorite ac- pandemic, the statistics of daily deaths, tivities: good books to read, friends to call, the possibilities it was getting closer to stories to write, naps to take and a porch me, my friends and people I knew. Images to enjoy while watching birds. “Of course, of people dying in intensive care units, it is up to you, how you spend our time. I unable to say goodbye to their families, would like to spend it with you, moment flooded my mind. “It will be here soon,” he by moment. Time is like an unopened said, “just wait.” present with a lot of joy inside,” he said. Solving a puzzle is a good way to keep occupied. Thoughts filled me with dread like “There is just one rule,” he cautioned. “You have to stay in this moment for me viral particles floating through the air. I BY CHRISTINE FLAHERTY Enjoy some comfort food. It is some- to hang around. I don’t do future or past. realized I was dining with the demon of thing we all hunger for. (Excuse the pun.) The past is spent and I learned a long fear. He had left his invisible viral dread re you dressing up to visit the Don’t deny yourself, but do modify your time ago not to wrangle with the future. with me and I had inhaled. I realized I recycling center because that portion size if you opt for something less Too many unknowns,” he said. “So, if you had brought him into my gifted present. is the only human contact you than wholesome. Make it last, as a way to pardon the pun, we could open up the He was feasting on my thoughts and the are likely to have all day—or all extend the enjoyment. recesses of my imagination. My throat ‘present’ I brought.” A week? Have you been indulging in a bit of Try to get seven to eight hours of sleep. He placed before me a beautifully went dry. There was a thirst for hope retail therapy, only to realize you have no Sleep keeps us healthy and is known to wrapped gift that brought the anticipation in an unknown future. I had been in his place to wear the fashion-forward items help in shedding extra pounds you may of joy and the experience of one moment clutches. He said he had many invitations you purchased? Not a problem, as there have accumulated in this new world of at a time. like mine and would feast on the minds of likely will be a vaccine by the time they are hanging out at home. “Let’s start by drinking hot choco- others today. I believed him. He thrived delivered. Welcome to the new not-so- Stay hydrated. It is important to drink late,” I said, eyeing the fluffy silkiness of on our collective imagination and fears. normal. lots of fluids. Keep a bottle of water nearby. the whipped cream sitting before me. There would be endless invitations for Despite the challenges associated with In fact, staying hydrated can reduce the im- “There’s a good use of joy! Always, him to attend sumptuous feasts like mine. spending an inordinate amount of time on pulse to visit the fridge, again—and again. always one moment at a time,” he said. I closed my eyes and took a deep your sofa, residents of Big Canoe are very Your body can confuse hunger with thirst. breath. I took another, and still another. fortunate. Surrounded by nature, there are So, drink lots, especially before eating. Ann Pike, a 13-year I could hear his voice in the background, multiple opportunities to get outside while Consider games and puzzles. There resident of Big Canoe, but more distant. I thought of joyful times, maintaining the prescribed physical (not are online card games available for free at spins tales from a smile, a reassuring hug from a friend. My social) distance. Kayaking, pontooning and www.trickstercards.com. Virtual bridge the comforts of her breathing slowed and calmness washed one-person-to-a-cart golf are options, as has enabled us to play with people all over, mountain home. She over me. I had come back from a future are tennis and bocce. Of course, the trails including my 93-year-old father in New - attributes her success dread into my present moment. My pres offer an excellent way to enjoy our beau- Jersey. With a bit of coaching he has be- to generous friends ent was intact and well. I could live here, tiful surroundings while getting some ex- come quite skilled, inviting his lady friends who support her with taking each breath, one moment at a time. ercise and staying 6 feet apart. In addition, to play daily. (Who knew he would become encouragement and The comforting smell of chocolate flowed the Wellness Center is generously offering such a chick magnet?) Audio for the games ANN PIKE inspiration. By day, Dr. through my senses like a luscious blanket. all residents a variety of free online options is compliments of www.freeconferencecall. Pike is a licensed psychologist in Jasper, I opened my eyes. In front of me was a for staying fit while staying home. Of com. And try puzzles. My husband has appreciative of the opportunity to witness steaming cup of hot chocolate with fluffy course, we also have (gasp!) good, old-fash- inquired on several occasions why I keep all those who triumph over life’s challenges. whipped cream on top. ioned phone calls. them. They are now being put to good use.
“What fun thing are we doing today? This new not-so-normal may necessi- Lastly, don’t be hard on yourself. If I’ve been looking forward to spending tate a bit of creativity. People are recon- you planned to clean out your closets, necting for virtual meetings, parties, games channel your inner gourmet, take up and exercise on Zoom, Google Hangouts, painting (either kind) or learn a language, Skype and Houseparty. (Of interest: The don’t feel guilty if you have not done any of Royal Family uses Houseparty, so rest as- these. This is a time to be kind—to yourself sured you will be in the best of company.) as well. Indeed, getting together virtually can feel Join our physical distance walks particularly comforting at this challeng- Consider joining the Healthy Living ing time. You may elect to devote some Committee for one of its physical distance modest attention to grooming, but the sad walks. Choose Monday, Wednesday and/ shape of your mani/pedi will go com- or Friday at 8:30 a.m., (starting May 1 we pletely unnoticed and there is no need to will no longer start at 9:30 a.m.). They offer remove your bunny slippers. A friend even the chance to be outdoors, while getting organized a drive-by birthday celebration some valuable exercise and enjoying some for her husband. But don’t forget: Intro- much-needed conversation—all while verts, you need to check on your extrovert maintaining the aforementioned physi- friends—they may be particularly in need cal distance. Contact Christine Flaherty, of a boost. [email protected], for more Staying healthy and sane at home information and to add your name to our A few quick tips to battle cabin fever walkers’ email reminder list. and make sure the 19 in COVID-19 does not Message to residents in need stand for the number of pounds you put on The Wellness Collaborative is able to during your staycation. (Dare I call it that?) provide pickup services for prepaid grocer- Stand more. Don’t spend the entire ies, prescriptions and takeout meals at local day on the sofa. As tempting as that may restaurants for those clients who meet be, whiling away the hours reclining in relaxed eligibility standards. Please contact your jammies may not be the best choice. the Collaborative, 706-268-3334 or bcwell. If you are reading online, set up your de- org, for more information. vice so you can do angled pushups against your counter, or try partial squats, knees The Healthy Living Committee is a part permitting. If you are streaming back-to- of the Wellness Collaborative, a 501(c)3 back episodes on Netflix, do some bicep organization. curls or just lift your legs as you indulge in a bit of binge-watching.
Carla Boutin, Agent 137 Prominence Court, Suite 210 Please stop by and say, “Hi!” Dawsonville, GA 30534 Bus: 706-268-1500 I’m looking forward to serving your needs for Bus: 706-344-1300 insurance and financial services. [email protected] Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY. BIG CANOE RESIDENT MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING 5 C
... your place in the mountains
SOME AGENTS JUST GO THE EXTRA MILE
Carolyn Littell Tom Petrigliano 706-268-2354 • 404-630-4185 cell 706-268-2316 • 678-428-9293 cell Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
20+ years combined experience!
NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW PRICE
140 Blazing Star Lane - $939,000 180 Cinnamon Fern - $298,000 260 Sycamore Trail - $424,900 4BR/6BA/3CarGarage 3BR/2BA/Garage 3BR/2BA/Garage Price well below replacement value! One floor living New build in 2019
LAKE SCONTI NEW PRICE
62 Lake Watch Village - $449,900 520 Choctaw - $539,900 1149 Cox Mountain Dr. - $950,000 3BR/3.5BA 4BR/3.5BA/Garage 4BR/4.5BA/Garage Totally renovated - WOW GREAT VALUE One of a kind home
SOLD IN 3 DAYS! SOLD IN 15 DAYS! SOLD
201 Bluestern Drive 9 Chestnut Knoll 44 Osprey Way
973 Cox Mountain Dr. - $1,590,750 7BR/6BA/Garage SOLD SOLD SOLD
VIEW, VIEW! 566 Deer Run Ridge 30 Buckskull Point 196 Petit Ridge
SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD
88 Woodpecker Way 31 Laurel Turn 303 Red Trillium 98 Bobcat Ridge 38 Red Trillium HOMESITES...BUILD YOUR DREAM • 2154 Royal Fern Trail - NEW PRICE $25,000. Private setting and gentle slope on this 2.46 ac estate size home site. Easy build locations. • 5578 Black Bear Trail - NEW PRICE $99,000. This fabulous lot in High Gap provides the buyer plenty of privacy on this large 2.21 Acre lot. Bonus is they’ll have a wonderful long range view as well. Several areas of green space behind this lot adds to the privacy. Not far to the north gate. • 2713 Eagle Ridge - NEW PRICE $115,000. Great building lot end of cul-de-sac McElroy Mountain. Motivated seller marked lot to build their dream home but found a home to buy instead. Clearing for the home should yield a good view. • 3111 Falcon Heights - $179,000. Build your dream home and enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains and Lake Petit. Very desirable section of Big Canoe with many high end homes. Homesites like this do not come along very often. Owner financing available to qualified buyer. • 3023 Wild Turkey Bluff - $139,000. Outstanding long range northerly views! Prestigious high priced homes on both sides. Large lot loaded with hardwoods. Check out the view from neighboring properties to get a feel for your amazing view potential. High Gap area just minutes to North Gate!!!! Great value! Listen to the stream that borders rear boundary. Beautiful hardwoods. Outstanding value! • 2745 Turnbury La - $125,000. Easy build golf course lot on Cherokee #2, signature hole. Cul-de-sac lot in Desirable Audubon Ridge neighborhood. Easy access to gates and amenities. Priced to sell! • 3008 Wild Turkey Bluff - $98,500. Gentle slope with multiple building sites. • 2924 Yanegwa Knoll - $75,000. 1.87 Acres, private setting with multiple building sites. Beautiful hardwoods and mountain laurel. There is a southeast exposure and an interior mountain view. Easy access to north gate and Wildcat rec center. Great value, priced to sell! • 2619 Highland Trail - $40,000. 4 Plus acre homesite in desirable Audubon Ridge neighborhood. Beautiful hardwoods, mountain views! Great value!
www.bigcanoe.com 6 C SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING MAY 2020 Coronavirus impact on Italian winemakers cess, drying grapes before vinification. The grape has moderate tannins, with bright Wayne acidity. A deep purple-red color comple- On Wine ments blackberry, black cherry, plum and herb aromas and flavors. A full-bodied, still wine with soft tannins, it’s an easy drinker with a medium finish—a nicely crafted WAYNE CRAWFORD wine! Best Buy. Ruffino Prosecco DOC NV sparkling s we remain under lockdown wine extra dry, Pontassieve, Italy, $13.98. guidance, most Americans track The significant estate for Ruffino is in the coronavirus across the world. Grassino, Tuscany—the Poggio Cascia- A I utilize multiple sources but no estate. This particular wine, however, www.bing.com/covid, which provides a comes from grapes grown in hill areas detailed world view, is my first choice to surrounding Valdobbiadene in Veneto, a trace daily changes and hotspots. You find traditional region for growing Glera, the the region you are concerned about on a primary grape used to produce Prosecco. map and select with one click. The site also Valdobbiadene, a town of just over 10,000, ranks in descending order the most severely has complied with Veneto’s stay-in-place affected countries or regions. Regrettably, guidance. The wine is almost crystal clear on April 12, when I was crafting this article, with little cover. This is a sparkling wine the United States headed the list, followed made with the tank method, where the sec- by Spain and Italy. ond fermentation occurs in a tank—in Italy, As a wine writer, my concern is the the Charmat method. Aromas include apple global impact coronavirus places on wine- and peach. On the palate, hints of peach, makers. I selected Italy to study; it is the apple and citrus, dry, crisp, refreshing, but world’s largest wine producer and the larg- not overly complex and with a reasonable est importer to the United States. Addition- aftertaste. Pair this sparkler with white PHOTO BY WAYNE CRAWFORD ally, Italy is not under the 25 percent tariff meats, fish and pizza. Best Buy. applied by the U.S. facing France, Spain and Prosecco with the grand city of Venice. acidity and a medium finish. A delightful red Pieropan Soave Classico 2015 Soave, the United Kingdom. Quarantined areas in Italy include parts of wine, pair it with pizza, grilled or roasted Italy, $17.98. I have served this wine on Italy has 20 states and each is a wine Lombardy around Milan and Veneto, both meats, tomatoes—an excellent food wine. several occasions in wine tastings. Soave region. The virus impact from highest to designated as red zones, which resulted in Highly Recommended and Best Buy. is grown and produced in the Soave DOC/ lowest appeared mostly in this order: Lom- long lines to purchase supplies. For a deeper Damilano Asti 2017 Barbera d’asti DOCG around Verona in western Veneto. bardy, Emilia-Romagna, Piedmont, Veneto, dive, I researched wine producer vineyards’ DOCG Casorzo, the province of Asti, $18.98. Soave, with a population of around 6,800, is Tuscany and Liguria. These key wine re- locations for their unique wines. Casorzo, a small town with 620 people, is 31 about 14 miles east of Verona. It was under gions are in north Italy. Down the list were Finally, Italy has the second oldest pop- miles east of Turin and about 9 miles north- French rule until 1805. Light-yellow with Trentino, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Al- ulation after Japan. As I write, the country east of Asti. The Piedmont region has over green tints, brilliant, it is a reflective white to Adige and Valle d’Aosta, rounding out all is still engaged in a significant fight against 16,000 cases of COVID-19. The Damilano wine. Peach, green apple and pear aromas the northern regions with nine of 20 states. COVID-19. A coming challenge will be the maintains 42 acres for the barbera used to with hints of cucumber. On the palate, Next, I went to my local grocery in ability to hire farm workers from outside make its wines. This wine is deep-red with crisp and fresh with more lemon, apple and Marble Hill, which has an excellent and Italy to assist in this year’s vineyard harvest. a purple hue and is 20 percent oak-aged and saffron flavors. A medium-plus body with diverse wine selection. I picked out six Ital- In summary, Italy, like the United 80 percent stainless steel, with aromas of a smooth mouthfeel that allows a medium ian wines from northern regions to gain a States, is traveling different roads to face cherry, plum, floral and hints of citrus. On pleasing finish. A great example of the broader appreciation for the who, what and the challenges we are seeing at home, in- the palate, crisp acidity, balanced, smooth Garganego grape, the second most import- where and the potential challenges being cluding the time it will take to move toward tannins, a lingering fresh-fruit finish, full ant in Veneto. Pairs well with white fish and faced. With this information, I researched normal. body. Another exceptional wine from the lighter meats. to pinpoint the varying locations and gain ‘Wines Drinking Well Now’ Asti region. Highly Recommended. ‘Drink What You Like’ insight into local COVID-19 conditions. Michele Chiarlo 2016 Le Orme Barbera Gran Passione Rosso 2018 Veneto 2018 My next article will focus on red Zin- Much like in the United States, restau- D’Asti Mesi, DOCG Calamandrana, Italy, Fossalta Di Plave, Italy, $13.98. Fossalta Di fandel. rants and bars were the first to close. Travel $12.98. Calamandrana is in Piemonte in Plave is a town in the province of Venice, movement and entry into Italy from other the Appellations of Monferrato Astigiano. within the Veneto Region, about 40 miles Wayne Crawford is countries remains highly restricted. This in- This is a DOCG wine, the highest-rated for north of Venice, with 13,768 COVID-19 the author of “Georgia cludes famous wine regions like Piedmont, quality. Calamandrana is between Asti, 12 cases. The population is 4,564, with Vineyards and which has the highest number of Denomi- miles, and Genova on the coast. The town’s tourism and wine chief industries. Ernest Wineries—A Historical nazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita population is 1,800. My tasting notes include Hemingway was injured in the town as an Guide to Georgia Wines” or DOCG delimited areas and thus provides a dark ruby-red wine with a purple hue on ambulance driver, July 8, 1918. The town (www.wayneonwine. the highest quality wines. The historic city the rim and aromas of cherry, blackberry, currently is in the red zone. The wine is 60 com), and is a French of Turin within Piedmont is closed. Also anise and pepper. On the palate, a delight- percent merlot and 40 percent Corvina, a Wine Scholar, a Certified shut are Lombardy—the most populated ful, well-crafted, medium-bodied barbera red grape native to the province of Verona. Specialist of Wine and region in Italy with Milan, the second-larg- balanced with smooth light tannins. Cherry, This thick-skinned grape makes the blended WAYNE CRAWFORD holds a Wine Scholar est city in Italy—and Veneto—home for black fruit and spice dominate with fresh wine a candidate for the appasimento pro- Master Certificate in Champagne. FEATURED LISTINGS DECONTAMINATION & PREVENTATIVE CLEANING
SOLD STUNNING VIEWS NEW CONDO LISTING 1549 Valley View Drive 2209 Valley View Drive 140 Sconti Ridge, Unit 424 Big Canoe Big Canoe Big Canoe By Bailey $549,000, 5BR/3FB/2HB $475,000, 4BR/3.5BA $185,000, 3BR/2BA FMLS #6105536 FMLS #6667937 FMLS #6710592
NEW PATHOGENS | COVID 19 | INFLUENZA NEW PRICE SOLD SOLD 2840 Quail Cove Drive 304 Owls Brow 178 Sconti Ridge, Unit 436, Big Canoe, GA 30143 Big Canoe, GA Big Canoe, GA t t t t $575,000, 4BR/4.5BA $435,000, 3BR/4BA, $189,000, 3BR/2BA, Water Fire Mold Storm FMLS #6643973 FMLS #6649466 FMLS #6634434 770-720-9533 Smbybailey.com SOLD SOLD 301 Kilmartin Point 781 Woodland Trace Big Canoe, GA 30143 Big Canoe, GA 30143 $450,000, 3BR/3.5BA $199,000, 3BR/2BA Locally owned & operated Since 1999 FMLS #6616353 FMLS #6555990 LOTS & LAND 8255 Cox Mtn Dr. • $125,000 • FMLS #5777750 • SOLD 8115 Disharoon Drive • $69,000 • FMLS #6124867• NEW PRICE 00 Valley View Drive, Jasper • $64,900 • FMLS #6660473 • SOLD 240 Sanderlin Mountain Drive N. $39,900 • FMLS #6534583 • NEW PRICE COMMERCIAL LAND 00 Foothills Pkwy • $200,000 • FMLS #6677878 70 Foothills Pkwy • $175,000 • FMLS #6677863 70 Foothills Pkwy • $175,000 • FMLS #6677850
Maggie R. Hosmer, Associate Broker www.HarryNormanBC.com C: 706-273-4256 O: 770-893-2400 [email protected]
2020 President Elect For The Pickens County Board of Realtors 2019 & 2018 Director for the Pickens County Board of Realtors 2018 & 2017 Recipient of the Circle of Excellence Award MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING 7 C
“WhatsApp has become the world’s most popular text and voice messaging application, with over 1 billion users.” iTips Of The Month Keeping in touch BY GARY CHERRY and a password. I admit Zoom is not as user-friendly as FaceTime or WhatsApp, eeping in touch with friends but the presentation and flexibility make and family is particularly im- it worth the extra effort. portant during this pandemic. A Zoom conference has to be initiat- K There’s email, phone and tex- ed by a moderator (you?). After bringing ting, but a visual connection works better the program up, you have the option of to give the personal context we seek. either scheduling an immediate meeting FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom and or one at a later time. After choosing, others give both video and audio, helping select “New Meeting.” Depending on fill the lack-of-connection gap. the device used, you will see slightly FaceTime different presentations. In any event, you The tried-and-true app from Apple, want participants, so you have to invite FaceTime is available on up-to-date them. Depending on the device used, the iPhones, iPads and iMacs. To use this, prompt to invite participants can differ, the person(s) you are connecting with but it’s intuitive and user-friendly; just must have an Apple device, and their look for the link to invite participants. email and phone information need to be When you click on this, you are offered in your Contacts. You can either click on a choice of notification methods. The the FaceTime app and enter the name or usual way to invite participants is to phone number of the person you are call- select email. Selecting this brings up ing or click on the person’s name in your PREMIO STOCK / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM a boilerplate email message to send Contacts list and then on the FaceTime to meeting invitees. Enter their email button at the top. iPhone, iMac or Android phone. eo. Zoom users can choose to record ses- addresses on this message. Don’t worry Situate yourself with good lighting, After installing, click on WhatsApp. sions, collaborate on projects, and share about the message ID and password here, and preferably get something on which On some devices, you will be asked a se- or annotate on one another’s screens, as all your invitees have to do is click on to prop your device. You can situate your ries of setup questions, including phone all with one easy-to-use platform. Zoom the link in your email message. If your phone or iPad either in portrait or land- number and country code and whether or offers quality video, audio, and a wireless invitee doesn’t have Zoom installed, the scape mode. A small button at the bottom not you accept notifications. The app will screen-sharing performance across Mac, email message will include an invitation allows you to reverse the video view to send you an SMS message to verify your iOS, Android, and Windows.” Practically and prompt to install the app. As your show something like your new car, your phone number and country code when speaking, Zoom is a great way to enable invitees accept, there is usually a bit of beautiful new kitchen, etc. Be sure to you type in your phone number. Also, several people to have a video meeting adjusting needed, such as “admit partici- switch it back when you want your face allow WhatsApp to access your contacts using almost any type of phone or com- pant,” “allow video,” etc., but it’s intuitive. to show again. and your photos. To start your video call puter. A major point here, if using the free You may also set up a Group Face- on your iPad or computer, click on Start Recently, there has been negative version (and who isn’t), your meeting is time on your iPhone or iPad. Select the A New Chat, or, on your iPhone, click on publicity about “Zoombombing.” This is limited to 40 minutes. However, this isn’t Facetime app and tap the Add button the pencil-and-pad at the upper right cor- a form of harassment in which intrud- a big problem as you can simply end the in the top right corner. Enter the names ner. Enter the name of the contact (must ers hijack video calls and post offensive current meeting and immediately begin or phone number of people you want to be in your WhatsApp Contacts list) you material. If a company hosts a meeting another one with the same folks. add. Tap Video. The others in your group want to call by either entering the name or a public entity, such as a school, You can select different types of pre- message have to acknowledge and accept in the search field or by selecting the uses Zoom, there exists the chance of a sentations, backgrounds, mute/unmute, the video call. You can add up to 32 peo- name from this Contacts list. When the problem. For a private family or friends etc., by using the options menu at the ple to a Group FaceTime call. Contacts card shows up, click on the chat, I don’t think there will be an issue. bottom of the picture. Experimentation WhatsApp Video (or Audio Only) button. I believe the problem could arise only if is OK. Later, you can try some fun things, WhatsApp has become the world’s It’s also possible to make a group the invitation email falls into the wrong such as changing your background. This most popular text and voice messaging WhatsApp video call, but I’ll also save hands. The preventive here is to keep will be a topic for a later session (unless application, with over 1 billion users. that for another day. If you want to know your email private and delete the invite you use Google or YouTube to learn how It works on both Apple and Android how to do this, simply bring up YouTube email soon after the session. In my this is done). devices and is a free service available and Google “group video WhatsApp.” opinion, avoiding Zoom because of these Hopefully, these apps will make this worldwide, same as FaceTime. As with Zoom possible problems is a bit like “throwing time of social distancing a bit happier. FaceTime, all users must have installed Per its website, Zoom is a “web- the baby out with the bath water.” this app on their devices. This method of based video conferencing tool that allows So, how do you use Zoom? To video conferencing can be used on your users to meet online, with or without vid- start, register with your email address
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iedmont Village is a new active adult community in Jasper GA offering quality built homes with energy saving Pfeatures and modern design. Piedmont Village offers new homes starting in the low $200’s and will become home to many lucky active adults. Located off 515 North in Jasper This neighborhood is located off 515 North in The First Mountain City! Residents can spend long afternoons at nearby *The first 15 buyers to mention shops and restaurants, check out the local wines of Sharp this ad will receive a FREE stainless Mountain Vineyards, or enjoy a day at Gibbs Gardens (one of steel appliance package upgrade! the nation’s largest residential estate gardens). See agent for more details. These brand new homes will be a single family attached product ranging from 1356 – 1813 sq.ft., perfect for downsizing! Contact Denise Coats at 770.883.2384 today to learn more about available new homes in Jasper GA at Piedmont Village! 8 C SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING MAY 2020
“I do not contest Gertie’s right to look after Walmart’s business interest as long as my right as primary mate is respected.” How I lost the one I love what appears to be an attempt at a military a stroller blocks my way. old wallet, just in case.” There’s no way salute. “Sorry, sir,” he says. “Oh, well,” I think, “I’ve advanced I’d pull a knife on a person. I’d let myself Writers I pull his hand from his forehead and an appreciation of science, even if only a get choked to death before resorting to Corner say, “Okay, Darrell, here’s what I want you little bit.” I check my watch and see it is violence. The only reason I am wearing the to do. Look at the picture on the set at the time to move on to the Sport and Leisure knife is to make Bobby feel good. “Gotta far end on the left. Don’t move your eyes department. move on, Bobby. See ya tomorrow.” off the picture, just hold them steady.” He I’ve never been one for fishing but fly The department most in need of my JACK FAY cranes his neck forward, reminding me of rods fascinate me. I lift the tallest rod from attention is Automotive. Every day—not a turkey buzzard staring at roadkill. “Don’t the rack and snap off a couple of practice just every couple of days but every day—I lectric doors whoosh apart, a move your head. What do you see in the throws that would have sent a lure to find something in need of straightening out. wave of cool air washes over picture?” the middle of the Mississippi. The tennis Many a time I’ve been tempted to report me and I hear three magical “There’s a green lizard talking. Don’t rackets are strung tight and the baseball my findings to Walmart’s home office in E words: “Welcome to Walmart.” that beat all? A talking lizard.” gloves are soft and have Arkansas, but I’m not one to complain I linger a moment to chat with the door “Very good, Darrell. Now, “Consistency is that new-car smell. But the about a problem when it is in my power to greeter, Bud Naismith, a veteran of World when I count to three I want basketballs are the best. The make an on-the-spot correction. After all, War II. He brings me up-to-date on the you to move your head to the harmony and one I pick up is white with what’s so hard about picking up an item misfortunes of life confronted daily by his right, as fast as you can and harmony is what black seams. It is not fully that has fallen on the floor or moving an misunderstood grandson, a 30-year-old look at the screen on the TV inflated. When I bounce it on item from the wrong section to the right Peeping Tom currently serving time in the at the far end on the right. You this world needs the floor it makes a thomp- section? My only task today is to separate Pickens County jail. I wish Bud the best and understand?” a lot of.” thomp sound. A lady walks by the chamois cloths from the microfiber promise to chat with him when I return “Yes, sir.” holding her son by the hand. cloths. Oh, and one other matter needs tomorrow. I check to make sure his eyes are She gives me a funny kind of look. The little attention. You know those car odor things The Entertainment Center is my first directed at the TV set on the far left and boy smiles so I send him a wink. you hang from the rearview mirror? The official stop of the day. I have to make sure then I say, “One … two … three … go!” Bobbie Holiday runs Sport and Leisure ones in the shape of a little pine tree? Well, the TV sets are all turned on and tuned to Darrell jerks his body to the right, loses his and I am wondering where he is when from someone has mixed the green ones with the the same channel. Consistency is harmony balance and falls into a crib full of one- behind me I hear, “Yo ho, if it ain’t my old purple ones. Takes me a full 10 minutes to and harmony is what this world needs a dollar DVDs. But I have to say this on his buddy.” I wait for the rest of his greeting, straighten out that mess. lot of. I am nearing the end of the row of behalf: He kept his eyes on that TV just like which never changes. “How they hanging, Hardware and Paints are in good order. TV sets when I feel a tap on my shoulder. I told him. I extend my arm to help him Mr. French?” Usually, there’ll be one or two cans that I turn to see a pimple-faced young man return to standing. “Just fine, Bobby, and what about you?” need to be turned so customers can read wearing a Walmart vest, and on it is a “How’d I do?” he says. “Cain’t say one way or t’other. Just the full label, but such is not the case right badge identifying him as Darrell Cone, “You did great, just great. Now tell me waiting until Sunday to go fishing. Did I tell now. I leave Hardware and Paints with a Associate in Training. From between teeth what you were seeing just before I counted you? Bought me a top-of-the-line Garcia. song in my heart. I’m often overtaken with desperately in need of attention, Darrell to three.” The wife don’t like it, though. Says the rent love when Walmart’s perfection shines says, “Help you, sir?” I like it when a person “The green lizard. And he was talking.” comes before a new reel. Can you believe through. asks me that question even when I know “And after you moved your head to the it? Women just don’t know nothing, I My joy is short-lived, however, it is not sincere. But Darrell is sincere. right, what did you see on the TV?” swear.” because standing not less than 30 feet Otherwise why is he grinning from ear-to- “You mean when I fell?” “I know what you mean, truly do.” in front of me is my rival for Walmart’s ear? “Yes, when you fell.” Women have always been a mystery to affection. Her name is Gertrude Danza, Darrell deserves to share one of my “OK. I saw that same green lizard. He me, and that’s the reason why I’ve never store manager, and she is staring at me Walmart discoveries so I lead him to a spot was looking up at the sky.” married and probably never will. Why like I’m Harvey Weinstein. Gertie, as I call 20 feet back from the center of the row I clap my hands together and cry out, settle for a woman when I’ve got Walmart? her (but not to her face) is a loyal Walmart of TV sets. I ask him, “Can you see that “Ah ha, you’ve confirmed my discovery.” Bobby breaks my thought. “What employee, and I respect her for that, but first set way down at the end of the row?” “What discovery is that, sir?” can I sell you today? Got me a right nice when her loyalty crosses the line into I point at the set because I am not sure “Recall on the TV screen at the far left, Coleman lantern on sale. Good for when love, I am offended, as any red-blooded Darrell understands me. But he is nodding the lizard was talking. On the screen at the you go camping.” man would be. Yes, I am territorial. I do his head up and down so I am encouraged far right, the lizard was looking at the sky. I’ve never camped in my life and not contest Gertie’s right to look after and point to the set at the other end of the This proves that TV sets do not show the don’t want to. Sleeping on the ground is Walmart’s business interest as long as my row. “Can you see that set, too?” same exact picture at the same exact time.” not a preferred activity but I have to keep right as primary mate is respected. The “Yes, sir. I can see real good. Teacher “You right, you so right. Gollee dang.” that secret from Bobby. It would hurt his aggressive way she is looking at me is a over to the high school said one time he With great modesty I say, “It takes a feelings so I tell him, “No thanks, Bobby. I warning. never did see anyone got the pifferal vision certain kind of mind to notice things like think I’ve got everything I need for right I dart quickly to the left, which takes more‘n me—you know, the kind what lets that.” now.” me into the Housewares department where you see sideways. There was this one time I can tell Darrell is excited because he “You still got that fishing knife I sold I find a hiding place behind the draperies …” is doing a little tap dance. Or maybe he has you?” display. After making sure I am out of I cut him off by yanking the bottom to use the toilet, I am not sure. I turn my body so he can see the Gertie’s view I walk the whole length of the of his Walmart vest. “Darrell, I’m not He gives me another salute. “Sir, I have handle of the knife sticking up from the store and circle around to the restroom. finished.” He snaps to attention and slaps to go tell my supervisor.” He dashes off and sheath strapped to my belt. I slap the bone There’s nothing worse than being on the the palm of his hand against his forehead in I want to go with him but a fat lady pushing handle and say, “Right here, in front of the commode and n Continued on next page
25% Discount in 2020 to Honor Veterans & 10% Discount for Veterans’ Spouses Discount is for service and merchandise MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING 9 C n Continued from previous page “As it is, I’m stir crazy with cabin fever and, not only that, Joan is everywhere.” noticing the toilet paper dispenser is empty. So, I check both stalls—no problem. The urinals are free of cigarette butts, chewing gum and Where is all the meat? whatever. The floor and mirrors are clean and the soap dispensers full. In the Pharmacy department, I put my aesthetic talent to use by re- Snapshots: arranging the Advil and Motrin displays. Tales Of Big Canoe Color contrast is needed. Eye appeal is so very important. Anyone who knows anything about marketing will tell you that. BRENT CARROLL The near encounter with Gertie helps me decide to cut my visit short. y fav, William Wordsworth Just one more department should do it. said it best. “The world is too Men’s Clothing. The most direct path much with us late and soon.” to Men’s Clothing is through Women’s M No kidding. It’s tax season, Clothing. I turn my body sideways to pollen season, political season, and here we get through the ladies’ undergarments are fighting off coronavirus. Could it be any section—not touching anything, you worse? Yes, I’ll tell you. There’s a shortage understand, just sliding through. I’m of toilet paper. Politics and coronavirus almost to the end when my wallet falls aside, what are we supposed to do without out of my pocket. I bend over to pick toilet paper? It’s gross just thinking about it. it up and in the doing my face brushes Frankly, I’ve had all the coronavirus against a super extra-large WonderBra. stuff I can stomach. Just stay at home, they I stand up real quick, and wouldn’t tell us, quarantine yourself. Don’t go out you know, I knock over a panties rack. until things get better. Well, fine. So, when’s I’m putting everything back where it that supposed to be? As it is, I’m stir crazy belongs when I hear from behind me, with cabin fever and, not only that, Joan “Nice move, pal.” This from a perverted- is everywhere. We are literally bumping looking guy giving me a big smile and a into each other 24/7. If I’m in the kitchen, thumbs-up. there she is. If I’m in the family room, she’s I finish the task and leave the store. there. Bedroom, there’s Joan. Bathroom, I’m 10 yards from my KIA when a hand yep, Joan’s already there. Yesterday, I grips my shoulder. The hand belongs ventured into the attic to check for roof to Gertie. With a triumphant smile she leaks. There’s Joan rummaging through old says, “Sir, did you forget to pay for any boxes looking for her college diploma. All merchandise?” this closeness is driving us both batty. And, “What merchandise?” a little testy. Yesterday she said, “Can I just “Store merchandise that is in your get 30 minutes to myself, please? Can you possession.” just, like, go for a long walk or something?” “You are obviously mistaken.” “Sure,” I said. “While I’m gone, can you “Then what is this?” she says, stop playing online bridge with Christine, plucking a pair of thong panties hanging cut back on the online yoga classes and er’s on my mind. Now that I think about it, and something to laugh about. from the bone handle of the fishing knife actually make a dinner?” maybe I should talk to Smoke Signals about OK, so, maybe I’m a little on edge. attached to my belt. “You don’t have to be short with me.” all the free work I’m doing, keeping them Well, no, actually. I’m mad as hell about I stammer an explanation but Gertie Joan knows I’m highly sensitive about my in business. Anyway, I’m not a Republican, all this stuff, ready for life to go back to will have none of it. “Sir, it is the policy height, or lack thereof, so she always uses not a Democrat. I’m just an American who normal, without all the television BS, virus, of Walmart to deny entry to persons the “short” angle to chaff my butt. can straighten things out. political backstabbing, pollen and taxes. reasonably suspected of shoplifting. You “I’d just like something besides eggs For example, I’d tell Nancy Pelosi she’s “Too bad,” a walking stranger told me on are officially on notice never to return.” and cereal,” I explained. not president. I’d tell the president he’s not the red loop the other day. Yep, things are I fall to my knees and beg “We had cauliflower yesterday for king. I’d tell Chuck Shumer about Rogaine so bad, I’m talking to people I’ve never met. forgiveness but Gertie will have none of breakfast.” and also to stop acting like he knows ev- “What we’re experiencing,” he said, “is the it. “Joan, I need meat.” erything. I’d tell Mitch McConnell to stop new norm. The new normal. Get used to it.” Six months later. Whenever I drive “There is no meat. Everyone is hoard- being a wuss and get some testosterone. Well, all right. If it has to be this way, past Walmart I force myself to look ing meat. Eat that can of sardines in oil I And, what’s wrong with Adam Shiff’s eyes? so be it. I’ll deal with it. I just wish we could straight ahead. My new friend, who is bought at the IGA. There’s plenty of that, Bizarre, I tell you. It’s like he’s on speed or get some toilet paper. And, some meat. waiting for me, deserves no less. Ah, and they’re fine with saltines.” something. Joe Biden or Bernie Sanders for there she is. Up on the right. I can see And, so on. Well, you say, relax, watch President? You’ve got to be kidding. Wait, Brent and Joan Carroll moved to Big the sign from here: bright red circles on some TV. Ha. It’s all politics and that’s also that’s what we said about Trump. And, is Canoe in 2014. He is an avowed frustrated a white background. I will tell you I feel driving me bonkers. Look, this column is Mike Pence maybe just a robot? Maybe writer, recognized by mixed tenses, copious good about my new relationship. I could not about a cause or a movement. It’s just we should write in Mike Bloomberg and commas and run-on sentences. Still, he is even say I feel like I’m right on Target. a column and, because I write it free of Dr. Anthony Fauci for president and VP. widely published—in his own mind. charge, I get to say pretty much whatev- They’d be our first-ever leprechaun ticket
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“Sub-rosa, a synonym for confidentiality, is the Latinized term for ‘under the rose.’” Table talk
Word Of Mouth
FRAN HOLMAN
When you invite someone to sit at your table and you want to cook for them, you’re inviting a person into your life. ~Maya Angelou
he table, Latin tabula mean- ing plank, board, tablet or list, appears in ancient civilizations. T Yet, no written record of the word exists until 1300, and that record for using table as a piece of furniture comes from the Latin mensa for table or meal. Therein is the rationale for the IQ organization founded in 1946, a round-ta- ble society open to everyone—everyone who can score in the 98th percentile on an approved intelligence test. Mensa has over 140,000 members in 100 countries. Let’s table Mensa for later. One of the conventions associated Roses painted on ceilings above tables warn what is spoken beneath the rose is not to be shared with those not at the table. with the table is that of confidentiality. Mythology holds that Cupid gave a rose Archilochus, seventh century B.C. “Social standing determined if a guest were seated to Harpocrates, god of silence and se- Greek poet and soldier, expresses vehe- crets, to ensure he not disclose an “under mently the emotion felt when a guest has above or below the salt. A guest’s position the table” indiscretion of Venus, goddess dishonored the food at the table over the below the salt indicated an inferior social rank; of love and beauty. The rose soon became salt and under the rose: a symbol of confidentiality. Roses were those of superior rank sat above the salt.” painted on ceilings above tables to ac- May he lose his way on the cold sea knowledge what was spoken beneath the And swim to the heathen Salmydessus. Now, back to Mensa, which we took Let’s turn the table. The convention rose was intimate and not to be shared May the ungodly Thracians with their hair off the table. Mensa, or table, is also the of players’ turning a game board as turns with those not at the table. Sub-rosa, a name of a constellation near the South changed allowed players to more easily Done up in a fright on the top of their heads synonym for confidentiality, is the Lati- Pole. Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille discovered play from the preceding move. The first nized term for “under the rose.” Today, Grab him that he knows what it is this constellation, one of the smallest and printed version of the verbal phrase ceiling medallions with impressions of to be alone dimmest of the 88 constellations, in 1754 “turning the table” is from a 1634 sermon roses are for sale at home improvement while he was performing astrological by Robert Sanderson: “Whosoever thou Without friend or family. May he eat stores. research at Mons Mensa in Cape Town, art that dost another wrong, do not turn Another table convention involves slave’s bread South Africa. He credited the site of the the tables: imagine thy neighbor were the import of salt. As a condiment and And suffer the plague and freeze naked discovery on Table Mountain by naming now playing thy game, and thou his.” preservative, salt is more than 6,000 the constellation Mensa. Must go. It’s time to put food on the table. Laced about with the nasty trash of the sea. years old, but there were no salt shakers Table hopping leads us to the com- until John Mason, of Mason jar fame, May his teeth knock the top on the bottom position of the table. The top portion Dr. Fran Holman, honored as University invented them in 1858. Prior to that date, As he lies on his face, spitting brine or plank is where food and drink are Distinguished Professor and College salt cellars were positioned on tables— At the edge of the cold sea like a dog. placed. The apron or skirt or frieze is the Endowed Professor at Louisiana Tech positioned strategically. Social standing underframe that attaches the legs to the University, lives in Big Canoe with her determined if a guest were seated above And all this it would be a privilege to watch, table and provides side pieces sometimes husband. or below the salt. A guest’s position Giving me great satisfaction as it would, embellished or decoratively carved. The below the salt indicated an inferior social For he took back the word he gave in honor leg offers vertical support for the horizon- rank; those of superior rank sat above the tal plank and thus raises the table off the salt. Lancelot’s round table declassified Over the salt and table at a friendly meal. floor. The knee is the upper part of the class with regard to table seating, for no leg, and the foot is the lower part touch- one sat above or below the salt. ~Archilochus (translated by Guy Davenport) ing the floor. MAY “One2020 of the ways in which health officials SMOKEand sports SIGNALS administrators | LIVING will work together to get back on the field11 C and in the arena as quickly and safely as possible has to do with tests. And I don’t mean final exams.” The biggest game changer ever
Reporters dialed in with MLB exec- utives reported in early April the concept WaterSports of all teams playing their games at sites in Arizona with no fans and players seated not in the dugout but in the stadium seats RANDY WATERS with proper distancing. Balls and strikes would be called by an electronic automated strike zone. But, please explain how you he three-point shot, designated create “social distancing” between the hitter, roughing the passer and hitter and the catcher or a baserunner and targeting are among a list of land- his opponent as he’s trying to break up a T mark rules changes in sports that double-play. have become part of American sporting cul- Basketball is a contact sport, football ture. Now a bully from across the ocean has a collision sport, with hockey and soccer thrown fans and players from Little League somewhere in between. We could go on to MLB the biggest curveball in history. with reasons athletes and fans, as well as COVID-19 has changed the playbook for at amateur and professional coaches and least months and, more likely, years. administrators, face enormous challenges in Five months from now, envision a the weeks and months ahead. Those chal- warm early September day in Athens, lenges are not limited to the field, the pitch, Atlanta, Tuscaloosa, Miami, Columbus, Lin- the court, the pool, the wrestling mat or the coln, Seattle and scores of other locations. locker room. Would anyone feel comfortable walking The NCAA men’s basketball tour- into a stadium with 50, 60 or 100,000 of his nament is responsible for more than 80 closest friends? “Hey, friend, pass me that percent of the association’s annual revenue. drink from the vendor.” I think we know the That revenue subsidizes all other sports in answer to that. all three divisions of NCAA competition. We’ve already seen history made by An insurance policy will cover some of the cancellations of conference and NCAA tour- losses, but the impact on everything from naments, spring sports, postponement of the scholarships to subsidies for athletes will be Masters, Olympics and Kentucky Derby, and huge. College sports is an escape from real- the implementing of the virtual NFL draft. ity for fans, but the cold, hard truth is, just There’s no hurry-up offense or shot clock like for the overall economy, this setback in medicine. Even with the urgency created will reverberate for a long time. by this virus, medical experts agree we are Nothing will alter the impact of no many months or longer from a vaccine. The Falcons at Mercedes Benz Stadium, pre-COVID-19. PHOTO BY BRANDON GAUDIN 2020 Final n GAME CHANGER | Page 3
SportsSMOKE SIGNALS | Sports • Fitness & • Gardening Outdoors• Pets | MAY 2020 • 1D | www.smokesignalsnews.com Jack and Gracie
Big Canoe Animal Rescue
TOM ATTAWAY
e-Paws We Care, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) all-volunteer organiza- tion created in 2014 to help cure B puppies in Pickens County infected with the canine parvovirus. Last year, its focus was to provide treatment to dogs that were heartworm positive. This year, Be-Paws We Care hopes to implement a spay-and-neuter program to help reduce the overpopulation of dogs within Pickens Gracie. PHOTOS BY JO YOUNG Gracie and Jack with Jo Young. Jack. County. BCAR has supported this wonderful changed George to Jack (Benny)! According “Jo Young, a BCAR board me. ‘Feeble’ is no longer a word to describe group of people, and they have helped to Dr. Habermann, Jack and Gracie are her. They walk well together and love to be BCAR. It was primarily through the efforts 10-year-old terrier mixes. They were infest- member, offered to foster outside. They will make great companions of Be-Paws We Care that all the dogs at ed with fleas, had matted hair, were anemic Jack and Gracie and give for someone—real cuddle-bunnies.” the Pickens County Animal Shelter were likely due to poor nutrition and the severe If you are interested in adopting Jack adopted, moved to other shelters or placed flea infestation, had severe periodontal dis- them some TLC and Gracie, please give BCAR a call or fill into foster homes. This allowed the shelter ease on the few remaining teeth they had, so they could have their out an adoption application online. To find to close its doors a month or so ago at the and had respiratory issues likely caused by out more about BCAR, call 706-268-1346, beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. Many being left outside in the rain. operations.” check the BCAR poster in the postal facil- other county shelters did the same. As I Jack is tan and weighs 9.5 pounds. Gra- ity, go to www.bigcanoeanimalrescue.org, am writing this, all shelters in Georgia are cie is black-and-tan and weighs 12.5 pounds. them some TLC so they could have their or check us out on Facebook. During the closed due to Governor Kemp’s statewide Gracie had dermatitis, an ear infection and operations. Their surgeries were scheduled current crisis, we will not be having Open “Shelter in Place” order. a mature cataract. Jack had whipworms, an for mid-April. House or need additional volunteers. How- BCAR got a call recently from Be-Paws earlier eye problem that wasn’t treated and “Jack and Gracie have blossomed the ever, your support to allow BCAR to help We Care asking for help. Two small dogs caused some scarring on one of his eyes. past couple of weeks,” said Jo. “Even though dogs in need, like Jack and Gracie, remains in a crate had been left in the parking lot Neither dog had a chip or tags. Gracie had they have issues with their teeth, they have essential. of the Pickens County Animal Shelter on a been spayed; Jack had not been neutered. had no problem eating! Dr. Habermann ini- rainy morning. Someone saw the crate and Fortunately, neither dog had heartworms. tially described Gracie as ‘feeble.’ However, BCAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill shelter dogs and called Be-Paws We Care. Since Because of the anemia, these dogs could not I found these two yesterday morning wres- for homeless dogs and cats found in the Big the Pickens County shelter was closed, Be- have their teeth cleaned, and Jack could not tling on the floor like two puppies. Gracie Canoe community, providing them with a Paws We Care asked BCAR for help. be neutered until BCAR nursed them back even jumped up on the bed yesterday, so safe, healthy and positive environment until BCAR initially named these dogs to health. she is definitely feeling better. They shad- they are adopted into their forever, loving George (Burns) and Gracie (Allen). How- Jo Young, a BCAR board member, ow me everywhere I go. Gracie climbs out homes. ever, somewhere along the line, someone offered to foster Jack and Gracie and give of whatever I put her in to come and find
“The crate can also be used to play games and, in the process, tire your dog and teach impulse control.” Crating can be fun and games
The crate can also be used to play games and, in the process, tire your dog and Doggie teach impulse control. Games described Dialogues below were developed by well-known dog trainer Susan Garrett. Preparing for crate work A hard plastic or wire crate works DORIS DRESSLER, CPDT-KA best for training. The door should be easy to open and close. Schedule your sessions rates often get a bad rap; some right before mealtime (so the dog is hungry) folks feel crating your dog is cruel. and use very high-value treats as rewards. The reality is, properly introduced High-value treats are important; they must C and used, dogs learn to love their override your dog’s desire to bolt out of the crates and view them as a den where they crate. can relax and rest. Game one—love the crate The crate is commonly used to house- The goal of this game is to teach your train puppies, but there are many other uses dog staying in the crate is more rewarding for a crate. A crate can help you manage than running out of the crate. unwanted behaviors (such as barking out To signal the game is about to start, the window, counter surfing, chewing or touch the door. The dog must offer a sit jumping on guests) if you haven’t had time before the door opens. If the dog breaks the to train. A crate can make car rides safer. sit, remove your hand from the door. Once If your dog has surgery, he may need to your dog remains in a sit when you touch recover in a confined space like his crate. In the door, open the door and quickly reward case of an emergency, your dog may need the dog. n CRATING | Page 3 Stetson, a 12-week-old Labrador retriever puppy, enjoys napping in his crate. PHOTO BY CINDY BILBO to be crated. 122 D C SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS MAY 2020
“Be careful to note the zone number referenced in the bloom time description for each selection you consider.” Bulbs beyond daffodils
Mountain Gardening
CYNTHIA HENDRY
ach fall as I prepare our order for daffodils, I am intrigued by the number of deer-resistant bulbs, E tubers and roots included in these catalogs. For the past few years, I have tried one or two with mixed results, but this past fall, I got carried away. I ordered 35 different species. They are entertaining me through the isolation mandates of coronavirus. Dahlia ‘Serkin’ Spring, summer, fall The warm and early spring this year moved the bloom season forward for our beloved daffodils. Even the late-bloomers were almost done by the end of March. The small-flowered Jonquilla Narcissi—‘Hill- star,’ ‘Kedron,’ ‘Sweet Love’ and ‘Baby Moon’—extended the season best. As I pen this column on April 10, ‘Baby Moon’ is still blooming with a sweet fragrance. As these Jonquilla Narcissi mature, other small-flowered selections from my trial inventory are beginning to show color. Among these is a scilla, ‘Striped Squill,’ we inter-planted with a variegated Solomon’s seal, a pale-blue Glory-of-the-Snow, a Spring starflower pure-white spring starflower, a 16th-century heirloom species—tulipa sylvestris—popu- larized by Thomas Jefferson, and pink, blue and white anemone blanda. This is the first time I have tried the hardy species tulip selections. Jim Gibbs introduced me to these when I admired a small red one he has had for years echo- Dahlia ‘Labyrinth’ ing the red spring color of dwarf Japanese maples. Unfamiliar with the seasonal appear- ance of my trial contestants, we planted most of them in the back of the border. That was a mistake. Their small and delicate presentation is best admired along the edge of the path. Depending on their foliage ap- Tulip ‘Silvestris’ pearance, we will position them differently next time. I will also mulch them early for neatness with mini-nuggets. Late April contestants Be careful to note the zone number ref- White rain lily Lily ‘Lavon’ erenced in the bloom time description for each selection you consider. My grower ref- erences Zone 5, putting Big Canoe’s bloom time probably three to four weeks earlier. The bloom time for English bluebells is May in Zone 5, but ours are blooming here in early April. Today, I am looking for the blooms Pink rain lily on Drooping Star-of-Bethlehem, Spanish bluebells, Muscari (grape hyacinth) and lav- ender mountain lily. The lovely purple-red flowers of Sword Lily (gladiolus) calculated to bloom in early May is beginning to bloom today. Ironically, an old planting of Cam- assia quamash that usually blooms in May is in full bloom now. This is its third year in my trials, and it is definitely a keeper. This year it is a perfect color echo with our native blue-eyed grass. May and June In years past, I have not been im- pressed with the early summer-blooming Tiger lily Lily ‘Black Beauty’ allium (ornamental onion). They all fall over into their neighbors’ laps. But the rabbit, deer and rodent-resistant Allium oreoph- ilum—a deep-rose, 6-8 inch selection— seems to have potential. Stand by for a fall report. May and June are for peonies and my ‘Striped Squill’ bulb grower includes the rootstock of a sumptuous array of these gorgeous, deer-re- sistant plants. This year I added a gigantic, PHOTOS BY CYNTHIA HENDRY ruffled, bomb-type called ‘Red Charm.’ It has been around since 1944, so it must be a Sports & Outdoors keeper. Late June and July As some of my readers know, we have been experimenting with summer lilies for several years. If you have a summer sunny spot, grow them. There is nothing more beautiful and fragrant in summer. The lily season begins with the Asiatic selections. Sword lily They hold their lovely faces more upright. The Orientals and Orienpets tend to Scilla bloom later, and the magnificent blooms droop downward. So, you can have four to them each year. A word of caution: Or- six weeks of lilies. Because of our par- der early! I placed this trial bulb order in tial-shade conditions, my lilies want to August. Another good source for lilies and stretch tall and sometimes lean over. We dahlias is Longfield Gardens. plant them behind a 3-4 foot tall shrub and In conclusion put a short tomato cage over the planting One piece of advice I gave to the Wild- site. We now have more than a dozen differ- flower Bunch Garden Club members when ent lily selections. • 12 I presented the opening season program Black Bear Project For late season color, consider dahlias in early March was “Experiment!” I am so WaterSports...... 1, 3 and rain lilies. Dahlias begin blooming glad I heeded that advice this year, as this Big Canoe Animal Rescue...... 1 mid-summer and continue into early fall. bulb experiment has given me something to Doggie Dialogues...... 1, 3 You can dig the tuber in fall or risk losing look forward to every day of this pandemic some if we have a hard winter. I find the Mountain Gardening...... 2 spring. taller selections are more cold-hardy. How- Happy spring and summer gardening! Wildflower Bunch Garden Club...... 4 ever, we dug them all this year. Golf .... And Other Things Out Of Doors...... 5 Rain lilies are the nicest fall surprise. Cynthia Hendry has Men’s Golf Association...... 5 All summer the foliage is similar in form lived and gardened in Rules Guys...... 6 and texture to a carex. Then, suddenly, as Big Canoe for more than the gardening season is slowing down, you 30 years. Her landscape Trails Committee...... 7 are strolling along studying your garden and design work includes Best Go Take A Hike! (Literally)...... 8 bang, there are the sweet faces of the rain of Show for Big Canoe Sex And Sports...... 9 lilies looking up at you. Street of Dreams, as BCAR: Happy Tails...... 10 Sources well as Big Canoe Show My favorite bulb source is Van Engel- Homes for Southern Maggie’s House...... 11 CYNTHIA HENDRY en. Comparing their prices and quality over Living and Atlanta Lily ‘Montego Bay’ Black Bear Project...... 12 the years as well as the ease of information magazines. The Marketplace/Smoke Signals Classified...... 11 via their website, causes me to go back to MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS 133 CD Game changer n Continued from page 1
A Big Ten game in New Jersey—a thing of the past? PHOTO BY BRANDON GAUDIN Four in Atlanta, no Atlanta United in front anyone with medical training can admin- of 70,000 at MBS, and multiple cities losing ister the test and see the results almost 2020 professional golf tournaments. The list immediately to see if individuals have anti- of financial and emotional stress goes on. bodies generated by their immune system. One of the ways in which health officials DeGennaro’s company and others are being and sports administrators will work togeth- fast-tracked by the FDA. It’s not a cure, but er to get back on the field and in the arena it’s a way of greatly diminishing the uncer- as quickly and safely as possible has to do tainty currently surrounding us. Puerto Rico with tests. And I don’t mean final exams. already ordered 3 million test kits. Dr. Vincent DeGennaro is an inter- This would greatly increase the chanc- nal medicine doctor, epidemiologist and es of some sports returning because team public health specialist. He is also CEO of personnel, administrators and media could a Miami-based company that administers be tested. More time would be needed to antibody tests, which are done with a finger bring in the fans. Until our champions of prick method like bloodwork for diabetes. I medicine chalk up a win, we’re all in one spoke with him in early April about the po- giant timeout. I don’t know about you, but tential for this type of test to help everyone I can’t wait to get off the bench and back in from fans to players to vendors feel at ease the game. in crowds again. “Up to 50 percent of those with the Randy Waters has been virus are asymptomatic and spread near- a TV/radio sportscaster ly 80 percent of all cases. Swab tests are since 1973 in Lexington, expensive and labor-intensive.” Swab tests Louisville, Pittsburgh are not possible in most places and require and Atlanta—WXIA/11 lab equipment and time to get results. Alive (1984-2013.) He “Covid-Rapid testing can catch 6 out of 10 hosted the Falcons individuals who are asymptomatic. These programming on CW69 individuals can be quarantined and taken and is the color analyst out of the general population.” RANDY WATERS for Georgia Tech/IMG Team doctors, nurses, EMT personnel, basketball radio network, 1994-current.
Stetson enjoys the view from his crate. PHOTO BY CINDY BILBO Once you’re at this point, you can start using objects as distractions. Have a Crating toy handy but out of sight. Start with a toy n Continued from page 1 that is low value before working up to his high-value favorite toy. • To initially teach this game, toss • Touch the door; if the dog breaks the treats into the back of the crate to get your sit/stay, step away. dog to enter the crate. Latch the door shut. • Open the door; if the dog moves, • If the crate door opens to the left, use close the door and start over. your left hand to open the door and your • Reveal the toy; if the dog moves, close right hand (holding the treat) to reach into the door and start over. the crate. (Do the opposite if the crate door • Repeat until the dog stays seated opens to the right.) when you show him the toy; put the toy • The objective is to get your dog to sit aside and reward with several very high-val- as far back in the crate as possible. Lure him ue treats and then close the door to play into a sit by reaching your hand over his again. nose and pull the treat back over his head. Additional games • Give your dog the treat, then latch the There are many more games you are door shut. able to play once this foundation work is in • Repeat several times until your dog place. “gets it” and sits on his own (without luring) The “you’re out, you’re in” game en- before the door opens. Do not cue your dog courages the dog to zoom out and back into to sit; wait for him to offer it. Take a few the crate for a reward. This is a great way to breaks and practice until the dog under- tire your dog out in a small space. stands that sitting in the back of the crate The “collar grab” game uses the dog’s and remaining seated when the door opens opposition reflex (a dog pulled in one direc- results in him getting a treat. tion will automatically pull back in the other Game two—add distractions direction) to build up the desire to run back The goal is the same; teaching your dog into his crate. This also teaches your dog that staying in the back of the crate in a sit/ that having his collar grabbed is fun. stay is more rewarding than bolting out of To see what beginner games look like, the crate. go to YouTube and search for “Susan Gar- • This time when you open the door, rett Crate Games Zelda.” Several YouTubes wait a second or two before reaching in and feature a puppy named Zelda demonstrating rewarding the dog. If the dog breaks the sit/ the games. stay, simply close and latch the door, step To see what advanced games look back, pause a few moments and try again like, go to Susan Garret’s website, www. until the dog succeeds. dogsthat.com.crate-games. You can pur- • Do about five to 10 repetitions. Start chase online access to Susan Garrett’s DVD to vary the length of time you keep the door titled “Crate games” here. open before rewarding with a treat. Happy crate training! • Next, add movement. Open the door and take one step back. If the dog breaks Doris Dressler is a the sit/stay, close and latch the door and try CPDT-KA (certified again. Do not verbally cue the dog to stay professional dog trainer, or admonish the dog for breaking the stay. knowledge assessed) Let him figure out on his own what he with more than 20 years’ needs to do. experience training • Do several successful repetitions. service dogs and family Now start varying the distance you move pet dogs. away from the crate. DORIS DRESSLER 144 D C SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS MAY 2020 Wildflower Bunch plant sale, Sept. 18-19 Mark your calendars now
Wildflower Bunch Garden Club
JUDY KAUFMAN
s I write this column on a come with nursery stock for fall planting. beautiful April morning, it Did you know autumn is the ideal seems bewildering Wildflower time to plant trees and shrubs as well as A Bunch’s annual spring plant perennials? Cooler temperatures make sale has been cancelled. But, “making mud the transplant process less stressful, pies out of mud,” the club is developing while watering—whether from the sky or plans for a new event in the fall. hose—is more productive. On Sept. 18 and 19, at the Wildcat Sadly, at the time of this submission, Recreation Area, the club will welcome WFB anticipates our May membership Big Canoe to our plant sale all dressed meeting with Katy Ross will be cancelled. up as a fall festival. Chrysanthemums, However, Wildflower Bunch hopes pumpkins, spring bulbs, fall wreaths, to welcome Susan Meyers on June 3 gourds and, perhaps, a ghost or two will with a talk on “Monarchs and Milkweeds give the event a distinctly autumnal feel. Across Georgia.” Additionally, we are in touch with It will be so good to see each other, our tried-and-true vendors who plan to won’t it!
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Golf ... And Other for lost wages Things Out Of Doors Men’s JIM RICE Golf Association
o, I’m asking myself: Self? What do sports- writers write about when no sports are KEITH SIEVERS, MGA PRESIDENT happening? I’m pretty sure you have no S interest in my viewpoint on COVID-19, t is Easter Sunday and, as “While the POA is right? I can’t even complain about the sportscasters I write this, I am grateful unless I launch into a diatribe about last year’s cov- for so many things, one paying salary for erage of the Masters or the Players or … Anyway, of which is the wonderful these folks, there just about any topic related to sports is, at this I community we share with so moment, of little value. many friends. To this point, is no coverage Except, of course, to give us a little different the focus of the MGA over the for tip wages lost perspective on all sports. Live without it? Easily. past few weeks has turned from Our lives go on even if the Masters is postponed, golf to helping our employees and, even with the Stanley Cup is canceled, and baseball is a ques- who depend on tips to provide the governmental tion mark. All of little consequence. a significant part of their What I do miss, however, is the social inter- income. help, many action with my golfing friends and dinner guests. I While the POA is paying employees will usually stay pretty busy with the organization and salary for these folks, there is no come up short.” competition in the Big Canoe Men’s Golf Associa- coverage for tip wages lost and, tion and the North Atlanta Senior MGA, but all that even with the governmental help, is at a complete standstill. I have, on occasion, been many employees will come up able to sneak in a few rounds of golf in Big Canoe short. The MGA, along with the (socially distanced) but have to say the absence Players and the Regulars groups, of high fives and end-of-round drinks, tall tales have established a fund for these and handshakes has removed some of the fun and folks, and to date, members camaraderie. I simply miss hanging out with the have contributed over $4,500 guys for a few minutes after the round, tipping an in a very short time. We join adult beverage and listening fondly to the BS that the Black Bear Society and the Jasper Drugs flies around the table. Oh well, soon again, I hope. Commissioners who are running 1 N. Main St., Jasper, GA As for “Other Things Out of Doors,” we’ve similar campaigns. There are so gotten in a few walks at Gibbs Gardens in almost many caring people in Big Canoe. 706-692-6427 total isolation with only a handful of other folks on Not much to report on the Temporary Hours the 200-plus acres of blooms and walking trails. tournament schedule. To date, Monday-Friday 9am-5pm We’ve also made an early start on our spring gar- the MGA has canceled Opening dening—a few baskets at a time and mostly herbs Day, Team and Individual Match Saturday - 10am-2pm to support our in-home cooking projects. Sunshine Play and the Replay Tournament. and fresh air are high on our priority list along We will make a call on the Spring Foothills Location @ IGA with some FaceTime with grandkids. But, I can’t Member/Member in a few weeks. 80 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill wait to be able to hug a few friends and shake a While the news on the national 770-893-3784 few hands and not immediately run for the Clorox front is encouraging, we still have wipes … sigh. In the meantime, a tip of the hat will a way to go. This is especially Monday-Friday 9am-6pm have to do. true for our community, with Saturday 9am-1pm “Hats off if you mean it!” so many people in the “most at risk” category. You may have also Jim Rice is an Alabama boy heard the golf course renovation Check www.JasperDrugs.com for updates living in North Georgia with a vote has been delayed, but the Pittsburgh Yankee. He markets MGA continues to provide input sculptural art for money, plays through the Golf Committee golf for fun and enjoys fine to the POA on refining the wine on all such occasions. proposal that will be sent to the Visit Our Online Store: Living the dream in Big Canoe community prior to any vote. www.clocktowergiftsandboutique.com with his lovely bride for more On behalf of the MGA board, than 20 years. we send our wishes to all for JIM RICE your health and safety. 166 D C SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS MAY 2020 Nearest point of complete relief (NPCR)
BY THE RULES GUYS
t has been a quiet month for the Rules Guys. In addition to the cancellation of tournament play at I Big Canoe, the USGA and GSGA have suspended their play as well, so the officiating work we do as volunteers has gone away, too. No changes were made to the course or course markings in March, so nothing to report on that front. Last month’s quiz and answer Q: You are having a bad day. A really bad day. Standing on the Creek 8 tee, you carefully check that your ball is properly within the teeing area and visualize a great shot that will surely turn things around. Instead, the ball clunks off the toe of the club, hits a tree to the right of the tee, and bounces directly backward, rolling to a stop on the spot you just hit from within the teeing area. Enough is enough. You pick up the ball, and with a mighty heave, it rockets across the road, taking a large bounce in the parking lot, and is last seen heading for the Canoe Lodge. Without thinking, you tee up another ball and hit the shot you originally envisioned, stopping one foot from the flag. Your putt rolls into the hole. What is your score? A: The key to this ruling is that the ball has come to rest back in the teeing area after your first stroke. Remember, Must be, as the ball begins to fade. It the hill to the right of the cart path or To find the answer, visit the Big in the teeing area, you are allowed to hits just short of the fairway bunker somewhere else? What would you do? Canoe Rules Golf Genius website: pick up the ball, re-tee it if you wish, and, instead of stopping, jumps to the A) You must play the ball as it lies, https://bcgc-bigcanoerules.golfgenius. and substitute another ball. So, the right and begins to roll. As luck would with your stance in the bunker using com. temper tantrum that results in the have it, the ball stops a few inches right your normal right-handed swing. Who are the Rules Guys? launch of the original ball really doesn’t of the bunker, on the narrow strip of B) You can play a left-handed shot, For the most part, we are a bunch matter from a rules’ point-of-view.The grass between the sand and the cart but, since this is not your normal swing, of guys who have gone to school, original stroke counts, and with the two path. free relief is not allowed from the cart studied the rules of golf and have taken shots it takes you to hole the ball, your The good news: your opponent has path stance. a national USGA exam to qualify as score is still a somewhat respectable pulled the ball left into the water and C) You can declare a left-handed volunteer officials at USGA and GSGA par. must take penalty area relief about 200 shot and get a free drop from the cart tournaments. We also volunteer around Remember the teeing area is yards out. The bad news: your ball lies path. In this case, the NPCR from where Big Canoe, most visibly as the people defined as the specific tee you are using about 5 feet above your stance in the the ball lies is in the bunker, so you drop you see painting penalty area lines on on the hole being played. All other tees, bunker. You consider playing a left- in a relief area in the bunker and return the course four or five times a year, are considered part of the general area. handed shot standing on the cart path to a right-handed swing with no penalty doing our best to stay out of your way. This month’s quiz as you have just read a Golf magazine stroke. Big Canoe has one of the most active You made it to the individual article on how right-handed players D) You can declare a left-handed groups of rules officials in the state of championship playoff held (as always) can execute left-handed shots. But you shot, and your relief area is either in Georgia. on Creek 9. All the guys and your aren’t sure if this is an option. If so, the fescue up the hill or in the rough significant other crowd the railing to your stance will be on the cart path, and just off the cart path behind the bunker, Your BC Rules Guys are: Bill Buss, Edd watch. You tee it up, make what feels do you get relief? If you do get relief, depending on which is the NPCR with McClain, Jack Foster, John Hansen, like a perfect swing, and the ball starts where would you drop the ball? Is your no penalty stroke. You may return to Keith Sievers, Ray Haas, Richard down the middle of the fairway. Was nearest point of complete relief (NPCR) your normal right-handed stance in Hudock and Tim Towle. that a puff of wind out of the north? in the bunker, in the tall fescue grass up making the next stroke.
Know your neighbor?
I’M THERETM
Parish Lowrie, Agent 360 W. Church Street, Jasper, GA 30143 706-692-6920 • www.parishlowrie.com
Full Time Big Canoe Resident
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Reg Richard works to improve the Nature Trail. “Working in small groups and keeping distance, we are keeping all trails safe and enjoyable for
Doug Hanley, left, and Randy Cheshire clear an oak. PHOTOS BY CLARDY SCHWARZ hiking.”
hiking. The trails are busy with people “widow maker” pine was cut and pieces getting out in nature and enjoying some used to line the trail. Trails Committee beautiful weather. Bill Moore and Randy Cheshire Just below the Upper Falls, a large worked on the John Williams Trail with red oak fell and crushed a picnic table. a reroute around part of the trail that had Doug Hanley previously removed a small given way to erosion. Downed hardwood CLARDY SCHWARZ downed tree in this same area, and now trees were harvested uphill, peeled of bark he teamed up with Randy Cheshire to and put in place to secure the new trail. uring these uncertain times, the clear the large oak. The cut tree trunk was Creek clearing of downed trees and Big Canoe Trails Committee used to line the picnic area. limbs is underway just below the Upper has continued to maintain and Reg Richard has been working solo Falls, in Blackwell Creek and near the D improve our trails. Working in to improve the Nature Trail by rerouting cabin on the Jeep Trail. small groups and keeping distance, we are around a bog area, removing old bog Randy Cheshire, left, and Bill Moore work keeping all trails safe and enjoyable for bridges and clearing downed trees. A large on the John Williams Trail. 818 D C SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS MAY 2020 Go take a hike! (literally)
Raven Cliffs Falls. BY KEITH AND ROBIN SIEVERS The 400-foot Raven Cliff Falls is one of as the sound of the water flowing through to the higher rocks but plenty of room near our favorites. Named after the 150 species the rocks adds to the peaceful forest at- the bottom to sit, open a bottle of water and e often hear one of the of ravens that have been identified in this mosphere. Plan for about three hours, not have some cheese and crackers. benefits of living in Big region, it’s close by and a good one if you’re including travel. The MVP on this hike was my hiking Canoe is our proximity to in decent shape but not, let’s say, sporting Every hike should have a prize, and poles. They provide great stability and give W Atlanta, with broad access to your best athletic form. Raven Cliff Falls pays off. The falls are me that extra little, “you can do it” when I’m services, healthcare, shopping and enter- The hike was a comfortable 6-mile magnificent, fronted by a large boulder field crossing streams or climbing over rocks. tainment. Do a quick pivot and look north, round-trip. The gain in elevation from offering a place to rest, perhaps picnic a bit Also, pack plenty of bottled water. We carry however, and you’ll see some of the best parking lot to the falls was roughly 650 feet. and admire Raven Cliff. For the adventur- bear spray and bug repellent—although hiking America has to offer. It certainly didn’t feel that way, as the climb ous, there is an off-trail hike up through the we’ve yet to use them—Benadryl for stings, On a trip to Dahlonega, my wife Robin was spread evenly over 3 miles and the ups/ boulder field to the top of the falls. Climbing and an extra pair of shoes for the car as and I came across a book called “50 Hikes downs were small and incremental. We par- is required. you’ll want to get out of your hiking boots in the North Georgia Mountains” by Johnny ticularly like hikes where the ascent is in the This was really a very pretty hike. It or tennis shoes. REI sells a great mid-size Molloy. While the trails in Big Canoe are early parts of the hike while legs and lungs will be nice after the park services opens day pack and we each carry one. We also wonderful, we also have been working our are fresh, and this hike fills the bill. This trek the bathrooms in the parking lot! This hike pack some emergency toilet paper and a way through this little gem, finding one gift was a solid workout but not a huge physical looked very similar to many we’ve done … small baggy because hey, you never know. after another. As it turns out, hiking is also a strain. The well-defined path follows a creek nice trails, fairly wide and non-rocky, lined If this is a hike that sounds interesting form of extreme social distancing that’s just to Raven Cliffs Falls at the top, featuring with rhododendrons, hemlocks and big old to you, here’s the link: www.atlantatrails. what the doctor ordered whilst weathering two smaller but beautiful waterfalls along oaks. There was a pretty stream and some com/hiking-trails/hiking-to-raven-cliff-falls. the pandemic. Get out of the house, exercise the way. The hike is through heavy forest smaller waterfalls leading up to the real star Our North Georgia Mountains, provid- and breathe clean, fresh air without the with plenty of shade. This is a good hike to … Raven Cliff Falls. When we reached the ing social distancing opportunities for the mask! take in the early spring or after heavy rain, falls, there was a small group staking claim past billion years! Spring is Here!
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“To attempt to level the playing field, participation in some high school and college sports should be redefined by physical classifications.” Sex and sports BY DENNIS FECCI Guest Columnist
controversy has been accelerat- ing throughout women’s sports. An incursion is being made Ain middle and high school, as well as in college sports, by people other than those who were born and identify as female. Females whose sense of identity and gender corresponds with their birth sex are classified as cisgender. Other athletes wanting to compete with cisgender females include males, transsexuals and those who do not wish to be identified as either gender. Individ- uals in this last category are referred to as non-binary athletes and prefer the use of neutral pronouns. Women compete in scores of sports. In many of them, strength and endurance are important for successful competi- tion. As reported in the sports media, some athletes believe male, transsexual and non-binary athletes have an unfair advantage when competing against most cisgender females. Similarly, females with naturally occurring high testosterone levels have been barred from competing against other cisgender women, citing un- fair strength and endurance advantages.
They also are advocating to be allowed to ASPEN PHOTO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM compete in women’s sports. Three high school cisgender female girls objected, stating his skills were supe- In the NCAA, a transsexual male cal classifications. The regulating authori- athletes have challenged the Connecticut rior to theirs. His exemption was revoked. being treated with testosterone may com- ty of each specific sport would determine Association of Schools’ policy of permit- His parents threatened a court action, and pete on a men’s team but not a women’s. the physical attributes best suited for its ting transgender athletes’ participation a panel was convened by the governing If he is not receiving testosterone treat- sport and provide oversight and dispute in women’s sports. The athletes claim body overseeing New York high school ments, he may participate on either men’s resolution. Some sports—such as foot- Title IX’s intent to provide a distinct sports. The exemption was reinstated as or women’s teams. A transsexual female ball, rugby or wrestling—could remain avenue for cisgender females athletes to the panel found his participation would athlete may compete on a men’s team but as traditional male/female sports as the succeed is obviated when transgender not have “a significant adverse effect on a not a women’s, regardless if she is receiv- opportunity for inappropriate touching is athletes (and, by implication, the other girl’s opportunity to participate in inter- ing testosterone suppressant medication unacceptable. athletes mentioned herein) are allowed to school competition.” or not. This policy would seem applica- Reorganization of sports by physical compete against them. The suit cites per- Title IX prohibits discrimination on ble to cisgender females with naturally classification would promote fairness by formance differences between cisgender the basis of sex in all education programs, occurring high testosterone levels. allowing athletes with comparable physi- male and female athletes, stating trans- including sports, that receive federal The IOC policy regarding transsex- cal attributes to compete without regard gender females consistently take honors funds—elementary school through col- uals is in disarray. Currently, it allows to sexual identity, potentially eliminating in track and field events over cisgender lege. This means schools must offer equal male-to-female transgender athletes to the unfair advantage enjoyed by male, females. participation opportunities for males and compete as females without undergoing transsexual and non-binary athletes and Recently, Idaho prohibited transsex- females. Non-cisgender athletes must be transition surgery provided they maintain by females with naturally occurring high ual females from competing in girls’ and permitted to “participate in sex-segre- a specified testosterone level range for testosterone levels competing against women’s sports. To compete, transsexual gated activities and use sex-segregated one year. This policy is in dispute as a cisgender women. females are required to undergo sex test- facilities (including bathrooms, locker consensus has not been reached by scien- There will always be variation of abil- ing. rooms and overnight accommodations) tific experts on the range. Female-to-male ity within any classification as now exists In New York, a boy joined the girls’ in accordance with their gender identity.” transsexual athletes are unrestricted. in male/female competition. But, that is field hockey team under an exemption There have been at least five lawsuits To attempt to level the playing field, what sport is all about. allowing him to play on a girls’ team. He seeking to clarify or modify this regula- participation in some high school and col- played for two years. Subsequently, the tion. lege sports should be redefined by physi-
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“Kylie wants to sniff everything, and I want to keep moving—after all, we have up to 2 miles to cover.” Happy Tails: The ‘Sniffari’
Big Canoe Animal Rescue
TOM ATTAWAY
Kylie, shortly after her arrival at BCAR in 2017. PHOTO BY MARY JO COX
ylie, a tan, 50-pound, female pit bull, was one year old when she came to Big Canoe Animal K Rescue with her two puppies. My wife Karen and I adopted her a year later on my birthday. Now four, she is a sweet, affectionate, obedient dog who has lived with us almost two years. Our lives are better with her. Though we love her to the moon and back, this is not to say Tom and Kylie watch “The Bachelor” after everything is perfect. a long walk. PHOTOS BY KAREN ATTAWAY I try to get Kylie out for a walk every day. Besides being good exercise for me, if I don’t walk her at least a mile and a half “Pulling a dog away from during the day, I cannot watch TV that an interesting smell is night. She will get on the sofa beside me equivalent to ripping and squeak one of her toys until I play with her. Alternatively, she will sit between the sports pages out of me and the TV, staring and barking until I someone’s hands.” get up and chase her or let her chase me. Turning up the sound on the TV helps It’s as if she’s telling me, “Tom, you should temporarily—until Karen complains or we check this out!” But I don’t want to sniff get a call from our neighbor Fred wanting anything she finds on our walks, regardless to know if he can come join the party. of how exquisite and exotic she thinks it These daily walks are a contest of is. I look at my watch and think at this rate wills. Kylie wants to sniff everything, and we won’t get home until after dark. I want to keep moving—after all, we have Now, I know I should let Kylie sniff up to 2 miles to cover. And, she doesn’t on our walks. I have taken enough BCAR just sniff and move on. No. The really good dogs to Doris Dressler’s training sessions smells need a minute or two of sniffing. over the years n Continued on next page Kylie tries to distract Tom from the TV, after an afternoon “Sniffari.”
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Mention this ad to receive 15% OFF first cleaning MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS 2111 CD n Continued from previous page “Though my furry friends and I love each other, to be aware of this. Doris always we enjoy the company of the human volunteers, aka vollies.” invites a BCAR dog, or dogs, to attend her classes—for free—if she has open slots. She said pulling a dog away Yogi’s vollies from an interesting smell is equivalent to ripping the sports pages out of someone’s hands. OK, I get it. I get to walk, Kylie gets to sniff; we negotiate Maggie’s and compromise. The other day I was watching House TV and Kylie was reading. To get my attention, she started tapping her paw on an article in a magazine. I know this EMILY STASTNY is her way of saying, “Tom, you need to read this.” The article in BARK— “Take Your Dog on a ‘Sniffari’” by Karen B. ello, my name is Yogi; I am London, Ph.D.—extolls the virtues of the Maggie’s House Spokescat taking your dog on such an adventure. this year. I am writing about It sounded interesting. “A ‘Sniffari’ H the human volunteers who is an outing in which your dog sniffs take care of us every day. I’ll try not to get whatever she wants and leads you sappy but, no promises. I’m a lover and a where she wants to go.” It included romantic. catchy phrases like “Make dog walks Though my furry friends and I love more dog.” and “After all, this is the each other, we enjoy the company of the dog’s walk and not your walk.” I human volunteers, aka vollies. We get Googled “Sniffari” and read it’s the excited when it’s morning and the first latest thing. I also read articles about vollie for the day arrives. At night, when “Snuffle Parks” created for dogs. Maybe we are on our own, we place bets to see the POA should create a couple of which vollie will come at each shift the “Snuffle Dog Parks” for Big Canoe. following day. So, if one of us gets an The article said letting dogs sniff extra treat, you’ll know who won the bet. is good for them. It not only exercises Our vollies love coming here; they noses and sensory glands but is also take such good care of us. They feed us, stimulating mentally. Another article give us fresh water and scoop the litter caught my attention by stating a boxes. They love to play with us and “Sniffari” will wear your dog out as brush our fur. They keep the carpeted much as walking them for the same cat trees free from hair and clean our amount of time! According to that pillows and blankets. They always turn article, the “Sniffari” leaves your dog in on the radio, so we can listen to music. a calm state. I saw why Kylie wanted Sometimes they sing and dance with us. me to read up on this. One nice vollie has blanket playtime on We tried it last Monday afternoon. the floor with us every week. Another I leashed Kylie and off we went on gathers us around for an adoption prayer. our first “Sniffari.” I let her lead, If we are sick, they take us to the vet and sniffing to her heart’s content. After give us medicine to make us well. A few 45 minutes of sniffing, we had made felines are fostered temporarily with it to the front of Fred’s house. Kylie vollies at their homes. Some of the new had smelled every leaf, weed, piece guys don’t know how to socialize yet, so of mulch, stick, everything in Fred’s they need to be taught offsite. That’s OK; yard, some two or three times. All I did we teach them plenty of cat things when was hold the leash; I was thoroughly they arrive at BCAR. Yogi is a beautiful, majestic, black male cat who lives at BCAR’s Maggie’s House. PHOTO BY bored. However, Kylie seemed to enjoy Our vollies keep us happy but, to MARY JO COX herself immensely. I was sure she must keep everything purring along, more are be exhausted and we still had to get needed. There is nothing sad about being help us every time you order. Set up your BCAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill back home, which I figured would take at Maggie’s House. We have the run of a account at https://smile.amazon.com. shelter for homeless dogs and cats found another 45 minutes. couple of rooms and the Catio, a screened There are many ways to help. If you are in the Big Canoe Community, providing So how did things work out? patio where we can watch birds, squirrels interested, please call 706-268-1346. them with a safe, healthy and positive That night, just as a “Bachelor” rose and the dogs at BCAR. Foster vollies— My good news? I am writing this environment until they are adopted into ceremony was about to start, what even part-time—are always needed. from my soon-to-be new home! I am their forever loving homes. do I hear 5 inches from my right ear? If your time doesn’t allow for these happy my new family is giving me a trial Squeaky, squacky, squeaky, squacky . . . opportunities, please consider donating to show them I am a loving and loyal cat. “Sniffari,” my elbow! to BCAR. If you have an Amazon Smile Did I mention, beautiful? account, you can designate BCAR as your Thank you to all our vollies. We love charity and money will be donated to you furrever!
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23 Laurel Ridge Trail 59 Pine Knoll (Lot) Luxury Cottage – Beautifully One of the Best Lot Deals Landscaped in Big Canoe 4BR/3.5BA • $320,000 • FMLS #6589588 .59 AC • $5,000 • FMLS # 5389495 • Overlooking Georgia Mountains. • Here’s Your Next Home Site! • Master-on-main, Main Lvl Screen Porch w/Windows • Level 3 Soil Test Is Complete. for Winter Comfort. Dining Rm for 8. • Underground Utilities. • Terrace Lvl FAM Rm Opens to Lower Deck w/ • Lot is Extraordinarily Private. Enclosed Area/Hot Tub. 3rd Flr Loft
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BOB THOMAS 40 Years Sales & Marketing Executive • 29 Years President/CEO 18 Years in Real Estate C 678-296-6409 | O 706-296-3333 Email: [email protected] www.bigcanoe.com 1222 DC SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE SIGNALS | SPORTS | LIVING & OUTDOORS MAY 2020 ‘April is the cruelest month’
BY WILL JACKSON Black Bear Project
. S. Eliot’s opening line from his master work “The Waste Land,” seen here in the title, is T regarded by many as the finest poem of the 20th century and one of the greatest pieces ever written in the English language. For our black bear neighbors, April is rarely cruel. It is a busy time of gen- erational renewal, coping with active, scrambling young cubs who are growing quickly and itching to explore a big world. We may see Mama bears and their young- sters, typically two cubs (occasionally three) in a brood, venturing from dens to master life lessons and find food. We, however, can derail the mag- ic of new bear cubs discovering their world and change April and spring into a dangerous and cruel time. We are largely responsible for controlling this issue. Social distancing describes protec- tive behavior in our current coronavirus world. We understand staying a safe distance from others can avoid serious, A smart bear adorns the Crow’s house marker. PHOTO BY LISA CROW even fatal, consequences. Bears—and other wildlife—depend on natural social distancing to stay away from humans. If “We understand staying they lose that instinctive protection, they a safe distance from become vulnerable and more likely to die. When bears find food near peo- others can avoid serious, ple, whether left there by chance or on even fatal, consequences. purpose, they condition quickly to return to those sources. Their natural instincts Bears—and other wildlife to avoid people are overruled by hunger. —depend on natural social A bear’s presence then threatens human safety or property, and there are no good distancing to stay away outcomes. You know the slogan: A fed from humans. If they lose WINDOW CLEANING bear is a dead bear. Blunt. True. Very recently, a Big Canoe Mama that instinctive protection, 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE • 24 YEARS IN BIG CANOE bear and her two cubs ventured from un- they become vulnerable Residential • Commercial • Hi-Rise der a neighbor’s front porch where they and more likely to die.” had spent the last couple of months. (See Rappelling Work • Pressure Washing • Deck Restoration Smoke Signals, April 2020) The cubs wob- Any High Work • Gutter Cleaning bled on shaky legs, skidding and tumbling It’s important we continue to provide to keep up with Mama. A big part of the personal and vocal support for BearWise Easy Breeze Vinyl Windows Cleaned • Light Construction new cubs’ healthy start in life is due to the standards for human/wildlife interaction. wise and conscientious respect provided As reflected in daily pandemic headlines, by the homeowner to whom a nod of we know social responsibility recognizes thanks is due. what each of us does affects all of us. On By the time you read this, the baby our local level, please help discourage bears will be larger, stronger, more grace- human behaviors that endanger the bears ful and a delight to watch if, by happy ac- who share Big Canoe with us. The power MOUNTAIN cident, you see them wandering through of your voice in our community makes a their first mountain spring. There may be difference. Help all appreciate the joyous NORTH several new furry families out during the sight of a bear wandering through the SERVICES woods. Thanks for being an important coming months—know to stay away and Bruce Johnson, Owner • 678-316-0587 • 404-572-8632 let them enjoy being bears. part of a worthwhile cause.
PAINTING AND HANDYMAN SERVICE
• Daily Walks WE DO IT ALL • Mail Forwarding PAINTING • STAINING • REPAIRS • Plant Care INTERIORS • EXTERIORS 706-579-2165 • Carpentry • Painting SOCIAL • Staining • Pressure Washing PAT GARLAND DISTANCING • Plumbing • Electrical Volunteer at Big Canoe • Fencing • Ceiling Fans Animal Rescue and EXCEPT resident since 1994 FOR PETS! • Flooring • Lawn Care • Roofing • Glass Repair • Strip & Seal Decks • Haul Off Junk • Storm Damage Big Canoe Real Estate Specialist • Clean Out Garage and Wanda Stewart • 706.299.9515 Out Buildings • Honey Dos • Gutters NEW LISTING • Tile + much more! 155 DOGWOOD LANE 3BR 2BA $289, 000
Carport. Come see this remodeled cozy mountain home. Big Canoe Resident Wanda Stewart HIGH QUALITY & NEW LISTING AFFORDABLE 883 COLUMBINE DRIVE REFERENCES 3BR 2.5BA $299, 000 AVAILABLE Welcome home! Mountain view as soon as you walk in the front door. Call 770-500-5859 Serving Big Canoe & Bent Tree for the past 10 years ARRY ORMAN, REALTORS® H N Locally Owned and Operated 200 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2400 List, Sell & Buy with the BEST! ... MAY 2020 SMOKE SIGNALSSMOKE | THE SIGNALS MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS | LIVING 2313 CD THE MARKETPLACE Neighbors talking to neighbors
For information about placing an ad in The Marketplace, contact sales @bigcanoenews.com
Nicky Sensale Landscape Design Woodland Gardens
YOU ORDER, WE DELIVER, YOU EAT TRANSFORMING SPACES GIVE MOM THE GIFT OF NEWS NICKY SENSALE Go to www.georgiadeliverstakeout.com Amanda Dame works closely with you to assure FROM BIG CANOE LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND NORTH GEORGIA! 1. Enter your zip code, satisfaction, giving advice on ways to transform Transform your existing landscape with a She’ll appreciate Smoke Signals’ unique optional address, and delivery time. your spaces by making a few small changes. fresh new look for your beautiful home site in The challenge is to make inexpensive changes mix of community news, photography and Big Canoe: new construction, trees and lush 2. Pick a restaurant from our list that will showcase your personality. It could commentary from local columnists. plants. Let your garden shine, invite birds and tell us what you’d like to order. be as simple as painting walls, rearranging the For $25.00, she will receive the award and wildlife, enlighten your entry 3. Check out, for $2 off Delivery use C229219, furniture or adding elements that deliver winning Smoke Signals newspaper for to create intrigue & interest all within a your food arrives within 30 to 60 minutes. impact, yet you can take with you when you 12 months; a perfect gift to enjoy all year! well designed, customized plan. GEORGIA DELIVERS leave,like art or accessories. SMOKE SIGNALS NICKY SENSALE 888-431-5552 THE WORKBENCH For details email: Landscape Design • Big Canoe Resident www.georgiadeliverstakeout.com 10370 Big Canoe, Jasper, GA • 770-356-3890 [email protected] 688 McElroy Mountain Dr., Big Canoe, GA 30143 www.facebook.com/georgiadelivers/ 706-268-1285 • [email protected] or call 706-669-7095 Direct: 949-873-3844
PARTNER WITH US FOR LUXURY VACATION OR LONG TERM RENTALS
Tap into our strong market~ 20,000 Readership 7,500 Circulation 90 Locations 7 North Georgia counties Georgia Press Association We are the premier short-term vacation LOCAL BANKING IS DESIGNS BY JEANETTE “General Excellence” Award and long-term Georgia Real Estate broker BETTER BANKING • Over 17 years experience First place winner: commissioned rental management company Community Bank of Pickens County • Custom painting: cabinets, furniture, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 in Big Canoe. Our staff cleans, inspects, is the only locally owned and operated walls, mantels, & beams maintains, and repairs with monthly payments bank in our area. Come by our Cove • Decorative paint finishes: venetian and statements. We have a waiting list Road location today and let us help plaster, glazing, distressing, & more looking for long term rental houses, so we you make the switch to your • Projects: new construction, remolding, need houses in Big Canoe interested in two hometown bank. MEMBER FDIC & commercial spaces. months to a year rental. I can help you transform any space. MOUNTAIN HOME RENTALS COMMUNITY BANK 130 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill, GA 30148 OF PICKENS COUNTY JEANETTE CARNES 770-894-4444 65 Cove Road • 15 Sammy McGhee Blvd. 706-473-3330 | [email protected] [email protected] Lobby M-F 9-5 | Drive Thru M-F 8-5 & Sat 8-12 facebook.com/Designs by Jeanette instagram. www.mountainhomerentalsofgeorgia.com (706) 253-9600 • www.cbopc.com com/designsbyjeanette SMOKE SIGNALS CLASSIFIEDS
For information about placing an ad in Smoke Signals Classifieds, contact [email protected]
...... Fully insured, general liability and workers’ comp. only licensed, insured and bonded Home Watch the life of a child! Contact [email protected] / ANNOUNCEMENTS GUTTERS REPAIRED, REPLACED OR CLEANED. Service! We are Big Canoe’s only member of the 706-253-CLUB (2582)...... Call Georgia Gutters (www.gagutters.com), 678- National Home Watch Association. Don’t trust your HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - PICKENS COUNTY JOIN ROTARY CLUB OF JASPER. Network with 525-2570, for all your seamless gutter needs. Free home to a guy with a truck. We are professionals! seeking volunteers. Many skill needs. Current prior- local business and professional leaders. Our motto is estimates. 21-year Big Canoe property owners. www.GAHome- ities are volunteer relations, jobsite management. “Service Above Self.” Email jaspergarotary@gmail. GEORGIA CLOCK REPAIR announces a mail-order Watch.com. 770-561-5483. Contact Monique Vinelli: 706-253-4610 / pickensh- com. watch battery replacement service in conjunction ...... [email protected] / www.pickenshfh.org...... with antique and new clock repair. We have been LANDSCAPING SERVICES/SUPPLIES VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Good Samaritan CONSTRUCTION servicing clocks in Big Canoe and Bent Tree for more ...... Health and Wellness Center. Medical experience not ...... than 10 years. Please contact us, service@georgi- LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE, DESIGN AND required. Please call our volunteer office, 706-253- BLUE CREEK PARTNERS: Concrete Demolition and aclockrepair.com or 770-781-9536, for additional INSTALLATION. Pruning, fertilization, mulches, 4673, or email [email protected]. Construction. Concrete Acid Staining. New Home information. We Will See You Soon! pine straw. Cynthia Hendry, Woodland Gardens, ANGELS ON HORSEBACK, a non-profit serving Construction & Existing Remodels. Call Jason at 205- SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS. Give us a call at 770-337-2277. Pickens and surrounding counties, is looking for 688-6395 or email [email protected] 706-692-9013 for a free estimate or check us out PETERSON LANDSCAPE Pine Straw Sales & volunteers. Contact angelsonhorseback.org or 770- ...... online, www.SqueakyWindows.com. We also do Service, Leaf Blowing, Clean Up, Seasoned Firewood, 894-7297. Horse experience not required! DONATIONS NEEDED complete painting and deck staining, hot water Delivery Available, Free Estimates. David Peterson ...... pressure washing, gutter cleaning and garage epoxy 770-298-8294. PLEASE HELP PICKENS ANIMAL RESCUE. P.A.R. flooring with a lifetime warranty...... needs donated items for its Thrift Store. Furniture, APPLIANCE SERVICE AND MORE has a new PROFESSIONAL SERVICES home goods, media, no clothing. 100% tax deduct- local number for service. Please call us for your ...... ible. 706-253-5947. household appliance service, 706-253-0775 or 678- HOME WATCH SERVICES. We are Big Canoe’s DONATE NO-LONGER-NEEDED, GOOD-CON- 458-0775. only licensed, insured and bonded Home Watch DITION FURNITURE to Dawson County’s Humane FORESTER PAINTING COMPANY. Commercial/ Service! We are Big Canoe’s only member of the Society Resale Shop & Boutique. Donations 100% residential painting. Affordable pricing. Licensed/ National Home Watch Association. Don’t trust your tax deductible. Support our no-kill shelter. 706-525- insured. Free estimates. No job too big or too home to a guy with a truck. We are professionals! 5030. small. Exterior/interior painting, wood repair, trim, 21-year Big Canoe property owners. www.GAHome- ...... siding, pressure washing, deck staining. Please call Watch.com. 770-561-5483. HOME IMPROVEMENT Kathleen, 706-344-9754, 706-344-8393. Big Canoe ...... referrals, satisfied customers: Mike/Charlene Ehrlich, SUPPORT GROUPS W CRETE specializes in driveways, sidewalks, patios, 706-579-2438; Erwin/Dorian Dillard, 706-579-1536; ...... slabs, pavers, sinkhole repairs, retaining walls and Brian Roberts, 706-579-1512. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WOMEN meets ev- landscaping. Please give us a call at 678-454-0174 ...... ery Wednesday, noon, Holy Family Episcopal Church, he staff of Smoke Signals wishes to thank our advertisers Tfor their continued support without which we could not for a free estimate. HOUSE CLEANING/ORGANIZATION Pete’s Porch, 204 Griffith Road. Closed discussion. produce this award-winning newspaper for the benefit of Big PLUMBING. Mountainside Plumbing, Inc. Unre- ...... Information, 706-253-2323 or 404-525-3178. Canoe and our local communities. Thank you for choosing us. stricted Master Plumber - Rusty Grantham. New TWO SISTERS CLEANING SERVICE is taking new ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meets every Sat- Smoke Signals is the go-to source for our 20,000+ Construction, Service Work, Remodels. Office: 706- customers. Weekly, biweekly and monthly. More than urday, 9 a.m., Broyles Center at Big Canoe Chapel, readers to find the products and services they need. If you 692-4277. Cell: 770-894-1716. mountainsideplumb- 20 years of experience in Big Canoe. We provide downstairs, rear outside entrance. Information: 706- want to promote your business, tap into this strong market and get noticed! [email protected]. old-fashioned cleaning like your mother would do. 253-2323, 404-525-3178. • 7,500 papers monthly circulation CORNER STONE, custom stone masonry. Walkways, Call 706-265-4624. FREE PREGNANCY TESTS, COUNSELING, ...... • 90 distribution points in seven North Georgia counties outside fireplaces, walls and arches. Free estimates. PARENTING CLASSES. North Georgia Pregnancy • 5,000 Big Canoe residents~$170,000 average 30 years’ experience, Big Canoe references. Contact HOUSEHOLD ITEMS/DEBRIS REMOVAL Center. 706-253-6303. Open Monday & Wednesday annual income Carl Gaertner, 770-893-3971...... 12:30-5 p.m. 1549 East Church Street. Appointments • 1,100 homes in Bent Tree • Award-winning graphic design included ...... ATTENTION BIG CANOE RESIDENTS! Tired of and walk-ins. www.babyontheway.org. at reasonable rates HOME REPAIR/SERVICES waiting on bulk trash day? Will remove unwanted ...... items of value (no fee) or debris/unwanted items of VOLUNTEERS NEEDED HANDYMAN SERVICES. More than 20 years’ no value (small fee). Call Jeff Mills 706-636-2606 ...... experience in Big Canoe. Built and remodeled more (ofc) / 706-669-5751 (cell). THE PICKENS ANIMAL RESCUE THRIFT STORE, than 100 homes in Big Canoe area. Tile work, roof ...... a nonprofit supporting the Pickens Animal Rescue Contact Information repair, deck repair, room additions, finish basements, HOUSE MANAGEMENT Ranch is looking for volunteer staff. Contact: Jean, Email: [email protected] siding work, painting and small plumbing jobs. Jeff ...... [email protected] / 419-601-2521. Call: 706-669-7095 Mills. Office, 706-636-2606; Cell, 706-669-5751. HOME WATCH SERVICES. We are Big Canoe’s BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS. You can make a difference in 2414 CD SMOKE SIGNALS | LIVING MAY 2020
The best move you’ll ever make.TM
Does Covid-19 Make The World Seem Upside Down? • The buying & selling landscape has changed • The transaction will be socially distanced • Delays could happen • The good news… buyers & sellers have huge leverage in their purchasing power We’re here for you...Call us today!
N. GA’s Premier MODEL HOME & DESIGN CENTER 55+ Community OPEN: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM OPEN: Sunday 1 PM - 5 PM Single Level Living By Appointment on Monday Starting In The Full Assisted Living by The Oaks Low 400’s Opening Q-1, 2021
9 13 Waterfront Lots For Sale Priced at $125,000 each Call Today C: 770-335-7675 / O: 770-893-2400 In Big Canoe®
PRIVATE LAKE NEW LAND LISTING NEW PRICE NEW LISTING NEW LISTING
5618 Highway 52 • $1,895,000 00 Waterford Way • $1,950,000 776 Black Bear Trail • $725,000 6 Whisper Place • $679,000 815 Shetland Trace • $629,900 FMLS #5975072 FMLS #6690580 6BR/6.5BA, FMLS #6585058 4BR/4BA, FMLS #6672719 4BR/4.5BA, FMLS #6699352
NEW LISTING NEW PRICE NEW PRICE GORGEOUS VIEWS NEW PRICE
496 Sanderlin Mtn Drive S • $599,000 811 McElroy Mtn Drive • $599,000 2840 Quail Cove Drive • $575,000 2209 Valley View • $475,000 87 Yanoo Trace • $409,000 4BR/5BA, FMLS #6681495 4BR/4.5BA, FMLS #6562660 4BR/4.5BA, FMLS #6643973 4BR/3.5BA, FMLS #6667937 5BR/4.5BA, FMLS #6552889
NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING
85 Cliff Fern Point • $425,000 798 Scales Rd, Suwanee • $330,000 55 Hillside Way • $415,000 40 Laurel Ridge Trail • $299,000 114 Yanoo Trace • $349,000 4BR/2.5BA, FMLS #6699065 4BR/2.5BA, FMLS #6709993 4BR/4BA, FMLS #6696306 3BR/3.5BA, FMLS #6675162 3BR/2.5BA, FMLS #6686650
NEW PRICE NEW LISTING UNDER CONTRACT NEW CONDO LISTING NEAR AMENITIES
15 Wild Turkey Lane • $344,900 883 Columbine Drive • $299,000 40 Trout Lily Trail • $215,000 140 Sconti Ridge, Unit 424 • $185,000 34 Sconti Ridge, Unit #405 • $134,900 3BR/2.5BA, FMLS #6675996 3BR/2.5BA, FMLS #6696388 3BR/2BA, FMLS #6539718 3BR/2BA, FMLS #6710592 2BR/2BA, FMLS #6503544
LAND & HOME SITES: 70 Foothills Pkwy, #1 - $200,000, FMLS #6677878 70 Foothills Pkwy, #2 - $175,000, FMLS #6677863 See all our listings at ... www.HarryNormanBC.com 70 Foothills Pkwy, #3 - $175,000, FMLS #6677850 2107 McElroy Mtn Drive - $99,000, FMLS #5992403 6034 Buck Skull Ridge Rd, $125,000, FMLS #6593165 4848 Waterford Way, $125,000, FMLS #6671078 4835 Waterford Way, $125,000, FMLS #6628042 Doug Maggie Jay Bert Pat Shelby Alice Wanda Helen 95 Carter Trail, Dawsonville, $116,991, FMLS #6671770 Hosmer Hosmer Foster Sellars Thuman Collins Lee Stewart Carlock 2584 Summit Circle, $97,500, FMLS #6628001 Broker/Owner 2569 Wilderness Pkwy, $69,000, FMLS #6625464 240 Sanderlin Mtn Drive N - $39,900, FMLS #6534583 - NEW PRICE 8115 Disharoon Drive - $69,000, FMLS #6124867 112 Disharoon Drive - $80,000, FMLS #5868565 2653 Sconti View Drive - $69,000, FMLS #6088686 Rosemarie Paul Jack Tania Dave Mark Jim Foretich Baaske Patton Malone Corbitt 889 Cherokee Trail - $25,000, FMLS #6646187 Heindel Updegraff ©2006 Harry Norman, Realtors, A HomeServices of America, Inc. Company. All rights reserved. Licensed in Georgia and North Carolina. Equal Housing Opportunity. Big Canoe is a registered service mark of Big 00 Valley View Drive - $64,900, FMLS#6660473 – SOLD Canoe Company, LLC. Harry Norman, Realtors is not affiliated with the Big Canoe Company, LLC, and no such representation is intended or implied. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted. HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS® 200 Foothills Parkway, Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2400