News - Smoke Signals

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Smoke Signals
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
1A
FEBRUARY 2016 | News and views from Big Canoe and around North Georgia | VOL XXVIII NO. 2
POA seeks to purchase
developer’s Big Canoe holdings
51 parcels,
730 acres in
land sale
BY BARBARA SCHNEIDER
[email protected]
T
he Big Canoe POA board, at
its regular Jan. 20 meeting,
announced its intention to
purchase Big Canoe Company’s
remaining holdings inside the 6,600-acre
Big Canoe community located on the
west side of Steve Tate Highway. The
proposed purchase does not include
the 1,400-acre property known as Potts
Mountain, located on the east side of
Steve Tate Highway.
The purchase agreement includes 51
parcels of land comprising approximately
730 acres inside the Big Canoe
community for a purchase price of $9.4
million. While many of the parcels are
small and scattered across Big Canoe,
several are significant for their size
and/or development designation as
commercial or high density.
These parcels include:
1. The Village Core, including the Big
Canoe Realty Building, the Chimneys, and
the former home of the Wild Onion Grille
≈ 8.1 acres
2. Sconti Point, the land to the right of
Lake Sconti looking from the clubhouse
designated “high density” ≈ 8.2 acres
3. Land on the north and east side of
Wilderness Parkway and east of Wolf
Scratch Drive starting at the Main Gate
and extending to the Clubhouse entrance,
much of which is designated “high
density,” ≈ 119 acres
4. Land near the North Gate
designated “commercial” ≈ 13.48 acres
5. Mountainous land in the High Gap
Area ≈ 350 acres
6. Land on the Northwest Corner
of the Steve Tate Hwy. roundabout
designated commercial” ≈ 14.4 acres
n POA | Page 2
Sconti Point
The 8.2 acre Sconti Point parcel currently designated ‘high
density’ is one of 51 land parcels comprising 730 acres involved in
the proposed POA land purchase from the developer. Occupying
a key location in the Clubhouse view over Lake Sconti, Sconti
Point is considered by many residents as one of the more
important parcels involved. PHOTO BY ROBERT SMITH
Lake Sconti
Clubhouse
Turn to page 2 for an overview
map with all six of the major
parcels identified and highlighted.
First snow storm of season hits Big Canoe
BY LAURA LINK | [email protected]
A
nother winter storm warning or two or three
Jan. 20-23 and Big Canoe residents and guests
were right there with their neighbors in the IGA
swooping up bread, eggs, milk and of course wine,
cheese and nibbles for a snow, ice, high wind and possible
flood event.
Knowing the east coast of the country was the main bitter
storm target, not much was expected in Big Canoe and not
much was received. As one of the Big Canoe employees put
it, “We were blessed this year.”
Joe Raley, who keeps up with the weather high up on
Falcon Heights and has seen it all for 18 years, “guestimates”
probably two to three inches of snow fell this time. “It was
wet and froze quickly,” he said. The Christmas Day snow
several years ago he believes is the worst and prettiest he
can remember. He said he and Joyce spent Christmas Eve in
Birmingham and returned Christmas Day only to find they
n SNOW | Page 6
Ken Rice
‘Lord, please don’t
let us mess this up’
Long-time Big Canoe resident and
Waterford developer Ken Rice has
a unique and long-time appreciation
of the natural beauty that makes
Big Canoe so rare and inherently
valuable. And, he knows what Tom
Cousins, the original developed, intended. See Ken’s story on page 19.
News
POA News.............................................. 1, 2
An Open Letter to Big Canoe
Property Owners.........................................3
Big Canoe Climate......................................7
Ten Years Ago..............................................7
Med Center.................................................8
Wellness Collaborative................................8
Part 5: Stone Structures....................... 16, 17
Books................................................. 24, 25
In Memoriam............................................22
Letter To The Editor....................................23
Big Canoe Law School...............................26
Opinion.....................................................27
Patches of black ice hidden by a fine layer of snow kept most drivers off the roads. PHOTO BY RANDY LEWIS
Arts & Entertainment
Living
Sports & Outdoors
Dancers blend ballet, Cancan,
tango in ‘Moulin Rouge’ • 10B
Big Canoe Photo Club
shares ‘Best of 2015’ • 13C
The mystery of
Mt. Oglethorpe • 19C
2 A
S M O K E
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FEBRUARY 2016
Big Canoe POA purchase overview
The Board of Directors of the Big Canoe Property Owners Association
announced January 20 that it had entered into a ‘purchase-sale agreement’
with the Big Canoe Company to purchase all of the company’s undeveloped
property in what is known as ‘Mother Canoe’ or ‘Big Canoe West’
(west of Steve Tate Highway and north of Cove Road).
This purchase includes 51 parcels of land comprising approximately 730 acres.
Six of these parcels are of significant size and highlighted below.
Smoke Signals
News & Views From Big Canoe
A publication for Big Canoe and
surrounding communities.
PUBLISHED BY
Smoke Signals Community Services, Inc.
Board Of Directors
Carl Deane, Jim Braley,
Brad Herren, George Thurman,
David Howe, Barbara Schneider
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carl Deane
[email protected]
706-579-1462
•
MANAGING EDITOR
Barbara Schneider
[email protected]
404-626-5385
•
NEWS SECTION
Megan Jacques
[email protected]
770-286-7369
•
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SECTION
Melissa Lowrie
[email protected]
678-910-1338
•
LIVING SECTION
Anita Rosen
[email protected]
706-429-7775
•
SPORTS & OUTDOORS SECTION
Melissa Lowrie
[email protected]
678-910-1338
Anita Rosen
[email protected]
706-429-7775
Village Core
1 • The Village Core, 8.1 acres - includes
the Big Canoe Realty Building, the
Chimneys, and the former home of the
Wild Onion Grille Restaurant.
Sconti
Point
Lake Sconti
CLUBHOUSE
2 • Sconti Point, 8.2 acres – the land
to the right of Lake Sconti as one looks
from the Clubhouse is designated ‘as high
density.’
CLUBHOUSE
POA
•••
BOOKS EDITOR
Ken Reynolds
[email protected]
770-894-2664
REPORTING STAFF
Scott Armentrout, Ray Bowyer, Laura Link,
Megan Jacques, Bennett Whipple
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jim Francis, Paul Powers, Steve Papke,
Robert Smith, Jim Tanner
MAIN GATE
3 • Main Gate to Clubhouse, 119 acres
- Land on the north and east side of
Wilderness Parkway and east of Wolf
Scratch Drive starting at the Main Gate
and extending to the Clubhouse entrance
much of which is designated ‘high density.’
CONTRIBUTING CARTOONIST
Bob Glover
•••
WILDCAT
POOL &
PAVILION
STEVE TATE
SALES REPRESENTATIVES
Sarah Mansfield
[email protected]
770-402-3839
•
Steve Melching
[email protected]
678-360-3712
•
PRINT & ONLINE
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
[email protected]
HWY
PRINT & ONLINE ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Judy Harvey
[email protected]
678-925-8511
NORTH
GATE
4 • North Gate, 13.48 acres - Land near
the North Gate between Wildcat Parkway
and Steve Tate Highway, designated
‘commercial.’
•••
CIRCULATION
Mike Zblewski
[email protected]
770-893-1594
HIGH GAP
SUBSCRIPTIONS
[email protected]
FIND US ON
FACEBOOK
5 • High Gap, 350 acres - Mountainous
land in the High Gap Area occupying the
northwest corner of Big Canoe.
Smoke Signals
TATE
HW
CO
VE
RO
AD
STEVE
© Copyright 2009 Smoke Signals All editorial and
advertising material is the property of Smoke Signals and
may not be used in any other publication or media without
the express written consent of Smoke Signals.
Advertiser is solely responsible for the content of all
advertising published at their request or their agent and
shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the publisher
from any claim or lawsuit arising out of any advertisement.
The opinions expressed by our op-ed writers are
not necessarily endorsed by Smoke Signals Community
Services, Inc.
Y
Mailing Address:
11293 Big Canoe, Big Canoe, GA 30143
Office: Brownstone Centre, Marble Hill, GA 30148
Office Phone: 770-893-1594
Email: [email protected]
Printed and mailed by the
Jasper, GA 30143
Acquisition
Study Map
JANUARY, 2016
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Diane Smith
[email protected]
706-579-1233
COLUMNISTS
Kat Alikhan, Bob Anderson,
Wayne Crawford, Debbie Dickson,
Doris Dressler, Donna Dulfer, George Fox,
Dr. Ray Habermann, Cynthia Hendry,
Fran Holman, Judy Kaufman, Ann Pike,
Ken Reynolds, Jim Rice, Don Wells
Big Canoe Property
Owners Association
ROUNDABOUT
6 • Roundabout, 14.4 acres - Land on
the Northwest Corner of the Roundabout
at Cove Road and Steve Tate Highway,
designated ‘commercial.’
are encouraging our property owners to
attend a Town Hall meeting where they
will have the opportunity to have their
questions answered.”
n Continued from page 1
A third town hall meeting is set for
10 a.m., Saturday, Jan 30, at Big Canoe
Due diligence process
Chapel; two earlier meeting were held
On behalf of the property owners,
on Jan. 28. Property owners should send
on Jan. 12, the POA directors signed
their questions to a new POA email
a Purchase-Sale Agreement with Big
address: [email protected].
Canoe Company for the $9.4 million
Financing arrangements
purchase. The agreement is dependent
During months of negotiations--and
upon an affirmative vote by a majority
prior to making an offer on the property-of property owners and completion of
the POA board hired the Norton Agency,
the due diligence process. The Purchase
a large reputable commercial real estate
–Sale agreement calls for a 60 day “due
firm in North Georgia, to determine
diligence” period. During that time, the
market values of the parcels involved.
POA must:
The board, said it intends to use cash
• Obtain financing – The Finance
on hand for the down
Committee and board are
payment and purchase
evaluating proposals from
“The agreement is expenses. The remainder
four banks
• Obtain clear title – A
dependent upon will be financed by a bank
loan.
title company is in that
an affirmative
According to a board
process now
vote by a majority statement: Currently
• Inspect buildings and
the property owners
make an environmental
of property
are paying a special
study on all the parcels
owners and
assessment of $25 for lots
being purchased. - A
with a dwelling and $16.20
professional engineering
completion of
for lots with no dwelling.
firm engaged by the
the due diligence In January of 2017, this
POA is performing these
special assessment
studies now
process. The
expires. At that time
• Clear any
Purchase –Sale
the regular assessments
outstanding issues. –
will be increased by $25
Questions from property
agreement calls
and $16.20 to service this
owners have triggered
for a 60 day ‘due land purchase loan. The
several areas the board
needs to investigate and
diligence’ period.” purchase of this land will
not increase the total
possibly negotiate
amount of assessments
• Obtain agreement
that property owners pay
from property owners via
each month. As the POA does every year,
a vote to be completed in February.
cash flow requirements for the coming
During this 60-day period, the POA
year will be analyzed and assessments
can cancel the agreement without
will be adjusted accordingly.
penalty. The PSA calls for the possibility
of two 30-day extensions of the due
diligence period if necessary.
Smalley said the POA board considers
this purchase to be of such scope
and impact that the property owners
should have a say. If a majority of the
property owners vote “No” there will
be no purchase. The board strongly
recommends that the property owners
vote “Yes” to this initiative to ensure
the future of Big Canoe. Ballots asking
property owners to agree to the land
purchase will be mailed on Feb. 5 to
property owners.
Winter weather interruption
Winter weather interrupted the POA
board’s plan for a town hall meeting three
days after the announcement to swiftly
provide property owners with more
BY MEGAN JACQUES
detailed information and an opportunity
[email protected]
to ask questions.
While most of Big Canoe stayed
For Dawson and Pickens
housebound after a Friday through
counties,
advance voting for
Saturday winter storm, POA board
Presidential
Preference Primary
members received their first round of
and
Special
Election
begins on Feb.
feedback via phone calls and emails.
8.
“Since the announcement last
Advance voting will run through
Wednesday, the majority of the
Friday,
Feb. 26. Both counties will
comments and emails we are getting
have
a
Saturday
voting on Feb. 20.
are positive and very supportive of the
The regular primary election
board,” said Smalley in an email to Smoke
will be on March 1. You must be
Signals. “They understand that this is
registered by Feb. 1 to vote. Voter
a one-time opportunity, necessary to
registration and change of address
protect the Character of Big Canoe.
forms can be found in the Big
“It’s understandable that everyone
Canoe postal facility.
is looking for more information and we
Advance voting
begins Feb. 8
for Dawson
and Pickens
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
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N E W S
Second Front
New beginnings--Rhonda Stock took this sunrise shot on Jan. 12 from her deck on Strawberry Way, looking down on Lake Petit with Potts Mountain in
the distance. PHOTO BY RHONDA STOCK
An Open Letter to
Big Canoe Property Owners
FROM SANDI SMALLEY | President of the POA
I
n eight years of serving Big Canoe on various committees and boards, I always felt it was very important to communicate as personally as
possible with our property owners, especially on issues that may affect them. That is why I am writing this “open letter” to everyone in our
community.
When the Big Canoe Corporation put its holdings in Big Canoe—including the undeveloped Potts mountain acreage—up for sale to
a new developer or investment group, the POA board took time to step back and consider the ramifications of how this sale could affect the
property owners personally and Big Canoe overall.
We concluded there was a very high probability that this sale could have a negative effect on our community.
We realized it would be unlikely for a new developer with no previous connection to Big Canoe to come in here with the same commitment
to maintaining the “Character of Big Canoe” as Bill Byrne and Greenwood Partners.
The Board felt that it was imperative to try and protect the beauty that attracted all of us to Big Canoe but we knew there are significant
parcels of property in “Mother Canoe” that are now designated for “high density” development.
These “high density” parcels are located in some of our most visible areas: Sconti Point in front of the Clubhouse, 119 acres on Wilderness
Parkway from the Main Gate all of the way to the Clubhouse. The parcels zoned “commercial” are adjacent to the Main Gate entrance, 13.48
acres opposite the Wildcat Pool area and the Village core.
Do you remember your first drive into Big Canoe as you came in the Main Gate and drove along a winding road through the woods, passed
through the covered bridge to see hillsides covered with mature trees then caught a glimpse of the golf course and a lake?
Did you feel like you were driving into a tranquil wooded preserve? Were you awed by sprawling natural beauty you had never seen before?
My husband’s and my reaction was a collective “Wow”!
Now imagine what your reaction would be if you passed townhouses or condos along that route. Would you have had the same immediate
attraction? I doubt it. I know I wouldn’t. Because of the way our covenants are written a new development company would be able to develop
these parcels any way it wants.
Given the circumstances, what could we, your POA board, do to protect Big Canoe?
In late August, the board initiated conversations with Big Canoe Corporation about the possibility of acquiring these vulnerable pieces of
property in “Mother Canoe”. Over the past four months these talks transitioned from conversations to actual negotiations for acquisition of all
the property owned by Big Canoe Corporation in “Mother Canoe” (west of Steve Tate Highway and north of Cove Road).
What’s included? All of the high density or commercially zoned parcels, 350+ acres in High Gap and various lots and parcels scattered
throughout Mother Canoe for a total of 51 parcels comprising 730 acres. There are roughly 105 developed lots that are currently being sold by
Big Canoe Realty that are excluded.
What’s the cost? After very long and intense negotiations, we agreed to a purchase price of $9,400,000.
How did we come up with that price? We hired Norton Agency, one of the largest commercial real estate firms in North Georgia, to give us
an outside valuation on the parcels in question. The value, based on fair market price for this area, has been well substantiated.
How would we pay for this? In January of 2017 the $25 per home or $16.20 per lot special assessment will end. At that time the regular
assessments will increase for homeowners by $25 and for lot owners $16.20 to cover the service on the bank loan.
What happens now? Your Board felt that something of this size and impact should not just be a board decision, but also a property owner
decision. That is why you will be asked to vote on this acquisition.
The vote comes down to two choices:
1) “Yes” you want to protect the Character of Big Canoe by taking ownership of the Big Canoe Company’s property in “Mother Canoe,”
removing the risk that a new developer could “mess it up.”
2) “No” you do not feel that it is important to protect Big Canoe from a new Developer at this time.
I know my choice and that is a strong “Yes”! Your entire Board feels deeply that purchasing this property and protecting this amazing and
enchanting place is absolutely the best thing that we can do for now and for the future.
I know that you are going to have questions regarding this purchase. We are scheduling three Town Hall meetings: two on Thursday, Jan. 28
at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the chapel and one Saturday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. in the chapel. We urge you to attend the meeting that is most convenient
to your schedule. These meetings are intended to give you more information and a chance to ask questions.
There will also be community coffees, articles in Inside the Gates and Smoke Signals and eblasts over the next month leading up to the
property owner vote. All of the times and places will be published in Smoke Signals, Inside the Gates and on our Web Site.
There will be Informational Stations set up at the Fitness Center and Clubhouse manned by Board Members. There will be a link off of the
Bigcanoepoa.org web site containing all of the information we are distributing including FAQ’s, contact information, etc. Also if you would like
to submit a question to the Board you can do that at our email address: [email protected].
Most importantly, if you have ANY questions or concerns, call a member of the board. Call me. My number is 706-579-1656. Every
member of your current Board ran on a platform of transparency and open communication with the property owners. It wasn’t just a campaign
statement. All of us are committed to answering questions.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The choice is yours. The future of Big Canoe is in your hands!
This initiative has the full support of the current elected Board:
Phil Anderson • Jim Farinholt • Tony Galioto • Carolyn Littell • Steve Wilson
3A
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S M O K E
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FEBRUARY 2016
“We intend to include a wide range of reviews, articles, essays and
stories about books, authors, writing, publishing, grammar, words and
word play, libraries —public, private and personal— reading, eBooks ...”
The Books Feature
This edition of Smoke Signals includes the fourth
installment of Smoke Signals’ new Books Feature.
Inside you will find articles about books, reading,
libraries and related subjects.
We intend to include a wide range of reviews,
articles, essays and stories about books, authors,
writing, publishing, grammar, words and word play,
libraries —public, private and personal— reading,
eBooks and/or eReaders (both the device and the
person.)
We also plan to present visual interpretations
of “books, reading and libraries.” Those words
are open to interpretation because we know our
readers include many creative people. We accept
Ken Reynolds
photographs, drawings, paintings or other original
illustrations with or without the artist’s commentary.
Long time Smoke Signals columnist and book
reviewer, Ken Reynolds, has agreed to edit our new
feature. Ken says, “I accepted this challenge because
we are a community of readers and readers are
always looking for new material. Comments and
recommendations from peers are always welcome.”
He added that he wants to do all he can to promote
reading on a wide range of subjects.”
If you have questions about, or would like to
submit something for our new feature, email books@
bigcanoenews.com.
Pickens County almost debt free
BY RAY BOWYER
Pickens County is almost debt free, based on the
report by County Commission Chairperson Rob Jones to
the January Squires and Stags meeting.
Jones was introduced by Squires and Stags member
Tarby Bryant, who reported that Jones had been elected
sole commissioner of the county in 2005, and elected
chairperson of the three-person county commission
when it was established in 2013. Bryant also introduced
three first-time members of Squires and Stags.
Jones said the following debts have been paid off
recently: the debt incurred to pay for the new county
jail, the debt incurred to construct the state police
station, and the debt incurred to pay for the new county
administration building. There is still money owed
on the new recreation center, some capital leases for
vehicles and other equipment, and several “enterprise”
bonds paid for out of the revenue of the facility involved.
He mentioned that the operational cost of the recreation
center is completely covered by income at the center.
Jones said the county is gradually recovering from
the recession. There were 371 building permits issued in
2015, and 28 new water meters were installed.
Jones reported that Pickens County is one of 18
counties in the state designated “tier one.” He said the
tier one counties have the highest median household
income. This designation means there are very few
grants of state funds available to the county. He said the
county’s median household income is $50,616.
Jones reviewed some of the accomplishments
that have taken place during his term in office. The
court house had deteriorated, and county offices were
scattered in a variety of rented facilities. There was no
P R E
S E N T
Speaker Rob Jones talks with Squires & Stags’ member
David Howe after the meeting. PHOTO BY BENNETT WHIPPLE
paid fire department. Now the court house has been
refurbished, county offices have been consolidated in the
former hospital building, and we have a growing paid fire
department.
Among the goals Jones has for 2016 is a new fire
house in the southwest corner of the county. The
county has two areas that are designated ISO-10,
meaning the insurance rating organization considers
they have no fire protection at all. He also has the
objective of increasing the paid fire staff and extending
water mains to parts of the county that currently
don’t have access to county water. He believes the
size of the county staff has grown to the point that an
additional part-time human resources staff person is
needed. Another goal is to upgrade the county’s 911
system, which serves the cities in the county as well as
the unincorporated part of the county. As part of the
S
Dream it.
Do it.
Life is a journey, find your Spirit.
JOIN US AT THE CLUBHOUSE
FOR AN HOUR OF SPIRIT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 • 5:00 - 6:30 PM
Experience a fast paced multi-media presentation
about acting on a dream, building a yacht,
cruising the Mediterranean and participating in a
major yacht race across the Atlantic.
Become part of Spirit’s crew joining Big Canoe’s Dick Hammill (owner)
and David Howe (crew member) as they share their journey and
experiences in an inspirational hour of photos, videos and reflections.
It just might get you to think about your dreams.
You might call this a ‘Spirited’ happy hour with cash bar.
Those attending are eligible to win a wine and cheese gift basket.
After this event consider sailing into the Black Bear Pub for dinner.
upgrade, he wants to increase the size of the dispatch
center from four positions to six.
Jones expressed appreciation to the voters for
approving the county SPLOST (Special Purpose Local
Option Sales Tax). The county has 400 miles of countydesignated paved roads. The SPLOST, along with some
state funding, allowed repaving 30 miles last year, and
he expects to repave even more this year. He expressed
disappointment that state environmental rules make
it almost impossible to pave dirt roads, of which the
county has 110 miles.
Jones expressed satisfaction in the presence of
industry in the county. Many industrial buildings had
been disused, but recently almost all the industrial
buildings in the county have been put to use. He also
mentioned that the railroad had recently changed hands,
and the new owners of the railroad are showing a
willingness to invest in the railroad to keep it viable.
The men’s breakfast group meets in the Mountains
Grille at the Clubhouse at Lake Sconti. New members
and guests are welcome to attend the meeting. Coffee is
ready at 7:45 a.m. followed by a buffet breakfast served
at 8:00 a.m. The price of breakfast is $13 payable on your
POA account or by cash at the door.
Reservations are required and must be received by
Noon on Thursday before the Friday morning meeting.
For reservation links, watch for the POA “Happenings
& Events” e-blast and the Smoke Signals e-blast, both
issued weekly.
Use of the online reservation system is encouraged,
but if not available call Tim Moran at (706) 268-3375 to
make reservations.
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
5A
m
Listing
and
Selling
the Best
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Canoe
... has earned its reputation for
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m
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6BR, 5BA ~ $829,000
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448 BUCKSKULL
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5BR, 4.5 BA
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w/Beautiful View
179 SUMMIT DRIVE
4 BR, 3.5 BA
$649,000
FMLS #5511311
Soft Contemporary
w/View
56 HUCKLEBERRY
TRAIL
3BR, 3.5BA ~ $450,000
FMLS #5527919
Golf Course
and Mountain Views
720 WEDGEWOOD
DRIVE
5BR, 4.5BA ~ $589,000
FMLS #5518844
Location, Style, Value
54 INDIGO
BUNTING TRAIL
3 BR, 3 BA ~ $419,900
FMLS #5547330
Like New with One
of Big Canoe’s
Finest Interior Views
930 RIDGEVIEW DRIVE
4BR, 3.5 BA
$549,900
FMLS #5355642
D
SOL
Beautifully maintained
with great Northern View
808 WILD
TURKEY BLUFF
3BR, 2.5 BA
$415,000
FMLS #5290782
NEW PRICE
DBL Lot, Big Views
& Mostly Furnished
511 HICKORY TRAIL
4BR, 3.5 BA ~ $399,000
FMLS #5530783
Sq Footage/Big View
1976 RIDGEVIEW
DRIVE 4BR, 3.5 BA ~
$399,000
FMLS #5161797
Beautifully updated/
Lovely Setting
211 FALLEN DEER
PATH
4BR, 3.5 BA
$319,000
FMLS #5395483
Golf Course & Mtn View
183 CHESTNUT
KNOLL
4 BR, 3.5BA
$299,000
FMLS #5289187
180 degree view
and waterfall!
820 WAKE ROBIN
DRIVE ~ 3BR, 3BA
NEW PRICE
$285,000
FMLS #5220435
Ultimate
Mountain Retreat
210 DOGWOOD LANE
3BR, 3BA
$259,000
FMLS #5313655
D
SOL
Hearthstone Log Home
w/ 2 car garage
R
122 WILLOW
DRIVE
DE A
CT
N
R
U T
3BR,
2.5BA
N
$249,000
CO
FMLS #5315280
Pristine Mtn
Cottage w/View
1150 QUAIL
COVE DR.
3BR, 2BA
$239,000
Charming,
Immaculate w/Stream
62 CARDINAL COVE
3BR, 3 BA
$200,000
FMLS #5527336
Historic
District Cottage
289 NEW TOWN ST.,
TATE
3 BR 2BA
$194,000
D
SOL
Rustic Charmer
121 BUCKSKULL
HOLLOW
3BR 2.5 BA
$189,000
FMLS #5250647
Pristine Condition
With View
1770 VALLEY VIEW
3 BR, 2BA
$189,000
FMLS #5241997
Great Family
Neighborhood off 400
R
19 Highland
DE ACT
N
Pointe
Circle
U TR West
N
3BR,
CO 2.5 BA
$179,900
FMLS #5584420
Updated Cabin
w/Private Setting
196 CRAZY
BEAR RIDGE
2BR, 2BA ~ $174,500
FMLS #5191005
D
SE
A
E
L
Fully Furnished/
Great Cabin/Great Value
602 BELLFLOWER
DRIVE
3BR, 2BA
$159,900
FMLS #5522160
D
SOL
Beautiful Lake
& Mtn Views
31 TREETOPPER
CIRCLE
2BR, 1BA ~ $139,900
FMLS #5143794
D
SOL
Fabulous Lake Petit
and Atlanta
Skyline View
PREMIUM HOMESITE
413 FALCON HEIGHTS
for only $125,000
Best Deal in Big Canoe
414 SCONTI RIDGE
3BR, 2BA Condo
$115,000
FMLS #5011008
Call about our Beautiful Homesites starting at only $12,500
LEADING EDGE AND PRESIDENT’S
CIRCLE AWARD RECIPIENT
MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR CLUB
LIFETIME MILLION DOLLAR CLUB
#1 LISTING AGENT IN BIG CANOE
Cell: (770) 856-9725
Big Canoe: (706) 579-2675
Berkshire Hathaway Home
Services Georgia Properties
Jack Camprini
(678) 513-2023
BIG CANOE RESIDENT
925 Sanders Road, Cumming, GA 30041
2014 400 North
Board of Realtors
Accredited Buyer’s Representative and Circle of Excellence
Certified Fine Home Specialist
Please visit my
NO REGISTRATION
WEBSITE for ALL Big Canoe
listings & community info.
www.CampriniandCompany.com
WHY LIST WITH BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY
HOME SERVICES GEORGIA REALTY?
✔ #1 Broker on Google
✔ #1 in Transactions, Listing Sales, & Agent Productivity for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014!
✔ Our Listings placed on MORE WEBSITES than ANY OTHER COMPANY
EXPOSURE IS EVERYTHING! Make the “RIGHT CHOICE!”
✔ Free Home Warranty for our Listings
Information provided is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.
6 A
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n Continued from page 1
could not drive all the way home but ended
up abandoning their car and trudging up the
mountain.
This year, unlike last year’s snow event,
people seemed to get home and stay
before the sleet and snow. Public Safety
transported fewer people this year and
most of those were renters Friday night
coming in to their rental place for the
weekend. One group of 10 pretty women
under 30, as public safety describes them,
had to be transported to a house they had
rented for a party event.
Friday evening, Jan. 22, with below
freezing temperatures, a heart-stopping
moment occurred when a three-year-old
was reported missing on Bear Creek Drive.
She had last been seen in the kitchen
and had disappeared. The canine unit of
Dawson County happened to be close
by and joined other public safety and
emergency personnel in looking for the
little girl in red. Not long after the 911 call
was made, she was found.
Early preparations by the road
maintenance employees and Public Safety
personnel was a key part in making the
event as effortless for property owners as
a snow and sleet occasion can be. Many of
the employees spent Friday night in villas
on property to be available when needed.
With temperatures below freezing this cardinal is reconsidering winters in Florida. Thanks to Jim Tanner, he’s found comfortable
accommodations in Big Canoe. PHOTO BY JIM TANNER
A creek-level view of the Covered Bridge with the hillsides dusted by snow. PHOTO BY RANDY LEWIS
The snow-covered branches, looking like fine lace, dress up
the hillsides on a dreary winter day. PHOTO BY PUBLIC SAFETY
The Best of Both Worlds
Message from
the general manager
NAPLES and BIG CANOE
combine for a rich and varied lifestyle!
NAPLES • Join your many
neighbors who are enjoying
the warm tropical ambiance,
sweeping white sand beaches,
swaying palms, the array of art
and culture and the gentle pace
that Naples, the “Paradise Coast”
has to offer. The perfect,
warm complement to Big Canoe.
This winter weather event has provided challenges for all Big Canoe
POA departments, and your staff has risen to the challenge!
Public Works and Landscaping personnel provided road clearing
and aggregate spreading on the roads throughout the community; Gate
Attendants remained in Big Canoe between shifts to ensure complete
coverage was maintained and our Fire and EMS personnel took on extra
shifts to ensure ample personnel were on hand to respond to additional
emergency calls. Please join me in applauding all of our staff members
for their professionalism and dedication!
Almost all Big Canoe residents heeded the travel warnings; only a
handful ended up sliding off of the roads. You may see some of these
cars on Sunday; they have colorful ribbons tied on them, indicating
our EMS personnel have attended to them. The colorful ribbon is the
visual cue to other EMS personnel, letting them know they don’t have
to check on the vehicle again.
The Big Canoe POA sends out regular E-blast updates during winter
weather events. If you did not receive these e-blasts, please contact
Tim Moran, the POA’s Communications Administrator to be added to
the e-blast list. [email protected]
John Thompson
General Manager
BIG CANOE • The
South’s Premier Mountain
Community…Let Vennie Owen
and the Big Canoe Realty team
assist you in buying your perfect
mountain home among the
8,000 acres of rustic elegance,
pristine lakes, fishing, golf,
tennis, and much more…
Voted the #1
Antique Store
in Dawson County
ANTIQUES &
HOME DÉCOR
incredible gift items
signature soy candles
◆ unique furniture pieces
◆ seasonal items
◆
◆
Soul Sisters Antiques
and Home Décor
Vennie Owen
®
770-871-1631 • 58 Hwy 9 South
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Across from El Rio Restaurant
2nd Location Open with lots of treasures
33 Hwy 53, Dawsonville GA 30534
Right on circle
Bring Your Highest Expectations
TM
404-233-7653 cell • 239-659-6127 office
[email protected]
www.JohnRWood.com
404-233-7653 cell • 706-268-3333 office
[email protected]
www.bigcanoe.com
Tues-Sat 10am to 4pm, Sun 12 to 3:30pm
WE BUY, SELL AND TRADE
www.soulsistersantiques.com
Follow our Shops on Facebook
Like us on Facebook
Happy
Valentine’s
Day
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
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“But strangely enough, the December rainfall wasn’t a record.
The 26-year most-rain award goes to the month of August in 2013, when we had 17.1 inches.”
The record rains of December!
BY BENNETT WHIPPLE
You don’t need statistics to tell you
that Big Canoe had a wet December, but
the numbers are in and it was a frogstrangling 16.1 inches! In fact, it’s been a
wet fall with 10+ inches in October and 11+
inches in November.
But strangely enough, the December
rainfall wasn’t a record. The 26-year
most-rain award goes to the month of
August in 2013, when we had 17.1 inches.
Joe Raley at his computer on Wet
Mountain where he puts together the rain
and temperature reports each month for
Smoke Signals. PHOTO BY JOYCE RALEY
Ten years ago in
Smoke Signals
Andress to
review
clubhouse
planning
TEN YEARS AGO
FEBRUARY 2015
The year 2013 was also the wettest in 26
years with 112.5 inches compared with
2015’s 95.23 inches.
These numbers come to Smoke Signals
from Joe Raley perched appropriately on
top of Wet Mountain. A retired IBMer,
Raley’s been providing the paper with
rain and temperature stats now for
several years. He began by feeding all
the numbers from the paper into a digital
program he devised, thus providing useful
statistics for the 26-year period.
Maybe some better use examples, but
let’s take October and the Oktoberfest
event when it seems to rain every time
they throw up the tent and bring in the
Brats. Maybe we should do Oktoberfest
some other month? Well, that wouldn’t
work, of course. And while we do have a
rainy day every now and then, October
IS the driest month of all with a 26-year
average rainfall of only 4.62 inches. In
fact, in the year 2000 Big Canoe received
a miserly one-tenth of an inch in the
entire 31 days comprising the month of
October!
And, in second place, we have the
month of May with only 4.82 inches on
average. That makes it another good
month for outdoor activities, such as
Legacy of Caring, picnics, Maypoles and
boat-cruising around Lake Petit.
And one other stat mined from Raley’s
data: The minimum rainfall was in the
year 2007 with only 40.1 inches recorded.
That probably was the year Lake Petit
dropped below its normal pool level.
And for the wettest month?
March and December are tied for the
The spillway from Lake Petit rushes with the excess water from the December rains.
PHOTO BY BENNETT WHIPPLE
highest average rainfall at 6.50 inches
with January and July close behind tying
for second wettest month on average
with 6.46 inches.
To bring us these monthly rain
numbers, it takes a community, as they
say. Raley receives reports from three
weather stations in the golf course area
read by Mike Gondek, Golf Maintenance
staffer. Others are sent to Raley from Jim
Cain in the Equestrian Neighborhood, Bob
Mathews on Ridgeview, Bill McClatchey
on the east side of Wet Mountain and
Raley from the west side plus this writer
from the Disharoon area.
From this input, Raley grinds out
the rain and temperature reports you
read conveniently each month in your
community newspaper.
One final note, with all this rainfall,
we’ve been okay on our mountains with
only a few minor inconveniences caused
by leaves and tree limbs on the roadways.
We are mindful, though, of our neighbors
in the coves and creek-sides around us,
such as the nearby Talking Rock area,
where the floods caused real hardships.
Our thoughts are with them.
• At a Town Hall meeting, Building Committee Chairman Miller Andress to
review mission to design and construct new clubhouse.
• Mary & Keith Johnson and Cathy & Don Helms photographed at
Newcomers Orientation with Bob Crouch, new POA president.
• Medicare Part B “hasn’t gotten any simpler,” Dr. Bob Anderson tells Squires
& Stags at its monthly meeting.
• Sauna to be added at Fitness Center, Manager Steve Panetta reports in his
monthly column.
• Small notice posted on page 8C by Patti Waschak solicits interest in
forming a bocci ball league and goes on to explain the game.
• New property owners include Sandra & Ray Smalley, Sheri & John
Frech, Gail & Thomas Powers, Jay G. Rogers, Joan & Frank Wilson, Dale P.
McKinney, J. T. Steffey and Larry W. Peebles
— Edited by Bennett Whipple
(706) 698-6400 • EllijayWomensSpecialists.com
Ellijay Women’s Specialists is a gynecologic practice
dedicated to comprehensive healthcare to women of all
ages. For over twenty years, Dr. Michael Hulse has been
bringing personalized and compassionate care to patients
from child-bearing age to postmenopausal years. We strive
to provide gynecologic care to North Georgia in a patientcentered environment.
Dr. Michael Hulse
We specialize in the following services:
•
•
•
•
Menopausal care
Painful intercourse/sexual dysfunction
Hormone replacement therapy
Urge, urinary & fecal incontinence
•
•
•
•
Cancer prevention plans
Hereditary breast/ovarian cancer screenings
Single Site™ laparoscopic surgery/hysterectomy
Heavy periods
433 Highland Parkway, Suite 203 East Ellijay, GA 30540
8 A
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S I G N A L S
SMOKE SIGNALS
For the convenience of our readers, this month’s medical
advertisers are listed in a directory format.
For more information see their complete ads on the pages
indicated or get in touch with them
using the contact information below.
AUDIOLOGY
n Johns Creek Audiology & Hearing Aid Center
770-814-1260 • johnscreekaudiology.com
4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B, Johns Creek • Ad Page 9B
n North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center
770-726-8948 • northgeorgiahearing.com
203 Woodpark Place, Suite B-100, Woodstock • Ad Page 9B
|
N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
Wellness Collaborative
Volunteer Forum
set for Feb. 27
BY SHIRAZ ALIKHAN
Chair, Wellness Collaborative Steering Committee
The Wellness Collaborative will be hosting the first quarterly Volunteer Forum in
the Mountains Grille room at the Clubhouse from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 27.
The agenda will include an overview of the new BC Visits program (to provide
companion services to shut-ins or respite to caregivers), discussions of the experiences
of volunteers who have delivered services, an opportunity to provide feedback on the
newsletter and operational processes, perhaps some comments from a client or two,
and an open session for questions or ideas.
Anyone interested in volunteering for the Collaborative, should please send a
message to [email protected] or call 706-268-3334. Each respondent’contact information
will then be added to our distribution list for e-mail communications about upcoming
activities.
An e-mail announcement about the Volunteer Forum will be sent out by February
13. Any volunteers who can join us for that event should RSVP to that announcement.
DENTAL
n Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry • 706-265-2505
754 Highway 53 West, Dawsonville, GA 30534 • Ad Page 10B
n Eric S. Pryor, DMD • 706-253-3567
127 S. Main Street, Jasper, GA 30143 • Ad Page 9A
n Foothills Dental Associates • 770-893-2340 foothillsdentalassociates.com, 25 Foothills Parkway, Suite 101,
Marble Hill, GA 30148 • Ad Page 14A
HOSPITAL
n Piedmont Mountainside Hospital
706-692-2441 • piedmontmountainsidehospital.org
1266 Highway 515 South, Jasper, GA 30143 • Ad Page 4C
n Northside Hospital Cherokee, northside.com • Ad Page 14B
MEDICAL – SPECIALTY SERVICES
n Northside Cherokee Orthopedic & Sports Medicine
770-517-6636 • northsidecherokeeortho.com, 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 320, Woodstock, GA 30189 • Ad Page 21C
n Northeast Georgia Physicians Group
108 Prominence Court, Dawsonville, GA 30534 706-344-6952 • nghs.com/400 • Ad Page 13A
n North Georgia Vein Institute
678-513-1600 • NorthGeorgiaVein.com
4415 Front Nine Dr, Ste 600, Cumming, GA • Ad Page 6C
n Ellijay Women’s Specialists
(706) 698-6400 • EllijayWomensSpecialists.com
433 Highland Parkway,
Suite 203 East Ellijay, GA 30540 • Ad Page 7A
JAMES
H.
BROWN,
LLC
Attorney At Law
Wellness Collaborative volunteers, from left, Marti Conness, Barbara Schirmer, Olene
Rubenstein, Ben Underwood and Mike White compare notes before the training session.
Held at the Clubhouse, the meeting on January 15 was one of the ongoing training
sessions designed to prepare volunteers to support the Collaborative programs.
Shiraz Alikhan, Steering Committee chair, greets committee member Bob Keesecker
prior to the Wellness Collaborative volunteer training session. The next training session
is planned for Friday, February 19th, from 1:00 to 3:30 in the Mountains Grille room at
the Clubhouse. Anyone interested in volunteer opportunities with the Collaborative
should call 706-268-3334 or send a message to [email protected]. PHOTOS BY ROBERT SMITH
LAST WILL & TESTAMENT...
ADVANCE DIRECTIVE FOR HEALTH CARE...
FINANCIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY...
PROBATE OF ESTATES...
➤ Upon the death of a spouse, do not neglect having all
your REAL ESTATE TAXES FORGIVEN FOR AN
ENTIRE YEAR...
➤ Less than 1% of the population has an Advance
Directive for Health Care...
➤ Very few people even have a less than
adequate Living Will...
➤ Please do not end up at the mercy of existing
State law or hospital policy...
NEW YEAR...NEW RESOLUTIONS!!!
REALITY: MOST RESOLUTIONS IN
2016 WILL NOT BE KEPT...
REALITY: YOU CAN MAKE AND KEEP
THE BEST RESOLUTION EVER. HOW?
GETTING YOUR ESTATE DOCUMENTS
REVIEWED, RENEWED AND PERFECTED...
WILLS • ESTATES • HOUSE CALLS
11404 Big Canoe, Big Canoe, GA 30143
[email protected]
770.355.9714
706.268.1150
Shiraz Alikhan walks volunteers through a Power Point presentation designed to
provide an overview and background about the Wellness Collaborative. Volunteers then
had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions chaired by the program coordinators
for the BC Info, BC Meals, and BC Rides programs to obtain the information needed to
support the program services.
LAZY BEAR
FURNITURE
Gifts • Pictures
Rugs • Art • Mattresses
Lodge Style Furnishings
FOOTHILLS CENTER • 770-893-1500
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
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Boutwell receives Armstrong Award
BY BENNETT WHIPPLE
Richard Boutwell, a POA Public
Safety gate attendant, is the recipient of
the prestigious 2015 Armstrong Award
presented January 11 by Len Walker,
Senior Chaplain of Big Canoe Chapel.
The award recognizes each year a
public service employee for outstanding
service to the community. The Chapel’s
Armstrong Memorial Fund was funded
by the family of the late Jean and Bill
Armstrong in their memory and used to
honor a public safety employee each year.
Boutwell, a four-year employee, was
selected for his unique ability to handle
difficult situations during his 7:00 p.m. to
7:00 a.m. shift at the North Gate.
Ricky Jordon, POA Fire Chief, added
that Boutwell is very dependable and
CruiseOne in Jasper earns
awards and titles
BY MEGAN JACQUES | [email protected]
Mike Ziegenbalg and Associates of CruiseOne in Jasper received several
announcements and prestigious awards at the 2015 CruiseOne National Conference
in November 2015.
The conference was a week long sailing and learning experience aboard the new
“Norwegian Escape.”
Ziegenbalg and Associates was inducted in the CruiseOne Top Tier Elite Award
“Circle of Excellence” for the third year. They were announced the #1 CruiseOne
agency in Georgia, top 15 in nation
out of over 1,000 franchises and top
1% sales for CruiseOne nationwide.
Ziegenbalg and Associates was
also appointed to the CruiseOne
Advisory Council for a 3-year term.
As an Advisory Council
member, Ziegenbalg will provide
advice and guidance to CruiseOne
senior management on matters
relating to franchise owners in the
areas of improving operational
procedures, systems analysis,
marketing ventures and venues.
“The Big Canoe community
is near and dear to my heart, so
when I can provide something
to enrich the residents’ lives, like
the Big Canoe Travel Club, I do it
wholeheartedly,” said Ziegenbalg.
Mike Ziegenbalg accepting the “Circle of
“As a CruiseOne owner and
Excellence” award from our CruiseOne
specialist, I have the opportunity
Division VP (Debbie Fiorino).
to provide expert advice and
guidance. By working diligently
and earning these awards, I am able to share the results and, hopefully, enrich the
residents in the process.”
Awards
• CruiseOne Top Cruise Vendor Sales - “Viking Cruises”
• CruiseOne Top Cruise Category Sales - “#1 River Cruise Seller”
• Most Creative Marketing Campaign for “Smoke Signals™ local newspaper
Advertising” • Best Niche Marketing - “Travel Club - Neighborhood Enrichment Program
Creation and Marketing”
grin, “but, I’ll take it!”
Boutwell, born and raised
in Atlanta, worked for 30
years selling appliances
for Atlanta Gas Light and
Lake City Appliances in
Woodstock, before joining
the POA staff.
“It’s all about working
with your customers,” he
says, “and I apply that policy
in my work at Big Canoe.”
According to Charlene
Terrell, long-time Chapel
historian, the story of the
Armstrong Award goes back
to the late 1970s.
She relates that “Bill
Armstrong had a special
Richard Boutwell receives the Armstrong Award.
affection for our security
PHOTO BY LEIGH YOUNG
personnel and he credited
their fast action and early
always willing to take on extra duty. He
diagnosis
with
saving his life following
recalled the four-days straight he stayed
a ruptured aneurism in the late 1970s.
on the job, away from his family, during
Armstrong died in 1992 and his wife Jean,
the ice storm in the winter of 2014.
the official Chapel Visitor, died several
In accepting the award, a plaque and
years later.”
a monetary gift, Boutwell said, “I don’t
really deserve this,” then added with a
Eric S. Pryor, DMD
F A M I LY D E N T I S T R Y
New Patients Always Welcome!
127 South Main St., Jasper, GA 30143
706-253-3567
2013
&
2014
Rosemarie Heindel
REALTOR®
cell: 404.861.1857
TOP PRODUCING TEAM
by the Pickens County
Board of Realtors
email: [email protected]
SOLD
SOLD
573 Hunters Trace
3br/2ba :: $229,000
Level Driveway, Close to Main Gate!
83 Lone Wolf
4ba/3ba :: $254,000 Furnished
Woodland Setting
76 Mountain Mint
2br/2ba :: $240,000
126 Green Heron Point
3br/3.5ba :: $499,000
Furnished
Beautiful Lakefront Home!
NEW LISTING
HOMESITES
4074 Lone Wolf ............. $15,000
1033 Robins Nest...........$22,500
8240 Cox Mountain.......$79,900
2784 Summit Drive ..... $115,000
8251 Cox Mountain ..... $185,000
8255 Cox Mountain..... $150,000
3337 Bluestern ............ $215,000
3340 Bluestern ............ $215,000
496 S. Sanderlin Mountain
4br/5ba :: $440,000
Stunning Long Distance Views
459 Wedgewood Drive
3br/3.5 ba :: $425,000
76 Chula Drive
4br/4.5ba :: $499,000
On the Golf Course
Mountain Craftsman
HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS
®
200 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2400
©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 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.
TO VIEW ALL BIG CANOE PROPERTIES, VISIT OUR WEBSITE ... www.NorthGeorgiaListings.com
10 A
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FEBRUARY 2016
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
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|
N E W S
CHECK
OUT OUR
FEATURED
HOMES
The scenery sells the community ...
Let Big Canoe Realty sell your home
®
131 Waterford Way
4BR/4BA • $459,900
If you’re thinking of putting your home on the market in 2016, the signature broker of Big Canoe can help.
T
here’s no denying Big Canoe is a
beautiful place to live, but when it
comes time to sell your home, look for a
broker with a proven track record and strong
marketing credentials. Turn to Big Canoe
Realty.
95 Hyssop Court
5BR/3.5BA • $699,000
UNDER CONTRACT
170 Pine Knoll
3BR/2.5BA • $269,000
UNDER CONTRACT
99 Cottonwood Circle
3BR/3BA • $272,500
n PERFORMANCE
Big Canoe Realty again continues to be the
#1 sales Company in Big Canoe, period!!!!
• #1 listing company for Big Canoe
homesites sold
• #1 listing company for Big Canoe
homes sold
• #1 listing company for Big Canoe total
listings sold
• #1 selling company for Big Canoe lots sold
(both developer & resales)
• #1 selling company for Big Canoe homes
sold (both developer & resales)
• #1 selling company for Big Canoe
total properties sold
n LARGEST MARKETING BUDGET
Big Canoe Realty has the largest marketing
and sales budget of any real estate brokerage
company selling Big Canoe property. Give
Big Canoe Realty an opportunity to design a
specialized marketing plan specific to your
property!
n INSIDE THE GATES
Big Canoe Realty is the only real estate
office inside the gates of Big Canoe. And now
to better serve you, we also have a new office
located on Hwy 53 at Steve Tate.
n BIG CANOE EXCLUSIVITY
Big Canoe Realty sells Big Canoe
exclusively. Your property is only shown with
other Big Canoe properties. We do not sell
other communities or neighborhoods, many
with less expensive construction costs.
n COMPREHENSIVE WEBSITE
Big Canoe Realty lists all Company & Resale
properties currently for sale in Big Canoe on
our website, updated weekly, regardless of
whether they are listed with Big Canoe Realty
or another agency.
n HUGE BUYER DATA BASE
Big Canoe Realty has, over the years,
gathered more than 63,000 potential
purchasers for our data base, each of which
receives promotional material from Big Canoe
on a regular basis.
n COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Big Canoe Realty sponsors events within
Big Canoe that support community activities
that attract potential customers.
n MORE AGENTS
Big Canoe Realty has the largest number of
experienced professional real estate agents.
n LONGEVITY
Big Canoe Realty has been in business for
over 25 years!!!
n MLS LISTING
Big Canoe Realty is a member of the First
Multiple Listing Service (FMLS) that serves
more than 36,000 real estate agents giving Big
Canoe listings maximum exposure.
n AGGRESSIVE ADVERTISING
Big Canoe Realty advertises regularly
and extensively via online, social networks,
magazines, newspapers, billboards, and
various other mediums.
For more information contact Big Canoe Realty
770-893-2733 or 866-244-2266 • www.bigcanoe.com
Connect with Big Canoe Community on these networks:
11 A
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FEBRUARY 2016
LBC team projects underway
BY ROBERT ACKERMANN
Five projects selected by Leadership
Big Canoe team members are now
underway. Over the next three months
each of these projects will be reviewed for
project scope and status.
The first project being reviewed is
the Healthy Living Program. The Healthy
Living Committee is chaired by Christine
Flaherty with team members Betina
Shearer, Lorene Phelps, Rhonda Gallaspy,
Mark Rooney, Belinda Joy Fultz, and Carol
Willoughby. The committee’s goal is to
promote healthy living by providing a
means to make it simpler for Big Canoe
residents to participate in at least some
portion of what the program has to offer.
Project scope includes:
• Using the Knowledge Series as a
successful template, by planning to offer a
range of speakers on the subject of Healthy
Living in Big Canoe.
• Creating a walking club with a buddy
system.
• Working with the Fitness Center to
establish new classes.
• Use Weight Watchers model to
establish similar program in Big Canoe.
• Work with food outlets to help
residents learn more about healthy eating
and food preparation.
• Develop a means to communicate to
residents what a healthy living program has
to offer.
The second project being reviewed is
the Big Canoe Meeting Center. This center
will provide for a meeting room, small office
or work stations, computer, copiers, and
ideally would have a small coffee/snack bar
offering limited breakfast, lunch and dinner
items.
The committee believes this service
would benefit those full time residents who
currently work from their homes, part time
residents who would spend more time here
if they had such a place to conduct business,
and visitors in need of conducting short
term business assignments.
This project is being lead by Kurt
Hoechstetter (Chair), Rex Brooks, Bill
Barden, Jennifer Waldrop, Tony Hicks, and
Bob Mackey. Currently the committee is
looking for places to locate such a meeting
room and potential costs involved.
Healthy Living Committee
Dream it. Do it.
Set sail for adventure. Imagine racing across the Atlantic, competing against a fleet
of sleek sailing yachts as you track the trade winds and head for the Caribbean.
“We all have our dreams but most end up as just dreams,” says Dick Hammill, who
at age 70, made his dream come true. Dick and sailing buddy David Howe invite
you to experience the adventure—from building the yacht to crossing the finish
line in St. Lucia. Join them for a spirited hour or so at the Mountains Grille from
5-6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 10. Enjoy an inside look at racing across the Atlantic
in a 58-foot sailing yacht through a fast-paced multimedia presentation peppered
with personal reflections. Choose your favorite “grog” at the Sconti cash bar. Those
attending are eligible to win a wine and cheese gift basket. If you can Dream it, you
can Do it. PHOTO COURTESY OF DICK HAMMILL
Meeting Center Committee
Your town
is my town.
Proudly serving Big Canoe.
I live and work here just like you. So I’m right around the corner when you
need me. I can help protect the things you own and the people you love.
Call or stop by today for a free quote.
Steve Moranos
706-268-1268
88 North Gate Station Dr., Ste. 102
Marble Hill, GA 30148
[email protected]
© 2014 Allstate Insurance Co.
117494
Big Canoe Homeowner since 2001.
FEBRUARY 2016
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13 A
Canoe Cubs host Astronomy and Stargazing Night
BY KIM COOPER
Have you ever wondered what is
beyond the dark night sky? Have you tried
to find the North Star or Orion’s Belt? Do
you have questions about comets, meteors
or asteroids? Then plan to experience
an exciting, educational night with the
Atlanta Astronomy Club.
The Canoe Cubs will host an
Astronomy and Stargazing Night on
Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Canoe Lodge
from 5 to 8 p.m. The program is free but
donations are greatly appreciated.
To fuel the amateur astronomers, an
“interstellar/space” themed potluck dinner
will begin at 5 p.m. Afterward the Atlanta
Astronomy Club volunteers will deliver
a short, informative presentation. Scopes
will be positioned along the beach area
and starwatchers will be able to view the
moon, planets and other objects that may
be visible at the time.
Families are asked to bring one dish
according to your last name. For last
names beginning with A through E, please
consider bringing a meat or main entrée
dish; surnames names F through P, choose
your favorite salad or side dish. Last but
not least, desserts will be provided by
families Q through Z. Canoe Cubs will
provide drinks, paper goods and other
essentials.
Due to the nature of this stellar event,
families must RSVP with your selected
dish by Wednesday, Feb. 24 to Lindsey
Kenner at [email protected].
Canoe Cubs is a social group that
meets regularly and is open to all Big
Canoe children and grandchildren.
Please visit the website canoecubs.com
for program and event information or
‘like’ us on Facebook, facebook.com/
canoecubscorner.
Mark your calendars for Saturday,
March 26! The Canoe Cubs regular
monthly program will be the annual Big
Canoe Easter Egg Hunt.
Piedmont cardiologist to address Squires & Stags
BY BENNETT WHIPPLE
“Heart Health” is the subject for Squires
& Stags Friday, Feb. 5 breakfast meeting with
Dr. Roberto Pereira leading the presentation.
He is in practice with the Piedmont Heart
Institute in Jasper and serves as the medical
director of the cardiac catheterization lab at
Piedmont Mountainside Hospital.
Dr. Pereira received his medical degree
from the University of the State of Rio
de Janeiro in Brazil and completed his
internal medicine internship, residency and
a fellowship in cardiology at Long Island
College Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.
He is certified by the American Board
of Internal Medicine and its subspecialty
Board of Cardiovascular Disease, the
Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology
and the International Board of Heart Rhythm
Examiners as a cardiac rhythm device
specialist.
Also, according to biographical
information, Dr. Pereira is a member of the
American Heart Association’s Scientific
Council in Cardiovascular Diseases and a
Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.
The men’s breakfast group meets in
the Mountains Grille at the Clubhouse at
Lake Sconti. New members and guests are
welcome to attend the meeting. Coffee
is ready at 7:45 a.m. followed by a buffet
breakfast served at 8:00 a.m. The price of
breakfast is $13 payable on your POA account
or by cash at the door.
Reservations are required and must be
received by Noon on Thursday before the
Friday morning meeting. For reservation
links, watch for the POA “Happenings &
Events” e-blast and the Smoke Signals e-blast,
both issued weekly.
Use of the online reservation system is
encouraged, but if it’s not available you may
call Tim Moran at (706) 268-3375 to make
reservations.
Dr. Roberto Pereira to speak on
heart health for Squires & Stags
Friday, Feb. 5 breakfast meeting.
Dawson Commission Chairman discusses
2016 goals and plans with Smoke Signals
BY MEGAN JACQUES
[email protected]
Dawson County Commission Chairman Mike Berg
discussed his goals for 2016 and what changes citizens can
expect in Dawson County this upcoming year.
In reference to his main goal for 2016, Berg responded,
“It’s always the budget. It’s always making sure that we stay
within our means.”
Dawson County is a low debt county, with less than $2
million in debt.
“Secondly, this is an election year so we are going to
have that taking the forefront in some things. We still have
to run county government, so we have to make sure that
takes place,” said Berg.
As for re-election, Commissioners Julie Nix of District
4, James Swafford of District 2, and Berg’ terms are up.
Swafford has announced he will not seek re-election. Nix
and Berg have not committed either way.
“Julie and I have been here 12 years, so it’s a long time.
There could be some major changes depending on what we
do,” Berg said.
Berg also mentioned that hiring a good county manager
is on his priority list. Berg took over the county manager
position when Cindy Campbell resigned in December 2015.
Currently, they have narrowed their selection down to four
applicants for the position.
The major construction happening on Ga. 400 was
also discussed. Berg said he believes the Continuous Flow
Intersection (CFI) being constructed at the intersection of
Ga. 400 and Ga. 53 is necessary for the future of Dawson
County.
“Ten years ago, the intersection of 400 and 53 going
north had about 25,000 trips a day. It now has over 50,000
trips a day. So, it has doubled in ten years,” Berg said.
Once the intersection is completed, it will be quicker to
go through it and quicker to turn on 53.
Berg said he is very pleased with this intersection plan,
estimated to cost $12-$14 million, compared to a project
proposed years ago that involved an overpass and an
underpass that would have cost the county $136 million.
“It would have hurt the business community, so we were
opposed to that. But we are in favor of the CFI,” Berg said.
Berg also discussed the future of the 10,650 acres of
Dawson Forest that is owned by the Atlanta Airport
Committee.
Originally, the plan was to build a second airport on the
property, but the committee decided not to and it has been
sitting for 40 years.
Atlanta has hired consultants to look at the property in
Dawson County and the sister property in Paulding County
that is also 10,000 acres.
“We are involved with the consultants to the point that
they let us know their process and hopefully they’ll be some
positive conclusion,” Berg said.
Berg mentioned he would like to see the acreage
become a state park. There have been several different
proposals throughout the years, including rock quarries and
reservoirs.
“Our interest is maintaining it as a park,” Berg said.
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FEBRUARY 2016
Fighter plane stars in Vietnam historical novel
BY WAYNE TIDWELL
[email protected]
Ric Hunter likes to talk about the planes he flew as an
Air Force fighter pilot. He calls the F-4 Phantom jet “the
workhorse of the Vietnam war.” He calls the newer F-15 “an
F-4 on steroids.”
So he wrote a historical fiction novel, Firehammer,
that puts the reader in the cockpit of an F-4 during the
evacuation of Saigon and the last battle of the Vietnam War,
the rescue of the SS Mayaquez and its crew.
Hunter retired after 27-years in the Air Force where
he logged 4,000 flight hours in the F-4 and F-15 and was a
three-time Top Gun, so he should know what he is talking
about.
He comes from an Air Force family. His father spent
30 years and his daughter has been in the Air Force for 17
years.
He shared his experiences with a full house of North
Georgia Veterans, at the Big Canoe Club House on January
13.
Hunter familiarized the crowd with the F-4 and its
myriad of weapons and configurations that included
rockets, bombs and a 20mm Gatlin gun that fires 6,000
rounds per minute.
“If you were in the North Vietnamese Army or a Viet
Cong, you didn’t want to see these guys (F-4s) coming
overhead because your day was about to be ruined,” Hunter
said.
The F-4 was produced by McDonnell-Douglas in St.
Louis for 21 years, a long time for a fighter aircraft, with
2,600 going to the Air Force, 1,200 to the Navy, and the
remainder to friendly countries, according to Hunter. It
could reach 1,800 mph and fly up to 50,000 feet altitude and
pull 7.3 Gs.
Hunter’s book features the G model, a “hunter-killer”
configuration designed to take out radar installations and
drop bombs.
With its refueling capability, the F-4 can fly around the
world without landing. Hunter calls the refueling event
The F-4 Phantom was produced in many configurations
and used by several countries around the world. COURTESY 1000
PICTURES.COM
“brain surgery” because of the intricate connection that has
to be made in flight. He said the refueling capability saved
his life on a Saigon mission coming back over Cambodia
and out of fuel.
Hunter briefed the group on the last battle of Vietnam
that ”put the last 41 names on the Vietnam memorial.”
On May 12, 1975, the North Vietnamese “owned”
Vietnam, Hunter said. The container ship USS Mayaquez
was hijacked by the Khmer Rouge and was taken to obscure
Koh Tang Island off the coast of Cambodia. The “four-day
war” ensued.
The Mayaquez crew was taken form the island to
Cambodia. On day 4 at 9:00 a.m. the Cambodians gave
the crew back after a battle that resulted in the death of 41
Marines.
Later, Hunter flew the F-15C Eagle and commanded an
Eagle squadron and was a three-time Top Gun. After the
attacks on 9/11, he returned to serve his country once again
as a civil servant for eight years. He took over world-wide
program management of the Air Force’s 50-million dollar
fighter aircraft flight simulator program, thus freeing young
pilot staff officers to return to cockpit duties for the war on
terror.
Hunter’s book, dedicated to his best friend in high
school who was killed in the DMZ by a North Vietnamese
sniper, was nominated for a Pulitzer Award and received
other awards. The Title of the book was named after a
Zippo lighter carried by his friend that his friend’s girlfriend
called his “firehammer.” Hunter got the lighter after his
friend died.
The book is available on Amazon.
The North Georgia Veterans organization is open to all
veterans, anyone who has served in any branch of Service,
in any capacity, for any period of time. All that is required is
an honorable discharge. Those interested in attending NGV
meetings/luncheons can do so by registering at website@
ngvets.org.
NGV is supporting local hospice
North Georgia Veterans has agreed to assist Georgia
Mountains Hospice (GMH) that supports patients and
families in their last stage of life in a 10-county area of
North Georgia, which includes both Pickens and Dawson
Counties. GMH is the only non-profit hospice operating in
this area and has never denied service to a family because
of their inability to pay.
North Georgia Veterans will assist with volunteers to
work with veterans and their families during their difficult
time.
GMH also provides supplemental support to hospice
families beyond what Medicare, Medicaid or insurance
will cover. Georgia Mountains Hospice is a non-profit
Georgia Corporation operating under a 501c3 Internal
Revenue classification. All donations are tax deductible.
You can learn more about GMH at their website at www.
georgiamountainshospice.org.
NGV encourages community members to donate by
sending a check to:
Georgia Mountains Hospice
70 Caring Way
Jasper, GA 30143
(Indicate this is a NGV donation on the check.)
If you have any questions, please contact Bill Saling at
706 344-9585 or by email at [email protected].
Former POW to talk to NGV
BY BARBARA BALDUCCI
The North Georgia Veterans
February meeting/luncheon will be held
Wednesday, Feb. 10, at 11:30 a.m. in the
Mountains Grille, Big Canoe Clubhouse.
The guest speaker will be Ronald Mastin,
Lt Col, USAF (Retired) who will discuss
his time in captivity as a prisoner of war
in North Vietnam.
Ronald Mastin, born in Beloit, Kan.,
attended public schools through high
school, and graduated from the University
of Kansas Business School in the spring
of 1963. In fall of 1963, he entered active
duty in the United States Air Force.
After training and a number of other
assignments, Mastin
prisoner of war in North
went to Southeast Asia in
Vietnam on January 21,
October 1966. Flying from
1967.
Udorn, Thailand on their
He left active duty
34th photo reconnaissance
in September 1973 and
mission, he and his frontafter working for Eastern
seater, then Capt. Tom
Airlines he returned to
Storey, were shot down on
active duty in January 1976.
January 16, 1967, northeast
After attending Instructor
of Hanoi. Pilot School, he served
Mastin was released
as an instructor pilot at
on March 4, 1973. He
Mather AFB, Calif., from
was awarded the Silver
September 1976 until he
Ronald Mastin, Lt Col,
Star for his gallantry and
left active duty and joined
USAF (Retired)
intrepidity in action in
the Alabama Air National
connection with military operations
Guard in May 1980, serving until 1988
against an opposing armed force while a
when he joined the Air Force Reserve.
Family and
GENERAL
DENTISTRY
Mastin retired as a Lt. Col. from the Air
Force Reserve on June 3, 1991.
He flew for Eastern Airlines from
May 1980 to February 1989, and then flew
for FedEx from January 1990 until his
retirement in December 2007. Mastin is
married to the former Dawn Lindner and
they have two daughters together, Cassie
and Carissa, and Ron has a son, Michael,
from a previous marriage.
The North Georgia Veterans
organization is open to all veterans with
an honorable discharge and service in
any branch of the armed forces, in any
capacity, for any period of time. To
attend meetings/luncheon register on the
website ngvets.org.
Mountaintop Property
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Exquisite mountaintop property with an excellent
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FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
15 A
You’ll ❤ LOVE these Big Canoe Resales!
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SPACIOUS ROOMS!
1.3 ACRE WOODED LOT!
812 McELROY MOUNTAIN DRIVE
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4154 WILDERNESS PARKWAY
$349,900 • FMLS #5561064
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3.8 Acre Lot Adjoins Nature Valley
163 MUIRFIELD WAY
$360,000 • FMLS #5558172
4 Bedrooms/3 Baths
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195 SHETLAND TRACE
$349,500 • FMLS #5567472
4 Bedrooms/ 2.5 Baths
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$425,000 • FMLS #5568230
4 Bedrooms 3.5 Baths
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148 SQUIRRELS NEST
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167 CLIFF FERN POINT
$275,000 • FMLS #5528573
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1351 QUAIL COVE
$275,000 • FMLS #5379335
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166 WHITE ASTER LANE
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$325,000 • FMLS #5598292
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87 BLUE BELL CIRCLE
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182 SCONTI RIDGE
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44 CHEROKEE KNOLL
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16 A
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FEBRUARY 2016
Stone Structures – A Mystery of the Indigenous Peoples – Part 5
Indigenous rock cairns found across the U.S.
BY DON & DIANE WELLS,
EDDIE LANHAM
The Cairns
at Indian
Rock Park
T
he stones structures described
in Part 4 were circular in
formation and had a ceremonial
or mortuary purpose.
Other stone structures of Indigenous
construction are sometimes found that
are not circular or not even of large
collective formation but rather of some
singular rock formation.
In Habersham County, Georgia, a
stone structure was discovered many
years ago on a mountain in that county
near a major Indian trail trading path.
This structure was built in a stacked
stone formation with walls several feet
high but it was oval in shape and not
circular.
Most of this structure like the others is
now gone.
Some of the locals claim that folks
came up the mountain to collect the
stones to be used for house foundations.
Near the rock site is a graveyard but
the origin of the graves is not known. No
written account of this site’s purpose can
be found but it is near some Cherokee
villages that existed nearby in the early
1700s. It is likely it had a ceremonial
purpose.
Another stone structure (also not
circular) is the Old Stone Fort in Coffee
County, Tennessee. This structure has
stacked stone walls four to six feet high
and archaeologists date it to the Middle
Woodland Period from around 30- 430
A.D. Its purpose is considered to be
ceremonial. No graves were found within
the stone walls.
A number of singular rock structures
have important spiritual significance and
can be as important to the Indigenous
people as the circular structures. Allen
Rock, also known as Turtle or Indian rock
is located in Habersham County, Georgia.
The rock is a small turtle-shaped boulder.
It is located on a trail that connects the
Cherokee village of Sakwi’yl’ town with
the spirit townhouses at Hickorynut
Mountain, behind Tallulah Fall.
The Thunder people and their
gatekeepers, a snake and a turtle, also
lived in these spirit townhouses. Legends
said the Indians considered the Tallulah
Falls area sacred and believed it to be a
very spiritual place.
In nearby Cherokee County the
Don Wells and his Mountain Stewards’ team will begin dowsing at Big Canoe’s Indian Rocks
Park in an effort to learn more about the meaning and history behind the cairns.
PHOTOS BY ROBERT SMITH
“Interestingly, while the
meanings of the designs
carved into the boulder
are unknown, studies have
shown that the Reinhardt
Rock with its concentric
circles is strikingly similar
to petroglyph boulders
from early Iron Age
Ireland.”
Reinhardt Rock—a massive 11-feet long
by 4-feet wide petroglyph--was found
and later donated to Reinhardt University
by the Cline family in 1940. It was found
many years ago in the Hickory Log area
of Cherokee County, now the Walmart
site at exit 20 on I-575.
Hickory Log is the area where the
Hickory Log Cherokee village was located
on the Etowah River. The rock can now
be seen at Waleska’s Funk Heritage
Center in the Hall of the Ancients. It was
part of three slabs.
The other two slabs were destroyed
by people who mistakenly believed
that the Indians buried their gold under
petroglyph rocks. Interestingly, while
FOREIGN & DOMESTIC
the meanings of the designs carved into
the boulder are unknown, studies have
shown that the Reinhardt Rock with its
concentric circles is strikingly similar
to petroglyph boulders from early Iron
Age Ireland. Adding more mystery to
the discussion, a National Geographic
television program stated that the use of
concentric circles was symbols of Bronze
Age Spain.
Alan Cressler of the United States
Geological Service has been exploring
Georgia for petroglyphs sites. One site
he found on Shoal Creek in Cherokee
County west of Waleska, contains rock
petroglyphs similar to those of the
Reinhardt Rock. He has found other rocks
with the circular petroglyphs in Georgia
as well.
Visitors to the University of Georgia
can see two boulders that were moved
there from Forsyth County in the 1960s.
One is located next to the Museum of
Art. The other is in an enclosed garden
at the School of Law. Originally they
were located near Cumming. They have
concentric circles, stick figures, and
cupules on them. Archaeologists believe
that they were made by the ancestors of
the Creek and Cherokee Indians during
the Late Woodland period. Some of the
petroglyphs on these rocks are very
similar to those on Track Rock in Union
What is going on at Big
Canoe’s Indian Rock Park?
In cooperation with the Big
Canoe Conservation Committee,
the Mountain Stewards are
conducting a detailed exploration
of the park using dowsing rods.
It seems there is more to
dowsing than just deciding
where to drill a water well. David
Johnson, a dowser who has spent
more than 40 years working with
Indian tribes across North and
South America, has shown that
rock cairns, bent trees and other
sacred sites are usually related to
underground water. Johnson has
shared his knowledge with Don
Wells who, with his Mountain
Stewards team, is now studying
Indian sites in southeastern
America.
Raymond C. Willey, a founder
of the American Society of
Dowsers, said that dowsing is:
“The exercise of a human faculty
which allows one to obtain
information in a manner beyond
the scope and power of the
standard human physical senses
of sight, sound, touch etc.”
It is an ancient technique.
Scientist tell us that a painting of
a man holding a dowsing rod on a
cave wall in the Atlas Mountains
of North Africa, dates back 9,000
years. A rock carving in Peru
depicts a man holding a forked
dowsing stick. It has also been
dated to 9,000 years ago.
That same ancient tool is
being used right here in Big
Canoe. A report of what is found
will be provided to Big Canoe
General Manager and reported
on in Smoke Signals when the
exploration is complete.
n Continued on next page
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n Continued from previous page
County.
How they all relate to the Indians and
their ceremonial and spiritual ways of life
is unknown but is one more part of the
mystery of the rock structures.
Rock Cairns, individual rock
formations, are found across the United
States. S.P. Langley wrote in the 19th
Annual Report to the Director of the
Bureau of American Ethnology, 1898
that, “Stone cairns were formerly very
common along the trails throughout the
Cherokee country, but are now almost
gone, having been demolished by treasure
hunters after the occupation of the
country by the whites. They were usually
sepulchral monuments built of large
stones piled loosely together sometimes
6 feet or more, with a corresponding
circumference.”
Some rock cairns were used for burial
with the person sitting up facing east.
It was common among the Indians that
every passer-by was accustomed to add a
stone to the heap.
In Georgia, rock cairns have been
found with several in an alignment, some
in square patterns and some singular. In
Big Canoe there is a string of rock cairns
in the shape of a snake. If one aligns the
western most cairn with the eastern most
cairn and measures the angle, the line
points directly to the place where there
was a small Cherokee village.
Stone cairns are also reported to exist
in the area of Merriwether and Harris
counties. A hike along the Creek Trail
in Roosevelt Park offers one a chance to
see a row of stone cairns as well as some
stone walls. Tourist literature suggests
that they are a burial site for important
Creek Indian Chiefs. As mentioned in
the previous paragraph, this may be true
but will require extensive study to prove
these are graves.
Across the Flint River to the east of
this location is another site with a number
of what appear to be rock cairns that have
been greatly disturbed. A planned effort is
scheduled for later this year to determine
if these are graves sites.
Other singular rock formations have
been found in Georgia that may have
been carved by Indians for some specific
purpose. One of these is the Owl Rock
located near Campbellton in Fulton
County.
Lastly, there are a large number
of natural rock formations that are
considered spiritual to the Indians. One
of these, the Cherokee Rock Village, is
located near Centre, in Cherokee County,
Alabama. This area has been home to
Native Americans almost continually
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
from 8,000 B.C. until 1838 when the
Indians were forcibly removed.
So named because one outcropping
of enormous boulders resembles a
cluster of houses, the village is believed
to have been of religious or ceremonial
importance to a succession of Indian
Geologists and Big Canoe residents Dr.
Charles Pollard and Dr. Lin Pollard
examine the cairns. They are both experts
in water flow in geologic formations.
|
N E W S
tribes that inhabited the area. Today a
200-acre public park surrounds the site.
Not surprisingly, with boulders over
200 feet tall, it is a climbing paradise.
Rock climbers from across the world are
drawn here. For the less adventurous,
there are caves; a maze of passages; many
17 A
smaller stone formations; hiking, biking,
and horse trails; picnic areas; primitive
campsites; bird watching; and spectacular
scenery. The site lies along an old Indian
trail and many say that when walking
among the rock formations they can still
feel the presence of the Indians there.
Big Canoe’s David Holty, representing the Conservation Committee, is trying his hand at
dowsing, a ancient practice believed to help find water. PHOTOS BY ROBERT SMITH
Mike Davis,(l. to r.) Don Wells and Dave Holty at Big Canoe’s Indian Rocks Park. Davis and Wells are members of the Mountain Stewards
Trail Crew planning the research at the Rock Cairn site. Holty represents the POA’s Conservation committee.
18 A
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
CALL STEVE TO MARKET
AND SELL YOUR HOME
• Average # days on market is
67 days vs 246 day Big Canoe average.*
• Average sale to list is 95% vs 91% Big Canoe average.*
Ask For Steve
RESULTS THROUGH 2015
• 22 properties personally sold • 16 of my listings have sold
1371 RIDGEVIEW DRIVE
$289,000 Firm, As Is • 4BR/3BR
Long range views towards Atlanta/
Great Wall of Windows
154 CRAZY BEAR
$379,900 • 3BR/2.5 BA
Beautiful Craftsman style home on
private setting with stream.
484 HUNTERS TRACE
$379,900 • 3BR/3BA/2car garage
Mtn views, private setting on 1.4 acres
that backs up to green space
291 TROUT LILLY
$199,000 Rock Bottom Firm • 5BR/5.5BA
Very Spacious home/
Terrific price-value
394 INDIAN PIPE DRIVE
$475,000 • 4BR/4.5(2)BA
Two homes for one price - Includes
separate, complete living quarters
173 HILLSIDE
$439,900 • 4BR/4.5BA
Gorgeous home full of upgrades,
beautiful neighborhood
1635 RIDGEVIEW
$329,000 • 3BR/3BA
Long range mountain views/
Recently refurbished
161 ROBINS NEST
$329,000 • 4BR/3BA
Spacious home, great for kids/
Great rental potential
T E S T I M O N I A L S
‘He is our
go to guy.’
‘Very valuable
asset ...’
‘... a wonderful
gentleman!’
‘Patience
and support ...’
‘very helpful...
entire process.’
He is always available and
quick to return phone
calls or emails. He made
us feel right at home in
Big Canoe. As we still live
out of state, Steve has
continued to be our life
line to Big Canoe. He is
our “go to guy.” We really
appreciate all his hard
work and his friendship.
We have moved quite a
few times, buying and
selling several houses.
We can say that Steve has
been one of the best real
estate agents that we have
ever worked with.
— Mike & Claudette
I’ve been working with
Steve Yambor for the past
couple of months with
the purchase of a home
in Big Canoe. Steve not
only was professional,
courteous and cordial but
went beyond the norm
and helped me personally
with many tasks which
helped make the purchase
transition much easier
for me. You have a very
valuable asset working for
your firm and recognition
would be appreciated.
— Rich R.
What a great job Steve did
for us. Mutual friends of
ours and Steve’s gave us
his name. I had no idea
he was an agent selling
homes in Big Canoe. I just
called to see how he liked
the area and next thing
I know he is showing me
around! What a wonderful
gentleman! We have
moved 5 times and Steve
is the most thorough
agent we have ever had.
He’s a keeper!
— Peggy and Rick
I really appreciate all
your help in finding
a perfect place at Big
Canoe. Olga and I are
very excited about
spending time in the
mountains! Your
patience and support
through the process
was perfect. Best
wishes for a successful
year.
—Charlie
Two years ago, I arrived
at the security gate
unannounced. Steve showed
me around and then showed
considerable patience. A year
later I brought my family
down to see Big Canoe. Again,
Steve generously showed us
the area. A half year later we
purchased a lot in November
with Steve’s assistance and
will be breaking ground this
summer. Steve was very
helpful in the entire process,
helping us with lodging,
introducing us to builders and
helping us find a rental unit
while we build. — Matt
2036 VALLEY VIEW
$429,900 • 3BR/2.5BA
On Nature Valley Trail with private,
level, “park like” setting. Beautiful
custom home with office and library.
20 WINDSONG
$424,500 • 4BR/3.5BA
Near North Gate and walking trails,
Shows like a model
30 CHESTNUT KNOLL POINT
$289,900 • 4BR/3BA/2HB
Great Views of golf course/
high rental potential
146 SCONTI RIDGE
$149,000 • 3BR/2BA
Condo with views of lake and golf
course. Top floor, corner unit.
132 AHALUNA PLACE
$469,900 • 4BR/3.5BA
Terrific Long Range Mountain Views
from this 4bed/3.5bath spacious
rustic/craftsman home,
with 2 bedrooms on main, level lot,
and near the North Gate.
656 WEDGEWOOD
$469,500 • 4BR/3.5BA
Mountain and Golf Course views.
Dramatic great room with wall of
windows. Sunroom, office, bar, sauna
HOMESITES
2745 Turnbury Lane • $125,000, Golf course frontage overlooking Signature Cherokee #2 fairway.
Easy build at end of cul de sac in beautiful neighborhood.
• 870 Nashoba Trail at $99,000 - Choctaw Village-Near Clubhouse
• 2107 McElroy Mountain Drive at $160,000 - Big Views NE - 1.5 acres
• 7207 Ridgeview at $99,000. Long range views. Steve Yambor
706-268-2332 office • 678-848-3630 cell
Website: www.bigcanoe.com
* Average over five recent listings of mine that sold.
News
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
19 A
SMOKE SIGNALS | FEBRUARY 2016 | 19A
“Whenever Tom talked about his new Sconti property,
he would look up toward the sky and say
‘Lord, please don’t let us mess this up.’ ” — KEN RICE
Ken Rice, long time Big Canoe resident and Waterford developer, stands across the street from the Wildcat Recreation area on a parcel of land designated commercial that the
POA is buying from the Big Canoe Company. PHOTO BY ROBERT SMITH
‘Lord, please don’t let us mess this up’
BY BARBARA SCHNEIDER
[email protected]
L
ong-time Big Canoe resident and Waterford
developer Ken Rice believes it’s about time Big
Canoe earned its independence. He vigorously
supports the POA Board’s intent to buy Big
Canoe Company’s holdings in “Mother Canoe” . . . the
place we all call home.
Rice has a unique and long-time appreciation of
the natural beauty that makes Big Canoe so rare and
inherently valuable. His memories go back almost 46
years to a time when Rice was a project engineer for
Tom Cousins.
“You know, every time I drive through the covered
bridge and look all around at hillsides covered with
mature trees . . . I exhale. I’m home.
“I think just about everybody living in Big Canoe
feels the same way,” he said, pulling a large map out of
a cardboard tube and spreading it out on a table in his
Waterford home.
“I wonder how they would feel to drive in the main
gate and pass commercial structures and condos then
drive through the covered bridge and look up to see hills
covered with more houses or condos,” he said tracing
the route along Wilderness Parkway to the Village Core
with his finger.
“Look at this stretch of land,” he said, indicating
about 119 acres—mostly designated for high density
development—on the north and east side of Wilderness
Parkway from the Main Gate to the Clubhouse entrance.
The North Gate entrance could be just as bad, he
adds, shaking his head. “The land on the right side over
to Wildcat pool, about 13 acres, is now designated for
commercial development. Next time you go to the
Sconti, imagine looking out at the view and seeing eight
acres of high density development on the right of the
lake, along Sconti point.
“It all comes down to this,” he said. “We have to
decide if we are going to preserve the natural beauty and
greenspace that makes our community unique or allow
someone to come in here, build out and destroy the
character of Big Canoe.
“We, the property owners, are facing our biggest test
yet,” he added.
The original vision
In the 1960s developer Tom Cousins was a mega
force in Atlanta’s emergence as a major city; by the early
1970s, he’d expanded into regional malls and premiere
golf communities, opening Big Canoe in 1973.
“It was almost by accident that Tom learned about
“That drive connected a man with
a mountain-sized vision to 10,000
acres of pristine forest, lakes and
mountains. A match some believe
was made in Heaven.”
Gate. More parcels along Steve Tate Highway, including
the area now known as the Deer Run subdivision on the
east side, were sold. All told about 2,000 acres of the
original Big Canoe parcel were lost due to bank sales.
Threatened by lawsuits and a lot of negative publicity,
the banks agreed to sell development rights to Bill Byrne
in 1987.
this land,” recalls Rice, looking toward the forested hills
from the porch of his Waterford home.
“An acquaintance called Tom in the late 1960s and
mentioned a good sized spread of beautiful mountain
land for sale. Tom wasn’t looking for land but he got
curious and drove up from Atlanta to take a look.”
That drive connected a man with a mountain-sized
vision to 10,000 acres of pristine forest, lakes and
mountains. A match some believe was made in heaven.
“Tom thought the land—he called it the Sconti
property—was magnificent, so amazing he was hesitant
to develop it.” Rice nods, a slow smile spreads across his
face. “He didn’t want to damage its God-given natural
beauty.
“Whenever Tom talked about his new Sconti
property,” said Rice, “he would first look up toward the
sky and then say ‘Lord, please don’t let us mess this up’.”
Lake Sconti was crystal clear in those days, “like
the travelogue photos we see today of the Caribbean.
You could see all the way to the bottom. The kids were
fascinated just watching the fish swim about.”
Cousins slowly began to develop the land, starting on
Petit Ridge with very large acreage lots to save the trees.
“He told us,” Rice recalled, “he didn’t want this gorgeous
land to end up looking like Buckhead.”
Management issues test developer
The Big Canoe ship righted and enjoyed growth
and relatively smooth sailing until 2005 when property
management issues created the need for a second major
change. Until that time the POA board was weighted
heavily in favor of the developer. The POA board and
developer, after weeks of talks and negotiations, agreed
to a new board structure: the 50+1 rule was eliminated
and the developer retained just one voting seat on the
board.
Big Canoe’s property owners were now able to vote
for candidates to fill six board seats with one more seat
reserved for the developer’s representative. Big Canoe
property owners came through another major change,
stronger and with more control over their community.
“The 4,750-unit build out rule was instituted to
control growth. This was our first step toward property
owner independence,” said Rice. But the developer still
controlled the rate of growth, type of development and
land usage he owned.
Hard times test property owners
From 1974 to 1977, the real estate industry
experienced its worst period since the Great Depression.
Cousins was hit harder than many other developers.
Many property owners defaulted on loans to purchase
property in Big Canoe. The banks got involved, pushing
Cousins out and ending his dream of preserving his
10,000-acre mountain retreat.
The worst kind of change threatened the future of Big
Canoe. The banks took over Cousins’ holdings and then
hired a manager to handle operations.
“The manager didn’t have the interests of the
property owners at heart,” Rice explained. “Most people
thought he was here to save money for the banks and
keep the gates open.”
Parcels of land were sold off by the banks to raise
funds. Rice purchased 330 acres of land now known as
Waterford, along Wilderness Parkway near the North
Another test on the horizon?
Big Canoe, Rice said, has been tested twice and,
thanks to the determination and dedication of its
property owners has managed to stay the course.
He sees the next choice—voting yea or nay to
support buying the developer’s holding—as a third test.
With Big Canoe Company up for sale, there are no
assurances about how a new developer might view
Big Canoe, he said. After spending so much money to
acquire all the land, it’s likely a new developer would
want to focus on high density development to cut
building/infrastructure costs and gain the most profit
from the land.
“The POA board’s plan to purchase Big Canoe
Company’s holdings is a win, win, win for everybody,
said Rice. “We—the property owners—will finally have
our independence.
“Since 1972 Big Canoe has been under construction.
It’s time to take control of our future, to ensure
the character of Big Canoe is preserved for future
generations—and continue to thrive, surrounded by the
natural beauty that blesses this land.”
A view across Lake Sconti shows a parcel of land designated for high density development that is part of the land the POA wants to buy from the developer. PHOTO BY ROBERT SMITH
20 A
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
“Marshalls, Ross Dress for Less, Famous Footwear,
Casablanca Nails, Hobby Lobby and Petco have all
committed to the shopping center.”
New stores announced
for Dawson Marketplace
BY MEGAN JACQUES | [email protected]
Hendon Properties and Blanchard Real Estate’s Dawson Marketplace that is to hold
one of the largest Kroger’s in the nation at 123,000 square feet has recently announced
several new stores to join their 100-acre site.
Marshalls, Ross Dress for Less, Famous Footwear, Casablanca Nails, Hobby Lobby
and Petco have all committed to the shopping center.
President of Hendon Properties, Charlie Hendon, said, “Our Dawson Marketplace
project will bring excellent day to day needed retail and service items to the residents
of Dawsonville and the surrounding area. In addition, the project will contain many
restaurants new to the community.”
Dawson Marketplace will be located at the Southwest corner of Dawson Forest
Road and GA-400 adjacent from the North Georgia Premium Outlets. It is set to open
Fall of 2016.
The site plan for Dawson Marketplace.
ISO rating leads
to possible
lower insurance
premiums for
Dawson residents
“ ‘As luck would have it,’ according to Johnson, ‘the Commonwealth
leadership met in Malta the same weekend as my recital.’ “
Organist Cal Johnson and
Big Canoe neighbors meet British Royals
BY LAURA LINK | [email protected]
Dr. Calvert (Cal) Johnson, an organist of note, who took
along neighbors in Big Canoe to a program he performed
on Malta at the Mdina Biennale, Nov. 13, 2015 through Jan.
6, 2016, had a surprise meeting of British royals.
The concert was sponsored by CARAVAN, a non-profit
organization that develops initiatives using the arts as a
catalyst to bring people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs
closer together toward building sustainable peace, and
was in conjunction with the Mdina Biennale. CARAVAN
exhibitions of art are held in either sacred or public places
rather than traditional art galleries or museums. Malta
was the first site where an organ concert was featured and
Johnson was selected to play in St. Paul’s Roman Catholic
Cathedral of Mdina.
“As luck would have it,” according to Johnson, “the
Commonwealth leadership met in Malta the same
weekend as my recital. Queen Elizabeth II of England,
Prince Phillip, Prince Charles, Camilla, Duchess
of Cornwall, and the Prime Ministers of over 50
Commonwealth countries were all on the island at the
time of the recital. Security could not have been tighter
anywhere on the planet as a result.”
While the royals’ busy schedules did not permit them
to attend the recital, Prince Charles and Camilla did tour
St. Paul’s Cathedral, delaying Johnson’s organ rehearsal
time. However, as they toured the cathedral and looked
at the brightly painted Maltese donkey in the exhibit, they
had time to meet Johnson, the Rev. Paul-Gordon Chandler,
Anglican Church founder and director of CARAVAN, and
the group of travelers from Big Canoe, Kenneth Dutter,
Louise Bill, Sonja Reynolds and Johnson.
Using the 1998 Copeman Hart organ, Johnson’s recital
featured Middle Eastern organ music as well as early
Spanish works demonstrating lingering influences of
Arab music, and a hopeful American work about the Civil
Rights struggle. Johnson is well known for championing
music by composers from under-represented groups,
whether women, blacks, Hispanics, Asians or peripheral
European nations such as Spain, Italy and England.
According to Johnson, the invitation to perform a recital of
works from the Middle East was a new challenge for him.
Johnson is the Charles A. Dana Professor Emeritus of
Music and college organist emeritus, Agnes Scott College,
Decatur, Ga. He is currently organist, First Presbyterian
Church, Marietta, Ga.
Ronald Reemsnyder
A
T
T
O
R
N
E
Y
BY MEGAN JACQUES
[email protected]
The Insurance Service Office (ISO)
concluded that Dawson County deserved
a lower insurance classification, which
could allow some residents to have lower
insurance premiums.
As of 2015, Dawson has a 3/10
classification. Whereas in 2010, Dawson
had a 5/10. The Big Canoe ISO rating that
will affect Dawson County residents in
Big Canoe has not been received as of
this printing. Fire Chief Ricky Jordan is
expecting to obtain a lower rating.
The Insurance Service Office (ISO)
is an independent company and leading
source of information concerning
property/casualty insurance on
community’s fire suppression capabilities.
A Public Protection Classification rating
from 1 to 10 is assigned to a community
after a scheduled inspection. Class 1
generally represents superior property
fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that
the area’s fire suppression program does
not meet I.S.O’s minimum criteria.
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22 Year Resident of Big Canoe
I have been selected by my peers as a
“Super Lawyer” and also serve, when needed,
as the Judge for the City of Dawsonville.
My practive includes:
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make great hiding places
for snakes, rodents and bugs.
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Call us at 404-626-6224
Roger Putnam • [email protected]
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
21 A
Building on a great reputation
J
Hynes Custom Homes introduces Serenity Renovations
erry Hynes of Hynes Custom Homes and son
Mike McEachern are well known in the area
for building distinctive custom homes and
providing solid home improvement services.
New name - same great service.
Their business has grown to the point where
it is now most efficient to establish two separate
companies to better serve their clients. The newly
named Serenity Renovations division will be
headed by Mike and continue to provide complete
remodeling and renovation services. Jerry will
continue to operate Hynes Custom Homes and
oversee all new home construction.
They both are dedicated to
building on the great reputation
the family has established in the
North Georgia area.
From left: Bobbie, Jerry and Mike
AFTER
HYNES
CUSTOM HOMES
65 homes built and counting
J
In-house design and plan review
Site evaluation • Interior design
erry Hynes has built homes in many resort communities
such as Big Canoe, Bent Tree, Lake Arrowhead and
surrounding areas. After more than ten years and 65
custom homes, his reputation for quality work and fair
dealings is well established. Rare among building contractors,
most of Jerry’s friends are former clients. Many of his new
customers are referrals from these former clients.
So, if you are considering building in the North Georgia
area, give Jerry a call for a free consultation.
BEFORE
SERENITY
RENOVATIONS
Experienced • Qualified • Creative
A
1999 graduate of Auburn, Mike McEachern began
his career in building, remodeling and property
management in 2000. Over the years, Mike has gained
a wealth of experience in both renovation services and home
building. In the past five years, he has taken over the home
renovation side of his father’s custom home building business.
In that time he has completed more than 100 home renovation
projects – many of them complete remodels.
From kitchens and baths to finished basements and garage
additions, Mike has established a reputation for quality work
and creative solutions on major projects. Contact him today
and talk about your home improvement project.
AFTER
BEFORE
Over 40 Years Experience! • JERRY HYNES, Big Canoe Resident
Jerry Hynes cell 404-372-8187 • www.HynesInThePines.com
• Certified Green Builder • Certified Graduate Builder
• Certified Professional Builder • Licensed by State of Georgia
National Association of Homebuilders • Greater Atlanta Homebuilders
MIKE McEACHERN
Custom Homes • Renovations • Restorations
11097 Big Canoe, GA 30143 • 404-216-2544
www.serenityrenovations.com
22 A
S M O K E
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FEBRUARY 2016
In Memoriam
Betty Irick Laughlin
Former Smoke Signals columnist Betty
Irick Laughlin, age 88, passed away January
20 in Decatur, Ga. For several years she
wrote a column entitled “Outside the
Gates,” giving places to go and see in the
surrounding area.
Laughlin was born in Warsaw, Ind., and
also lived in Crawfordsville and Bedford,
Ind. Growing up she loved camping, Girl
Scouting, and sports – Hail Purdue! She
attended Furman University and graduated
with a degree in political science where
she was involved with the Theatre Guild,
Alpha Psi Omega, and was elected a
member of Senior Order at Furman., She
stayed active in alumni events for over 50
years.
After graduationLaughlin was hired by
the Houston/Harris County Girl Scouts
in Houston, Tex., where she started out
managing several Girls Scout camps in
East Texas. She had the opportunity to
chaperone a Houston Texas Girls Scout
troop on a summer trip to Europe in
1952, visiting the International Girl Scout
Headquarters in Switzerland, Our Chalet,
as well as visiting Girls Guides in France,
England, and Belgium. On this trip she
spent the Fourth of July at the American
Embassy in Paris and met Helen Keller.
It was while living in Houston that she
met her future husband, J Heath Laughlin.
Several years later, the Laughlins relocated
to Atlanta. She continued working with the
Girl Scouts in Atlanta as a volunteer and
board member, as well as being a troop
leader and also summer camp director for
Camp Concharty in Pine Mountain, Ga. for
four summers.
Betty Laughlin
Laughlin was very involved with her
church at North Avenue Presbyterian in
Atlanta; running one of the nurseries for
several years. She also worked with Bible
School and Downtown Atlanta senior
services. After retiring, Betty and Heath
moved to Big Canoe where they became
involved with the Big Canoe Chapel and
the Big Canoe/North Georgia Friendship
Force.
Charlie Venable
In a short span of days, Big Canoe Golf
suffered the loss of three of its finest; the
last one being Charles Venable on Dec. 21,
2015.
Tony Tebbutt of Big Canoe’s Golf Assn.
lamented, “I am saddened to say that after
a lengthy and brave fight, the “Big C” took
the life of Charlie Venable. I did not know
Charlie well but I recalled that he would
tee it up with the Gambeski group so I
sought out a few of his playing partners for
their recollections of the man.
“Charlie will be remembered as a Texan
with a dry sense of humor and a man
of determination. He had a competitive
spirit, positive attitude and love for life
all of which helped pull him through his
most difficult times. He never complained
and accepted things as they were. An
exception might be the occasional errant
drive into the woods! Charlie will be
missed.”
Charles Edward Venable was born in
Monroe, La. His father was in the Air Force
and was stationed various locations during
Venable’s youth.
He attended Texas University before
entering the Army, serving as a medic
and stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San
Antonio, Tex. It was there he met and
married his wife Sarah Fowler and they had
three sons, Brian, Benjamin and Matthew.
Upon discharge from the military, he
resumed college and was hired by Wm.
Wrigley Jr. Co. in 1970. Venable had an
illustrious 35-year career with the Wrigley
Co. that began in Texas before moving his
family to Georgia in 1993. Venable was one of those unique
individuals that balanced being a great
leader with being a great friend. He was
always a gentleman filled with compassion
for others that showed in his respect for
Charlie Venable
his peers and his employees. His sense of humor, wit and calm
unselfish demeanor not only drove his
success, but the success of those around
him.
The Venables moved to Big Canoe
with his retirement shortly thereafter. He
enjoyed golf, fishing, playing his guitar
and banjo and spending time with his five
grandchildren. He loved the Virgin Islands
and the Florida Keys and was happy to
spend his winters in the Keys. He will be
dearly missed by his wife of 50 years and
his many friends and family. A memorial
service will be announced later.
12th annual Mardi Gras in the Mountains set for Feb. 6
BY LAURA LINK
[email protected]
The 12th annual Mardi Gras in the Mountains will be
held Saturday, Feb. 6 at the Chattahoochee Technical
College in Jasper to benefit Georgia Mountains Hospice.
The dinner, catered by Coast to Coast, and fun begins at
6:30 p.m.
This year the Dawson County nominees for King and
Queen are Big Canoe residents Bill Saling and Katharine
Armentrout and they need your votes. Every dollar
donated in their names equals one vote. Last year the kings
and queens from Cherokee, Pickens, Gilmer and Dawson
counties raised $40,000; $60,000 all total was contributed
to the fundraiser.
You do not have to live in Dawson County to
vote for Big Canoe’s king and queen nominees. Visit
the “Mardi Gras In The Mountains” website www.
mardigrasinthemountains.org to vote.
Georgia Mountains Hospice is a non-profit 501c (3)
organization and all donations are tax deductible. Checks
may be mailed to Georgia Mountains Hospice, 70 Caring
Way, Jasper, Ga. 30143. Write Katharine or Bill in the
memo line of the check.
Serving 10 counties in North Georgia, Georgia
Mountains Hospice has no inpatient facility. Money raised
Honoring
the Greatness
of Jesus Christ!
JOIN US ...
Sunday Mornings
9:00-10:00
• Early Worship Service
(nursery only)
10:10-10:50 • Adult Bible Class
• Children’s/Student
Sunday School
11:00-12:00 • Late Worship Service
(Children’s Church)
Wednesday Nights
6:00-7:00
7:00-8:00
• Fellowship Supper
• Activities for All Ages
CHURCH
2685 Steve Tate Highway,
Marble Hill, GA 30148
Phone 770-893-2682
www.trinityonthenet.org
with the support of The Rotary Club of Jasper and The
Knights of Columbus is used to supplement Medicare
such as drugs not covered, equipment and even items
like gravel on driveways to allow a hearse to enter the
property.
Another program of the Georgia Mountains Hospice is
called Wishes and Dreams. This program provides wishes
for the terminally ill patients near life’s end. The only
hospice to take children, Gina Pendley, executive director,
arranged for a young Bulldog patient and fan to have seats
on the 50-yard line for the Georgia - Georgia Tech football
game through the Wishes and Dreams program.
PAINTING AND
HANDYMAN SERVICE
WE DO IT ALL
PAINTING • STAINING • REPAIRS
INTERIORS • EXTERIORS
• Carpentry • Painting
• Staining • Pressure Washing
• Plumbing • Electrical
• Fencing • Ceiling Fans
• Flooring • Lawn Care
• Roofing • Glass Repair
• Strip & Seal Decks
• Haul Off Junk
• Storm Damage
• Clean Out Garage and
Out Buildings
• Honey Dos • Gutters
• Tile + much more!
HIGH QUALITY &
AFFORDABLE
REFERENCES
AVAILABLE
Call 770-500-5859
Serving Big Canoe & Bent Tree
for the past 10 years
Locally Owned and Operated
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
23 A
Letters To The Editor
Congrats on Sconti
Point Property
years. Various property owner groups and
POA Boards have attempted to remove
this vulnerability, always to no avail. The
significance of this threat has allowed the
developer to maintain an upper hand in
numerous important negotiations. The
concerns over this reality have negatively
impacted our property values.
The announcement that our POA
Board has at long last been successful in
negotiating the purchase of essentially all
the undeveloped land on the west side of
Steve Tate Highway and north of Cove
Road is finally bringing this long standing
undesirable situation to an end. The
board and staff members who have been
instrumental in these latest discussions
and negotiations are to be commended for
having inked a purchase contract that will
be presented to the property owners for
a vote of approval. What a momentous
accomplishment!
In simplest terms this land purchase
will most assuredly have a significant
positive impact on our property values,
just because of the removal of the threat
of future undesirable development in
our community. The value of property
owner real estate in Big Canoe is in the
area of $1 billion. We are paying $9.4
million for approximately 730 acres, which
is just shy of one percent of the value
of our collective real estate holdings. My surmise is that our property values,
individually and collectively, will increase
well in excess of one percent as a result
of this purchase, thereby yielding us
significant returns on the investment we
are making by purchasing this land.
My hope is that property owners will
recognize the financial benefits of this
transaction to our community, let alone
the significant aesthetic benefits, and will
vote YES in support of this purchase.
TO THE EDITOR:
May we use this space to publicly
congratulate the POA Board of Directors
and General Manager John Thompson
for the successful negotiations to acquire
the Sconti Point property as well as other
key parcels included in the purchase
agreement. We’ll probably need time to
work our way through disposition of some
of the properties, but the protection of the
iconic drive along Wilderness Parkway
as well as the acreages in the village core,
at the roundabout and the North Gate, is
further reason to applaud their efforts. It’s
what we’ve wanted and more!
Nona & Bennett Whipple
589 Columbine Drive
Be wildlife conscious at
Blackwell Springs Lake
TO THE EDITOR:
Blackwell Springs Lake is a beautiful
and peaceful place to observe many types
of birds. Not so today!
My husband discovered a large crow
tangled in fishing line very close to the
walking trail. The bird was upside down
with a broken and bleeding wing and had
obviously struggled for some time to free
itself.
Imagine taking a nature walk with your
grandchild and finding this!
While I cut him loose my husband was
looking up wildlife facilities that would
come to our aid on a Sunday. We did find
Cherokee Emergency Veterinary Clinic in
Woodstock and rushed it there.
Sadly, the bird had to be euthanized.....
I know this has been mentioned before,
but please if you fish in this lake or any
other, be very aware of leaving fishing line
and lures behind.
Our wildlife deserves better than this!
Colleen Murphy
Sincerely, Lee Arthurs
153 Swallow Point Let’s stop with the
fear mongering
Please Vote YES
on Land Purchase
TO THE EDITOR:
Regarding the Syrian war refugee
resettlement debate and the “We should
not let them in” argument in December
Smoke Signals, the author stated the 9/11
terrorist attacks “probably would not
have occurred” if a policy limiting people
from entering the U.S. from countries that
support terrorism was in place at the time.
TO THE EDITOR:
All Big Canoe Property Owners –
Concerns that our Big Canoe developer
could entertain building undesirable high
density housing in strategic locations
within our community go back many
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Yet none of the attackers were from
countries that support terrorism. As to
the author’s relatives stating “they did not
feel safe walking the streets” of Sweden
because of the influx of immigrants, I am
happy to report that November’s “Business
Insider” ranked Sweden 5th in their list of
the world’s top 26 happiest, most crimefree countries.
Here in Georgia, statistically, you and
I are 30 times more likely to be killed by a
white, Christian American man or woman
than by a mad Islamic jihadist. White
Christian Americans pose much more of
a threat to our safety than our Muslim
brothers and sisters, so let’s stop with the
fear mongering.
Robert Barr
1691 Ridgeview Dr
Big Canoe
Bear Squatters
in Big Canoe
TO THE EDITOR:
Let us not forget that we, white human
beings, are the real squatters.
Carl Proehl
265 Huckleberry Trail
Smoke Signals policies
for letters to the editor
Smoke Signals welcomes letters written
to the editor. Letters should address issues
and ideas, not personalities, and must
include the writer’s name, address and
phone number for submission verification.
Smoke Signals reserves the right to
accept or reject submissions and edit
grammar and spelling. Personal attacks
and obscenity are prohibited, and writers
can be asked for necessary revisions.
Letters about political candidates will not
be accepted after qualification ends.
Maximum length is 450 words, and
letters should be single-spaced with
indented paragraphs. To make room for
more opinions, writers can submit letters
as often as every other month. Letters
may be deposited in the Smoke Signals box
at the Big Canoe Postal Facility or emailed
to [email protected] as body text
or a Word attachment. The deadline is the
12th day each month.
Proposal
motivated by Tatum
Property pulled
from Planning
Commission
Meeting
BY RAY BOWYER
Many readers may remember
that, in response to objections by Big
Canoe residents and others to the
proposal for a special use permit for
the Tatum property near Big Canoe,
the idea was floated to have a permit
process for large group gatherings in
Pickens County.
The permit would have provisions
for control of noise and traffic. A
detailed draft ordinance for this
purpose was on the agenda for the
planning commission meeting on
January 11.
Just before the meeting began,
County Commission Chairperson Rob
Jones addressed everyone attending
the meeting. He said item B on the
board’s agenda, “Revision to Land Use
Intensity Ordinance—Special Events
Permits” would be pulled.
He said the county planning staff
had done a nice job of creating a
proposal for review, but the board of
commissioners had decided that such
an ordinance would not be adopted,
so there was no need for the item to
be on the agenda.
In other business
A property in the western part of
the county was rezoned from highway
business to rural residential, at the
request of the owner. He explained
that a florist business had been
conducted on the property, but that
business was no longer in operation
and there was no expectation of any
business being conducted there in the
future.
Richard Osborne, director of
planning and development, proposed
adoption of a land use map for the
county. It records, in map form, the
zoning of each property in the county.
Osborne pointed out that 90 percent
of the county is zoned for agriculture,
rural residential, or planned
community. The other 10 percent of
the county is zoned for 11 other uses,
which he didn’t enumerate. The
commission adopted the map.
Know
your
neighbor?
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88 North Gate Station Dr., Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2300
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24 A
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
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N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
Books
Perfect
wintertime reading
BY PHIL SPARLING
E
xplorers were still heroes in the
first decade of the 20th Century
when Robert Scott of England
and Roald Amundsen of Norway
raced to be the first to conquer the
Antarctic and reach the South Pole.
Roland Huntford’s tale of polar
exploration, “The Last Place on Earth,” is
historical nonfiction at its best. His dual
biography —originally published in 1979
as “Scott and Amundson,”— chronicles
their race to the Pole.
The author is in the same league
as Laura
Hillenbrand, Erik
n
Larson and David
McCullough.
BOOK
Huntford
REVIEW
transports us
back to the late
‘The Last Place on
19th and early 20th
Earth’ By Roland
centuries. He
Huntford
describes how the
Modern Library
development and
Paperback
mindset of Scott
and Amundson
were shaped by
the times and customs of their respective
homelands.
Huntford was, first and foremost,
a historian. He sought truth based
on evidence. If his work tarnished
reputations, so be it. The book caused a
furor in England where Captain Scott was
a national hero. When Huntford revealed
the captain’s vulnerabilities, his admirers
were outraged.
In 1985, Masterpiece Theater released a
highly praised mini-series TV adaptation
Let it
snow.
Let it
snow.
Let it
snow.
titled the “Last Place on Earth.”
In 1999 the book was updated,
reprinted, and retitled as per the screen
adaptation. At nearly 600 pages, it’s both
a careful examination and compelling
drama of two legendary explorers.
I first read the book some 20 years ago,
and rereading it has affirmed its place on
my all-time top-10 list of nonfiction.
This classic tale is perfect wintertime
reading. Enjoy while sitting in front of the
fire, sipping a hot beverage. If the power
goes out, I predict you’ll light a candle,
put on a heavy sweater —and keep on
reading.
A cozy fire, a
good book and
a hot beverage.
Is there a better
way to spend
the notoriously
cold and damp
month of
February? PHOTO
BY MARTY REYNOLDS
H
Norwegian explorer Roald Engelbregt
Gravning Amundsen.
British explorer Captain Robert Falcon
Scott October 1911.
New Fiction
ere are a few of the latest works
on the fiction market. Most of
the titles mentioned are available
through either the Dawson or the
Pickens County Library.
House of the Rising Sun by
James Lee Burke: Hackberry
Holland is not Dave Robecheaux,
but he is cut from the same
damaged lawman cloth as the star of Burke’s
long-running series about a rogue New
Orleans cop, cum sheriff’s detective in
New Iberia, Louisiana. Hackberry Holland
is a former Texas Ranger. His battles with
vicious criminals in a stark and unforgiving
environment provide Burke with plenty of
opportunities to display his fine descriptive
talents. Burke approaches violence and
beauty with equal ease and extraordinarily
vivid and readable language.
It is not easy to find funny
novels, but when we do they
are a refreshing relief from the
prevailing blood and terror of so
many crime stories. Tom Wolfe says author
Christopher Buckley is one of the funniest
writers in the English language. In his new
novel, The Relic Master, Buckley turns
to the distant past. Who knew there was
anything funny about the early 1500s? But in
their publishers’ announcement, Simon &
Schuster assures readers the novel is “Filled
with fascinating details about art, religion,
politics and science; Vatican intrigue; and
Buckley’s signature wit.” Buckley does write
funny stuff. Naming your lead character
Dismas is a good start. How many good
thieves can there be?
Detective Alex Morrow discovers
that the darkest secrets never
stay buried as she investigates
the criminal underbelly of a
seemingly tranquil seaside town. Denise
Mina’s Blood, Salt, Water from Little
Brown and Company is the fifth book in the
Alex Morrow series.
“It’s a secret almost too shocking
for a sane mind to grasp.” My
goodness! What can one expect
from a novel about a tough,
unloved, Florida prosecutor working on a
cold case with a retired cop who worked
on the original case? A construction project
reveals two skeletons in a common grave
and the mystery must be unearthed. But
is all as it seems? Prosecutor Claire Talbot
is determined to find out. Minotaur Books
assures us Douglas Schofield’s Time of
Departure is full of spellbinding twists, and
will appeal to thriller aficionados, and to
readers who appreciate a strong female lead
and a compelling love story.
How many pen names does
an author need? At one time
Jayne Ann Krentz used seven
to produce best sellers. She has
dropped back, but still uses Amanda Quick
and Jayne Castle. Krentz is a super star of
the romance with a dose of the paranormal
genre. Her latest is Secret Sisters. Berkley
Books says, “They knew his name, the man
who tried to brutally attack 12-year-old
Madeline in her grandmother’s hotel. They
thought they knew his fate. He wouldn’t be
bothering them anymore...ever.” Were they
right?
Stuart Woods just keeps on
producing Stone Barrington
mysteries. His newest is
Scandalous Behavior. A man
with tireless aplomb visits the
English countryside for a relaxing visit. He
arrives in his new personal jet. A beautiful
woman in a new Aston Martin greets him
and escorts him to a magnificent gated
estate. Sounds wonderful, but the contrary
local gentry and a relentless adversary make
it something else entirely. Stone Barrington
is the man to take care of the problems
headed his way —or those he uncovers.
Public libraries are still important
BY KEN REYNOLDS
F
alse rumors, purporting to be
obvious truths, are circulating
about public libraries. Essentially,
the rumors say: We no longer need
libraries. People can get all the information
they want on the Internet.
Some people can do that. Most people
cannot. Many do not have Internet access.
Others do not have computer skills, or are
limited to forwarding emails and/or surfing
websites which expose their computers to
damaging malware.
The truth is: the public does still use
libraries, and libraries continue to provide
valuable services to their communities.
I go often to the county libraries in
both Pickens and Dawson. They are
busy places, but I am not an expert, and
personal observations are easily distorted
by personal viewpoints. I admit that my
history inclines me to see libraries in a
favorable light.
To help me better understand the
disparity between personal observation
and rumors, I turned to an expert, Susan
White, former director of the Sequoyah
Regional Library System who retired after
42 years of service. She enthusiastically
agreed to help.
According to White, the Pickens Library
is, in fact, a busy place. Approximately
30,000 people live in the county and they
made almost 70,000 visits to the library
during the most recent fiscal year. They
checked out more than 85,000 items to
read, view or listen to at home.
The checked out items include “books,
DVDs, audio and eBooks. People come to
the library to get items to use at home,
even if they have Internet access,” Susan
said. People still read physical books,
and they go to the library to get them.
Sometimes, the book they want is not
available locally, but most are available
through the interlibrary loan system.
Reading physical books may have
declined, but reading and book production
has not. Last year more than 300,000
titles were published. Several companies,
agencies and universities are working to
get every published book and newspaper
into digital form, but the task is far from
complete. Even with Internet access, there
is still a need for libraries.
The false rumors have done damage.
Many people, including lawmakers and
administrators have come to believe
them. In my conversations with White she
pointed to a common complaint among
library users. “Too often library users learn
the library simply does not have the book
or material they seek. There are many
possible reasons, but a growing concern
is that the library does not have enough
money to purchase needed books and
materials.”
Georgia’s public libraries rely on
a combination of funding sources. In
addition to state and local funds they count
on donations, grants and gifts. “A library
must continue to add new books and
materials if it is to fulfill its mission,” she
said.
White emphasized, “Our local
governments have been supportive of the
Pickens Library, especially for staffing and
operating expenses, but state support has
been shrinking for years. State funding for
books and materials reached zero when the
current fiscal year budget was announced.”
To purchase books and materials, local
libraries have relied primarily on state
funds allocated on a per capita basis. “The
majority of Pickens’ materials budget has
come from the state. We have historically
benefitted from public generosity, but it is
more important now than ever before,” she
added.
I asked if she could be more specific
about public generosity. “In addition to a
small local and a matching state grant, two
Pickens County families give wonderful
donations each year. There are a few
businesses that contribute. We also have a
very active group called The Friends of the
Pickens Library. They work tirelessly to
raise funds for the library.”
After my conversations with Susan
White, I felt optimistic and pessimistic.
She confirmed my observations. Our local
library is busy and is making positive
contributions to the community. Local
government is assisting the library within
its means.
My pessimism comes from the
widespread misunderstanding of the
importance of public libraries. I have
resolved to do all I can to change that
misunderstanding. I hope you will join me.
Public libraries are wonderful facilities for
anyone with enough initiative to broaden
and improve their education and their joy
of living.
•••
When Susan White retired as Director of
the Sequoyah Regional Library System, she
Susan White
had worked in libraries more than 42 years.
She says teaching mathematics had been
her early career goal, but after three years
decided it was not “her thing.”
Susan became the Bookmobile Librarian.
She worked and earned her Master’s in
library science. She managed the Pickens
County Library for nine years before her
promotion to Assistant Regional Director.
She served as Regional Director for the last
six and one-years of her career.
Since she retired, Susan has continued
to support our public library system as a
volunteer and as a member of the Friends
of the Pickens County Library.
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
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N E W S
25 A
Books
Adopt a library shelf
Journey through a civil war
A library bookshelf
to call your own
BY KEN REYNOLDS
I
think it is because I write about
books people talk to me about
what they are reading. In those
conversations, countless people
have said they like the idea of working
around books. Some have said they
would like to work part-time in a small
book store. Others said at one time in
their lives, they thought about being a
librarian.
Although there are signs that
independent bookstores are returning
to the American commercial scene,
at the present time finding work as
a harness-maker may be easier than
finding work as a bookseller.
Working in a library though,
is a different matter. There are
opportunities available at the Dawson
County Library. In truth, I am not
referring to an opportunity for
employment, but to be a volunteer.
Every library lover knows funding
for public libraries declined in the
aftermath of 2008. But too many
people do not know there is still a
robust demand for library services.
Consequently the paid staffs are
stretched thin, and some work gets
delayed.
As a Smoke Signals reporter I
talked with the manager of the library
in Dawsonville, Stacey Leonhardt
about the library’s need for help. She
explained the Dawson County Library
volunteer program.
Ken Reynolds: Do you have specific
work hours for volunteers?
Stacey Leonhardt: No, the hours are
flexible. We can arrange hours to match
individual interests and availability.
KR: Do volunteers need to be
educated as librarians?
SL: That would be nice, but it
isn’t necessary to have a specific
background. Literate book lovers are
welcome. We can train volunteers to do
several tasks.
KR: What kind of work do you need
help doing?
SL: Our greatest need at present
is keeping the bookshelves properly
arranged. Books get out of place for all
kinds of reasons. When books are not
where they should be on the shelves,
patrons get frustrated. We don’t want
that, because the library is service to the
community. So we set up our Adopt-AShelf program.
KR: Do you mean I can have an
entire shelf of library books to call my
own?
SL: Well, the books still belong to the
library, but as a volunteer you choose a
section or sections of interests to you.
When you have an extra hour to spare,
come in and organize your shelves. The
shelves/sections you adopt and care for
will be named after you or your family.
KR: You said an hour to spare. Can I
really set my own schedule?
SL: We want volunteers to commit
to work at least one hour each month.
The work has to be done during library
hours, but the day and time is up to
each volunteer.
KR: Will you teach me how to do the
job?
SL: Frequent library users probably
already know how, but we have a
training program that takes about 30
minutes.
KR: What are some of the other tasks
volunteers can work on?
SL: We need help with adults and
with senior citizens. We have a bookdelivery program for homebound
patrons. Our genealogy resources
are really popular. There is always
office work, and our ongoing book sale
requires time.
KR: Do you have children who
volunteer?
SL: Families can work together,
but we want children under 12 to have
supervision.
Readers who have not been to the
Dawson County Library are in for a
treat. I make it a point to visit libraries
when I travel. The one in Dawsonville
is a happy, active and welcoming place.
The library is busy, and the staff is
friendly and helpful.
To acquire your own library shelf,
or to help in any of the areas mentioned
above, contact the Dawson County
Library, 342 Allen Street, Dawsonville,
GA 30534; telephone 706 344 3690 or
email [email protected].
BY ANN PIKE
T
here are few nonfiction
accounts of a civil war as
captivating in intensity and
profound in their message
as Tracy Kidder’s “Strength in What
Remains.” It is the history of Burundi
and Rwanda, a region in Africa most
Americans have little knowledge of and
probably could not locate on a map.
It is the true story of a man, Deo,
who fled the genocidal war between the
Hutus and Tutsis, his flight to the United
States, being homeless on the streets of
New York and ultimately returning to
his homeland to build a hospital after
completing his medical training. He
navigates through violence to heal the
wounds the war created. This is one
of the most transcendent stories of
redemption I have read in years, and it is
a story of courage I will not soon forget.
While the genocide that occurred
in these
countries is
unfathomable,
n
the details in
BOOK
this book are
REVIEW
nightmarish.
It is difficult
‘Strength in
to imagine the
What Remains’
inhumanity
By Tracy Kidder
here. However,
Random House
the book’s
inspiring and
thought provoking passages are what I
will take away. It is also a story about
limitless capacities for healing and
moving past trauma.
Kidder’s work made me think about
periods of history that were brutal and
heroic in equal measure. War brings
out the best and worst in humans, and
prejudice can manifest into violence if
left unchallenged.
The book is also a history lesson about
two groups, the Hutus and Tutsis, whose
hatred of each other grew out of a desire
for political power. Tutsis were the
minority group, at 14 percent of Burundi
and Rwanda, while the Hutus were the
majority at 85 percent. There is very
little difference historically, linguistically
and culturally between the two groups.
German, and later Belgian colonizers,
during the late nineteenth century,
accentuated power struggles and racial
differences between the two groups.
Tracy Kidder has authored many other
books. He has won the Pulitzer Prize and
the National Book Award for his nonfiction work. PHOTO BY TAYLOR KEEGAN, WIKIPEDIA
CREATIVE COMMONS
The myth of racial differences and
prejudice, that Tutsis were Caucasian and
Hutus were black, enabled Europeans to
put Tutsis into a princely class governing
Hutus. Although Tutsis and Hutus both
suffered by the differentiation at the
domination of the Europeans, Hutus
suffered the most. Both countries were
dictatorships and both groups fought for
control.
Each side adopted the colonists’
myth of racial differences. Hutus took
power in Rwanda and executed Tutsis
in large numbers. Tutsis took power
in neighboring Burundi and retaliated
against Hutus from 1966 to 1993. Killings
and prejudices perpetuated more killings
and more prejudice. Violence became
widespread and brutal. Each group
suffered and each felt entitled to avenge
losses.
Kidder’s book is filled with insights
about human nature, power, prejudice
and the brutality of war. Some passages
are worth repeating and remembering.
Kidder’s assumption that “those who rule
by fear also rule in fear” seems especially
apropos.
In his search for meaning, Deo
experiences other insights. He is
confused by the behavior of homeless
Americans when he experiences the
violence and brutal living conditions of
an abandoned tenement in New York
City. Through the benevolent gifts
of people he met during his quest, he
acquired better housing and started
classes at Columbia University
He hoped philosophy courses would
answer his questions about cruelty.
When his professor said, “animals are not
rational, only human beings are rational,”
he found this difficult to understand. He
had seen animals feed and nurture their
young and communicate in ways he
didn’t understand. When animals killed,
it was for food. They never tortured
each other, whereas humans did. Human
beings seemed to kill for arbitrary
reasons. He was left with more questions
than answers.
Ultimately he learned people act in
duplicitous ways and this makes life
uncertain. He said, “you can always learn
something good in a hard time, if you
survive it.”
In 2006 Deo returns to his native land
of Burundi, retraces his steps of escape
during the civil war, and understands
more about his country. “Once you bring
a hammer, people will bring a shield, with
another hammer to break your legs,” he
said. During his journey Deo confronts
the irrationality of war, prejudice and
power while retaining his compassion
for suffering. This makes it a story worth
reading and one that you will not forget.
Tracy Kidder is also a Pulitzer Prize
winning author of “Mountains Beyond
Mountains” among many other titles.
A memoir from a 100-year-old novelist
BY KEN REYNOLDS
H
erman Wouk, one of the
most beloved novelist of
the 20th century, has a new
book. Wouk reached his 100th
birthday in May 2015. Last month, Simon
& Schuster released his memoir “Fiddler
and Sailor.”
Twenty-five years ago, Wouk declined
a suggestion that he write a memoir,
because his wife told him, “Dear, you’re
not that interesting a person.”
Wars, and financial and social
tumult during his 100 years have added
unparalleled material for storytelling. The
novelist began his career as a comedy
writer and published his first book in 1941.
In spite of negative critical coverage,
Wouk’s novels stirred the emotions and
loyalties of a generation of readers, movie
100-year-old author Herman Wouk
goers and TV viewers. In 1951 he won the
Pulitzer Prize for “The Caine Mutiny.”
His other titles included “The Winds
of War” “War and Remembrance,” and
“Marjorie Morningstar.” His 24th book,
“The Lawgiver,” came out in 2012.
Wouk is a devout man, who wrote
moral tales that worked the shades
of class and religious distinction. He
revealed the subtle, and not so subtle,
ways the resulting discrimination
impacted and motivated his characters.
David Frum, a senior editor of “The
Atlantic” magazine wrote, “Readers under
40 know Wouk, if they know him at all,
as a name on the spine of a paperback
shoved into a cottage bookshelf at the end
of someone else’s summer vacation—
or perhaps as the supplier of the raw
material for Humphrey Bogart’s epic
performance as Captain Queeg of the
USS Caine. What they don’t know is
that Herman Wouk has a fair claim to
stand among the greatest American war
novelists of them all.”
26 A
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
BIG CANOE PROGRAMS & EVENTS
FEBRUARY
PROGRAMS
5
FEBRUARY • SQUIRES & STAGS
Friday, February 5 • 7:45 am • Clubhouse at Lake Sconti • Dr.
Roberto Pereira , Cardiologist. Subject: Heart Health. Coffee
is ready at 7:45 a.m., followed by a buffet breakfast served at 8:00 a.m. Big
Canoe residents are invited to attend the meeting. The price of breakfast is $13
payable on your POA account or cash at the door.
5
FEBRUARY • NEW PROPERTY OWNER
ORIENTATION
Friday, February 5 • Clubhouse at Lake Sconti • 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm • Learn
about life in Big Canoe through an entertaining and informational audio-visual
presentation followed by a Q & A session led by community leaders Enjoy
a complimentary wine and cheese social with new friends and neighbors. •
Make reservations in advance by contacting Leah Thompson at lthompson@
bigcanoepoa.org or 706-268-3346
21
FEBRUARY • KNOWLEDGE SERIES
23
FEBRUARY • COLLEGE FOOTBALL
HALL OF FAME
After a century of performing, show biz elephants are getting a break. The Ringling
Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is ending its elephant acts a year and a half
early, and will retire all of its touring elephants in May. CARTOON BY BOB GLOVER
Sunday, February 21 • $5 per guest, cash or POA Account
Charge • 4:00 pm social hour, 4:30 pm presentation • Clubhouse
at Lake Sconti. • Topic: “Fighting Hate, Teaching Tolerance, Seeking Justice”
presented by Lecia J. Brooks, Outreach Director of the Southern Poverty
Law Center, and the director of the SPLC’s Civil Rights Memorial Center. •
Reservations are required to ensure a place at the program by registering online
at bigcanoepoa.org, sign in with your POA username and password. Go to Big
Canoe POA Calendar and list names of all registrants. Alternatively, one may
e-mail Kim Cooper at [email protected], or register by filling out a
sheet found in the Alpha Box for Knowledge Series at the Big Canoe Post Office.
Attendance is limited to the first 110 reservations. The Knowledge Series offers
compelling presentations by dynamic speakers on literary, artistic, international,
national and regional topics of interest and significance.
Tuesday, February 23 • $40 per guest • The greatest legends
in college football history are forever enshrined in the College Football Hall
of Fame. The Hall of Fame captures the stories and accomplishments of the
players who broke records and won our hearts, cementing their legacies in
a one-of-a-kind experience that pays homage to greats that have played and
coached the game. • Ticket includes transportation and entry fee into the Hall
of Fame • Transportation will be provided from the Wildcat Recreation Area.
The tailgating bus will leave at 9:00 am and will return at approximately 5:00
pm. • Tailgaters will be responsible for their own lunch. • Cash, check or POA
Account charges are accepted. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Kim
Cooper, [email protected] or 706-268-3346.
25
FEBRUARY • BIG CANOE TRAVEL
CLUB Thursday, February 25 • *New Time* 6:00 PM
at The Clubhouse at Lake Sconti – Mountains Grille Room • Topic: Local
Trips—Throughout the Southeast and U.S. • Mike Ziegenbalg, CruiseOne
Dream Vacations, will host the meeting to offer and to solicit suggestions
for one-day and/or week long group trips that will be offered to Big Canoe
residents, their families and friends. • Free membership for all BC owners! •
Mix and Mingle and Share with Other Travelers • Complimentary wine, beer
and non-alcoholic beverages. • Door Prize Drawings
27
FEBRUARY • CANOE CUBS
STARGAZING PROGRAM
Saturday, February 27 • Canoe Lodge • 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm •
FREE, donations appreciated • Everyone invited! The Atlanta Astronomy Club
will provide a fun, educational evening for our Canoe Cubs. Scopes will also be
available to view the Moon, planets, and other objects that may be visible at the
time. Families are asked to bring one main entrée, side dish, or dessert. Canoe
Cubs will provide drinks, paper goods, etc. Due to the nature of this event,
families must RSVP to Lindsey Kenner at [email protected] by Wednesday,
February 24. Want to know more about children’s activities? Check out Canoe
Cubs online at canoecubs.com.
UPCOMING MARCH PROGRAMS
18
MARCH • RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Friday, March 18 • 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM at Big Canoe Chapel,
McCormick Hall Downstairs. By appointment only. Please
contact Joyce Chura at 706-268-3838.
26
MARCH • EASTER EGG HUNT
Friday, March 26 • 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM • Wildcat
Recreation Area • More Details to Follow
Watch for E-blasts and look for
posters in the Big Canoe postal
facility for information on
POA programs events.
For more information visit
insidethegates.org.
www.insidethegates.org
What’s wrong with
a handwritten will?
Big Canoe
Law School
GEORGE FOX
O
ne morning, farmer Cecil George
Jones told his wife that he was
going to work with his tractor on
some land away from their house,
and he’d be home by 10 p.m. When he wasn’t,
she went looking for him.
It was raining when she found him lying
on the ground. He was still alive, but unable
to move because his entire left leg – from his
ankle to his hip -- was pinned under the tractor’s left wheel. The tractor only had metal
wheels, no tires. On each wheel were fourinch v-shaped metal lugs.
She rushed to get help, and with the others, was able to jack up the tractor. Her husband was still breathing, so they were able
to lift him into a car. Ironically, the rain had
turned the road into a muddy path, and so
the friends had to use the tractor to tow the
car out of the mud and up to the main, gravel
road.
In the hospital, the farmer was conscious
enough to say he had been pinned for 10
hours. Unfortunately, he died the next day.
He never mentioned the will he had made.
Later that day, some friends went to the
accident site and to look over the tractor.
Scratched into the red fender were these
words:
“In case I die in this mess I leave all
to the wife. Cecil Geo. Harris.”
The friends called a local attorney who
had the tractor fender removed and stored.
And ultimately, the fender was taken to the
local court and offered as Mr. Harris’ Last
Will and Testament.
The proceeding was unusual because
the last wishes were on something very unusual. And in court, these friends became
witnesses, testifying that even though Mr.
Harris was trapped, he was still able to reach
the fender with his pocket knife, that the
scratches were fresh, and the tip of the knife
showed signs of fresh use.
The Harris’ banker submitted evidence as
well -- he recognized Mr. Harris’ handwriting – and the attending physician presented
evidence, too.
And given these unusual circumstances,
the court agreed to accept the fender as Mr.
Harris’ Last Will and Testament, allowing
his widow to inherit everything.
Over the years, other holographic wills
have made the news. In one case, a holographic will was scratched into the bottom
of a chest of drawers. In another (according
to the “Guinness Book of World Records”),
the shortest holographic will said ”Everything to wife” which was written on the bedroom wall of someone who was dying and
sensed the end was coming quickly.
More recently, a man dying of cancer
tapped his last wishes into the “Notes” app
on his iPhone, and had witnesses tap their
names in, too. (The fact that there were witnesses is what made this case work.)
These, however, are exceptions. We’re
dealing here with what’s called a “Holographic Will,” which is essentially one you
did in your own handwriting.
Most states – including Georgia – will not
accept holographic wills.
Some states will allow them to be probated depending on the witness situation.
So there’s a lesson here: if somebody you
know has decided to write his/her own will,
let them know that they’re playing with fire.
George practices in Sandy Springs
and Big Canoe, and is also Adjunct
Professor in Emory Law School’s Center
for Transactional Law. Questions are
welcome; reach him at
[email protected] or
on Facebook. He also
cautions that what’s
above is not legal advice,
and you should seek
professional advice
before doing or not doing
something based on this
material.
GEORGE FOX
FEBRUARY 2016
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
27 A
OPINION
Beware of Viking River Cruises
BY BOB CROUCH
C
armen and I recently returned
from a much anticipated Danube
River cruise with Viking River
Cruises. We were excited about
the possibility of enjoying a very relaxing
vacation with a company that seemingly
had a stellar reputation, a very rich itinerary
and was capable of delivering great
customer service. Our expectations were
dashed by the actual events.
We expected to settle into our stateroom
and cruise for eight days in a very
comfortable style. Instead, much of our very
expensive cruise turned into a series of bus
trips through Europe. The water level in the
Danube was low and had been low for many
months resulting in the need to disembark
the cruise ship to bus around low spots and
reach another ship.
Viking was well aware of the problems
yet failed to notify anyone on the cruise.
Spending 13 hours on buses meant that there
was very limited time to explore major
cities that were on the itinerary including
Budapest and Vienna. Viking obviously has
no control over river levels. However, they
were keenly aware that for many months
the water level necessitated severe itinerary
changes and deemed it unnecessary to
notify customers of this problem. Not only
did they not notify us of the water level
issues and the resultant change from a river
cruise to a bus trip, but they are unwilling to
consider a change to that policy.
I have sent two letters describing the
most unsatisfactory experience and, to date,
the only response has been a single phone
conversation with Customer Relations. The
initial letter included these examples of the
many disappointing inconveniences we
were subjected including:
• In Passau we were to “disembark for
a walking tour” and “enjoy the rest of the
afternoon at leisure.” In fact, we were on
NORTHFOTO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
a multi- hour bus trip from Regensburg,
leaving no leisure time to explore Passau.
• We were to cruise to Passau and Melk.
Instead we bussed for nearly five hours to
Melk.
• We were to remain in our suite but
instead packed and then repacked on
another ship.
• In Melk we were to “disembark for an
excursion” followed by “sailing through the
Wachau Valley.” Instead, we were bussed
to Melk, given a brief river cruise followed
by a shortened Melk Abbey tour due to the
length of time spent on the bus.
• We packed and repacked once again
this time at a hotel.
• In Budapest “Your ship docks between
the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge.
“Disembark after your breakfast arrival for
a tour of Hungary’s lovely capital. “Your
afternoon is at leisure to explore more on
your own.” Instead, we were bussed for
a more than four hour trip to a hotel in
Budapest. This left time for:
2:00 to 2:30 p.m. bus tour of Budapest;
2:30-2:35 walking tour; and 2:35-4:40 free
time”’
A new look for Opinions
In an effort to keep the newspaper fresh, the Smoke Signals opinion page is
changing once again.
Over the years, the page (before the opinion heading was added) was home to
folksy and informative columns by Smoke Signals editor Bennett Whipple along with
the late Jim Owens and the late Chalmers Holmes . When Whipple retired as the
editor and then Owens and Holmes left the community, we had a hard time trying to
fill their shoes.
In the end we moved toward more political-leaning columns. That caused a stir
for readers on both sides of the aisle and kept our “Letters to the Editor” pages filled.
In an effort to be balanced we asked contributors Kat Alikhan and Bert Loftman
to each tackle the same topic from their different points of view. They produced
interesting and timely topics for our readers for the last two years.
In this very political year, we’ve decided to take a hiatus from partisan political
opinions and focus on issues and concerns closer to home from numerous
contributors. This month Cynthia Hendry brings readers her thoughts on locovore
trends and Bob Crouch offers a warning and some travel advice.
Throughout 2016 we plan to run articles and opinions on a wide range of topics.
If you have an idea for consideration, please send an email to editor@bigcanonews.
com outlining the topic, reason for writing and your expertise on the topic.
My letter continued:
“You have a business decision to make.
Is it best to refund our cruise fees or to
stonewall and suffer an enormous customer
satisfaction and public relations problem?
We trust that Viking executives can raise
their customer service standards to the
level they expect from their employees. Our
current very unfavorable opinion of Viking
can only be mitigated by a positive response
to our concerns.”
I took copious notes of what was
discussed in the one phone call that
followed this letter and sent these notes
to the representative for any changes,
additions or other editing she wanted to
make to be sure of an accurate account of
the call. Amazingly, she only confirmed
that she had read the notes but “declined”
to make written comments. Viking is
apparently threatened that their policies
may be revealed to the public.
In that phone conversation the
representative told me that Viking’s policy
was to only notify booked customers if their
“nautical crew” alerted corporate. The crew
receives much of their compensation from
customer tips so they are motivated to have
as many passengers as possible. They have
no incentive to alert corporate of cruise
problems that would negatively impact
passengers. In our case, the crew obviously
knew of the problems as it was a sister
ship to the originally booked ship. Our ship
could not make port due to the water levels.
They refuse to change their policy of not
communicating known issues to passengers.
My second letter to the President and
CEO of Viking restated the significant
differences in what we signed up for and
what was delivered by Viking. It also stated
that I had been informed that Viking refused
to change its non-communication and
customer compensation policies. It went on:
“Given the above, you suggest that I
spend more thousands of dollars for another
cruise with Viking. That would leave me
with a reservation with the possibility of
the same awful customer experience as
Viking is not going to change their policies.
Viking still feels no responsibility to alert
their customers to serious issues that can
significantly alter the itinerary and change
the trip from a river cruise to an expensive
bus tour for large portions of the “cruise.”
Viking still relies on the crew to inform
corporate of the need to notify customers.
Viking will not inform customers of long
term known water level problems. Viking
still offers vouchers and provides no
possibility of cash refunds.
I ask you to put yourself in my shoes
and determine if this is an acceptable
offer. My take is to say no thank you to the
voucher. I believe that Viking has made
a terrible business decision as I, and the
vast majority of my fellow passengers will
never do business with Viking and will let
their friends and neighbors know of your
unacceptable position.
Thank you for taking the time to review
this matter. I respectfully request the
courtesy of a written response from Viking
River Cruises to my complaint.”
I have had no response whatsoever from
Viking.
The water level condition has existed for
many months and is well documented by
scathing customer comments on BBB.org,
Fodors.com, and complaintsboard.com.
As a result of Viking’s policy of not
communicating known problems to booked
customers, the policy of no cash refunds,
it’s intransigence in considering changes
to these policies and it’s arrogance in not
responding openly to my complaint and the
complaints of so many others, I will never
again book a cruise with Viking.
What can you do when booking a river
cruise? First, understand the cruise lines
policy of communicating known issues
prior to the cruise. Take it upon yourself to
investigate known issues by searching the
internet. The sites above are good starting
points. Should you still encounter serious
problems you can attempt to deal with the
cruise line, file a complaint with the Better
Business Bureau and request a refund from
your credit card company. Best wishes and
good sailing—or busing as the case may be.
The future Big Canoe
Mountain
Gardening
CYNTHIA HENDRY
I
An agrihood?
t could be said Big Canoe is behind the
times. Today, many of the most successful developments in the country are
agrihoods. OK, it’s a new word for me,
too. An agrihood is a community with a farm
as one of the amenities. Check online: You
will be amazed at the pages of hits talking
about this national movement.
Big Canoe movement
The POA was sufficiently interested to
form a task force to research the potential
of this idea. As reported by Anita Rosen in
the January Smoke Signals Living section
cover story, the plan and budget have been
presented to the POA board. While the presentation was met with interest, it was not
immediately funded, and the committee was
instructed to do more research in the community before presenting again for the 2017
budget.
If you did not see the story, check Smoke
Signals’ online archives. It is an excellent review of the committee’s research.
History
Anyone who reads my column knows I
support the local farm/food movement. After visiting the internationally recognized
Serenbe Farms community south of Atlanta
a few years ago and being amazed by its presentation, I was delighted when Big Canoe
developers announced a farm would be part
of the Potts Mountain neighborhood for Big
Canoe. The crisis of 2008 hit and that part of
our development has been delayed. So I am
delighted our POA board is considering the
amenity. I believe it could help mobilize us
into the next era of our evolution.
Google it!
Thinking I had kept up with this local
food movement, I was shocked this week
when I Googled this new word: agrihood. It
is a tidal wave! There are articles in “Forbes”,
“Bloomberg”, “Christian Science Monitor”,
“New York Times”, ABC News, “Chicago
Sun-Times” and many others. They report
hundreds of projects from coast to coast.
One of the newest projects is Harvest, a
$1 billion urban agrarian community being
built by one of H. Ross Perot, Jr.’s developments in Texas. He hired the farmer before
he began construction of the houses.
Why?
Why are working farms and vegetable
gardens replacing golf courses and granite
countertops as bait for new homebuilders?
“The foodie generation has come of age,”
said Ed McMahon, a resident fellow at the
Urban Land Institute in Washington. Tom
Woliver, the director for planning and development for H. Ross Perot’s development,
Harvest, said, “You need to attract some
common interests, and food brings everyone
together.”
For me, and many of my friends, knowing where our food comes from and how it is
grown are important factors. Is it clean and
is it nutrient-dense? Certainly, cheap food is
not my primary shopping goal.
Internationally, entire countries are
pushing back on the industrial cheap-food
model, one that increasingly seems less secure, especially in a world littered with terrorist threats. Interestingly, from a food-security perspective, I understand Atlanta only
has a three-day food supply on the grocery
shelves. Does that seem like a secure food
system? While many cities, to include Atlanta, have made efforts to work agriculture
back into their planning, when the grocer’s
shelves are empty, things could look bad.
The pushback on the industrial food system model is not only related to security;
it is simply not working in some countries
both economically and socially. My favorite
farming magazine, “Acres USA”, in January
reported an insightful interview with scientist, author, activist Dr. Vandana Shiva who
is leading a movement to restore sovereignty to community farmers in India.
My challenge
I bought 20 copies for Christmas presents of Dr. Michael Gregor’s listed New
York Times Bestseller “How Not to Die” for
Christmas presents. The key message from
the 412 pages of narrative and the 133 pages
of scientific reference notes is this: If you do
not want to die prematurely, eat a lot more
fruits and vegetables than the average American citizen does.
His personal daily dozen of foods includes three servings of beans and two servings of greens. If everyone in Big Canoe ate
two servings of greens per day, our farmer
would need to produce three tons per day
for us.
Dr. Gregor is not alone in the recommendation for including a lot more fruits
and vegetables in our daily diets. Having
these fruits and vegetables locally grown in
Big Canoe greatly enhances our chances for
putting fresh, clean and nutrient-dense food
on our plates.
In conclusion
If we are committed to a wholesome
lifestyle, which includes eating healthy, we
easily have the market to support this farm.
Being a part of this movement to take control of, at least, a part of our country’s food
supply system is both exciting and prudent.
We will be “locavores” living in an agrihood!
I urge you to support local agriculture
by joining a CSA and/or shopping at area
farmers markets. Also, give your feedback to
Anita Rosen, [email protected], and her team
of researchers.
Happy winter gardening.
CYNTHIA HENDRY
Cynthia Hendry has
lived and gardened in Big
Canoe for 27 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.
28 A
S M O K E
S I G N A L S
|
N E W S
FEBRUARY 2016
Top Listing/Selling Agents in Big Canoe
10 YEARS
RUNNING
Just announced ...
2015
RESALE AGENTS
of the year!
Ryan Moledor
Mike Leonard
706.268.2324 • 678.231.7863 cell
770.561.5483
• Approximately 2 of our listings are sold each month
• Big Canoe Realty Resale Agents Of The Year 4 out of the last 6 years
• Combined 25 years of experience selling and listing
homes and homesites in Big Canoe
UNDER CONTRACT
101 Highland Farms Ct • $249,900
494 Columbine Dr • $199,900
196 Cox Mtn Lane • $700,000
1150 Summit Drive • $675,000
SOLD
154 Choctaw Village • $429,900
132 Cliff Fern • $499,900
2232 Cherokee Trail
274 Wood Poppy Dr • $489,900
SOLD
84 Cliff Fern • $399,900
146 Cherokee Drive
71 Cherokee Drive • $425,000
1608 Quail Cove • $399,900
365 Wedgewood Drive • $399,900
1145 Cherokee Trail • $394,199
104 Morgan Walk • $349,900
291 Woodland Trace • $349,900
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
259 Owls Brow • $325,000
64 The Paddock
208 Lone Wolf
SOLD
SOLD
197 McElroy Mt Drive
326 Woodland Trace • $299,900
SOLD
SOLD
182 Disharoon Drive
58 Goldfinch Point
SOLD
452 Bellflower
78 Ahyoka Knoll • $300,000
2489 Valley View • $180,000
50 Sweet Gum • $299,900
553 Lakewatch Villa
104 Soaring Hawk • $249,000
3672 Wilderness Pkwy • $239,900
SOLD
SOLD
403C Disharoon Ridge
109 Treetopper
HOMESITES SOLD
2350 Yanoo Trace • 3510 Bear Creek Point • 3410 Wildcat Trail
3581 Blazingstar • 859 Sinti Trail • 8237 Cox Mt Dr

News - Smoke Signals

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