TABLE OF CONTENTS - Big Canoe July 2019.pdf · and to this day we have military still sacrificing...

POA News 2Events & Happenings 14Calendar 14Wining & Dining 21Getting Fit & Healthy 26Around the Tees 28Racquets ‘Round the Nets

30

Marina 31Bocce 34Let’s Go Clubbing 35

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Fireworks Lake Sconti

Thursday • July 4 9:30 PM

Family Fun Day Playfield Park

Thursday • July 4 11:00 AM

Fun Run/Walk Wildcat Recreation Area

Saturday • July 6 8:00 AM

Terraces Concert Tyn Tymes

Saturday • July 27 7:00 PM

The July 4th Family Fun Day drew a tremendous crowd of all ages to enjoy food, fun, live entertainment, a classic car show, bouncy houses and a fabulous watermelon eating contest.

Enriching life in the Big Canoe community July 2019

2 | insidethegates.org July 2019

POA News

Jill’s CornerBy Jill Philmon Big Canoe General Manager

There’s something about the Fourth of July that makes me happy and gives me energy. It’s my favorite holiday. Maybe it’s my commit-ment to veterans that stir my heartstrings. Two of my uncles, my father-in-law and father served in WWII and my husband was a Marine.

I can relate to the sacri-fices our veterans and their families go through. One of my uncles did not return home. People take freedom for granted sometimes. Our forefathers lost their lives and fought for our freedom and to this day we have military still sacrificing for that freedom. Fireworks give me goosebumps and patriotic music will tear me up. The Fourth of July is a fun time with picnics, watermelon eating contest, fun on the boat and good times with family and friends. However, let’s not forget why we are celebrating!

On a comical note, I once had a chef from England. He was always so grumpy on the Fourth of July and I was al-ways so happy. I asked him one day why he was so grumpy on this holiday. He replied, “We lost!”

We have so much going on in Big Canoe for this year’s celebration. We are starting with the Dog Parade at 8:30 a.m. followed by the Bike Parade, all at the Wildcat rec-reation area. Please join us on Playfield Park for Family Fun Day from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with the food trailer, bouncy houses and water slides, car show, Fourth of July t-shirts and so much more! We will have Calypso music served up with grilled ‘burgers, hot dogs and chicken at the Swim Club at Lake Disharoon. If you play golf, pickleball or tennis, be part of the special play for that day.

The food trailer has been a great success both at the Canoe Lodge and The Terraces. Friday night music at the Lodge is bringing in a large crowd of Property Owners enjoying the outdoor weather, beach view, food truck and visiting with their neighbors. Additionally, The Clubhouse has picked up on Friday evening for those who prefer a qui-eter evening of dining, yet have the option to enjoy dancing

and music after a quiet dinner. Simply jump on the shuttle at The Clubhouse and it will take you to Canoe Lodge.

Big Canoe is a special place and I am thankful to be part of this community. We have our ups and downs and don’t always agree, but at the end of the day I think we are all neighbors and want the same thing: we want Big Canoe to be sustainable and be here for a long time.

Have a wonderful holiday and a great month of July!

Hey newcomers, come learn all about Big Canoe Newcomers’ Orientation set for Saturday, July 13

Information submitted by Palmer Howard

Hey newcomers, we know there are plenty of chores to keep your Saturday mornings busy, but can we tempt you away with hot coffee, mimosas, and savory and sweet breakfast nibbles for just one Saturday? Yeah, we thought so.

To accommodate those who can’t make it to the after-noon Newcomers’ Orientation sessions, the POA is holding occasional Saturday morning orientations so everybody new to Big Canoe can learn the hot skinny about life in our mountain community.

The next Saturday session will be Saturday, July 13 at 9:00 a.m. at The Clubhouse. Breakfast will be served first with the orientation starting at 9:30 a.m.

What will newcomers learn on this July summer morn-ing? First, a history of Big Canoe will be offered with some surprising facts thrown out. Then you’ll meet the lead staff who will give an overview of what they do; questions are invited.

Newcomers will learn about the quirks of mountain liv-ing and also about the many and varied activities offered to keep life interesting.

It’s well worth leaving a morning of weed pulling, scraping paint or washing the deck to learn about your new home. If you’re new and haven’t yet received an official invitation, contact Latrelle Love at [email protected] and she’ll welcome you to a place at the table.

If you can’t make it to the July session, plan to join the Newcomers’ Orientations on Thursday, September 5 or Thursday, November 7.

Welcome to Big Canoe, your new home in the moun-tains!

Jill Philmon, General Manager, Big Canoe POA

insidethegates.org | 3July 2019

10586 Big Canoe, Jasper, GA 30143Phone: (706) 268-3346Fax: (706) 268-3765Websites: www.bigcanoepoa.org www.insidethegates.orgemail: [email protected]: [email protected] Manager: Tim MoranArticles written and edited by Alice EachusOfficial publication of the Big Canoe POA© 2019 Big Canoe Property Owners Association

LBC invites you to a Wine and Cheese Reception

Are you interested in learning more about the place you call home? Or, maybe you’re toying with the idea of becom-ing connected with volunteering, or even helping govern Big Canoe.

A good place to start your journey of service is by joining Leadership Big Canoe (LBC). To learn more about this oppor-tunity, make plans to attend a compli-mentary Wine and Cheese Reception on Wednesday, July 10 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at The Clubhouse. Plans for the 2019-2020 Leadership Big Canoe class will be shared.

The history of Big Canoe might surprise you, especially the name that almost was chosen! Not only will LBC class-mates learn about how our community operates, but will find out how we interact with the communities around us. It’s a real behind-the-scenes look.

For more information, contact Diane LaCharite at [email protected] or (678) 463-4353.

Come share an afternoon of information and wine!

POA News

From the POA PresidentBig Canoe abounds with outdoor summer fun

As we approach the lazy, hazy days of summer, I am reminded of all the fun things to enjoy at Big Canoe with family and friends. While the warm weather may try to drive us indoors, getting up and out is the way to appre-ciate the joys of summer.

Big Canoe has been designed for the outdoors. Whether enjoying the tranquility of nature on our more than 20 miles of hiking trails or chasing golf balls around our 27 holes of mountain golf, you can get a workout. Likewise, if you are in good shape, or would like to be, enjoy our lighted tennis and pickleball courts or our fully equipped Well-ness Center.

There are also opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in leisure. Enjoy Lake Petit for fishing or cruising on one of our available pontoon boats or relax beside our two swim facilities on Lake Disharoon and at the Wildcat Recreation Area. Become a bocce ball champ at our under construction bocce complex at Wildcat. Top it off with a great meal and your favorite beverage in our multiple dining facilities in our Clubhouse.

The July 4th holiday is always a special time at Big Canoe. Start the day with the annual Dog Parade in the Wildcat area followed by the Kids’ Bike Parade. During the middle of the day, celebrate the holiday with family and friends at Playfield Park below the Lake Petit dam with live music, holiday food favorites served from our food trailer and everything else from a classic car show to games for the kids.

The highlight of July 4th for me at Big Canoe is our fireworks display when darkness arrives over Lake Sconti. It’s spectacular! Reminds me of the great fireworks shows at Lenox Square in Atlanta.

The summer is a time to create great memories at Big Canoe. I hope you will.

Jay Goldman, President, Big Canoe POA


POA News

Meet the smiling interns we welcomed this summerInformation submitted by Adriana Nogareda

The POA has instituted a Summer Intern Program and we’re pleased to enjoy the services of five hardworking, friendly and smart students.

Alongside Jill Philmon, Adriana Nogareda, POA Hu-man Resources Manager, spent time this spring recruiting interns at the Club Managers of America Association as well as recruiting on college campuses.

Internship is a paid position with low-cost room and board as well as a few perks to sweeten the pot.

Skylar Miller, a senior at the University of Georgia, is working with the Food & Beverage management team. Sky-lar has been managing inventory, completing closing sales reports and meeting with suppliers.

Yuqi Wang is from China. She is currently a junior in the University of South Carolina’s hospitality program. She is doing a rotational internship, including being a Club-house hostess, food runner and stints at the Swim Club. Wine will be her expertise area as she has shown the most interest in learning connoisseur skills.

Firas AlSadiq is from Saudi Arabia and attends Meth-odist University, majoring in business administration with concentration in club and resort management.

Calista Odum is from Talking Rock and attends the University of North Georgia majoring in communications, focusing on organizational leadership and graphic design. She’s worked closely with Programs and Events and imple-mented a new platform to inform residents about upcoming events.

Construction dumpsters aren’t for your garbageBy Treena Parish

Every new house under construction and large renova-tion project in Big Canoe must have a dumpster available. These dumpsters are for the sole purpose of getting rid of construction debris, nothing else.

Unfortunately, there have been many instances of house-hold garbage ending up in these desig-nated dumpsters. This household garbage attracts local critters with the promise of an easy meal. As we learned from the last year’s issues concern-ing bears, once a bear finds a yummy snack in one place, he will try to scavenge similar places thinking he will get lucky there as well.

Builders/contractors have been encouraged to place cameras onsite to help deter unauthorized use of their dumpsters. If a builder gets fined and can prove who the guilty party is, the POA will fine that person and refund the builder.

Big Canoe has a very user-friendly garbage disposal area located at the North Gate. Please let friends, guests and neighbors know that while it may seem harmless to throw a bag in the nearest dumpster, it is not in the best interest of our animals or the contractors who have to clean up the mess.

If you have questions about this, please call the Archi-tectural and Environmental Control Department at (706) 268-3394 or send an email to Treena Parish, AECD Man-ager, at [email protected].

Andrea Layne is a graduate of Pickens High School and will be attending Chattahoochee Technical College to start her degree with core classes. She is currently managing the Swim Club and will transfer after the season to The Club-house.

Please join us in welcoming our interns.


Public Works puts a glorious sparkle in the night skyInformation submitted by Toby Jones

The crowning end to America’s birthday party on the Fourth of July is always a dazzling display of fireworks. Sure, anybody can buy sparklers, smoke bombs and even a lava spewing fountain to celebrate on the back deck, but for a real eye-popping show, come experience what Public Works offers on the banks of Lake Sconti.

Toby Jones, Manager of Public Works, has been Big Canoe’s fire lighter for the past 33 years, but this year Toby will take his first break ever since his grand-daughter is playing in the National Soft-ball Tournament in Colorado that week and we all know grandkids trump even the most excit-ing pyro shoot.

Toby might not be at Big Canoe’s really big show this year, but he’s done much planning before the first flare can be flamed. There are very strict guidelines to follow put in place by ATF&E, which stands for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. These guidelines were the result of the 9/11 attack on America. Nobody messes with the ATF&E. Any inspection (and the Feds definitely come to Big Canoe) that uncovers even a slight issue with fireworks, results in a summons to the big ATF&E office in Atlanta, not a pleasant experience.

Public Works takes possession of the fireworks a week before the Fourth and they are put in “lock down” in a building that can only be entered by approved fireworks personnel. A day or so before the shoot, fireworks are unpacked, fuses prepped for shooting, and then repacked in plastic totes.

Unless there are thunderstorms which create their own fireworks, the shoot is always held on the evening of July 4. If bad weather stops the party, it happens the next night.

All approved personnel take the fireworks out of lock down and transport them to the waiting pontoon boats on Lake Sconti. Fireworks were once set off at Lake Petit, but the American Eagle nursery brought the shoot to Lake Sconti where it will remain. Mama Eagle doesn’t want her babies disturbed and we don’t either.

There are six boxed units that will be prepped for shooting this year. One box is designated for the opening of the show, four are lit at intervals mid-show, and the final box is lit to end the shoot. Each box is full of individual mortars ranging in size from 1”x100 shots to a box of 2”x 25 shots for the grand finale. There are a total of 80 pounds of explosives so pretty dangerous working conditions threaten for the 30-minute show. Fortunately, our guys have stayed unscathed.

This year there will be two pontoons ready to launch. The pontoons communicate using flashlight signals. It’s quite a coordinated dance!

Sit back and enjoy the excitement fireworks always bring, no matter what your age. Happy Birthday, America, we’re lighting some fancy candles just for you!

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Changes to the DwellingLIVE guest list recently made Information submitted by Public Safety

Big Canoe’s two gates welcome a parade of traffic every single day. Along with residents come their guests, service providers, contractors and all who have permission to enter our private community.

Public Safety instigated a new policy regarding Perma-nent Guests (PERM) recently. Property Owners are now al-lowed five names to be added to their Admit DwellingLIVE Permanent list. These names can include an entire family of drivers under one heading.

There are three gate passes acceptable for admittance through the gates. All guests or service providers without a transponder must be issued a printed pass upon entering the gates.

The three types of passes are: Temporary passes restricted to a particular day or days; Permanent (PERM) passes issued to up to five persons who are allowed to enter 24/7 and are issued a 30-day pass. PERM passes are usually used for relatives and friends; Service/Contractor passes which have restricted days and hours with no entry on Sun-day and specific holidays. Many Service/Contractors must be authorized for entry by the Property Owner, usually with a phone call to the gate.

Until May 6, there were 18,000 names in the Dwell-ingLIVE data base. Many of the names were from years past and no longer effective or appropriate. Thus, a purging

POA News

was needed.The Big Canoe Department of Public Safety began

purging PERM guests systematically with Property Owner verification on Monday, May 6 to reduce the number to a maximum of five (5) per lot.

It is inadvisable to list a Service/Contractor as a per-manent guest on your property because that classification permits 24/7 access. Keep in mind a Property Owner is re-sponsible for any guest or company they authorize for entry under their lot number.

When you receive notice from Public Safety that your PERM list is being reviewed, log on to bigcanoeguest.com and update your list to include no more than five permanent guests. Return this information on or before Friday, July 15 by emailing the list to [email protected], faxing it to (706) 268-1730, dropping it off at either the Main or North Gate, or mailing your list to Big Canoe POA Depart-ment of Public Safety, 10586 Big Canoe, Jasper, GA 30143.

In lieu of a printed guest pass, Property Owners may authorize relatives and friends to purchase a transponder for $25.00. An application for a transponder is required and must have a signed authorization by the Property Owner.

Purging the PERM data base will do much to create a safer community. Please do your part.

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Breathing in and out isn’t always as easy as it should beInformation submitted by Public Safety

With lightning strikes becoming more frequent in the summertime, it’s good to be prepared when the lights go out. We all know about basic preparations, but what if the very air you breathe is cut off when the power is?

For those who depend on in-home oxygen machines for help, it’s important to keep them as fully charged as possible if that’s an option so the juice doesn’t run out. But, we’re only human, so sometimes the charge runs low. Some units can only be plugged in to a source of electricity.

Many opt to purchase home generators that kick in when needed. That solves the problem up front and immediately. Others have portable machines as a back-up, but again, they should be kept fully charged.

If those choices aren’t available, the Big Canoe Fire Sta-tion is the go-to place if a plug-in is necessary. They have a big generator that roars into action when the lights flicker and stays on until the storm crisis is over.

It’s always good to have friends to call for help; better yet, spread those friends throughout the community since some neighborhoods remain unscathed in a bad storm. Friends can be a lifeline.

Big Canoe is a helping, caring place to live so nobody should feel alone when scary things happen. Help is out there, just take the hand.

‘Leaves of three, let them be’With miles of hiking trails and hundreds of foot push-

ers who love the great outdoors, a few cases of poison ivy, oak and even sumac will inevitably happen to make life miserable for those who succumb to the ravages of this woodland plant. But, don’t be fooled, poison ivy can be discovered in your own back yard; there are no boundaries to keep crawling, creeping vines out. If you notice you’re developing itchy skin, red-ness, hives, swelling, or an outbreak of blisters, you just may have encountered trouble. Mike Trimble points out what to look for when strolling in the woods. The best treatment suggested is Zanfel, a prod-uct that reacts with the irritating urushiol oil in the ivy and neutralizes it. It’s available at CVS if you need a quick fix, or can be ordered from Amazon if you’re one of those who plans ahead. (Photo by Steve Papke)

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Gasp, asp! What to do if you’re bitten by a snakeInformation submitted by Ricky Jordan

There’s an old proverb that says, “He who has been bitten by a snake, fears a piece of string.” Probably fears spaghetti noodles, coiled garden hoses and the sound made by a baby’s rattle too.

This summer there’s been a lot of talk about snake bites in Georgia and what to do if the fangs getcha. We have three major venomous snakes around these parts - copper-heads, rattlesnakes and water moccasins. But be happy we also have many non-poisonous snakes that are beneficial since they eat bugs, rats and even attack their poisonous cousins.

It’s important to know what local pit vipers look like. Google each and read a description and see a photo. Be pre-pared and know what to look for. Snakes are everywhere. They’re hard to see sometimes, but they’re out there. Most are not aggressive, but keep in mind the warning, “Don’t Tread on Me.”

After a snakebite, the best thing to do is to keep the

victim calm and prepare them for transport to the nearest Emergency Room for treatment. It’s always best to call 911 for the fastest transport and help.

Piedmont Mountainside Hospital keeps a supply of anti-venom on hand which is effective against the bites of all our poisonous snakes. It’s called Crofab Anti-Venom. Area EMS offices don’t keep a supply on-hand because of its short shelf life, storage temperature issues and the substantial cost. One vial of Crofab costs between $1,500.00 - $2,200.00 and often up to 25 vials are needed. Blood samples should be evaluated prior to administration as the venom which contains hemotoxins can cause blood clotting issues.

The good news is, in many cases, anti-venom is not needed as the patients are simply monitored. This is why it’s important to have snakebites evaluated by a profession-al. It’s nothing to mess with.

Venomous snakes native to our area can also produce a dry bite when no venom is injected. Even so, all bites must be medically evaluated as often there can be long-term ef-fects, much like bee stings create, or violent allergic reac-tions.

Emergency Room doctors discourage the use of snake-bite kits which have somebody cut the area of the bite and attempt to suck the venom out. Who would want to do that anyway? The standard of care is to keep the extremity (if that’s where the bite is) still, keep the victim calm and rush to the Emergency Room for medical evaluation. There is no need for ice or tourniquets, just the need for speed.

Stay safe out there, but no need to jump every time a leaf rustles. Most snakes are your garden friends, although some of us don’t trust any creature that doesn’t have shoulders!

POA News


Public Safety welcomes seven new Support VolunteersBy Ricky Jordan

It’s an exciting time in Big Canoe! You may have noticed much more activity at the Fire Station on Thursday nights and it’s all about the total support for our great com-munity.

We welcome seven new Support Volunteers into the Big Canoe Fire Department. You may have seen them work-ing diligently every Thursday at the Fire Station in their new red uniforms, otherwise known as fire gear.

The new volun-teers have been im-mersed in an intense nine-week Support Role Training Class, learning everything from Fire Depart-ment Organization and Emergency Communication to Scene Safety and Emergency Medical Protocols.

Lt. Chip Rice of the department said it best describing the first new class in our new fire house, “It’s exciting to see such a diverse and hungry group of Big Canoe home-owners eager to learn and support the community.”

Many thanks to the outstanding Big Canoe Fire Depart-ment instructors who led our first class of Support Role graduates - Chief Ricky Jordan, Lt. Chip Rice, Lt. Lincoln Hett, Paramedics Poole, Young and Tilelli, Firefighters Long, Rhinehart, and Holaway.

When you see the new team members at July events in Big Canoe, stop and give them a word of thanks. They deserve it!

Recycling can be as easy as pushing a buttonInformation submitted by Gretchen Hudock

Do you just stop, hop and heave when you arrive at the North Gate trash facility? There are signs to help figure out which chute to use when getting rid of the week’s trash. Please read them.

There’s a main chute for recyclables, but confusion often reigns with much to remember about what goes where. In that des-ignated chute, only paper, clean #1 and #2 plastic, and clean steel such as tin cans should be deposited. No plastic bags!

If that’s too confusing, remember this slogan, “When in doubt, toss it out.” That means put ques-tionable items in the garbage chute.

To make recycling simple, easy and effec-tive when you’re not sure what goes where, there are three things you can do at our trash facility that will help a lot.• First, throw all beverage cans in the designated separate

bin at the end of the chute line-up. This includes alu-minum soda and beer cans, but not tin cans. Big Canoe makes money from collecting these cans.

• Secondly, use the cardboard trash chute for clean, bro-ken down boxes. No greasy pizza boxes! If you haven’t broken down your boxes at home, stomp them down with your feet. That works well and folks will think you’re dancing.

• Finally, when you throw your trash into the chutes, press the green button to start the machinery gobbling up the goods. This is the best way to avoid clogging the system, which often results in a massive pile-up and closes down the whole process. Push that Easy Button!Recycling can be made easy by just following these

three suggestions. One thought that might spur you into ac-tion - Save the planet, it’s the only one with chocolate.

In their bright red uniforms, the team of Support Volunteers is easy to spot. (Photo by Eric Lindblom)

Looks like the crew is ready to go into class and learn about firefighting techniques in Big Canoe. (Photo by Eric Lindblom)

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It was a doozy of a weekend double header drenchInformation submitted by Savannah Singletary

You know how it goes some days. The weather forecast calls for stormy weather, but the skies are bright azure blue all day long. That can lead to compla-cency. But, don’t settle back in your easy chair so fast.

The weekend weather of June 21 and 22 pitched a powerful double header at our com-munity. A surpris-ingly strong storm front hit just before midnight on Fri-day, followed by a whammy the very next night.

With all the rain falling weeks before, the ground was damp, if not saturated in some areas where the sun rarely shines. With heavy winds clocked at some high mountain homes at 70 mph, trees that witnessed decades of life toppled like Paul Bunyan had a go at them.

Our Public Safety Department is always on alert 24/7, and when calls started coming in about big trees falling across roads, off the team rushed to supervise efforts to control the damage.

A call was made to Public Works and that department’s staff rushed back to the job they’d left just hours before. A team effort for sure.

Once the worst was over, much of Big Canoe looked like a war zone. Not only were tall trees lying like pick-up sticks all over the place, but thousands of limbs and branch-es covered roadways too.

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Since Saturday night, June 22, Public Works had their chainsaws and road machines roaring to clean up the mess. It’s not an easy job and will be ongoing for weeks.

If you have fallen trees on your property that look like they might topple, best to call a tree trimming company to evaluate your situation. Nobody wants to call “Timber” when a tree closes in on their rooftop.

Thanks to our guys who braved the storm to keep us safe and secure. Both Public Safety and Public Works go the extra mile to protect our properties. Kudos to the crews for a job well done.

Public Works needed a road machine to pick up cut logs. They’re way too heavy to handle, even for our tough guys. (Photo by Steve Papke)

That’s one humungous root ball! Not only did the Papkes have trees falling, but they now can claim one of the biggest root balls in Big Canoe. (Photo by Pat Papke)

Public Safety used plenty of cones and tape to mark danger zones. (Photo by Steve Papke)


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Big Canoe has its own tribe of eager and willing trailblazers

Big Canoe covers more than 7,000 acres, and around 30 percent of those acres are preserved as usable green space, that means a lot of hiking trails. We boast more than 20 miles of trails classified from easy to difficult. Along the way, hikers marvel at natural waterfalls, babbling brooks and enough flora and fauna to write home about. The lush scenery is magnificent in all seasons, even when winter branches arch to the sky with skeleton fingers.

There’s a “Trails Corner” at the Wellness Center with loads of helpful information about our nature walkways. Stop by to learn about all that’s offered in our welcoming woods.

Trails are open from dawn until dusk. Dogs are invited to share the adventure but must be restrained and con-trolled at all times while on the hiking trails.

If you think trails don’t need attention and grooming, you’d be wrong. Clearing woods, fixing bridges, building steps, hacking out new trails and much more are needed to provide a stellar stroll in nature.

There’s a team of men and women who keep our trails safe and pristine and they’re called the Big Canoe Trails

Committee. They meet frequently to make plans for what-ever might be needed. It can be a tough and dirty job, but committee members love to work in the great outdoors and play the role of Paul Bunyan from time to time.

A couple times a year, the gang cleans up and throws a party or picnic. Recently they enjoyed time together at their annual spring picnic at Wildcat Pavilion. We salute this band of builders and thank them for keeping the trails a point of pride in our community.

Some on the Trails Committee might be unrecognizable when not in dirty duds. It’s a good thing name tags were slapped on shirts so everybody knew who was who. (Photo by Steve Papke)

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Vista prune your property before rates increaseBy Katie Wercholuk

Vista pruning provides an increased and improved view from your home while still maintaining privacy. This is done by creating windows of view through the trees and keeping the canopy intact as much as possible.

As all vista pruning requires supervision even if Prop-erty Owners only want to open up small areas, now is the time to take advantage of the lower rate before it increas-es. Due to costs, the vista pruning supervi-sor fee is increasing from $35.00 per hour to $50.00 per hour effective Thursday, August 1.

Contact your preferred tree service company to get on their schedule, and then have the company contact Treena Parish at Big Canoe’s Ar-chitectural and Environmental Department (AECD) to get your work on the vista pruning supervisor’s schedule.

When the big day arrives, the supervisor will stay on-site and document all cutting activity. The owner and tree service will both sign off on the documentation. If you have questions about AECD guidelines, email Treena at [email protected].

List of tree service companies:• Appalachia Tree Service (706) 669-3858• Arbortek Tree Experts (770) 894-2211 (Greg Bradford)• Bledsoe Tree Service (678) 232-8981• Mullins Tree Service (706) 635-2561• Rymer’s Tree Service (706) 248-2771• Sebastian Gonzales (706) 669-2106• Superior Arbor Mgmt (770) 294-1012 (Tim Costly)• Tradition Tree Service 678) 848-1751

Note: This list is for informational purposes only. The Big Canoe POA does not have a preferred list of contractors.

What to do with all those fallen trees and branches?By Treena Parish

As hurricane season has officially arrived (June 1 - November 30), it’s a good time for a refresher on Big Canoe Property Owner responsibilities regarding fallen trees per our Rules and Regulations.

To simplify, you have to be concerned with the area 75 feet from the edge of every road along your property. All leaning (root-sprung or partially down and/or hung in other trees) and fallen (on the ground) trees, along with branch-es, will need to be cut so they are in full contact with the ground, moved outside of the 75 feet cor-ridor, or removed.

Root balls should be stood back in their holes, camouflaged with land-scaping, moved outside of the 75 feet corridor or removed. Dead trees can remain in place as long as they pose no real threat of falling.

Note, this rule does not require the removal of any-thing. If you want to cut up debris and leave it lying on the ground, you can. If you want to tidy up by removing all downed limbs/trees, you can do that too.

If you have questions about the guidelines, contact Treena Parish at (706) 268-3394 or [email protected].

Whoa, looks like Steve Papke has a little work cut out for him! (Photo by Pat Papke)


Events & Happenings

Parade your colors at the 6th Annual 5K Run/Walk

Get those legs pumping, folks! The 6th Annual 5K Fun Run/Color Run/Walk is almost here - that’s a mouthful for sure!

Runners and walkers will meet at the Wildcat Rec-reation Area on Saturday, July 6 at 8:00 a.m. to flex their muscles and claim bragging rights for the entire next year.

Once again, at the end of the course, par-ticipants can show their colors by running through a spray of powdered hues to claim the day’s victory. And, mom, it’s all wash-able. By the way, spray colors look best on a white T-shirt.

Registration is $10.00 for ages 10 and older, just $5.00 for children nine and under.

Check-in and T-shirt pick-up is at the Wildcat Pavilion. The run takes place on the Wildcat trails and is sponsored by Northside Hospital. You know those folks will take good care of you!

Register by picking up a form at the Wellness Center, Canoe Lodge or by filling out the online form on the POA website, bigcanoepoa.org.

For more information, contact Teri Sawyer at [email protected].

Conquering the Appalachian Trail, one step at a time

The Dynamic Seven of Carol Corbitt, Karen Steinberg, Kitty Murphy, Dawn Polson, Anita Hoskins, Sharon Miller and Barb Knysz began a journey hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, an 80-mile rough terrain adventure. They hike one day each week for eight weeks with a final hike to Bly’s Gap in mid-August.

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Carolyn Littell 706.268.2354/Direct

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Email: [email protected]

I am a 19-year resident of Big Canoe and passionate about the place I call home.


July 2019Sunday Monday TueSday WedneSday ThurSday Friday SaTurday

1Clubhouse Closed • Healthy Walkers• AWOL at the Marina• Men’s Bridge at Swim

Club• Canasta at Canoe

Lodge• Monday Night Bridge

at Canoe Lodge

2 • Mah Jongg at Canoe

Lodge• Trivia Night

3 • Coffee Klatch at

Village Station• Knit Togethers• Girls Night Out

4 • Independence Day

Golf• Fourth of July Dog

Parade• Fourth of July Bike

Parade• Family Fun Day• Clubhouse Holiday

Buffet• Fireworks at Lake

Sconti

5 • Duplicate Bridge• Lit Lunch• Sea and Soul Food

Buffet• Pioneer Chicken

Stand Band entertaining at the Canoe Lodge

6 • Fourth of July Fun

Run/Walk at Wildcat• Scrapbooking Club• BCAR Open House• Canoe Lodge

featuring Pioneer Chicken Stand Band

• Terraces Concert featuring GlowBand

7 • Sunday Brunch

8Clubhouse Closed • Healthy Walkers• AWOL• Men’s Bridge at Swim



at Canoe Lodge


Lodge• Grief Support Group• Trivia Night


Village Station • Knit Togethers• LBC Cheese & Wine

Reception• Little Bridge Group• North Georgia

Vets Meeting and Luncheon

• Outdoor Movie Night• Bear Society Karaoke

Night

11 • Wine and Crime Book

Club• POA Board Work

Session• Acoustic Showcase• Prime Rib Night• Poker Night

12 • Healthy Walkers• Duplicate Bridge• Sea amd Soul Food

Buffet• Sock Monkey

entertaining on the Veranda

13 • MGA Member-

Guest Newcomers’ Orientation

• Expert Series with Lou Reiter

• BCAR Open House

14 • Sunday Brunch

15 Clubhouse Closed• Healthy Walkers• AWOL• Men’s Bridge at Swim



at Canoe Lodge


Lodge• Trivia Night• Steel Magnolias


Village Station• Knit Togethers• Marathon Bridge• WGA Tri-Member

Tournament• Outdoor Movie Night

18 • POA Board Work

Session• Poker Night• Prime Rib Night

19 • Healthy Walkers• Duplicate Bridge• Players’ Member-

Guest Tournament• Twilight Tennis &

Pickleball Mixer• Sea and Soul Food

Buffet• Plummers’ Drop-in

Wine & Cheese

20 • BCAR Open House• Town Hall Meeting at

the Big Canoe Chapel

21 • Sunday Brunch

22Clubhouse Closed• Healthy Walkers• AWOL• Men’s Bridge at Swim



at Canoe Lodge


Lodge• Trivia Night


Village Station• Knit Togethers• Travel Club• Outdoor Movie Night

25 • SYAH Game Night• WGA – 9 & Wine• Prime Rib Night• Poker Night

26 • Healthy Walkers• Duplicate Bridge• Equestrian

Neighborhood Luncheon

• Sea and Soul Food Buffet

• Billy Gant Band entertaining on the Veranda

27 • MGA Summer

Member-Member• BCAR Open House• Terraces Concert

featuring Tyn Tymes

28 • Sunday Brunch• MGA Summer

Member-Member

29 Clubhouse Closed • GSGA


Lodge• GSGA• Trivia Night


Village Station• Knit Togethers• Community Dinner for

Operation Christmas Child

• Outdoor Movie Night

Note: A full calendar of all Big Canoe Events can be viewed at bigcanoepoa.org. Property Owners must log in to view the calendar.

Events & Happenings


Events & Happenings

Bears rock karaoke, won’t you sing along?Information submitted by Bob Mackey and Steve Papke

C’mon, don’t be shy! You know you want to get up in front of your friends and sing karaoke. Sure you do! It’s fun for all, including wannabe warblers.

The Bear Society will give everybody a chance at stardom on Wednesday, July 10 at 5:30 p.m. at either the Canoe Lodge or on the Veranda. Place to be announced.

So, what happens on this musical night of stars? There’s usually a lot of friendly encouraging, otherwise known as “egging on” to get folks to grab the mic. Folks pick their own songs from a collection taken straight from YouTube played by a DJ. If you don’t want to sing solo, there’s always back-up until social lubrication kicks in.

There will be food and drinks aplenty on this Thursday night so shake your Bear booty and come join the party. Everybody is welcome.

It was a night to celebrate Kentucky bourbonPhotos by Steve Papke

The Kentucky Derby was a month past, but the Bear Society felt homage should be paid to the Bluegrass State anyway. What better way to toast Kentucky than with a full fledged bourbon tasting?

On a balmy night in June, the Veranda patio was full of folks sipping the amber spirit the state made famous. The five choices for tasting were accompanied with hearty fare fit for an evening picnic. Branded ‘burger buns made their debut as Chef Hector and his talented staff served the crowd in fine style.

Maybe Scotch, tequila, or a selection of aperitifs will be tasted next. Make your preference known!

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Events & Happenings

Joyce Chura Memorial Blood Drive set for July 12

It’s a good thing July brings sleeveless shirts and tees. That saves a lot of time when donating blood at Big Canoe’s semi-annual Joyce Chura Memorial Blood Drive. Why, I bet seven seconds are saved by not having to roll up sleeves of heavy winter sweaters.

For those who might not have enjoyed knowing Joyce Chura, she was the tiny dynamo that helped bring Big Canoe folks out to give the gift of life. Joyce passed away a few years ago, but her lov-ing spirit and boundless energy keep the Blood Drive going twice a year. Of course, promises of cookies donated by the Bear Society is a strong driving force too.

Downstairs at the Broyles Center in McCormick Hall (Big Canoe Chapel) will be the place to donate blood on Friday, July 12 from 8:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The drive is sponsored by the American Red Cross and the Big Canoe POA.

Appointments are encouraged so schedules can be set, but walk-ins are welcome too. To make your appointment, contact Cheryl Mahan of the American Red Cross at (706) 224-6610.

Many thanks to the Bear Society for helping set-up and take-down the equipment needed for this day of life saving giving. And, thanks for the cookies too.

Race around the buoys for a year’s bragging rightsFourth Annual Cardboard Boat Race sails August 3

Got your supply of cardboard, duct tape, paint and glue ready to begin building your unsinkable (hopefully) craft? It’s countdown time for the Fourth Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta which will set to sea on Saturday, August 3 at exactly noon.

Only card-board, glue, tape and paint can be used to construct your boat which will be put to the test on Lake Sconti behind Canoe Lodge. Google and YouTube have a wealth of helpful hints, tips and designs avail-able.

The boat must hold two to four crew members and race for 200 me-ters for the fastest time. Last year, spectators were surprised when a trimaran entered the race, quite creative for sure.

The Cardboard Boat Regatta is always a colorful, spir-ited time for all. Families are welcome to make a team, as well as Big Canoe clubs and organizations. Keep in mind, no child under the age of eight can participate, but if there’s demand, a Senior Division could be created for ancient mariners.

Along with the speed prize, boats and teams will be judged on Most Creative Boat, Best Sunken Ship, People’s Choice and the Spirit award. When planning your boat, think outside the box and expand your imagination.

Registration forms are available on the POA website, bigcanoepoa.org or can be picked up at Canoe Lodge.

Contact Teri Sawyer at [email protected] for more information. By the way, Teri does not take bribes.


Lou is currently a police consultant. He offers three separate professional services to the law enforcement com-munity. He also provides litigation consultation to legal firms involved in police civil actions. Since 1983, Lou has been retained in over 1,100 such cases in nearly every state plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

And as if that isn’t enough to keep him busy, Lou has been published throughout his professional career. He was one of the principle researchers and authors of the 1973 Police Task Force Report of the National Advisory Commission on Criminal Standards and Goals, where he authored the chapters on Internal Discipline, Training and Management-Employee Relations. In 2013, Lou published his first fictional novel about a police consultant and cases of police misconduct: Broken Badges: Cases from Police Internal Affairs Files. The second in this series was pub-lished in 2015, Shattered Badges: More Cases from Police Internal Affairs Files.

Please make plans to join us for this most timely and relevant discussion. It will be held on Saturday, July 13 at 11:00 a.m. at Canoe Lodge. The program is free, however be sure to register at www.bigcanoepoa.org or call Dot Grogan at (706) 268-2420. Hurry, space is limited!

Events & Happenings

Can America’s police departments survive; should they?Learn the answer at the July 13 Expert Series

By Rhonda Stock

Will your local police department survive? Or can the current police service model in America last? (It ain’t May-berry anymore… or should it be?)

The Knowledge Series is pleased to announce the Saturday, July 13 Expert Series program, “Will your local police department sur-vive?” featuring Big Canoe resident Lou Reiter.

Lou was a member of the Los Angeles Police Department from 1961 to 1981. Dur-ing that tenure he had 22 different as-signments and rose through the ranks to retire as Deputy Chief of Police.

During the session, Lou will explore thought-provoking issues regarding the police services that citizens currently receive across our country. There are 12,000 local police departments in the U.S. and nearly 50 percent of them employ 10 or fewer cops.

Given budget pressures faced by most local municipal governments today, a fair question is whether we can even afford local police services. And if not, what alternative strategies have and should be considered? Can we hire enough qualified people to become local policemen and women? Lou will also touch on what might be wrong with our current police service model, and what lessons have been learned from the 2014 Ferguson incident.

Lou Reiter retired as the Deputy Chief of Police of Los Angeles and will be the guest speaker at the July 13 Expert Series.

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Events & Happenings

Fourth of July Family Fun Day is sure to bring smiles

Families, friends and folks can find all kinds of fun at Playfield Park below Lake Petit dam from 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at Big Canoe’s annual Fourth of July Family Fun Day. This is yet another of our community traditions as we celebrate the birthday of the USA.

There will be bouncy houses, face painting, live music, a classic car show, t-shirts, King of Pops Ice Cream and more. A juicy watermelon eating contest will test your choppers at exactly high noon. Serious contenders might want to bring a bib.

The Clubhouse Food Trailer will be on hand with classic American food, what else? No doubt, luscious fried apple pies will be the stars.

Make this day one for family togetherness to add pages to your memory book. There is something to make every-body smile.

If you have questions about the festivities, contact Teri Sawyer at [email protected] or (706) 268-1115.

Oh, and don’t forget the sunscreen and your camera!

Petit Pete still swims in the grottos of Lake PetitHook a Kid on Fishing cast a fun day for all

Information submitted by Teri Sawyer

The day dawned bright and cheerful - a perfect day for kids to toss a line in Lake Petit and hope to hook that infamous trout named Petit Pete who has avoided capture for many years. When the gigantic Pete is finally snagged, the young angler who catches the monster fish will have lifetime brag-ging rights.

Alas, Petit Pete wasn’t caught, but there’s always next year!

Fun was the catch word of the day, topped with a yummy cookout sponsored by Blossman Gas. Kids and their keepers chowed down, and then played games and climbed on bouncy houses on the Playfield.

The Malooley brothers, Matthew and Andrew, both won most fish caught so that fam-ily wrapped up two of the three prizes. Bobby Bowden won the title of Largest Fish Caught after hauling in a trout weigh-ing 1.5 pounds.

Every kid angler was awarded a fishing medal to wear proudly around their neck.

It was a day full of smiles all around, especially on Petit Pete’s slimy fish face. Blossman Gas lit all the burners to provide a tasty lunch for Big

Canoers. (Photo by Mark Green)

This little guy is a two-fisted fisherman. (Photo by Mark Green)

Scott Parish Plumbing had a new take on potty casting. The kids loved it! (Photo by Mark Green)

The banks of Lake Petit were packed with hopeful young anglers. (Photo by Jeff Hites)


C’mon out to watch Wednesday Night Movies

You oughta be in movies, or at least snag a seat in the front row to watch. Once again the POA Program & Events Committee brings out the silver screen and shows summer outdoor movies on the Wildcat Ac-tivity Field. The stars shine every Wednesday night (excluding July 4th week)around 8:30 p.m.

Bring your chairs and blankets and gather your crew to watch a family-friendly show under night-time skies. The movie is free. Per-sonal coolers and snacks are always welcome.

In case of rain, the movie will be moved to the Wild-cat Pavilion. A POA e-blast announcement will be sent if there’s a change in venue.

So, what’s the line-up? Here’s your ticket to enjoy: • July 10: Ralph Breaks the Internet • July 17: Back to the Future• July 24: The Dog's Way Home• July 31: Dumbo

Grab your friends and neighbors for a night of movie magic under the stars. Summertime movies are the best, especially when they’re free!

The Clubhouse will have its mobile kitchen available at all concerts offering food and beverage.

Check the Terraces website, www.terracesconcerts.com, for ticket information and purchase. You can also buy tickets through the Terraces Alpha Box, Stand Around at Big Canoe Chapel and at the gate box office on concert day.

Contact Shelby Collins at (404) 863-2676 with ques-tions. During the season, call the Concert & Weather Hot-line at (470) 273-6767 for the latest information.

Events & Happenings

Dancing shoes ready? Two Terraces concerts in JulyBy Graham Nicholson

Welcome to the Terraces July concerts. We’re hosting two bands, one to commemorate Independence Day and one to simply celebrate great music.

To help highlight our nation’s July 4 festivities, Glow-Band (formerly GLOW) will appear on our stage for the first time on Saturday, July 6 at 7:00 p.m. They bring their show, Experience the Eagles - Songs that Live Forever, featuring songs from the late ‘60s to the ‘90s.

Robert Taylor, born blind, is responsible for arrangements, in-strumentation and choral direction as its Music Director, while also play-ing the violin and guitar and lending to the vocals. With the help of surgery, he was able to gain his sight at age 12, after developing a keen sense of music. He has performed with Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Jerry Jeff Walker and many others.

On Saturday, July 27, the sounds of Tyn Tymes will float into the night sky. The concert will begin at 7:00 p.m. and features beach and soul music.

This phenomenal 10-member party band has played with numerous headliners and has been the headliner for many events. Although the history of the Tyn Tymes has been amazing, perhaps more amazing is what the band has accomplished in the area of special events and private par-ties. The band has played venues across the country, had a No. 1 single on Northern Soul chart in England and created an impressive fan base of celebrities and friends alike.

Later this season, we will bring the following bands to the Terraces stage on Saturdays:

August 10 – The Kurt Thomas Band (returning as “Most Liked”)

August 31 – The Street Fighting Band (Rolling Stone Tribute Band)

GlowBand will be part of Big Canoe’s Fourth of July celebration on July 6.


Events & Happenings

Squires & Stags won’t be meeting in JulySee you next month!

Don’t bother knocking on The Clubhouse door the morning after the Fourth of July. While Squires & Stags usually meets on the first Friday of every month for a hearty breakfast and inspir-ing speaker, with explosions still ringing in ears from the night before, the breakfast club won’t be banging its gavel.

But, you won’t want to miss the Friday, August 2 meeting when Squires & Stags welcomes Doug Col-lins, U.S. Representative for Georgia’s Ninth Congressional District.

Squires & Stags wishes all Big Canoers a safe and happy Fourth of July.

Everybody loves a Fourth of July red, white and blue parade!Two colorful parades welcome the Fourth in grand style

Pups on parade, tykes on trikes too! Why, it must be the Fourth of July in Big Canoe!

It’s time to pull out the red, white and blue tutu and coax Poochie and friends to dress up for a birthday party. Once the classy canines have their mo-ment in the sun, kids are invited to gussy up their bikes, trikes and wagons and join a patriotic parade too.

Bright and early at 8:30 a.m. on July 4, all dogs in Big Canoe and visiting pups too are invited to strut their stuff round and round the Wildcat basketball court to celebrate our country’s birthday. No need to register your doggie and there’s no fee to march, what can be better than that?

At 9:00 a.m., same location, kids will push and pedal to power as they circle the basketball court on bikes, trikes, wooden horses, or whatever, all decorated to the nines. This is a fantastic time to invite the grandkids up for a visit since much will be happening this holiday to excite and amuse them. That means you won’t have to play Candy Land!

Now’s the time to take a trip to Walmart or Hobby Lob-by and stock up on streamers, balloons, flashers, pinwheels and anything else that’s red, white and blue to decorate four legs or one, two, three or four wheels to cheer America’s birthday.

Big Canoe’s doggie and kiddie parades have become a beloved tradition here and all are invited to come out to the morning party. Cheerleaders are welcome, with or without pups or kids.

Hip-hip hooray for the red, white and blue!

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SnackSChips ............................................................................................................... $1.00 Snacks & Candy Bars ..................................................................................... $2.00

BurgerS, SandwicheS & dogSInclude chips and pickle spear; Substitute Mac and cheese or potato salad for chips for $1 more

Warm BBQ Pork Sandwich ............................................................................ $8.00Warm BBQ Brisket Sandwich ........................................................................ $8.00Shrimp & Lobster Roll ..................................................................................$12.00Plain All-Beef Dog .......................................................................................... $5.00Black Angus Burger .....................................................................................$10.00 Smoked Turkey Leg ....................................................................................... $8.00Caesar Salad .................................................. $6.00 .................add chicken $8.00Tuscan Chicken Wrap ..................................................................................... $8.00

PlateSInclude bacon & jalapeño crusted mac & cheese, potato salad & roll

BBQ Pulled Pork Plate .................................................................................$10.00BBQ Pulled Brisket Plate .............................................................................$12.00

drinkSSoft Drinks ..................................................................................................... $2.50

Coke, Diet Coke & SpriteBottled Water ................................................................................................. $2.50Wine ................................................................................................................ $6.00Beer ................................................................................................................. $3.50Cocktails ............................................................................................... As Ordered

deSSertSFunnel Cake Fries ........................................................................................... $5.00Beignets ......................................................................................................... $5.00 Fried Apple Pie ............................................................................................... $5.00

FoodTrailerMenu

Ritz-Carlton now sails the seven seasInformation submitted by Margo Vallone

Here’s breaking news! The Ritz-Carlton is now in the luxury yacht business and has launched their brand new Yacht Collec-tion focused on branding with the Ritz-Carlton hotels.

Mike Ziegenbalg of Dream Vaca-tions and Saul Fonseca of Ritz-Carlton will introduce the collection that includes all-inclusive luxury cruises to destinations in Canada and New England, the Caribbean and Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Baltic and repositioning sea crossing voyages. The preview will be the program at the Wednesday, July 24 Big Canoe Travel Club.

The meeting will be held in Mountains Grille at The Clubhouse, with a complimentary drink and social time be-ginning at 5:30 p.m., and the presentation beginning at 6:00 p.m. Reservations are not required. Just come and prepare to be pampered.

Get your afternoon carb cravings satisfied at Duffer’s

It happens to all of us. Around three in the afternoon, you just can’t get your mind off of onion rings. Those crispy circles of gold invade every brain cell you own.

Or, maybe your food fantasy revolves around a mound of French fries with plops of ketchup pooling lazily on the side. Or, maybe the South’s own sweet potato fries have your name on them, or even simple down home Tater Tots would make your mouth sing.

When the carb craving crashes and you can’t deny it any longer, Duffer’s, our bistro behind the golf cart barn, can make you happy, and for just two bucks!

Those sides don’t necessarily need a sandwich to justify an order. They can be munched by their gloriously delicious selves. No one is judging.

If you feel a bit continental, you might spring for warm, toasty Mozzarella sticks, but that will set you back a fiver.

While you’re at Duffer’s and the sun is beginning to descend over the mountain, enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine or frosty beer with your afternoon crispy nosh. Seating is available on the stone patio just a 30-second stroll from the bistro.

Duffer’s isn’t only for breakfast, you know. It’s a handy place to grab a snack anytime from 7:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. If take-out is your thing, give a call to (706) 268-3273 and grab a bag of ‘burgers to rally home for supper.

Resident of Big CanoeWhether you have been injured, need help updating your wills, a Power of Attorney, collecting a debt, defending a complaint, or dealing with an insurance com-pany, Ron can provide you with

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Wining & Dining


It’s a concert, it’s free and it’s fun!Who doesn’t like free? Especially on a first of fall eve-

ning when summer’s end is celebrated. Mark your calendar now for Sunday, September 22

when the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Tribute takes the grassy stage at Playfield Park at 5:00 p.m.

This annual Mountain Twilight Concert is sponsored by the Big Canoe POA, Smoke Signals and Fran Farias, State Farm.

It’s always a night of good music, good times and good friends. Don’t miss it!

Chapel’s Vacation Bible School will have filled almost 100 boxes. The children in VBS are also making special items to put inside.

Samari-tan’s Purse is a nonde-nominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. Since 1970, Samaritan’s Purse has helped meet needs of people who are victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease and famine with the purpose of sharing God’s love through His Son, Jesus Christ. The organization serves the Church worldwide to promote the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Wining & Dining

It’s Christmas in July for kids around the worldCommunity Dinner kicks off Operation Christmas Child

By Ruth Slim

Operation Christmas Child will kick off this year’s shoebox ministry at the Community Dinner on Wednesday, July 31 at 6:00 p.m. at The Clubhouse. Join us in this cel-ebration of all that has been done locally to send shoeboxes around the world to new and differ-ent needy children each and every year. Our theme for the evening is “The Joy of Being a Child” and the menu for the evening will follow that theme. You can make reservations by calling Dot Gro-gan at (706) 268-2420. Please make reservations at least one week ahead of the dinner. Better yet, make your reservation today!

Last year, the Big Canoe Chapel sent almost 700 boxes around the world. The goal this year is to send even more. In total last year, 10,623,776 boxes were sent by Samaritan’s Purse to 112 countries plus 24 additional “hard to reach un-named countries.”

For instance, these shoeboxes filled with gifts go to countries like the Central African Republic where 43 per-cent of the population is under 14 years of age, or to Malé where 48 percent of the population is 14 years or younger.

This year like last, we will be offering the opportunity to purchase “shoes that grow five sizes” or soccer balls and pumps, plus other items you might want to purchase to help fill your shoeboxes. Also, there will be a number of items available to you, which are at no cost.

Shoeboxes will be available at the Community Dinner to take and begin to fill. Free items and items to purchase will be available at Chapel Stand Around. Shoeboxes to fill will be available at the Postal Facility, Wellness Center, The Clubhouse outside the Golf Pro Shop and at the Chapel.

By the time our dinner takes place, the children in the


food trailer, and it’s a big one. It will be used as a portable kitchen at community events for starters and may play increasing roles once well-established. These might in-clude wedding and event packages that would work well at Canoe Lodge or other venues in the community, in-cluding “midnight snacks.”

The trailer is equipped with a single door ‘fridge, single door freezer, cold prep table with refrigeration, a three-well steam table for serving hot foods, six-burner stove and oven combo, flat top grill, two deep fryers, a warmer/proofer for either storing hot foods or proofing breads, a three-compartment sink for dishwashing, hand wash sink, full bar with ice bin, ice well, two handle beer keg/wine cooler and single door ‘fridge. So far several hun-dred guests have been served with no real glitches.

The menu offers variety and recently vegetarian and lighter items have been added. Input from residents is encouraged. If you have an idea for an addition to the menu, drop a line to Chef Hector at [email protected].

We welcome this new player to The Clubhouse as an-other way to bring tasties to events and happenings in Big Canoe. As the saying goes, you can’t buy happiness but you can buy a food truck and that’s pretty close.

Wining & Dining

The Clubhouse kitchen staff gives a thumbs up to the new food trailer. (Photo by Steve Papke)

Big Canoe’s food trailer rolls out vittles in style Information submitted by Chef Hector Rosano

Summer days brought happy music from the bright white truck that cruised neighborhoods calling kids of any age like a Piped Piper. The driver was dressed in white and always had a smile on his face. Who wouldn’t smile, knowing 20 bucks in ice cream sales would come your way in just a few minutes.

Yep, the Good Humor man was a welcome sight as he slowly targeted groups of kids playing stickball in the street.

Until recently, not many had heard of food trucks or trailers that weren’t white with ice cream confectionar-ies painted on the sides. Now food trucks and trailers are a mainstay for outdoor events, bringing food and drink to the masses in a most conve-nient way.

A couple months ago, Clubhouse Manager, Jas, and Chef Hector took proud pos-session of Big Canoe’s first

At a recent Terraces concert, folks were first introduced to Big Canoe’s own ‘Meals on Wheels.’ (Photo by Steve Papke)

Chef Hector performs food magic in a small space, even turning out delicious lobster rolls! (Photo by Steve Papke)

Chef Hector once again is master of the grille. (Photo by Steve Papke)


Friday nights bring tastes of the sea and soul to the table

Wouldn’t it be something if a mermaid rose from Lake Sconti on the fin of a rainbow trout to welcome Friday night diners to Chef Hector’s now famous Sea-and-Soul Food Buffet?

That news would probably even make the front page of Pickens Progress!

Chef Hector probably can’t conjure up a siren of the sea, but he sure does a fine job with his popu-lar Friday night buffet.

Buffet lov-ers can expect to find a salad bar, peel and eat shrimp, clam chowder or lobster bisque, a seafood pasta bar featuring

Wining & Dining

salmon, shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, crawfish, Andou-ille sausage, sweet peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli florets, asparagus tips, artichokes and spinach all ready to be spooned over angel hair pasta.

So, where does the “soul” come in? The buffet table will also boast fried boneless chicken thighs, wings and drum-mettes, creamed corn, mashed potatoes and gravy, fried catfish and hush puppies.

You can enjoy this groaning board for just $19.99, plus tax and gratuity. Beverages are not included. The buffet is open every Friday night from 5:00 p.m. on.

It’s just as well we don’t have mermaids visiting on Friday nights. They can be a sign of ghastly storms to come and we sure don’t need any more of those!

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Happiness is homemade soup, even in the summertime

Sometimes it’s hot (mostly these days) but sometimes it’s cool (not so much). The Clubhouse recently introduced a new lunch treat - a Soup and Salad Bar. We all know salads are perfect for hot summer days, but will soup exceed tem-peratures outside and still be appealing?

Whoa momma, if you wonder about soup on the menu in the summertime, you haven’t tasted Chef Hector’s broths, bisques, gumbos and chow-ders. All will make your lips smack in anticipa-tion and like little orphan Oliver you’ll demand, “More please!” You might find yourself waltzing to the soup bar more often than you thought, even in the dog days of summer.

In July, there are four soups offered during the week from Tuesday to Friday. Choices will alternate between Tomato Bisque, Chicken Artichoke, Tuscan Vegetable, Lob-ster Bisque and maybe more. Soups will change seasonally.

The Soup and Salad Bar is offered from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for $9.95 plus tax, gratuity and beverage. The bar is designated “All You Care to Eat” so you know nobody will leave hungry.

What a lunchtime treat is in store for you!

Clubhouse Sunday Brunch is a perfect start to your week

Summertime, and the livin’ is easy. Isn’t that an old song we can all relate to? About the only forced exercise suitable for lazy summer days is swatting at a fly that bugs you, so to speak. We all move in slow motion pretty much and cooking in a hot kitchen, well, yuck!

Sunday mornings are particularly lazy which is why so many stroll to The Clubhouse for the delightful and deli-cious Sunday Brunch. With views to soothe the soul and a buffet to feed the soul and more, what’s not to love about a leisurely Sunday enjoying Chef Hector’s display of good tastes?

After set-tling at your table with juice, coffee, tea or the day’s special libation, cloth covered buf-fet tables boast high domed silver serving pieces to beckon with fruits, salads, salmon, savories and sweets and that’s just for starters. After wandering tables to collect an assortment of breakfast appetizers, it’s on to traditional breakfast fare - eggs in many styles, bacon, sausages, waffles, grits, corn pudding, biscuits and gravy, French toast and more. Carving stations bring hearty offer-ings; who needs dinner?

For those who prefer, a breakfast à la carte menu is also served.

The cost of Sunday Brunch is $15.99 for adults, chil-dren under 12, $10.99. Tax, gratuity and beverage not included.

Take a mini-vacation next Sunday morning and hum the tune George Gershwin made famous. What a delicious way to welcome the week!

Wining & Dining

Tater Patch Youth Theater presents

The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet

July 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 All shows at 2 PM

General admission seating at door Age 13+ $10, Age 6-12 $5

Under 6 FREE

[email protected]

95 Philadelphia LaneJasper, GA

706-253-2800 Tickets and information at


Shirley Ralston takes a stand, and is proud of itBy Steve Panetta

It was January 2018 when Terence Griggs began in-structing Exercise 101 on Wednesday afternoons. That’s when Shirley Ralston began attending. “I had very little strength in my arms and legs and didn’t look forward to getting out of a chair,” says Shirley. “When I spoke to Ter-ence about his new class, he gave me confidence that this class could help. I was concerned the class may be too difficult for me but he assured me I would fit right in.”

Not only did Shirley have dif-ficulty getting out of a chair, but it was especially difficult when the family went on their annual beach outings to Santa Rosa where all the beach chairs were short and close to the ground.

“In those chairs I had no hope of getting up, I had to roll out of the chair on all fours and get up from that embarrassing position. It was that or call for help.”

Now for the great news. Shirley claims, “It’s been 18 months since I started Terence’s classes and this past month we were back at the beach and I found myself sitting in that short beach chair again. I was about to roll out of the chair but instead of doing that, I put my hands on the side grips and stood right up. My husband Wilburn couldn’t believe it, his jaw dropped and he was amazed. Who would have believed I’ve actually gotten so much stronger as I’ve aged? Thank you, Terence, for these incredible classes; they have made a world of a difference in my life.”In addition to Wednesday’s Exercise 101 class, there’s also a Monday and Friday version too.• Monday 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Healthy Beginning• Wednesday 2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Exercise 101• Friday 2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Exercise 201

If you are in need of a basic exercise class, recover-ing from an injury or procedure or just want to be able to get out of a chair unassisted, come join us. Your body will thank you.

Getting Fit & Healthy

Sawdust is man glitter for woodworker Terry NicholsonWellness Center beautifully benefited from Terry’s talents

Information and photos submitted by Steve Panetta

Sometimes just a glance around the room inspires ac-tion. Such was the case when Terry Nicholson was exercising at the Wellness Center. He saw members were leaving coats and other objects on the floor in a haphaz-ard fashion. This was not good and was Terry’s call to action.

Terry offered to make a cubby where stuff could be stored while Wellness Center members pounded the treadmill or took a class.

Then he discovered the Wellness Center had initiated a mini book library and offered to make a book shelf for displaying the daily offerings. Finally, the master craftsman noted magazines were plopped unceremoniously in a wire wall unit and asked if he could make wood shelving to display them.

Many thanks to Terry for volunteering to make the Wellness Center more attractively useful. He’s a true artist with a saw and a keen eye for design.

This handsome cubby made by Terry Nicholson is perfect for storing stuff when exercising.

Terry Nicholson stands by his latest creation, a magazine rack for the Wellness Center.

It took determination and confidence, but Shirley Ralston can now move more easily. (Photo by Steve Panetta)


Getting Fit & Healthy

Swim hair, don’t care! Who worries about that anyway?Big Canoe pools invite you to jump right in

Photos by Steve Panetta

You have the whole month of July and then some to en-joy Big Canoe’s cool pools. Jump right in and get instant relief on these hot summer days. Both the Swim Club at Lake Dis-haroon and Wildcat pools host a gang of swimmers every day while some opt for the sandy shores of Lake Disharoon.

At the Swim Club, beach volley-ball is popular but can’t touch the appeal of the big inflatable water park de-signed just for kids. Just a few steps from the big pool is our famous rock slide which kids of all ages love to conquer. Of course paddle boards, canoes, paddle boats and kayaks entertain on the lake and are free to use.

At Wildcat, a kiddie pool is perfect for toddlers who love getting water dumped and poured on their sweet little heads. A playground is close by when tykes need a break from all that splashing.

Come out and enjoy our pools. July is the last full month they’ll all be open so don’t miss your chance.

A lifeguard keeps a watchful eye on Lake Disharoon’s water park.

The pool management team, Manager Michelle Davis, Head Guard Corbin Baray and Assistant Manager Caitlyn Salyers are ready to serve.

Lifeguards Brendan Jackson, Jaden Baray and Seth Romine get ready to start the day.

This little guy didn’t have anybody to play with. In jumped the Wildcat pool staff to make him happy.


Divots heal faster when in a linear positionDivots heal faster when in a linear position

By Lydell Mack

Each year we struggle with the health of the turf on our driving range tee, which in-evitably results in poor cus-tomer satisfac-tion and a rash of complaints. This year has proven to be no different, so I’d like to address some of those complaints here.

Like all agronomic issues, there are multiple factors involved in the decline in turf quality on the range tee each summer. For one, the location of the tee at the low, shady end of the range holds it back during spring green-up due to the shade and lower soil temperatures. When we open it up for use in mid-May, the turf may have started to green but it is not actively growing yet, so recovery of divots is nonexis-tent for the first few weeks.

By the time Memorial Day comes, the daily golf schedule is packed with players and the range receives a lot of warm-up and practice use, as well as lessons and clinics that take place there. Because of this, each stall is used mul-tiple times each day and by day’s end, each stall is devoid of turf. Even with ideal temperatures, bermudagrass will take 14-20 days to completely heal from a single divot, but a large open patch can take many weeks or months to heal itself.

We ask that when golfers use the range tee, take your divots in the linear fashion as illustrated. A narrow strip of divots will heal quicker than a large open patch of divots, and that will mean faster recovery and better practice turf for everyone. Please try it the next time you’re out on the range.

Thanks for your cooperation.

Around the Tees

Kids tee it high and let it fly at Golf Camp

We just might have another Tiger roaring on Big Ca-noe’s golf courses! The Summer Junior Golf Camp has been exciting for kids and instructors alike. What better way to introduce the next generation of golfers to the rules, strate-gies and fun of the game than in a camp with kids just like them.

There’s one more week of camp before the season’s over. That camp will tee off July 9-12 for all skill levels. Kids learn putting, chipping and a full swing of golf course fun. Camp is taught by PGA staff and includes lunch, prizes and a gift too.

At the end of the week, there’s a Parent/Junior Tourna-ment which sometimes brings surprises and sometimes excuses you wouldn’t believe.

The cost of camp is $250.00 for the week which in-cludes golf course privileges all week long. For additional information, contact the Golf Pro Shop at (706) 268-3323.

Swing hard, kids, swing hard!

Getting kids all lined up can be an all day adventure. What a great group we have! (Photo by Mark Green)

Courtesy of the United States Golf Association.


Champions were crowned as the golf season swingsBy B.J. McCranie

Thanks to everyone who spent Memorial Day with us for our Couples’ Event. It was a little hot, but a gorgeous day with a gentle breeze. We had a great field with 80 players and enjoyed the fantastic course con-ditions that Lydell Mack and his landscape crew have been provid-ing.

Congratulations to David Jetton, Jennifer Jetton, Rick Williams and Peggy Williams for their incredible play, shooting an unreal 127.2 Net and taking home 1st Place! Once again, thank you to everyone who participated.

Donnie shot great scoresCongratulations to Donnie Faucette for accomplishing

what many of us strive for as golfers, shooting less than her age twice over the last two months with an 83 in May and an 85 in June. Way to go Mrs. Faucette, you are our hero!

Big Canoe MGA Member/Guest Tournament

We lucked out with the weather for the first two days of this annual event, but the final day was less than ideal. Once again, we’d like to thank all those involved in making the Member/Guest Tournament as successful as it could be. Unfortunately, with the weather restrictions, we were unable to hold our Shoot Out. While it was a struggle to play through the rain, the final round proved to be quite enter-taining.

Congratulations to Walt Samples and Dan Piela for their magnifi-cent play each day scor-ing 31.5 total points and becoming the 2019 Mem-ber/Guest Champions. Once again, thank you to everyone for participating and we look forward to seeing you all and more next year.

UPCOMING EVENTS • Independence Day Invitational – July 4 • Junior Golf Camp – July 9 -12 • WGA Tri-Member – July 17 • Players’ Member/Guest – July 19 • Learning Ladies’ Scramble – July 23• MGA Summer Member/Member

July 26 - 27 • GSGA Top 60 Women’s Classic

July 29-30• Memorial Cup – August 1-2

If you would like to be added to the Golf Shop email list to view special sales, event promotions, results, and more, please send your contact information to [email protected].

Around the Tees

JulyGolf Shop: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PMTee times: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Golf Shop Hours of Operation

Starting tee times are weather dependent

David Jetton, Jennifer Jetton, Peggy Williams and Rick Williams were Big Canoe’s Memorial Day champions. (Photo by B.J. McCranie)

Walt Samples and Dan Piela were the MGA Member/Guest champs this year. (Photo by B.J. McCranie)


Round robins ruled the courts on Memorial Day By Matt Motil

Over 40 tennis and pickleball players gathered on Memorial Day to participate in a round robin at the Racquet Club. The format was mixed doubles.

For tennis play-ers, teams would play a full set and then change partners after each round. On the pickeball court, mixed doubles teams switched partners after each game.

Luckily, the heat and humidity held off until later in the day. After play, players met for lunch and collected exciting prizes and giveaways. All in all, it was a beautiful morn-ing on the courts and fun was had by all. Every player was excited to get out in the sunshine and play good games of tennis and pickleball. Socializing was important too and many new friendships were made.

We look forward to many more round robins and social events as summer activities ramp up. Come out and join us on the courts for good times and great exercise.

Racquet Club hosts an Independence Day Mixer

There should be an explosion of morning fireworks at the Racquet Club on the Fourth of July when the club hosts an Independence Day Tennis and Pickleball Mixer. Rocket-ing racquets will fly from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at this annual pa-triotic play day.

Since the Racquet Club likes the social time that goes with games, bring a potluck dish to share with friends and neighbors.

The cost to play is $5.00 for Racquet Club members and $10.00 for non-members.

Play is limited to 32 tennis players and 24 pickleball players so hurry up and register to help wish America a very Happy Birthday. Call the Racquet Club at (706) 268-3367 for more information and to sign up for the day of fun and games.

Racquet Club Twilight Mixers shade into night

“Just a sweet song at twilight,” but that sweet song will probably be drowned out by the sound of balls smashing into racquets, and you know what a crazy racket that can be!

Be that what it may, the Racquet Club is hosting a Twi-light Tennis and Pickleball Mixer on Friday, July 19 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. After a friendly battle on the courts, folks will share a potluck dinner so all players should bring a dish to share.

The limit is 32 tennis players and 24 pickleball players. Cost to play is $5.00 for Racquet Club members and $10 for non-members.

Give a call to the Racquet Club to sign up and learn more. Their number is (706) 268-3367.

Racquets 'Round the Nets

Memorial Day was picture perfect for games of tennis and pickleball. (Photo by Matt Motil)


Golden trout still waiting to be caught in Lake PetitBy Big Canoe Marina Staff

On the second Wednesday in June, 74 Ladies of the Lake left the marina docks with their respective captains steering the ships, aka pontoons, for another night of hors d’oeuvres, libations of choice and an evening of convivial-ity. Ladies of the Lake sails on the first and second Wednes-day of each month, but unfortunately, the first Wednesday in June was rained out. The pontoons are full for the season, but there’s always a chance to sub. If interested, call the marina at (706) 268-3303.

Another golden rainbow caughtDavid Bassett caught a big golden rainbow trout on

June 4. Thanks to Tellico Trout Farm, there are several more golden rainbow trout yet to be caught. Catching the goldens was such fun that Tellico decided to add more chal-lenges for Lake Petit anglers. If you snag one of these beau-ties, you’ll be rewarded with a two-hour pontoon rental.

More trout deliveriesThe last 1,000 pounds of trout added to Lake Petit took

place on June 5 at the South Marina. Due to the warm sur-face water temperatures, trout deliveries will not occur dur-ing the months of July and August. Deliveries will resume in September when the water surface temps return to mid to low 70 degrees.

T-37 Sailing ClubOn Tuesdays, be part of the crowd on the Lake Petit

dam that gathers to cheer their favorite captains of the T-37 sailing yachts as they cross the finish line. Big Canoe’s “Yacht Club” has grown to 46 sailing members with 26 yachts nearing completion.

Plans are in the works for 2019 be the year for our yacht captains to refine their sailing tech-niques as 2020 will bring the Southeast Divi-sion T-37 Cham-pionship to Big Canoe. Those in the Southeast who have T-37s are invited to partici-pate. The winners will be invited to the T-37 National Championship.

If interested in T-37 sailing, con-tact Rich McLeod at [email protected] or (770) 815-2847. For a schedule of sailings, visit www.bcmyc.org.

North Marina rehabRehab of the North Marina on the west side began on

June 10. It was anticipated for the rehab to take approxi-mately two weeks and the whole project wrapped on Friday, June 28.

The Big Canoe Marina thanks all for their patience dur-ing the rehab process. From the many comments received, patrons with craft on the racks have been complimentary as the new racking system is ergonomically friendly.

Safety tip of the monthIf you’re out on the lake and hear a long shrill siren

sound, come off the lake immediately as lightning strikes are soon to follow.

Big Canoe Marina hoursMarina hours through October are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00

p.m. Call the marina at (706) 268-3303 to make reserva-tions for pontoon, kayak and paddle board rentals. Property Owners can also make reservations online by going to bigcanoepoa.org.

Is this guy proud or what? David Bassett snagged one of the glittery golden trout swimming in the grottos of Lake Petit.

Many groups are finding the Big Canoe Marina is a great place to hang out. The ladies of AWOL meet on the first Monday of the month at 5:00 p.m. and invite you to join them. (Photo by Big Canoe Marina Staff)

Marina News and Fish Tales


Dare you glance at The Moon of the Hungry Ghosts?

Uh, oh. We could be in trouble this month. The full moon shining on Tuesday, July 16 is ominously called "Thunder Moon" for obvious reasons. Blame it on the Algonquin Indians who recognized this moon coincid-ed with spectacular electrical storms that shivered the timbers in their forests.

Not to be ignored, the Chinese have an equally scary name for the July full moon. They call it, "The Moon of the Hungry Ghosts". In July, the Chinese celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival when the living honor the dead by leaving food and drink for their ancestors.

Don’t let these rather bizarre moon monikers keep you from gathering at the Big Canoe Marina on July 16 right around sunset to gape at one of Mother Nature’s wonders as the full moon rises over the mountain.

Full moon watching has a cult following in Big Canoe. Folks group at the marina armed with snacks, drinks and lots of chatter to moon watch. Everybody in Big Canoe is welcome to join the star gazers whether in chairs, pontoons, canoes, kayaks or paddleboards.

It’s free and fun, what more could you want?


Catch yourself a catfish and put it on a plate

Have you heard Dolly Parton’s famous quote about catfish? It goes like this. “My husband calls me ‘catfish’ because he says I’m all mouth and no brains.”

To challenge that idea, a big ol’ catfish recently snagged in Lake Petit had brains enough to avoid the angler’s hook for many years. It was caught (and released after the photo shoot) by Chinda Brok’s son.

You might think that well-fed bot-tom sucker would provide a meal for eight at least, but hold on! Smaller catfish are much tastier, although the unique flavor might take some getting used to, so claims John Lipkowitz, Supervi-sor of the Big Canoe Marina.

While rainbow trout swim abun-dantly in Lake Petit, catfish share the water too. Catfish are a lazy summer day treat, and preparing it without frying in oil helps keep your swimsuit figure. If you happen to hook and plate a catfish for supper, here’s a recipe you might try. It’s baked, not fried, and delicious as can be.

Best Ever Baked Catfish (Delish, serves four)

1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 c. cornmeal 1 tbsp. Cajun seasoning4 catfish filletsKosher saltFreshly ground black pepperLemon wedges, for serving

Preheat oven to 425° and drizzle two tablespoons of oil on a large baking sheet. On a large plate, combine cornmeal and Cajun seasoning. Season catfish with salt and pepper, then dredge fish in seasoned cornmeal, press-ing to coat.

Place fish on prepared baking sheet and drizzle with remaining two tablespoons oil. Bake until golden and fish flakes easily with a fork, 15 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Wow, that’s a big guy! You can tell by the whiskers that this lad hooked a catfish. (Photo by Chinda Brok)


View from the quarterdeckBy John Herzler

After college, I circumnavigated the globe three times courtesy of Uncle Sam. I crossed the equator three times so I am a certified “Shellback” for those familiar with that old seagoing tradi-tion. I also sensed the presence of a higher being.

In the late ‘70s, with saltwater still in my veins, my wife and I pur-chased a 21-foot sailboat we kept on Lake Norman in North Carolina. We spent many weekends with our young family enjoying the tranquility of the water and learning how to harness the power of the wind.

My career took us north to the shores of Lake Erie and ultimately the remainder of the Great Lakes. Our 21-foot sailboat was inadequate for the challenges of fresh water sailing, so we opted out of ownership and advanced to chartering.

Forward to present day as I watch my wife sailing the

T-37 radio controlled racing sloop that we sail in the the Big Canoe Model Yacht Club, the Arghhh!. I recall Buffett lyrics, “Haul the sheet in as we ride on the wind that our forefathers harnessed before us,” causing the pleasant sense of exhaustion and the need for an adult beverage after a long day on the water, even though it was a short afternoon on one of Big Canoe’s lakes.

To all sailors, past and present, here’s your chance to reminisce, learn new skills and get to know great neighbors. Join us at the Big Canoe Model Yacht Club.

We have weekly regattas on each Tuesday, weather per-mitting. at the marina on Lake Petit and will announce each week’s race on the club’s official website, WWW.BCMYC.ORG.

The club welcomes any Big Canoe resident with an interest in sailing, radio controlled boats or RC racing; you don’t need a boat to join. All classes of radio controlled boats are welcome at the club’s weekly regatta. Members without a boat can engage in running races and regattas, joining our social events and attending our monthly meet-ings. There is a very modest membership and initiation fee.

BCMYC meets on the third Friday of each month, at the Village Station at 3:00 p.m. Contact us at [email protected] for more information.


Weather permitting, there are regattas every Tuesday.

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Bocce

for substitutes too. Bocce is a family sport and it’s hoped kids will come

out to the courts too. With a spanking new facility, play has been kicked up a notch or two as the courts are readying for action. Bocce is a social adventure with friendly rivalry thrown in, just for fun. Snacks to share are always welcome as new friendships are formed.

If you have questions about the new bocce structure, give Linda Powell a call at (706) 268-3367.

Let’s roll as soon as we can!

We’ll be rolling bocce balls again come AugustInformation submitted by Linda Powell

There’s loads of activity going on at Wildcat these days. The bocce courts are moving across the way to a new home which means tons of heavy construction and earth mov-ing, sometimes hampered by summer storms. But, work is progressing and soon bocce balls will be rolling again. The full schedule will hopefully be in place come August, un-less North Georgia is hit with storms that would make Noah shake in his galoshes.

Bocce is now a Big Canoe amenity, a very reasonable one at that. There’s a $10.00 per month per person amenity charge with a 12-month commitment.

Monday Night Bocce is free for all bocce members with non-member Property Owners paying a fee of $5.00 to play and non-Property Owners anteing up $10.00.

There will be court fees for all non-members to play bocce, again $5.00 per court per hour for Property Owners and $10.00 per court per hour for non-Property Owners.

If you are interested in playing in the competitive Bocce League, you must be an amenity member; that goes

Load down! Bocce courts are under construction and should be ready soon. (Photo by Steve Papke)


Let’s Go Clubbing

Acoustic Showcase rolls out the tunes every monthBy Greg Morris

Once again, the Swim Club was standing-room-only as 10 acoustic musicians performed for a packed house. Each musician now performs from a center location and plays two songs consecu-tively. Our goal will be to perform for about 90 minutes. If time remains, performers will lead the audience in a sing-along.

Here are the performers and the two songs they played at the June Acoustic Showcase:

There was a great deal of collab-oration during the performances with often one, and some-times many collabo-rators, accompany-ing the performing musician. To wrap up this dynamic performance, the musicians led a sing-along of "America the Beautiful".

Acoustic Showcase is held on the first Thursday eve-ning of each month from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Swim Club. There is no admission charge but bring your favorite beverage, arrive early, secure your seats and mingle with other guests and musicians. Remember, seats cannot be saved except for very short periods, like if your driver is parking the car.

Contact Greg Morris at [email protected] if you have questions or want to be put on the mailing list. Visit our website at www.bcacousticshowcase.com. Here you can see dates for outside performances by the musi-cians, view photos, etc.

Artists’ Club celebrates summer with brushes in handPhotos by Lisa Schnellinger

Summer in Big Canoe is the time to enjoy outdoor liv-ing and who wants to stay inside when it’s so pretty in our mountains? The Artists’ Club is in its annual melt down mode but you can bet our artists have brushes in hand to capture glorious sunrises, breathtaking sunsets, kids at play and flowers that bloom during the club’s hiatus.

New artwork has recently been hung at the Wellness Center for all to enjoy and buy. Here’s a sampling of what’s gracing the walls. Stop by and feast on a little eye candy.

Frank Brewer and Tom Kilpatrick team up on guitars. (Photo by Steve Papke)

Bob Knyz and Bill Pound collaborate. (Photo by Steve Papke)


Wine and Crime book club goes gaming in JulyInformation submitted by Lou Reiter

Nobody wants to talk about murder, mayhem and mys-tery on the Fourth of July, so the Wine and Crime book club will put on their thinking caps one week after their usual meet time.

The club will meet at the home of Lou Reiter and Marilyn McFadden on Thursday, July 11 at 4:00 p.m. in the afternoon.

It doesn’t take Sherlock Holmes to deduce whythe club meets close to Happy Hour, and with the “wine clue” in the name of the club, bottles of vino might be found on the table. Not a wine drinker? No problem, soft drinks share the table too.

Wine and Crime meets ev-ery other month so two books are discussed. At the May meeting, one book stole the limelight and the other wasn’t given its full due so will be re-discussed in July. That book is The Purity of Vengeance by Jussi Adler-Olsen. Time was spent discussing the crime, but not enough time was spent discussing the author’s style and progression of character development.

The second book to be discussed is Monkeewrench by P.J. Tracy. A reviewer noted, “People are dying for the new computer game by the software company Monkeewrench. Literally. With Serial Killer Detective out in limited release, the real-life murders of a jogger and a young woman have already mimicked the first two scenarios in the game. But Grace McBride and her eccentric Monkeewrench partners are caught in a vise. If they tell the Minneapolis police of the link between their game and the murders, they’ll shine a spotlight on the past they thought they had erased-and the horror they thought they’d left behind. If they don’t, eigh-teen more people will die...”

Both are intriguing books and the latter brings a little humor into crime solving.

If you’d like to be part of the armchair detective squad, contact Lou Reiter at [email protected]. Come join these Big Canoe partners in crime solving and find out whodunit.

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Manly Men morph into Choctaw Village Men’s Club

Tucked behind Clubhouse grounds is the neighborhood known as Choctaw Village. Because it’s somewhat sepa-rated from other neighborhoods, Villagers have bonded to create fun in the ‘hood. One group that has really taken off is the collection of guys who live in Choctaw. For many months they were known as the Manly Men, but recently changed their identity to be called the Choctaw Village Men’s Club. The new name does have a noble ring to it. The guys meet monthly in homes to solve all problems facing the world over a brew or two. Keep it up guys, maybe soon you’ll have solutions to all the world’s ills and save the planet. (Photo by Lou Reiter)

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playful kittens, consider becoming a foster for Maggie’s House. It will usually involve a short-term commitment of two to four weeks. Consider offering your heart and perhaps a spare room in your home to a cat or kitten in need. We promise you won’t regret it!

BCAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill shelter for home-less dogs and cats found in the Big Canoe community, pro-viding them with a safe, healthy and positive environment until they are adopted into their forever loving homes.

For additional information, call BCAR at (706) 268-1346 or visit bigcanoeanimalrescue.org. Maggie’s House holds an open house every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Come visit!

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Maggie’s House at BCAR has kitties to fosterArticle and photos by Patricia Kraft

Sophie, a young adolescent calico cat, and her two, seven-week old kittens, Ollie and Finn, were found living under carport steps at a home in densely forested Locust Lane the first week of June. A concerned couple, residents of the Big Canoe home, called Maggie’s House at Big Canoe Animal Rescue (BCAR) for help and after many hours the cat and her beautiful kittens were safely rescued.

Rescuing the kittens was not an easy task be-cause they had never been around humans and were terrified. Mother Sophie used an assortment of meows to communicate danger to her babies, Ollie and Finn. In addition, she had many hiding places for her brood. Sophie, a kitten herself, was very friendly and desperately wanted to go inside residents’ homes where she could be warm and safe from frightening thunderstorms. It was thought her litter of kittens must have been larger than the surviving two, and she had lost some along the way.

Sophie and the kittens were examined by BCAR’s veterinarian and found to be healthy, but malnourished. The BCAR shelter was at overcapacity and simply could not take another cat. Sophie needed someone to give her family a home temporarily until there was room at the inn.

Our foster volunteers were already fostering seven other kittens and cats in their homes. Since this was truly a cat family in immediate need, I decided to give Sophie and her kittens a chance and offered to foster them.

Fostering provides temporary care for cats and kit-tens until they can be placed for adoption. BCAR provides training and support, medications, food and litter as need-ed, and absorbs all veterinary expenses associated with the care of our cats.

If you love cats, and perhaps miss being around young

Retrospective Exhibit highlighted art and the environmentInformation submitted by Lisa Schnellinger

A retrospective exhibit held at the Swim Club on June 16 highlighted the works of Sara Lindkrantz who recently passed away. Sara’s art and reprints of her digital work were shown and $771.00 was raised for a very good cause.

The proceeds will go toward a spring show planned that combines Sara’s two loves - art and the environment. She often talked of how great it would be to host an art show where submitted pieces had to be made from post-consumer materials, a fun way to engage people to think about “waste” as a resource. The Bowen Center for the Arts expects to be involved and the show will include students as well as adults.

For those who love Sara’s work, reprints can be ordered from John Seibel Photography. For a copy of the digital catalog, contact Lisa Schnellinger at [email protected]. The catalog can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y5oxzrbk.

Sara’s art was always interesting and varied. (Photo by Pat DeVoto)Ollie has such beautiful blue eyes.


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Mountains are calling, hikers must go Information submitted by Big Canoe Hiking Club

Canopies of tree cover keep temperatures somewhat reasonable when the Big Canoe Hiking Club takes to the trails. Drizzles might be a problem occasionally, but our hearty hikers pay it no heed.

Recently, 39 club members took a beautiful five-mile hike around Carter’s Lake. Lunch followed at Firebrick Pizza in Ellijay so hikers could recap the glories of the day. Hikes are club planned, but there are many in the club who map out their own hikes, sometimes tack-ling challenging turf. An adven-turesome bunch they are!

If communing with nature is your passion, hiking might be in your future. The club offers guided hikes of 2.5 - 5 miles of varying difficulty. One or two-night hiking trips are sometimes planned. Member-ship is $15.00 a year.

A call to Laura Smith at (706) 579-3342 will get you connected with this active group whose mantra is, “If a tree falls in the woods, be there to hear it.”

Will Big Canoe boast the Best Log and Timber Home?

Hey, we’re famous! The spectacular mountain home of David and Mary Jo Cox is in the running to be named Best Log and Timber Home of the Year by Log Home Living magazine. The Cox home has already claimed a spot on the Top Ten list, but can be the grand prize winner with your help.

Visit loghome.com/best-log-timber-homes-contest-2019 to cast a vote for this Big Canoe home. There you’ll find a description of the Cox home and be invited in for a visual visit.

You’ll also find a form to complete to vote for the home of your choice, surely it will be our very own Big Canoe home.

Don’t delay! Voting ends Wednesday, July 31 with the winner announced on Monday, August 5.

A hike at Pine Mountain was the perfect summer outing. (Photo by Steve Papke)

A pristine view of Carter’s Lake through the trees was well worth the climb. (Photo by Steve Papke)

Such an inviting entrance to the home of David and Mary Jo Cox.

What a glorious view from this rustic family room.


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Lit Lunch welcomes John Cheever to the tableBy Mike Garvey

Lit Lunch will meet at The Clubhouse on Friday, July 5 at noon to discuss two short stories, “The Enormous Radio” and “The Reunion,” written by John Cheever, a foremost American short story writer and novelist of the 20th cen-tury.

Born in 1912 in Quincy, Mas-sachusetts, much of Cheever’s writing reflects his New England upbringing in mores and cus-toms. His published writings span 50 years and deal pri-marily with the dis-content, alienation and dysfunction of the upper middle class in urban and suburban communi-ties.

First published in The New Yorker, his short stories won the Pulitzer Prize in 1978 and the National Book Award for “The Stories of John Cheever.”

“The Enormous Radio” portrays a 1940s music-loving couple in a Manhattan apartment building who enjoy listen-ing to concerts on the radio. After investing in a new radio, they find its strange broadcasting ability begins to seriously disrupt their lives.

“The Reunion” is the revealing story of a son seeking a reunion with his divorced father after three years of es-trangement. During the young man’s layover between trains in Manhattan, their conversation over lunch serves only to hold up a mirror to their awkward relationship.

To join Lit Lunch on July 5, call (706) 268-2420 by Wednesday, July 3 to reserve your place at the table where lunch will be ordered from the Lit Lunch menu.

All are welcome to attend. If you are not already on the Lit Lunch email roster and wish to be included for further information and links to the stories, email [email protected].

An enchanting visit to a charming ‘Hybrid Plummer’Information submitted by Patricia Stimmel

Two questions to ask … do you love early Big Canoe architecture and would you like to take a stroll in one of the most peaceful gardens in our mountains?

If your answers are an enthusiastic “Yes,” you’re sure to enjoy the Plummer Cabin drop-in on Friday, July 19 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lauren Grant will welcome you to what she calls her “Hybrid Plummer” snuggled on Owls Brow. While this home is not an original, it shares the same style.

The home is notable for its collaboration between Plum-mer builder Paul Schmidt who completed the dry-in after Saga Log Homes did the original log construction. Lauren’s home has been featured on Big Canoe’s Tour of Homes and is one of the most beautiful rustic homes on the lakefront. The grounds are breathtaking with delightful vignettes bringing touches of whimsy to the landscaping. The grounds have been nurtured for 30 years and are certified by the National Wildlife Federation and the National Audubon Society. You won’t want to miss this one!

For those not familiar with Plummer cabins, they first made their appearance when Big Canoe was young and were originally designed and constructed by Dick Plum-mer as weekend getaways. The 115 cabins built have unique characteristics and share the same bones.

Owners absolutely love their treasured homes, Patri-cia Stimmel being one proud owner. A couple years ago, Patricia decided Plummer owners should share their enthu-siasm and harvest ideas for renovations that would keep the Plummer spirit strong. Thus, the Plummer Cabin Owners’ Group was formed.

If you’re interested in this early architecture, own a Plummer or hope to own one some day, you’ll enjoy this evening adventure.

For additional information, contact Patricia Stimmel at [email protected].

Any meal would invite fellowship in this warm and charming room.


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Photographers welcome Tony Casadonte of the Lumiere GalleryBy Steven Daniel Carlisle

Edward Weston probably isn’t as famous as Ansel Ad-ams to most Americans. But the two artists, both working out of Northern California, were very close friends. To-gether they worked hard to make serious photographs that helped define the medium, often seen as decorative, as truly fine art, not making pretty pictures.On Saturday, July 20 one of the most exciting photography experts ever invited to Big Canoe will share his knowledge of the world of collect-ible photography with members of the Photography Club. Tony Casadonte, Director of Atlanta’s Lumiere Gallery, will bring actual prints of Weston and a few other noted artists, like Wynn Bullock, to the room upstairs at the Swim Club. It should be very special and you don’t have to be a member to attend; everyone is invited!

Casadonte will not only discuss each artist’s history and background, but he will describe it from a curator’s per-spective. He’ll explain why collecting fine art photography can be both fascinating and a good investment. You don’t have to travel to Manhattan or Los Angeles to find qual-

ity photographs on exhibit. Atlanta has the High Museum, which regularly displays amazing photography, like the Elton John Collection, which was a special treat for those lucky enough to see that iconic exhibit. As one of Atlanta’s most famous resi-dents, he purchased most of the works from local galleries here in the city.

Atlanta is also blessed with several galleries that specialize in rare and collect-ible photographs like Lumiere, Jackson Fine Art and Fay Gold. Tony Casadonte brings a rare glimpse into this exciting niche of the art world to the Photography Club for their July 20 meeting.

The Big Canoe Photography Club meetings begin at 9:30 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month. You’ll want to take advantage of this special opportunity to learn about numerous blue chip photographic talents and see their prints up close and in person.

Tony Casadonte is the guest speaker for the July 20 meeting of the Photography Club. (Photo by Steven Daniel Carlisle)

Dr. William Zinney, a board certifi ed periodontist has recently joined Dr. Stephen (Randy) Muecke at Northgate Station Comprehensive Dentistry. Dr. Zinney received his Dental Degree and Surgical Residency at Emory University and has been in practice in the greater Atlanta area since 1988. Dr. Zinney has been a pioneer in dental implants, periodontal plastic surgery and complete replacement of dentition with the most advanced “Teeth in a Day” procedures. Dr. Zinney believes our smile does not stop at the teeth. As an educated surgeon, he has knowledge of head, neck and face anatomy. The mouth, teeth and jaw support the face. His work with tissue regeneration and rejuvenation has led to us treat the entire facial structure. His technique utilizing growth factors from the patients own blood in combination with microneedling and mesotherapy begins the process of Collagen Induction to revitalize the skin. A non-surgical facelift is then accomplished using a combination of smooth PDO threads, natural dermal fi llers and Botox where needed to provide the most natural appearance. Along with creating a functional, esthetic dentition, this truly is your Dental “Fountain of Youth.”

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Pine Needle Quilt Guild takes all stitching seriouslyArticle and photos by Emily Beals

This year the Pine Needle Quilt Guild has been ex-ploring some new techniques and projects, some far from the quilting world we’re used to (coiled vases made from clothesline), some a bit scary (cutting a finished top into sections and repo-sitioning the parts), and some handy (sewing a clever bag for sewing supplies or a larger tote for finished quilts).

June brought us Sarah Roberts of, In the Quiet Hours, to teach basic embroi-dery. What has that to do with quilting? Quite a lot, including embellishing blocks and making labels for our finished quilts. While showing us tricks to make our embroidery easier and better, Sarah shared a bit of history of embroidery and the many, many different types available for us to explore.

Our summer programming will begin with our own Christine Twiss leading an all-day workshop on Tuesday, July 9 to make Quilts of Valor. This is a yearly project to honor military service veterans with quilts to thank them for their service. Please contact us if you know of a veteran who would appreciate a quilt.

If you are interested in quilting, whether a beginner or a seasoned quilter, and would like to join or visit our group, call Emily Beals at (706) 579-1094.

Kaaren Arthurs has turned the page

This is one lady who deserves a wonderful retirement! After many, many years of chairing all the Ridgerun-ners book clubs, Kaaren Arthurs has handed tome tidings to Susan Eanes. We welcome Susan and sincerely thank Kaaren for the years of literary service she’s given to all in Big Canoe. We’re all better read because of Kaaren. Now this fine lady might have a chance grab a porch chair, a cold drink and read to her heart’s content.

Blue Stockings: The Japanese Lover by Isabel AllendeGodivas: Disturbed in Their Nests by Judy BereinsteinRidgereaders: News of the World by Paulette GilesNoveladies: Every Breath by Nicholas SparksViewpoint: Rebecca by Daphne du MaurerGray Matters: General and Mrs. Washington by Bruce Chadwick Book Belles: Next Year in Havana by Chanel CleetonChapter 13: Into the Waters by Paula HawkinsSworn Sisters: Hamilton Affair by Elizabeth CobbsDivine Readers: The Wedding Dress by Rachel HauckWoodland Readers: The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn Page Turners: Left Neglected by Lisa GenovaBetween the Lines: The Great Alone by Kristen HannahNovel Ideas: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia OwensBetween the Covers: Cemetery Road by Greg IlesWho Picked This Book?: The Radium Girls by Kate MoorePapyrus: The Rent Collector by Camron WrightHooked on Books: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia OwensAdventure Bound: Prodigal Summer by Barbara KinsolverWomen, Words, and Wine: One Thousand White Women by Jim FergusBetween the Wines: Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Cal-lahanChapter Chics: Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

Submitted by Susan M. EanesRidgerunners Book Clubs Chair

Jean Martin and Lynda Case first thread the needle – not always easy!

Carole English, Karlene Spencer, Jean Wilson, Ruth Herzler and Sue Ouderkirk take a closer look.


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offers Ridgerunners a spectacular view, but also a thrilling ride.

Following the tour of Lookout Mountain, Ridgerun-ners will enjoy a relaxing three-hour cruise along the scenic Tennessee River on the riverboat, Southern Belle. An open-air deck will provide the perfect place to watch the city, mountains and wildlife pass by.

An onboard historian will entertain passengers with stories of Chattanooga’s past and explore how it has evolved to the city it is today.

A buffet lunch will be served and live music and bingo also will be a part of the adventure. To further enhance the day, beer and wine will be available for purchase.

Departure will be from the Wildcat Pavilion at 7:30 a.m., returning around 5:30 p.m. For more information visit www.bigcanoerr.com.

The trip, which will be limited to 112 members, will cost $90.00. Sign up online by lot number charge, starting Friday, July 19.

Become a Ridgerunners memberAll adventures are open exclusively to Ridgerunners

members. The membership year began in May, so now is the perfect time to sign up on the website at www.bigcano-err.com.

The yearly fee of $16.00 entitles members to attend six regular monthly meetings on topics that will entertain and educate. In addition to the October day trip and the spring overnight trip, members are invited to attend a festive Christmas party and a year-end spring luncheon.

Mark your calendar for our first meeting of the new season at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 10 at The Club-house.

Subsequent meetings are on the second Tuesday of each month. Check your Alpha Box and the Ridgerunners’ dis-play at the Postal Facility in August for more information about the 2019-2020 Ridgerunners schedule of meetings, events, and activities.

Ridgerunners choo choo up Lookout MountainBy Christine Flaherty

In case you’re still reflecting on joining Ridgerunners this season, the plans for members to travel to Chattanooga, Tennessee on Tuesday, October 29, could help you make the decision.

Chattanooga beckons in OctoberChattanooga offers an incredible combination of breath-

taking beauty, a revitalized riverfront and rich history. Known as the “Scenic City,” and memorialized in Glenn Miller’s 1940s song, "Chattanooga Choo Choo", it is sur-rounded by beautiful mountains and ridges, bordered by the Tennessee River.

Chattanooga is also the home of Lookout Mountain, where Ridgerunners will begin their visit. They will ride the mile-long, historic Incline Railway, a steep funicular railway that rises from the St. Elmo Historic District to Point Park at the top of the mountain.

Visitors will enjoy panoramic views of Moccasin Bend, which the National Park Service refers to as one of the “most unique places found in the entire National Park Service.” The vista, including the Tennessee River and the Chattanooga skyline, can also be seen from multiple van-tage points along the well-marked trail system. Incredible views of seven states await with rocking chairs positioned to take in the scenic setting.

The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a National Historic site. Its incline of over 72 percent makes it one of the world’s steepest passenger railways meaning it not only

Any feeding, intentional or unintentional, of any wildlife, including but not limited to

deer, bears, feral cats, turkey and migratory water fowl is strictly prohibited. This includes all types of bird

feeder stations.

Remove bird feeders March 1 - November 30


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Singles meet and greet for good company

Are you a single in Big Canoe and want to meet oth-ers who share that designa-tion? There are probably 400+ singles in our community who enjoy each others’ company.

The Big Canoe Solo Club meets on the 2nd Friday of every month at 6:00 p.m. at the Swim Club. It’s an occasion for a potluck supper, otherwise known as a single’s chance to proudly present their special-ty dish. Wine is usually supplied by the gents. Sometimes there’s a theme for the evening, and sometimes not. It’s a casual, comfortable group and all singles are welcome.

If you’re interested in finding out more, call Laura Walker at (706) 570-1871.

portunities for good times. Do manly men sometimes feel left out? Sure they do,

so a group within the group is now called Date Night where husbands or significant others can join their ladies for an evening out.

Whew, do you think you can keep up? The beauty of SYAH is members can participate wherever they wish, whenever the spirit moves them. No pressure at all.

If you’re someone in Big Canoe who carries the XX chromosome, come join us! All you have to do is visit the SYAH Facebook page and click on “Join.” Once a member, ladies can participate in the subgroups and get announce-ments about all that’s happening.

Sherry, we thank you for opening this pathway to friendship and fun. You’re the best!

SYAH is growing with even more fun stuff to do

What has 800 legs, 4,000 fingers, and miles of smiles as wide as Texas? Why, it’s the 400 members of Still Young at Heart, the fastest growing group in Big Canoe. Sherry Evans called a few of her gal pals to a social at Ca-noe Lodge about year ago and opened the doors to welcome all women in Big Canoe. Sherry was hoping to make a few new friends that night, but when the doors were closed and locked, she had almost 80 women who wanted to name her as a friend.

Now, this isn’t a club in the strictest sense of the word. There are no formal meetings, no dues, and no rules. It’s a purely social club with the sole intent of gathering community women together to form friendships and have a few laughs.

What do the ladies do that’s so much fun?There are several opportunities for get-togethers which

are posted frequently on the group’s Facebook page, Big Canoe Still Young at Heart. First, SYAH has parties. Boy, do they have parties! Themes are slightly off the wall, like a Groundhog Day Celebration and a Karaoke Beach Party.

For those who like movies and plays, there are cars to carry silver screen buffs to the latest flicks and performanc-es, often including lunch out and shopping. If board games are your thing, try Game Night. Some like the fruit of the vine which makes road trips to local wineries a must. That goes for dinner and lunches out too.

For those working gals in the mix, SYAH has a group for business women where networking is helpful.

There’s a subgroup named Live, Laugh, Love which teaches about good nutrition and health. If you suspect a walk or hike group would be connected with LLL, you’d be right.

Sherry recently started a section where events and happenings in Big Canoe and the surrounding area can be promoted. No doubt this will give birth to even more op-

Susan Lee won the prize for Best Beach Babe, with a little help from Mr. Tee.

Do you think this just might be a crazy bunch to join? (Photo by Delores Johnson)


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Bunches of lunches provided by Big Canoe SYAH

Just a few words from one woman created a call to action that made all the difference in the world to kids in Pickens County. A plea by Sherri Post on the "Still Young at Heart" Facebook page asking for food donations for kids in need, started an avalanche of love and support. The pantry for giving was al-most bare and there was an urgent need for food to pack lunches.

Pickens County schools offer free lunches during the school year, but in the summer those lunches stop and many kids go hungry. That’s not acceptable, the ladies of SYAH cried, and so a plea for donations went out.

In just three days, over $1,000.00 was collected to buy food locally and more was ordered through Ama-zon and delivered right to the distributing agency. Col-leen Adams, Stacy Johnson, Tracy Sturm Critchett and her daughter Kate, trolled the aisles of local supermarkets to buy mounds of lunch sup-plies and snacks to deliver to the UGA County Extension Office for packaging and delivery.

Kudos to all SYAH members who helped make this effort started by just one voice so successful. As Sherry Evans, founder of SYAH, often quotes the Dalai Lama, “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleep-ing with a mosquito.”website. You will also find an archive of photos from past events, a summary of many of the earlier programs and a collection of gardening resources, including some specific to Big Canoe.

Wildflower Bunch welcomes new members at any time. Visit the WFB website, www.wildflowerbunch.com, to learn about membership and how to join.

Questions about the Wildflower Bunch can be answered by visiting the website or contacting WFB president, Mar-gie Halls, at [email protected].

Wildflower Bunch takes a road trip adventureBy Stacy Johnson

What is Wildflower Bunch up to this summer? Well, all things gardening, obviously. And that includes a few tips about attracting birds and other wildlife to your property for your viewing pleasure.

At the WFB program on Wednesday, August 7, Theresa Hartz-Rasmussen, Big Canoe resident and Atlanta Audubon Society volunteer, will discuss the Atlanta Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary certification pro-gram. Theresa is a certifier for this program and is uniquely qualified to talk about the ad-vantages and challenges Big Ca-noe Property Owners encounter when working to satisfy the requirements of this certifica-tion program. Theresa will also be talking more generally about how to attract birds and other wildlife to Big Canoe properties.

Wondering what happened to July? There is no general WFB meeting in July, but a Wildflower Bunch field trip excursion is planned for Scottsdale Farms on Wednesday, July 17. It’s always fun to visit this popular nursery and boutique, but even more fun when accompanied by a group of like-minded gardening enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in joining this excursion in July, email Cheryl Mitchell-Jones at [email protected]. Only members will be headed out on this trip, but you are welcome to join the WFB at any time. Meet at the Wildcat Park at 9:00 a.m. to form carpools, and expect to depart at 9:15 a.m. Enjoy lunch at The Café located on-site, and return when everyone is ready.

In September, WFB will hold its annual Sharing Knowledge event. A panel of Master Gardeners and other gardening experts will share their knowledge about a vari-ety of gardening topics.

Interested in discovering more about these upcom-ing programs or learning about earlier Wildflower Bunch meetings? Be sure to check out the newly revamped WFB

Kate Critchett gives a thumbs up after packing her car with lunch supplies to deliver to Pickens County kids. (Photo by Tracy Sturm Critchett)

This tells it like it is, the photo is by Bonnie Plikaytis and the frame created by Joe Tipton.

TABLE OF CONTENTS - Big Canoe July 2019.pdf · and to this day we have military still sacrificing...

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