Long wins WGA shootout

Workout, science or art?
SEPTEMBER 2016
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required tremendous effort. I will not go into
the details of her secret formula; however, it
is safe to report she did not skimp on amendments and topsoil.
A visitor approaching the driveway entry is immediately aware something significant is going on with this landscape. When I
visit, I always park at the street so I can stroll
down the driveway and enjoy the detail of
her work as I approach the front door. I can’t
tell you what the inside of their house looks
like, as I rarely go inside. We spend my entire visit wandering around the garden.
The workout
Being a scientist, Bonnie realizes the value of her own physical fitness. She reported, “I achieve all three goals of fitness in my
garden. Moving stones and plants, I maintain
strength. Stretching across a bed of flowers
to pull a weed is equal to any yoga workout
and six hours in the garden is an aerobic
workout.”
Compared to the fitness center, Bonnie
reports the spiritual component of a workout
in the garden cannot be matched. “Whether it is the sunshine, the communing with
plants and nature, or the creation of beauty,
I feel as though I have had a day’s vacation,”
advised Bonnie.
In conclusion
Whether she is working on her abs, pursuing her science or painting with plants,
Bonnie’s garden is a work to be recognized.
If you know Bonnie, ask to see her garden.
Happy fall gardening!
Mountain
Gardening
CYNTHIA HENDRY
Gardening in Big Canoe
B
ig Canoe gardener, Bonnie Plikaytis,
addresses all three of the above interests in her effort to create a beautiful garden. As a retired Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
microbiologist, she continues this scientific
interest in observing the health of her garden
soil and the success of her plants. However,
observing Bonnie in the garden, one notes
she is definitely pursuing art as well as a
workout.
The garden
Strolling around Bonnie’s garden, one is
struck immediately by the creative placement of varying plant forms and textures
that weave together a balanced perspective
around each curve in her stone-lined wandering paths. Circling Bonnie and Brian’s
home and making a perfect transition from
house to woodland, artfully placed seating
and focal points capture the essence of her
whimsical spirit.
While Bonnie is somewhat of a plant collector, she disciplines herself to research a
plant’s 12-month performance before placing
it in her garden. Being a good scientist, she is
also an observer of nature. This has allowed
her to use an indigenous carex on her property as a lovely island of green along a path.
Seeing her garden, one is amazed by all
that has been accomplished in a little more
than three years. Again the scientist trait
emerges. Good soil is her secret and Bonnie
created it. Transforming the typical Georgia
red clay and stone into a loamy planting mix
Cynthia Hendry has
lived and gardened in Big
Canoe for 28 years. Her
landscape design work
includes Best of Show
for Big Canoe Street of
Dreams, as well as Big
Canoe show homes for
Southern Living and
Atlanta magazines.
“I will always be grateful to Dan DeJiacomo and his architect, Chad, for their careful
placement of our house. My goal is to create a garden that transitions their beautiful work
to the surrounding woodland,” said Bonnie. Anyone who has seen this garden, all the stones,
plants and hardscape elements, so carefully arranged, knows Bonnie must be physically fit!
Sports&Outdoors
CYNTHIA HENDRY
PHOTO BY CYNTHIA HENDRY
SMOKE SIGNALS | Sports • Fitness • Gardening • Pets | SEPTEMBER 2016 • 21C
Junior fall tennis
clinics offered
W
ith another summer full
of camps in the books, the
Big Canoe Racquet Club
staff is looking forward
to the kids continuing play this fall.
Clinics will work on the fundamentals of
tennis strokes and play in a fun, positive
environment. Beginning the week of
Aug. 31, clinic times are:
• Tuesdays 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
(5-6 year olds)
• Wednesdays 4 to 5 p.m.
(7-10 year olds)
• Wednesdays 5 to 6 p.m.
(11-15 year olds)
The cost for the six week session is
$90.
We look forward to the kids enjoying
tennis throughout the school year. Call
the Racquet Club at 706-268-3367 with
questions or to sign up.
Who let the dogs out? The Women’s
Golf Association, that’s who
Women’s
Golf Association
ROBIN SIEVERS
A
nd what a party is was for
the BCWGA Animal House
Invitational to benefit BCAR,
Sunday, Aug. 21 and Monday,
Aug. 22. The field of 108 women golfers
from Big Canoe and beyond, as well as our
many sponsors and volunteers, helped make
this the best “doggone” event this season.
We can’t let the cat out of the bag
yet, but look for all the details, winners
and special events in October’s issue.
For information on how to make one of
the many beautiful, loving fur babies at
BCAR part of your family, log on to www.
bigcanoeanimalrescue.org.
This year’s Co-chair, Cocoa, poses with
Sharon Van Nostrand (left), Donnie
Faucette, Jane Duggan and Karen
Carlson. Proceeds from the event will be
donated to Big Canoe Animal Rescue.
PHOTO BY MELISSA LOWRIE
Long wins WGA shootout
Learning Ladies enjoy scramble with 9-holers
BY MARTHA POWER
Different Mondays mean different games for the Big Canoe Women’s Golf Association – low net,
fewest putts, four clubs and a putter,
etc. One of the most anticipated
games of the year for 18-holers is the
shootout: Last Lady Standing.
All players start on one course.
After nine holes, golfers return to
the pro shop. The top 10 net scorers
start on the second nine, eliminating the one player per hole with
the highest score. The last a player
standing is the winner.
Two players, Patsy Long and Kim
Haczynski, approached Creek No. 9
after outshooting eight other finalists. This year’s Last Lady Standing
was Patsy Long. The other eight
finalists were (in order of elimina-
n WGA | Page 22
LPGA professional Joan Delk (standing) addresses the Learning
Ladies. PHOTO BY LORI RUZICKA
Patsy Long (right) and Kim Haczynski are all smiles at the completion of the 2016 WGA shootout. Long edged Haczynski to be
the Last Lady Standing. PHOTO BY MARTHA POWER
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Gardening and debugging
Wildflower Bunch
Garden Club
FRAN HOLMAN
“To forget how to dig the earth and to
tend the soil is to forget ourselves.”
~Mahatma Ghandi
In a delightfully charming presentation
to the Wildflower Bunch, Aug. 3, at The
Clubhouse at Lake Sconti, Ellen Cambrone
explained how to tend the soil, particularly how to tend the soil to maximize plant
growth and minimize plant diseases.
Ellen, who first earned a degree in accounting, returned to university in 1990 and
graduated in environmental horticulture. She
has worked for several landscaping firms. In
an American Landscape contest, she placed
third in the nation in plant identification. El-
Sports & Outdoors
len is employed as garden center manager
for the Marble Hill Ace Hardware. She told
the group her grandfather would be amused
her job was selling dirt and worm castings.
Cambrone explained that despite the fact
there are an infinite number of diseases and
insects that harm plants, the best plan was a
proactive stance. Healthier plants are better
able to ward off diseases. She offered several
avenues of defense.
First, purchase plants that are healthy.
Second, prepare the soil properly to receive
the plants. The environment for healthy
soil includes proper drainage, organic soil
amendments and a balanced pH measurement.
She also suggested gardeners visually inspect their plants so that if disease occurs, it
can be caught at inception. If pruning is necessary to remove dead or dying limbs, even
the pruning shears should be cleaned so as
not to spread contagions. If a gardener is
unsure as to what the disease or infestation
is, the Pickens County Extension Office is a
helpful resource.
Weeds are another problem area, for
they often serve as breeding grounds for
harmful insect larvae. She warned against
letting weeds go because many weeds can
spread 20,000 or more of their seeds per
square foot.
On the other hand, there are plants that
should be planted in the garden as companions, since they deter infectious bugs. Some
WFB member Bruce Ramo joins speaker
Ellen Cambrone.
the group about gardening problems.
A short business meeting chaired by
Co-president Judy Kauffman followed. John
Lomax invited members to sign up for a trip
to Smith Gilbert Gardens and a luncheon.
Garden boots are great in the garden. PHOTOS
BY FRAN HOLMAN
of these are hyssop, thyme, lemon balm, onion, garlic and marigold.
Ellen brought an array of garden products that aid in healthy soil and deter disease.
She cautioned all instructions should be read
before any material is applied around a plant.
At the end of her knowledgeable and witty talk, Cambrone answered questions from
Wildflower Bunch Garden Club works to
preserve and protect the integrity of Big
Canoe’s environment through education and
promotion of the woodland setting using
plants and flowers native to the area. For
more information about WFB, contact Judy
Kaufman ([email protected]) or visit
wildflowerbunch.com. Memberships are
accepted throughout the year, and forms are
available at the postal facility.
WGA
n Continued from page 21
Panther Creek Falls • 25
Mountain Gardening................................... 21
Women’s Golf Association........................... 21
Junior Tennis............................................... 21
Wildflower Bunch Garden Club.................... 22
Golf ... And Other Things Out Of Doors....... 23
Men’s Golf Association................................ 23
Bocce.......................................................... 24
Big Canoe Hikers......................................... 24
Couples Golf............................................... 24
Eagle’s Rest Park......................................... 25
Hiking Your Backyard................................... 25
Doggie Dialogues........................................ 26
Big Canoe Animal Rescue............................ 26
Classified.................................................... 27
tion): Cindy Marushak, Dee Dee McClellan, Nancy Cowart, Deb Refling, Sharon
Van Nostrand, Ann Young, Margaret
Wendelburg and Melissa Lowrie.
A busy month
Joan Delk’s Learning Ladies and a
group of 9-hole players participated in a
scramble, Aug. 9. Also during August was
the BCWGA Invitational, Aug. 21-22 with
more than 100 participants.
September will be a busy month for
the WGA. The Club Championship will
be Sept. 19-20. Lunch will follow the
Tuesday of the two-day event. Sept. 26,
Big Canoe hosts the ladies of Bent Tree
in the annual Queen of the Mountain
Tournament. Check www.bcwga.com
for playday and tournament sign-ups and
information.
Absolutely
Custom
outdoors
OUTDOOR LIVING
SPECIALISTS
Here are just some of our services ....
Maintenance Options
• Regular or Periodic Blowing and Weed Control
• Pruning, Fertilization and Pest and
Disease Management of Plants
• Annual and Perennial Plant Care
• Blowing and/or Removal of Normal Leaf and Debris Fall
• Storm Damage Clean Up
Softscape Installation
• Mulch and Pine Straw Installation
• Annual Flower Installation
• Installation of Hanging Baskets, Window Boxes and Planters
• Installation of Perennials, Shrubs and Trees
Hardscape Installation
• Installation of Stone, Block, Boulder and Timber Walls
• Installation of Patios, Steps and Walkways
• Installation of Fire Pits and Fireplaces
• Installation of Water Features, Koi Ponds and Waterfalls
Custom Carpentry
• Deck Installation and Repair
• Fence Installation and Repair
•Installation of Arbors, Trellis’,
Pergolas and Other Custom Carpentry
The WGA 18-holers who qualified for the Last Lady Standing, July 25, are, Patsy Long, left,
Melissa Lowrie, Dee Dee McClellan, Deb Refling, Kim Haczynski, Cindy Marushak, Margaret
Wendelburg, Nancy Cowart, Sharon Van Nostrand and Ann Young (not pictured).
Once more:
Don’t feed the bears
BY JUDY KAUFMAN
Conservation Committee
Of course, many groups have been
repeating this directive all summer,
but still some Big Canoe residents and
visitors continue feeding the bears. So,
we keep reminding everyone inside the
gates.
Basically, there are two general
reasons why we require all to refrain
from feeding wildlife. The first is the
welfare of the animals; the second is the
safety of the humans.
Now, let’s talk about bears
specifically.
Bears are supposed to roam up to
5 square miles a day in search of food.
Just like humans who benefit from
exercise, they need this daily activity
to keep their bodies strong. Putting
out fast-food stations teaches them
different habits, weakens their health
and increases their exposure to human
danger.
A bear’s strongest sense is smell.
While humans do not detect much
aroma from birdseed or hummingbird
nectar, bears can catch a whiff from a
feeder from a surprising distance and
follow the scent directly to the source.
By the way, there is no such
invention as a bear-proof feeder. Clever
attempts to baffle the bears only mean
they claw around on decks or climb up
trees, breaking branches. They do not
give up quickly on an easy meal.
Once Mama Bear and her adorable
cubs have found a reliable feeder, the
picture is beguiling. But this is where
the human danger comes into play.
This ursine family will become habitual
visitors, hoping to catch the feeder full.
They will spend too much time in the
neighborhood.
Pretty soon what was cute on your
deck means your neighbor cannot walk
his dog without worry of an encounter.
Your street must be on alert. All
normal outside activity, from bringing
in groceries to watering bushes, may
mean a face-to-face with a bear. Finally,
authorities are called about a nuisance
bear in the neighborhood and another
bear is trapped. From there, we know
how these stories typically and sadly
end.
So, don’t feed the bears! Instead,
enjoy the thrill of catching a glimpse
of a big male or a family loping up and
down our forested mountainsides.
And, while we are on the subject,
don’t feed any wildlife, including deer,
geese, birds (March to December) and
feral cats. There are rules and fines for
non-compliance.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor Kitchens Including:
• Running Water, Sinks, Refrigerators, and Freezers
• Wine Coolers, Beer Dispensers and
Even Custom Automated Spirit Mixers
Outdoor
Entertainment Areas
Audio Video Systems, Speakers, Televisions,
Projector Systems ... And Much Much More
Office: (678) 906-5948
Email: [email protected]
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Big Canoe resident owned and operated
AbsolutelyCustomOutdoors.com
Bears need to find their own food source to remain healthy. Do not feed the bears.
PHOTO BY ROBB HAUCK
SEPTEMBER 2016
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Drama, drama, drama
Golf ... And Other
Things Out Of Doors
JIM RICE
J
uly was a super busy month for major
golf championships. The month started
with the Big Canoe Club Championship, covered in our last issue, naming
a total of five Champion Big Canoe golfers of
the year from a variety of ages and handicap
categories. Congratulations to all you guys
for a great two days.
Next came the Women’s U.S. Open, July 7
to 10, in CordeValle, Calif. You may remember the drama created by the USGA during
the Men’s U.S. Open, when Dustin Johnson
was penalized for a ball moving on the putting green. There was no clear evidence he
had caused the ball to move, but the USGA
ruled he was the closest and finally made
a decision after the match was over (and
Dustin had won by three) they would, in fact,
assess a one-stroke penalty. The penalty did
not alter the outcome.
In the Women’s U.S. Open, however, the
outcome was altered dramatically. Ending in
a tie after 72 holes, Brittany Lang and Anna
Nordqvist went to a sudden death playoff to
determine a winner. A zoom-action, highspeed camera caught Anna moving a speck
of sand in her take away, while hitting a shot
from a fairway bunker. There is no human
eye that possibly could have seen this grain
of sand move; it literally was one grain of
sand. The rules require she be given a twostroke penalty for the rules infraction, which
decided the playoff in Brittany Lang’s favor.
They both played great golf and they both
deserved to win in a head-to-head competition.
Neither deserved for the outcome to be
decide by a microscopic view of the bunker play. It is a ridiculous situation when a
camera can zoom in on action that is so minuscule it cannot be seen without the aid of
specialized equipment and certainly is so
microscopic that it creates no advantage to
the competitor. Isn’t that the reason for the
rules, to level the playing field and prevent
anyone from artificially creating an advantage? The rules of golf need an update that
precludes the use of such equipment to minutely follow each and every shot a golfer
makes. It is a self-ruled game of ladies and
gentlemen who honor the game by calling
appropriate penalties on themselves. We do
not need Big Brother watching us through a
magnifying glass.
Oh, and to add insult to injury, the new
president of the USGA called the ultimate
winner by the wrong name three times
during the awards ceremony: Brittany/Bethany … close right?
The British Open, played July 14 to 17,
was a low-key, good-weather, great golfing
showdown between Phil Mickelson and
Henrik Stenson. The drama of this event
was caused by two great golfers going at it
head-to-head. Both played unbelievably well,
matching shots and putts all afternoon long.
It came down to a putt falling or not falling
at a critical time. Stenson, the ultimate winner of the British Open, made those last few
critical putts to best Mickelson in the home
stretch by three shots (the match was closer than the final score). Everyone else in the
field was playing for third place, 14 strokes
out of first place.
And, finally, the PGA Championship,
played July 28 to 31. The drama in this one
was the final play of its two contenders. Like
the British, most everyone else was playing
for third place. Jason Day and Jimmy Walker played very good golf in the last round
of a 36-hole day to bring it down to the last
putt on the last hole. Jimmy Walker, with a
one-shot lead and only needing to make par,
went for the par five in two, leaving himself
in a very unhandy place behind a big bunker
needing to get on the green and two putt to
win. His decision to go for it made the situation way more dramatic than necessary
(where was his caddie?). Maybe a lay-up and
an approach shot to 15 feet would have been
much safer than taking out the big gun and
trying to hit the green from 270 yards? Oh,
well, all’s well that ends well, right?
Exciting golf for the entire month and
mostly appropriate outcomes.
Jim Rice is an Alabama boy living in North
Georgia with a Pittsburgh
Yankee. He markets
sculptural art for money,
plays golf for fun and
enjoys fine wine on all
such occasions. Living the
dream in Big Canoe with
his lovely bride for nearly
20 years.
JIM RICE
The Memorial Cup
Men’s
Golf Association
JIM RICE, MGA PUBLICIST
T
he Memorial Cup golf tournament began in 2009; this year
was the eighth playing, as a
way to settle the argument between the Players and Regulars golfing
groups over which might be the best golfing group in Big Canoe. A two-day Ryder
Cup-type event was decided upon to settle
the bragging rights for Big Canoe’s golfing
group champions of the year. While some
of the details of exactly how this all got
started are fuzzy, it seems we’ve reached
a consensus that it began as an argument
between Jim Rice, Players group, and John
Hansen, Regulars group. It was decided the
only way to settle the argument was with
clubs, on the field of battle. Since we’re all
Alex Henderson, left, Rita Zeiler,
Sarah Venable, Nancy Allen and John
Willoughby at the Memorial Cup.
Tournament Directors from the Regulars
and Players wrestle over the trophy. PHOTOS
too old to handle the damage of war clubs,
we decided on golf clubs instead.
Early on, the tournament was a way for
the two groups to honor recently passed
members. The names of those members,
unfortunately, have become too numerous
to list, and we miss them each and every
one. It is always nice to have the wives of
our friends join us for the trophy presentation.
The event was held over two days, July
29 and 30, and, after much golfing and
BY JIM RICE
gnashing of teeth (mostly over who had
the correct handicaps), the Regulars and
the Players ended the competition in a
dead heat of 178.5 points each. The tying
point was posted by the last group on the
golf course. Since the Regulars held the
trophy from their win last year, the tie is
a win for them and they are allowed to
hold on to the trophy one more year. It
was a hard-fought battle, which now puts
the standings at five for the Regulars and
three for the Players. The Players are certainly not giving up; just wait until next
year, guys.
I am truly proud to be associated with
a community as close as ours. Even in
the face of competition, the gabbing and
jabbing is all done in good fun. Those
who were competitors today will likely
be partners next week. The wonderful
camaraderie between golfers makes the
not-so-wonderful golf bearable.
After each match, hats came off and
hands were extended — because we mean
it!
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A couple of notes about
Couples Golf in Big Canoe
Big Canoe Hikers
announce fall schedule
ANITA ROSEN
[email protected]
BY ROBIN SIEVERS
Who will claim the title of Big Canoe Couples’ Champion? We’ll know the
answer Saturday, Sept. 17, as couples compete for this coveted title in a team
best ball and modified alternate shot tournament. Will our 2015 Big Canoe
Couples Champions, Noreen and Wally Walsh, make it two in a row, or will
there be a new champion? You’ll just have to be present to win!
Sign up in the pro shop prior to Tuesday, Sept. 13. Cost is $50 per player,
non-amenity members will pay $28 extra per person. Payouts will be 30 percent of the field. The grill will be blazing downstairs, outside the pro shop,
with hamburgers, brats and chicken. Lunch is included and there will be a
cash bar. For additional information, contact Greg and Laura Morris at [email protected].
While our BC Couples Match Play and tournament season is drawing to a
close, we still have one more Twilight Couples Fun Golf to play. All golfers
welcome, no handicap required, for this strictly fun, goofy golf with dinner
following, event. September’s theme will be Football Fanatics. Join us Friday,
Sept. 30, and represent your favorite football team, college or NFL. It’ll be a
battle of epic proportions as we see who will emerge as champion!
Also, don’t forget Sunday Couples Golf is still going strong. All couples
with a registered GHIN handicap are welcome to play in this skins game,
every Sunday (weather permitting) with tee times starting at 1 p.m. For additional information or to sign up, contact Keith and Robin Sievers at pilot114@
mac.com.
SEPTEMBER 2016
After a summer break, the Big
Canoe Hikers began the fall season
with a picnic at the Canoe Lodge to
introduce committee members who will
be organizing the club’s activities after
the retirement of Joyce Raley and Frank
Wright. The group then hiked on Sawnee
Mountain in Cumming, a moderate 3.5mile trek led by Dawn Polson and Barbara
Henry.
Thursday, Sept. 15, Steve Papke and
Mary Jo Cox will team up to lead a 3.5-
mile, moderate hike on the Aska Trail in
Blue Ridge. Thursday, Oct. 27, Jay Seward
and Deb Homer will take the hikers to the
Amadahy Trail Loop, Carters Lake, a 3.5mile, moderate walk. Nov. 17 will bring a
more strenuous hike when Mary Jo Cox
and Barbara Henry guide the group on
a 7.2-mile hike at Panther Creek in the
Tallulah Gorge area.
The club will round out the year with
its traditional Silent Night hike to Nature
Valley in Big Canoe, Wednesday, Dec. 14.
This easy walk goes to the Lower Falls
and will be led by Jay Seward and Deb
Homer.
“This group is very casual. It’s all about
the fun and enjoying bocce. No worries if you
have never played.”
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Bocce teams gather to play and socialize. PHOTO BY STEVE PAPKE
BY PAT PAPKE
TM
News And Views From Big Canoe and around North Georgia
Questions? Call our office at 770-893-1594 or
send email to [email protected]
After summer break, the fall bocce
season has begun!
The season started with the Fun
Tournament. It was great to see folks
after the summer. There was more
socializing than actual bocce being
played, but that was the point.
League play started Aug. 31 and
Monday Night Bocce — a fun night for
everyone — began Aug. 22.
For those new to Big Canoe, league
play is something you sign up for at the
beginning of the season. You are on a
team with three other people. Monday
Night Bocce is for anyone who wants to
have an enjoyable, social evening. We
start at 5 p.m. on Mondays. BYOB, and a
snack to share.
This group is very casual. It’s all about
the fun and enjoying bocce. No worries if
you have never played.
Big Canoe Bocce lost two wonderful
people this past month: Virginia Hahn
and Sig Lutyk. We will miss them.
It’s fun to be back rolling again. See
you on the courts!
SEPTEMBER 2016
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Panther Creek Falls
Hiking
Your Backyard
KIM COOPER
T
he Panther Creek Trail continually makes top-10 lists for best
hikes and best waterfalls in North
Georgia. It’s easy to see why. It’s
easily accessible from Atlanta, provides a
moderately difficult hike and rewards hikers with beautiful, tumbling waterfalls with
a deep, cool swimming pool.
Unfortunately, the constant accolades
may be hurting, rather than helping, this
treasured gem.
The Panther Creek Trail is in Habersham County off Old Highway 441 and is
part of the Chattahoochee National Forest.
The 7-mile, out-and-back trail is moderately challenging with several areas of eroded
trail and tricky rock paths.
The trail departs the paved parking lot
($4 user fee) and crosses under the highway
overpass. Noisy traffic quickly washes away
as the rushing sounds of Panther Creek
emerge. The trail follows along the creek
for the entire 7-mile trek and offers quaint,
smaller waterfalls as previews for the grand
waterfalls. On busy weekends, these water-
Hikers need to be cautious of the worn
Panther Creek Trail and its narrow path
along rock outcrops.
falls are more serene and restful than the
popular destination falls.
The hike can be divided into three sections: beginning, middle and end. The first
section contains several segments of rock
outcrops and, due to heavy foot traffic, an
eroded trail. Steady climbing is needed to
divert around the large rocks with exposed
tree roots commonly used as a hoist up and
around the boulders. This section is also the
most heavily used by campers and, perhaps,
locals.
Several large campsites are available
before the bridge crossing into the gentler
middle portion. If utilizing the campsites,
it’s important to remember the creed of
“Pack In, Pack Out” and “Leave No Trace.”
It’s crucial every hiker, backpacker and
camper respect these vital principles. Unfortunately, visible signs of littering and destruction were evident on the first mile of
the trek.
The middle section of the trail begins
after the wooden bridge crossing. The trail
levels out along a sandy path winding along
the flowing creek. Again, multiple waterfalls
dot the landscape and entice hikers to wander off the beaten path.
As one approaches the fantastic Panther
Creek Waterfalls, the easiest section of the
trail quickly becomes the most demanding
third section. Hikers need to use caution
and watchfulness as they navigate the rocky
climbs and descents until reaching the final
destination at roughly 3.5 miles.
Once visitors reach the scenic waterfalls, they can rest and relax along the wide,
open riverbank. Be forewarned: It is more
than likely you won’t be the only one dipping into the large pool below the falls.
Take time for a picnic and a swim. Wander
through the broad river and swim around
or under the falls. It’s a treat after steering
through and around boulders, tiptoeing on
ledges and trekking through a well-loved,
well-worn trail. To return, depart the falls
and retrace the original route back to the
parking lot.
The Panther Creek Trail and Panther
Creek Waterfalls epitomize the need for
trail care and protection. On any weekend,
several hundred visitors may ramble along
the path and it’s up to each hiker to leave
the trail in better condition than when they
arrived. Overpopulation and under-protection of natural beauties such at the Panther
Creek Waterfall eventually will dim the
shining light of our trail systems and their
partnering attractions.
To learn more about the “Leave No Trace” principles, visit Leave No Trace: Center
for Outdoor Ethics at www.lnt.org.
EZE-BREEZE
After a challenging trek, hikers can wade into a deep, blue pool of cool water at the
Panther Creek Waterfalls. The wide, sandy shore also provides plenty of room for
groups to picnic. PHOTOS BY KIM COOPER
Eagle’s Rest Park site map
Visiting Eagle’s Rest Park atop Mt. Oglethorpe just got easier. A new site map
has been posted on the kiosk in the park. Visitors are encouraged to take a
photo of this map with their cell phones to use as a guide when in the park.
Come to the mountain to renew your mind, body and spirit. PHOTO BY JOHN FEIGHT
®
Replace your screens
with affordable windows
... your place in the mountains
‘LOOK TO LITTELL
TO LIST AND SELL’
GREAT VALUE!
185 REDBUD PASS • $489,000
4 BR, 3.5 BA • Many extras in this
beautiful home built by Frank Smith.
Quiet wooded setting. Nice open plan-great room coffered ceiling with wood
for nice rustic touch. Stacked stone
fireplace in great room. Porch has
fireplace and ez-breeze windows. Terrace
level spacious with mini kitchen. Hot tub
area on screened porch. Pet door access
to dog run.
1524 QUAIL COVE DRIVE • $295,000
3BR, 2.5 BA • Like new Craftsman style
beauty! Open floor plan, large kitchen
with granite counter tops. Inviting master
suite. Terrace level includes family room,
two guest bedrooms and full bath, lots
of storage space, and walk out to patio.
Very private setting with long driveway to
the house. Most furnishings available on
separate bill of sale.
95 KINGFISHER POINT • $810,000
4BR, 3.5 BA • Beautiful home on Lake
Petit. Recent vista pruning opened up
gorgeous views. Home flows nicely
with open plan on both levels and lake
view from most rooms. Two screened
porches--one on each level. Main level
porch has fireplace. Small kitchen on
terrace level.
248 WILLOW DRIVE • $270,000
3 BR, 3BA • Flat lot with nice curb appeal.
Rocking chair front porch. Level driveway.
Enjoy the wooded view from deck. This
home has been updated in several areas
and is a must see for this price. HVAC
new in fall of 2014. Exterior painted in
2015. Great value!
Underdeck Ceilings
Over
100
Installs In
Big Canoe
HOMESITES
3008 Wild Turkey Bluff • $145,000
Lot with great potential views
available for discerning buyer.
Meet with agent to discuss
possibilities.
5550 Black Bear Trail • $150,000
Great easy build lot in High Gap
area of Big Canoe. Nice view looking
north. Million dollar home in
neighborhood.
I am a 16 year resident of Big Canoe®
and passionate about this place I call home.
Carolyn Littell
706-268-2354 • 404-630-4185 cell
Email: [email protected]
DECK ENCLOSURE SYSTEMS LLC
706-268-2047  RAY BEDINGFIELD  770-595-6986
310 YANEGWA PATH, BIG CANOE
26 C
S M O K E
SS I MG ON KA EL S S I| G SN PA O
L SR T| SL I&V I ON UG T D O O R S
SEPTEMBER 2016
Adoption: a matter of the heart
Big Canoe
Animal Rescue
BONNIE PLIKAYTIS
When looking for a dog, as when looking for
love, your eyes may deceive you, so it is best
to listen to your heart.
I
am a pragmatist. I like to see data, analyze it, then make a decision based on
my best judgment of what I see.
Thinking back, I realized this was
not always true in my life. Many years ago
I was told Scotty, a 14-month-old yellow Lab
being raised to serve as an assistance dog,
had been diagnosed with severe bilateral
hip dysplasia. He was to be released from
the puppy-raising-and-training program and
needed a home.
Without concern for his medical problem, I immediately wanted to adopt him. He
needed us. However, my husband wanted
our vet’s opinion before making a commitment. I dutifully took the dog and his X-rays
to the vet, who told me, in no uncertain
terms, “These X-rays show severe dysplasia in both hips. This dog will break your
heart.” Fourteen years later, Scotty quietly
passed away at age 15. He did indeed break
our hearts. We never once regretted our decision to adopt him. He brought many years
of great joy to our family and to hundreds of
others through his service as a therapy dog.
BCAR has been requested recently to
intervene in an unprecedented number of
extreme cases of canine neglect. As an animal rescue organization, it is impossible to
say no, as long as we have the means to save
these dogs. Last month you read the amazing
story of Disco and Frisco, both now healthy,
handsome, wonderful dogs.
A Big Canoe family has adopted Disco.
The very affectionate Frisco – with his big,
baby blue eyes – continues to learn the social skills needed to assimilate into a family.
BCAR now has two additional dogs in our
care, Champ and Theo, who required medical care to heal their diseased and broken
Champ before. COURTESY OF PICKENS ANIMAL
CONTROL
Theo before. COURTESY OF BCAR
Champ after. PHOTO BY JAMIE VENABLE
bodies, as well as loving attention to restore
their trust in people. They are both in foster
homes, but each needs someone to open his
heart and make them part of a loving family.
Champ
Pickens Animal Control found Champ
behind the hospital in Jasper. He is a 3-yearold Blood Hound who was severely malnourished and was not using his front right leg.
Upon examination, Dr. Habermann found
the elbow of Champ’s front leg was broken,
as suspected, and detached from the socket.
Returning normal function to the leg would
require extensive orthopedic surgery. Given
his young age and his exceptional personality for his breed, BCAR provided financial
Theo after. COURTESY OF JILLIAN UDELSON
support for the surgery.
At the time of this writing, Champ is recovering successfully in a foster home, the
daughter of a BCAR board member. Wende
and her family are caring souls providing a
loving, stable environment for this lover boy
of a hound dog who wants peace, love and
harmony. He gets along with children, as
well as other dogs in the home. He even has
bonded with their 5-week-old puppy, serving
as something of a surrogate mom. Applications for adoption are being accepted for
Champ.
Theo
Theo is a purebred Rottweiler, about
5 years old, who was found off Cove Road
by a Big Canoe property owner. Theo was
malnourished and exhibited signs of severe
distress. Veterinary evaluation and testing
revealed Theo has an enlarged heart, which
is sometimes seen in his breed.
His heart condition can be managed with
medications. He is currently being fostered
until his condition is stabilized. The caring
veterinary technician who is fostering Theo
reports he is a sweet, docile guy who enjoys a human’s touch. Theo gets along well
with his foster brothers, a senior Pug named
Pudge and a senior three-legged wonder-mutt named Benjamin Barker. Pudge
and Theo like to walk around the yard together when they’re not napping.
Theo is a quiet guy who enjoys being
near his people. He is in need of a loving
family willing to accept the limitations his
heart condition imposes. BCAR is accepting
adoption applications.
Some folks do not see why anyone
would adopt an older dog, or a dog with special needs, or a dog with health problems.
The reasons cannot be seen; rather, these
kind-hearted individuals are listening – listening to their hearts.
Check out the BCAR bulletin board in
the Big Canoe postal facility. Go to the www.
bigcanoeanimalrescue.org website. Check
us out on Facebook. Come to our open house
every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteer!
BCAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill
shelter for homeless dogs and cats found
in Big Canoe. It provides them with a
safe, healthy and positive environment
until they are adopted into forever, loving
homes. Dedicated volunteers always are
needed. Check out the BCAR website www.
bigcanoeanimalrescue.org or call 706-2681346.
Walking tips for distracted dogs
Doggie
Dialogues
DORIS DRESSLER, CPDT-KA
O
ne of the wonderful things about
living in Big Canoe is using its
trails. For dog lovers, nothing
beats an early morning stroll with
your four-legged companion. Walking is not
only good exercise and a great stress reliever, it’s also a great way to develop and maintain the bond you have with your dog.
But what if your dog pays more attention
to the environment than he does to you? Is
his nose continually on the ground searching for interesting scents? Is he constantly
on high alert, looking for that dangerous
squirrel or pesky rabbit to chase? Is he obsessed with finding pine cones to eat or
sticks to chew? Does your dog pull towards
people or dogs you pass?
What can you do to make walking your
dog fun again?
Consider the breed
Dogs were bred purposely to do the very
things that can frustrate us. Scent hounds
were bred to locate game using their nose.
This explains why beagles typically walk
with their noses glued to the ground. Retrievers were bred to retrieve game for
hunters, so you often will find them searching for something to pick up and carry on
their walk. Terriers were bred to chase prey,
Richard White teaches his 9-month-old
King Charles cavalier puppy the “watch
me” cue. PHOTOS BY DORIS DRESSLER
which is why they can’t resist lunging after
a squirrel.
In other words, some breeds really can’t
help it! But there are several things you can
do to make your walk a little more enjoyable.
Watch me
Teach your dog to “watch me,” so you
can cue him to make eye contact when
walking past something distracting.
Start by holding a treat right below your
eyes; when he makes eye contact, mark it
with a high-pitched “yes” and give him the
Pet Au Pair
and MORE
706-579-2165
Now Offering
Overnight Stays
In Your Home
❋ Daily Walks
❋ Mail Forwarding
❋ Plant Care
PAT GARLAND
Big Canoe Resident Since 1994
Rigby, a 6-month-old petite goldendoodle, demonstrates the “leave it” cue.
treat. Repeat several times until your dog
understands the game (eye contact equals
treat).
Next, hold the treat out to the side. Your
dog will follow the treat and stare at it but
will eventually look back at you in frustration. Be patient! Immediately mark the eye
contact (“yes”) and reward with the treat.
Repeat until your dog begins to look away
quickly from the treat and look at you instead. You are teaching your dog that looking at you, not the treat, gets him the reward.
Once your dog is consistently offering
the desired behavior (looking quickly back
at you), add the verbal “watch me” cue. Replace the treat with a hand signal (pointing
to your eyes) and randomly reward the dog
with a treat hidden in your pocket.
Teach this standing still at first but, eventually, add movement. The goal is for your
dog to make eye contact with you as he
quickly moves past a distraction.
If your dog is highly distracted or still
learning the “watch me” cue, you may need
to pull out a treat or toy (lure) to help redirect his attention back to you. Hold the lure
right below your eyes with one hand while
you hold the leash firmly in the other hand;
move quickly past the distraction while asking your dog to “watch me.”
Be a tree
If your dog pulls, freeze and stop moving. Be a tree! Call your dog back to your
side and continue the walk when the leash
is loose. Your dog will learn when there is
pressure on his chest (if wearing a no-pull
harness) or neck (if wearing a no-slip martingale collar), the walk stops. When there is
no pressure, the walk continues. Consistency is key here.
If you would like to give your dog the opportunity to check out that great smell he is
pulling you towards (after all, the walk is a
chance for your dog to check his pee-mail),
turn it into a training opportunity. Stop, be a
tree and call the dog back to your side. Ask
your dog to sit. Once he sits, release your
dog using a cue like “free dog” or “go sniff.”
This gives your dog permission to sniff, but
now it’s on your terms and only happens if
the dog is not pulling.
Leave it
Leave it is another useful cue to redirect your dog before you lose him to a good
stinky smell or an irresistible pine cone.
Search YouTube for “leave it dog training”
for more on how to teach this cue.
If your dog spends most of his walk trying to pick things up off the ground, teach
him to carry his favorite toy instead. If your
dog loves tennis balls, bring one along for
you to bounce and for him to catch. If your
dog likes to tug, bring along a tug toy and
engage your dog in an impromptu game of
tug if he is about to grab something.
Be unpredictable
Keep your dog’s focus by being unpredictable. If you are starting to lose your
dog’s attention, start making U-turns and
head in the opposite direction. Keep doing
this until your dog begins to pay attention.
Mix up your walk by doing controlled recalls on leash. During your walk, call your
dog’s name to get his attention, then quickly
back up several steps as you ask your dog
to come. When the dog comes, reward him
with a high value treat and then continue
your walk.
Break up your walk by teaching some
easy tricks like sit, down, touch, take a bow,
spin/twirl or shake.
The key is to make walking with you
more interesting, varied and exciting. Happy training!
DORIS DRESSLER
Doris Dressler is a
CPDT-KA (certified
professional dog trainer,
knowledge assessed) with
over 17 years’ experience
training service dogs
and family pet dogs. She
also volunteers training
rescued dogs at Big
Canoe Animal Rescue.
S MS OMKOE K ES I G
I FGI E D
S INGANL AS L S| C| LLAI SV SI N
SEPTEMBER 2016
27 C
CLASSIFIED
Smoke Signals
Classifieds
• Ad price is $20 for the first 20 words
and 40 cents for each additional word.
Classified ads are published in print
and online.
• Submit Classified Ad Request on
bigcanoenews.com
• For assistance, send email to
[email protected].
Deadline is the 15th of the month.
Smoke Signals Classifieds
Neighbors talking to neighbors
COMPUTERS/
COMPUTER SERVICES
COMPUTERS / COMPUTER SERVICES
COMPUTER SHACK. Owned and operated
by Big Canoe resident. Full computer service,
home or carry in. Visit our store next to
Renasant Bank. 770-893-1111.
DONATIONS
NEEDED
DONATIONS
NEEDED
DONATE NO-LONGER-NEEDED, GOODCONDITION FURNITURE to Dawson
County’s Humane Society Resale Shop &
Boutique. Donations 100% tax deductible.
Support our no-kill shelter. 706-525-5030.
PLEASE HELP PICKENS ANIMAL RESCUE.
P.A.R. needs household items for its Thrift
Store. Furniture, decorative items – anything
but clothing. 100% tax deductible. 706-253-5947.
FURNITURE FOR SALE
FURNITURE FOR SALE
FURNITURE. AMISH MADE queen bed with
mattress and box springs, $1,000, Amish made
set of 4 chairs $800, Antique dresser, $275 or
make offer. All in excellent condition. Contact
Jean Loomis, 770-778-2790, dusticarver@
comcast.net.
more than 100 homes in Big Canoe area. Tile
work, roof repair, deck repair, room additions,
finish basements, siding work, painting and
small plumbing jobs. Jeff Mills. Office, 706-6362606; Cell, 706-669-5751. Fully insured, general
liability and workers’ comp.
HANDYMAN SERVICES. Carpentry,
electrical, plumbing, drywall, tile work, deck
and fence repair, pressure washing and odd
jobs. Just about anything you need done. Call
Randy, 678-230-9893.
GUTTERS REPAIRED, REPLACED OR
CLEANED. Call Georgia Gutters (www.
gagutters.com), 678-525-2570, for all your
seamless gutter needs. Free estimates.
GEORGIA CLOCK REPAIR announces a mailorder watch battery replacement service in
conjunction with antique and new clock repair.
We have been servicing clocks in Big Canoe
and Bent Tree for the past 10 years. Please
contact us, [email protected] or
770-781-9536, for additional information.
RODRIGUEZ CONSTRUCTION. We
specialize in structural repair, CO permit
approvals, insurance claims, complex roof
systems, unfinished construction projects,
remodels. Licensed & Insured. Call Leo, 404840-5712.
HANDYMAN SERVICES / RESTORATION /
CONSTRUCTION / LANDSCAPING. Priced
per hour, not by job. Anything you need done.
Resident Big Canoe. Call Greg at 404-579-9791.
W CRETE specializes in driveways, sidewalks,
patios, slabs, pavers, sinkhole repairs, retaining
walls and landscaping. Please give us a call at
678-454-0174 for a free estimate.
SPOTLESS. Need a housekeeper? Need help
managing your vacation rental? I offer both
services. 20 years’ experience. References
available upon request. Call Tara Mayer (N.C.
cell) 704-996-1539.
HOME
REPAIRREPAIR/SERVICES
/ SERVICES
HOME
BJ’s MOLD BUSTERS. We do mold inspections
and mold and water remediation. 706-301-6510.
HANDYMAN SERVICES. Twenty years’
experience in Big Canoe. Built and remodeled
LANDSCAPE SERVICES/
LANDSCAPINGSUPPLIES
SERVICES / SUPPLIES
LANDSCAPE DESIGN, INSTALLATION,
as well as seasonal or weekly maintenance
programs, professional pruning, and
hardscapes. 35 years’ experience, 706-889-2946.
LOCALLYFARM
GROWN /TO
FARM
TO TABLE
TABLE
HOUSE CLEANING/
ORGANIZATION
HOUSE CLEANING / ORGANIZATION
CORNER STONE, custom stone masonry.
Walkways, outside fireplaces, walls and arches.
Free estimates. 30 years’ experience, Big Canoe
references. Contact Carl Gaertner, 770-893-3971.
MANAGE YOUR HOME WHILE YOU’RE
AWAY short or long term or as a vacation
rental. Tara 704-996-1539, 15+ years’ experience.
References available upon request.
APPLIANCE SERVICE AND MORE has a new
local number for service. Please call us for your
household appliance service, 706-253-0775 or
678-458-0775.
FULL HOUSE RENOVATION, CUSTOM
CARPENTRY, finished basement, bath,
kitchen, deck, painting. Home repairs of all
kinds. Quality work. Call Mike 404-313-0259.
PLUMBING. Mountainside Plumbing,
Inc. Unrestricted Master Plumber - Rusty
Grantham. New Construction, Service Work,
Remodels. Office 706-692-4277. Cell 770-8941716. [email protected].
HOUSE
MANAGEMENT
HOUSE
MANAGEMENT
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE, DESIGN
AND INSTALLATION. Pruning, fertilization,
mulches, pine straw. Cynthia Hendry,
Woodland Gardens, 770-337-2277.
HOME
IMPROVEMENT
HOME
IMPROVEMENT
CARVED WOOD SIGNS. Mail Post Signs,
House Signs, Hillbilly 10 commandments,
Humorous, Motivational, Religious. Bill Van
Dyke, 706-268-3621 or 404-271-3375.
CRYSTAL CLEAR CLEANING. We offer
residential, organizational, holiday/party
prep & cleaning, move in / out, rentals, and
construction cleaning. Call Christina, 404-7314968.
SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS. Give us a call
at 706-692-9013 for a free estimate or check us
out online, www.SqueakyWindows.com. We
also do complete painting and deck staining, hot
water pressure washing, gutter cleaning and
garage epoxy flooring with a lifetime warranty.
FORESTER PAINTING COMPANY.
Commercial/residential painting. Affordable
pricing. Licensed/insured. Free estimates.
No job too big or too small. Exterior/interior
painting, wood repair, trim, siding, pressure
washing, deck staining. Please call Kathleen,
706-344-9754, 706-344-8393. Big Canoe referrals,
satisfied customers: Mike/Charlene Ehrlich,
706-579-2438; Erwin/Dorian Dillard, 706-5791536; Brian Roberts, 706-579-1512.
GENERAL
MERCHANDISE
GENERAL
MERCHANDISE
CERTAINLY CLEAN Commercial &
Residential Cleaning Services. Bonded &
Insured. Call 770-893-7906 for your FREE quote.
TWO SISTERS CLEANING SERVICE is
taking new customers. Weekly, biweekly and
monthly. Twenty-one years of experience
with 18 years in Big Canoe. We provide oldfashioned cleaning like your mother would do.
Call 706-265-4624.
IT’S TIME FOR A BEAUTIFUL CLEAN
with Elite Cleaning. House cleaning, pressure
washing, steam cleaning and windows. Bonded
and insured. Call today for free estimate. 404914-5770.
ONE OF A KIND CLEANING SERVICES.
Residential & commercial. Affordable & local.
Licensed & insured. Kendra Peck, 678-549-7886.
Canton, GA.
LOCALLY GROWN/
MOUNTAIN VALLEY FARM. “Growing
Locally Since 1840.” Offering our own Grassfed
Beef and Heritage Pork, fresh eggs, handmade
cheeses, creamery butter, handcrafted ice
cream, and lots more in our Farm Store located
on our working farm in Ellijay. TripAdvisor
rated #1. www.grassfedgeorgia.com. Suzy
Wright, farmer / owner 706-889-0999.
PETPET
SERVICES
/ SUPPLIES
SERVICES/SUPPLIES
PET/HOUSE SITTING, PLANT WATERING.
Student looking for extra work. Honest &
reliable. Call Wrenna Unger at 470-281-7808.
Thanks!
PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES
PROSWEEP CLEANING SERVICE has 3
openings left for new clientele. Free estimates
and plenty of references in Big Canoe.
Guaranteed satisfaction. Call today 770-5300384. Ask for Vickie or Vanessa.
HOME WATCH SERVICES FOR ABSENTEE
HOMEOWNERS. If you are away for a day, a
week or months at a time we have developed
services just for you. Licensed*Bonded*Insured*
www.homewatchofnorthgeorgia.com. 678-7737905.
RECREATION
RECREATION
BENT TREE EQUESTRIAN CENTER offers
Trail Rides, Arena Rides for ages 2-11, Lessons
for all ages. Year round Mini Camps, Clinics,
Birthday Parties and special events. Open
Monday-Sunday 10-5. Contact 706-692-6322 or
706-669-0692. Email: [email protected].
REAL ESTATE
LEASE/RENTAL
REAL ESTATE
LEASE / RENTAL
A CUT ABOVE THE REST. Beautiful home
fully furnished and stylishly decorated. 3 large
bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, office, 50’ porch, pool
room, 4 flat screen TVs, Koi pond, and more. 3
months minimum to 1 year or more. Close to
amenities. Can be viewed on VRBO #766533.
Price depends on length of stay. 770-843-3131.
HOT TUB, MOUNTAIN VIEWS and wall
of windows highlight this cozy, 1,700-square
foot, 2/2 cabin in Big Canoe. End of cul-de-sac
privacy. Best for couples and small families.
Weekend / weekly / monthly rates. For details,
see vrbo.com listing #495166. 706-579-1233.
LONG- AND SHORT-TERM LUXURY
RENTAL HOMES in Big Canoe. 24-plus
upscale, meticulously maintained 5-, 4-, 3-, 2-,
1-bedroom homes and condos. Call Kevin, 404788-7635, or email, kevin@mountainvistarentals.
com. View all on our website, www.
mountainvistarentals.com.
REAL
ESTATEESTATE
FOR SALE
REAL
TWO ADJACENT 10 ACRE TRACTS OF
LAND IN A PRIVATE SUBDIVISION with a
total of only 13 tracts in Pickens County. Gated
with no amenities, reasonable restrictions
and covenants. Easy to build road level tracts
with awesome views and huge hardwoods at
2,000 feet plus elevation. Priced at $59,000 and
$69,000, by owner, call 706-889-0205 for more
information.
BEAUTIFUL LOT FOR SALE: MOTIVATED
SELLER. 709 Cherokee Trail, Lot 2212.
Beautiful long-range and wooded views. 1.1 acre
lot, fantastic location. Price reduced to $25,000.
All reasonable offers considered. Please call
owner: 770-846-2313 or 770-856-0853.
LOT FOR SALE BY OWNER: 225 Robins Nest,
Lot 1138. Close to Lake Petit, very buildable.
$75,000. 404-444-3657.
SUPPORT
GROUPS
SUPPORT
PLACEMENT, SIZES & RATES
HOME PAGE FOLD (360X280PIXELS) • $150.00
FOOTER (565X70P) • $100.00
STANDARD SIDE (180X150P) • $100.00
NAVIGATION (234X60P) • $85.00
See www.bigcanoenews.com for additional
details on size and placement.
Contact [email protected] or 678-925-8511
for more information or to place an ad on www.bigcanoenews.com.
Increase
Your Reach...
Increase
Your Sales!
GROUPS
AT HOME RECOVERING FROM SURGERY?
Let us bring you a meal. Call the Wellness
Collaborative at 706-268-3334, or email meals@
bcwell.org.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WOMEN
meets every Wednesday, noon, Holy Family
Episcopal Church, Pete’s Porch, 204 Griffith
Road. Closed discussion. Information, 706-2532323 or 404-525-3178.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meets every
Saturday, 9 a.m., Broyles Center at Big Canoe
Chapel, downstairs, rear outside entrance.
Information: 706-253-2323, 404-525-3178.
FREE PREGNANCY TESTS. North Georgia
Pregnancy Center. 706-253-6303. Open Monday
& Wednesday 12:30-5 p.m. 1549 East Church
Street. Appointments and walk-ins. www.
babyontheway.org.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS. You can make
a difference in the life of a child! Contact
[email protected] / 706-253-CLUB (2582).
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - PICKENS
COUNTY seeking volunteers. Many skill needs.
Current priorities are volunteer relations,
jobsite management. Contact Monique Vinelli:
706-253-4610 / [email protected] / www.
pickenshfh.org.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Good
Samaritan Health and Wellness Center.
Medical experience not required. Please call
our volunteer office, 706-253-4673, or email
[email protected].
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Do you have 4
hours to give to help others? Contact Judith
Persing, 706-268-3940, regarding volunteering
at Pickens Community Thrift Store.
Banner Advertising on Smoke Signals Online
www.bigcanoenews.com
n Online banner ads will be set up to link directly to your choice of
Website, Facebook page, or a Business Directory subscription listing on
www.bigcanoenews.com.
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FOR SALE
28 C
S M O K E
SS I MG ON KA EL S S I| G SN PA O
L SR T| SL I&V I ON UG T D O O R S
SEPTEMBER 2016
THE NUMBERS ADD UP TO
CHARLES VECCHIO!
100,000
$50,000,000
1st or 2nd
30 years
The number of appraisals Charles Vecchio completed as a
certified residential/review appraiser over his 22 years in the
business. Who better to accurately price your property?
Total value of real estate sold and closed over the past eight years
inside the gates of Big Canoe. Charles Vecchio is devoted to selling
his own listings with an average annual 80% closure rate.
Charles Vecchio, as an associate broker for Big Canoe Realty over
the past eight years, has placed either first or second as Big Canoe’s
“top producing” resale agent.
Amount of full time experience Charlie has in the real estate
business including the last eight years at Big Canoe Realty. He knows
the local market and he knows his business.
Buying or Selling - Charlie is the logical choice for Big Canoe real estate.
September’s Featured Properties
NEW LISTING/PRIVATE/AUDUBON/
BACKS TO RUSHING STREAM/GAR/3
NEW WATERFRONT LISTING/TOTAL
REMODEL/MOUNT & LAKE VIEWS
NEW LISTING/ MINT CONDITION,
BEST PRICED HOME IN WILDCAT
NEW LISTING/INCREDIBLE VIEWS, LIKE
NEW/RUSTIC ELEGANCE/HIGH END FINISH
191 Sconti Knoll Dr, 4 BR/4.5BA
$599,900
56 Thrush Turn, 4 BR/3 BA
$564,900
75 Bear Creek Drive, 3+BR’s/4BA
$467,500
1141 Falcon Heights
5BR/4 Full/3 Half BA, $1,399,900
JUST REDUCED/UPDATED
PANORAMIC NE MTN. VIEWS
JUST REDUCED
EXECUTIVE HOME/BLACKWELL CREEK
JUST REDUCED/CLOSE TO N. GATE,
LONG RANGE MTN VIEWS
JUST REDUCED /LONG RANGE VIEWS,
TOTALLY RENOVATED, LIKE NEW
ACT
NTR
CO
DER
UN
56 N. Sanderlin Mtn Dr., 4 BR/3.5 BA
$450,000
534 Redbud Pass, 5 BR/5.5 BA
$529,000
97 Sunuwa Way, 4 BR/3.5 BA,
$479,900
121 Sunuwa Way, 4 BR/3.5 BA
Gar/2 • $383,900
2 B/R’S ON MAIN/OPEN FLOORPLAN,
LONG RANGE NE VIEWS
NEW LISTING/MOUNTAIN VIEWS,
2 BR’S ON MAIN, BUILT IN 2014
JUST REDUCED - NEW KITCHEN &
BATHS - LONG RANGE VIEWS
JUST REDUCED/LONG RANGE VIEWS,
2 B/R’S ON MAIN/3 CAR GARAGE
T
RAC
ONT
RC
NDE
U
1261 Deer Run Ridge, 4 BR/4 BA
$498,000
94 Cox Mountain Pt, 5BR/4 .5 BA
$579,000
1296 Deer Run Ridge, 3 BR/3.5 BA
$389,900
132 S. Sanderlin Mtn Dr, 5 BR/3.5 BA
$550,000
NEW LISTING/2 BR’S ON MAIN,
PRIVATE SETTING/WATER FEATURE
NEW LISTING/ RENTAL INCOME POT/
GOLF/MTN VIEWS/ NEWLY PAINTED
JUST REDUCED/LONG RANGE VIEWS
OPEN FLOORPLAN/HIGH CEILINGS
NEW LISTING
UPDATED RUSTIC LOG CABIN
176 Willow Drive, 4 BR/4 BA
$539,900
30 Chestnut Knoll Point
4 BR/3.5 BA, $264,500
1329 McElroy Mtn, 5 BR/3.5 BA
$479,900
105 Soaring Hawk Cir, 3 BR/2 BA
$249,900
JUST REDUCED/RUSTIC CABIN
PANORAMIC LONG RANGE VIEWS
NEW LISTING/RUSHING STREAM,
WIDE PLANK FLOORS/PRIVATE SETTING
NEW LISTING/OPEN FLOORPLAN
PANORAMIC LONG RANGE VIEWS
CHARMING COTTAGE
NEWLY RENOVATED/CLOSE TO TRAILS
1171 Deer Run Ridge, 3 BR/3 BA
$234,900
404 Quail Cove Drive, 3 BR-3 BA
$259,900
1010 Deer Run Ridge, 2BR/2BA
$299,900
135 Woodland Trace, 3 BR/2.5 BA
$250,000
NEW LISTING - OPEN
FLOORPLAN/TRANQUIL SETTING
MOUNTAIN VIEW
CHOCTAW VILLAGE
NEW LISTING/SEASONAL VIEWS
CHARMING COTTAGE/OPEN FLOORPLAN
LAKE &MOUNTAIN VIEWS,
BACKS TO NATURE TRAIL/LAKE
ACT
NTR
CO
DER
UN
458 Wake Robin Drive, 4 BR/2.5 BA
$339,000
21 Choctaw Ridge Circle
4 BR/3.5 BA, $389,900
76 Mountain Mint, 2BR+Loft/2BA
$219,900
303 Laurel Ridge Trail, 4 BR/3.5 BA
$299,900
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/