Inside the Gates Magazine

Enriching life in the Big Canoe community March 2020

Northside Breakfast
Mountains Grille Room

Friday • March 6
8:00 AM

Bear Society's
St. Patrick's Day

Celebration
The Clubhouse
Friday • March 13

1:00 PM

TED Talks
Canoe Lodge
Sunday • March 15

4:00 PM

Spring Fine Art Show
Swim Club
March 27 - 29

TABLE OF CONTENTS

POA News 2 The POA Board of Directors election results were announced at the Mountains
Events & Happenings 12 Grille Room on Saturday, February 29. The 2020 Board members are (left to
Calendar 13 right): Phil Baldwin, Developer Director; Lou Stephenson, Vice President; Bob
Wining & Dining 23 Crouch, President; Candace Robertson, Treasurer; Regis Falinski, Director;
Getting Fit & Healthy 25 Wayne Crawford, Secretary; Jay Goldman, Director. (Photo by Tim Moran)
Around the Tees 28
Racquets ‘Round 33
the Nets
35
Bocce 36
Marina 38
Let’s Go Clubbing

2 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

POA News

We all have a touch of the artist Three new members elected to the

within us Board of Directors

Artist Kathy Wood draws it out At a special meeting held on Saturday, February 29 in

Big Canoe’s Activity Center went to the dogs and The Clubhouse, Jay Goldman
cats on February 6 when Kathy Wood held a class in pet
painting. Kathy often announced the POA Board of
teaches painting in
her enjoyable art class Directors election results. Regis
called Sips, Squiggles
and Giggles. Falinski and Candace Robert-

Each budding art- son will serve three year terms
ist chose either a cat
or dog to paint. Kathy and Bob Crouch will serve the
invited her “students”
to submit a photo of remaining two years of the open
their pet which Kathy This must be the giggle in Sips,
then incorporated to Squiggles and Giggles. Board position.
personalize the paint-
ings. Otherwise, a standard model was used. With their in- Two proposed changes to
structor nearby, the artists received suggestions and praise
as their canvases took shape. the Bylaws were included on

Check the POA website, bigcanoepoa.org, for the lat- the ballot but did not receive the
est class offerings at the Activity Center. New listings are
required minimum number of Bob Crouch, Big Canoe
votes to be approved. POA President

The new Board met to

select officers immediately fol-

lowing the public meeting. The 2020 Board officers are:

Bob Crouch, President

Lou Stephenson, Vice President

Wayne Crawford, Secretary

Candace Robertson, Treasurer

Regis Falinski and Jay Goldman will serve as Directors

and Phil Baldwin remains as the Developer Director.

The finished projects! Sniffing a butterfly is a sure sign of spring. added often under the My Big Canoe tab. There’s so much
for seasoned students to learn and have a good time doing
ESTATE SALES • HOME STAGING • CONSIGNMENT SERVICES it.

Pick Up & Delivery Service Available • Tues-Sat 11:00-5:00, Closed Sun & Mon On the March Activity Center Calendar, you’ll find
another beeswax candle making experience happening on
88 North Gate Station Dr., Marble Hill, GA 30148 • 770-893-2300 March 9. Why not make your very own candle to light the
way?
Located on Steve Tate Hwy, across from the north entrance •
Also on the February Activity Center calendar were
classes in Natural Health with Essentials Oils (make and
take) on February 12 and a Getting Organized class on
February 24.

If attending a class, you won’t need a fob to enter the
building, the presenter will have the door open. But why not
get a free fob at Canoe Lodge so you can enjoy the Activity
Center on your own? There are games to play, televisions to
watch, popcorn to chomp and coffee to savor.

If you have a talent, hobby or passion to share, shoot
Teri Sawyer, Community Programs and Events Manager, an
email at [email protected] or call her at (706) 268-
3346 to find out how you can join the “faculty.”

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 3

POA News

Keeping the view all year long Bulk Trash Day is now a quarterly
event at the Borrow Pit
Article and photos by Treena Parish

For the last few months, those with mountain views Bulk Trash Day has been held on the last Saturday of

the month, but will now be offered quarterly. The next day
have been enjoying a panoramic view of the world outside to bring bulk trash and donated items for charity is Sat-
their windows. When leaves fall from the trees, hidden
urday, April 25 from
views can be spectacular. When leaf buds open in spring, 10:00 a.m. until 2:00
that once magnificent view changes as trees crowd the sky. p.m. at the Borrow Pit
The answer? Vista pruning!
on Hubbard Road.
What is vista pruning exactly? It is the pruning of trees
A per vehicle
to increase or improve a view to the outside without in-
disposal fee will be
creasing the view inside. This is done by creating windows charged to deposit
of view through the trees yet keeping the canopy intact as items in the bulk trash
much as possible.
containers. Cars will
Vista pruning is done in Big Canoe throughout the year. be charged $5.00, the
As new leaves sprout, you may notice your winter view
SUV fee is $7.00 and
disappearing. Vista pruning can help prevent this.
trucks will pay $10.00.
The process for having vista pruning done on your
No tires, paints
property is as follows:
(unless totally dried out), or hazardous chemicals will be
• Contact your preferred tree service and get on their
accepted.
schedule. The Architectural and Environmental Control
Department (AECD) office has a list of tree services A community thrift store will be available to collect
charitable donations. Any usable household items, clothes,
and will gladly give you their contact information.
etc. can be donated.

If you have questions, contact the Maintenance Depart-

ment at (706) 268-3390.

Shredding services will be on site. 1st Secure Shred-

ding will be available to shred documents. If you have

questions about shredding services, call Sandy at 1st Secure

Shredding, (678) 773-9306. The cost is $5.00 per banker’s

box.

This April 25 date is just perfect for spring cleaning!

While birds may happily sing in these trees, foliage blocks the • The tree service will then call the AECD office to
mountain view. schedule time for the community vista pruning super-
visor.
Vista pruning opens the view but keeps the tree canopy intact.
• When the big day arrives, the supervisor will stay on
site and document all cutting activity. Then the owner
and the tree service will both sign off on the documen-
tation.

• The charge for the supervisor’s time is $50.00 per hour
billed directly to your POA account. Please take this
into consideration when establishing your budget for
this project.
If this sounds like something you would be interested

in, contact the AECD office at (706) 68-3394 for more
information.

4 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

POA News

Some questions have no answers Are you ready for a taste of
Big Canoe’s amenities?
Information submitted by Treena Parish

Enjoy two full months at half the price

Ring, ring, ring! When the phone jingles or the com-

puter dings at the Architectural and Environmental Con- By Palmer Howard
trol Department,

sometimes there’s a For those of you who have not yet participated in an

surprise concern or amenities trial promotion, this is a special deal just for you.

inquiry coming from Don’t miss an amaz-

the other end. ing opportunity to

While most enjoy “A Taste of the

residents call with Amenities.”

questions about This two-month

paint colors, fallen trial membership

tree issues or construction concerns, every once in awhile offers 50% off Full
a stumper causes Treena Parish, Manager of AECD, to
Golf, Racquet Club
scratch her head.
(Tennis Only) and/
When the latest fleet of cicadas flew through Big Canoe or Wellness Center
last summer, a resident called to ask what was being done amenity membership
about all the night noise. Apparently the chittering was
fees.
causing the household to lose sleep. The rubbing of cicada
No long term
wings can be a serenade, albeit a loud one, to welcome
commitment required.
slumber or it can be the thing that hatches nightmares.
You may cancel after the two-month trial with no
During the last drought, a resident called to ask what strings attached, or if you enjoy the benefits of amenity
was being done about the red ring around Lake Petit. It
membership, you will continue at the regular rates for the
seems the concerned resident wasn’t keen about the large next 10 months to fulfill the usual 12-month membership
unsightly “bathtub ring.” She suggested painting the red commitment. To cancel, you must notify Memberships by
clay to make it more attractive. Now, that would be a big job May 15.
for the painters at Public Works!
Contact the Golf Pro Shop, Racquet Club, Wellness
Questions are always welcome at AECD, even if
Center or e-mail Palmer Howard, Amenity Memberships
answers might not be what you’d expect. If you have an ar- ([email protected]). to sign up or learn more
chitectural or environmental concern about anything inside about the amenity programs.
our gates, give Treena a call at (706) 268-3394 for a quick

response or to give her a chuckle for the day. Palmer Howard (706) 268-1092

Big Canoe Resident Transform your existing Golf Pro Shop (Full Golf) (706) 268-3323
landscape for your Racquet Club (Tennis Only) (706) 268-3367
688 McElroy Mountain Drive beautiful home site Wellness Center (706) 268-3441
Big Canoe, GA 30143 in Big Canoe: new
Direct: 949-873-3844 construction, trees, NOTE: This offer is open only to Property Owners who
lush plants and have not already participated in previous trial programs. If
general clean up. a Property Owner has been a member of an amenity in the
past, they may not trial.
Let your garden shine,
invite birds & wildlife, See the POA Membership Plan for Value of Member-
enlighten your entry to ship at bigcanoepoa.org under the Amenities Membership
Documents tab.
create intrigue
& interest all within

a well designed,
customized plan.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 5

POA News

Exciting updates for all If you’re new to Big Canoe,
Big Canoe’s dog parks the POA can help

Information submitted by Sherry Evans Information submitted by Palmer Howard

“Hey, let’s put on a play!” Did you and your neighbor- You know what happens every spring in Big Canoe?

hood gang ever enthusiastically shout this out? Ideas are ex- Folks look for homes or put the finishing touches on homes

citing motivators, they’re building. This means we have a bunch of newcom-

but it takes more ers in our neigh-

than an idea to borhood.

make something To help new

happen. neighbors get

When de- acclimated, the

veloping the POA hosts a

Diamond Dog number of New-

Park was first comers’ Orientation socials during the year.

discussed, there Three will be held at 3:00 in the afternoons of May 7,

were plenty of ideas, concepts and even problems to share. July 16 and November 5 and one 9:00 morning session for

A small group rolled up their sleeves and took on the chal- early birds on September 12. All will meet in Mountains

lenge of making all our dog parks fun places for dogs to Grille.

play and their “parents” to socialize. Until these meetings, everybody new should feel free to

A Dog Park Committee was organized to meet with key ask questions, even tackling a guy or lady on the street with

leaders of the POA to work hand in hand to make dreams a a query. Eavesdropping might even be permitted.

reality. Signing up for the weekly POA e-blasts is a good way

The February meeting was held with Dog Commit- to keep in the know. The 2020 POA Directory includes a
tee officers Sherry Evans, Liv Taylor, Sandy Pullara and treasure chest of info too, as does a monthly read of Inside

Karen Evans present, along with team leaders Anne Jaeckel the Gates. For specific departmental questions, a call to that

(Product Development) and Jodette Endsley (Fund Raising department will get answers fast.
Events). The POA staff present were Jason Brownell, Direc- The POA staff at Canoe Lodge is always helpful. Their

tor of Operations, and Matthew Parks, Landscape Manager. number is (706) 268-3346.

At Diamond Park, the parking areas have been filled Welcome to our mountain community, we’re happy

with gravel and are now accessible for parking. Mainte- you’re here!

nance access gates will be locked consistently and signs

indicating “Small Dogs Only” and “Large Dogs Only” will Bird Feeder Reminder
be added. Gravel or mulch will be added to the water spigot

area to abate ponding. The remaining dirt areas around the

perimeter will be covered with sod by the end of March. All feeders must
In Wildcat Park, oak trees have been planted, grass has be removed from

been seeded and the underground spring is now routed for March 1 to
better drainage. Stone or mulch will be placed around the

water spigot area to abate ponding. November 30,
At The Meadows, stones or mulch will be added around including

the water spigot area, the bench will be cleaned and stones hummingbird
or mulch will be placed underneath the bench.

Large metal signs explaining dog park rules will be feeders.
placed at all parks.

6 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

POA News

Cooktop explodes, why? cooktop was the source of the incident.

By Ricky Jordan The homeowner was advised to contact an appliance
Director of Public Safety
company for
The Big Canoe Fire Department (BCFD) along with
the Dawson County Fire Department was dispatched to a repairs prior to
gas explosion/possible residential structure fire on McElroy
Mountain Drive recently. using the cooktop

The team responded with their standard structure fire again. Blossman
response including Engine 3, Rescue 3 and Truck 3 (lad-
der truck). Upon arrival of BCFD volunteer Joe Thorne, Gas later arrived
approximately three minutes after the initial alarm, it was
determined no smoke was visible from the exterior. and confirmed no

The homeowner advised responders when she turned gas leaks were
on her kitchen cooktop, a loud explosion occurred and the
cooktop briefly lifted from the countertop. All additional evident prior to
fire department units arrived in less than five minutes and
investigated the home. the explosion

There was no evidence of an active fire, however there and the faulty
was an odor of propane gas in the kitchen area. The LP gas
to the home was shut off and to a suspected cooktop appli- appliance was
ance. No visible damage was noted but it was believed the
determined to be The homeowner was rattled by the cooktop
the cause of the explosion in her kitchen, but thankful for
incident. Public Safety’s quick response.

This was one

of those things when any equipment can fail without warn-

ing. There was nothing the homeowner could have done to

prevent this type incident. Every home should have a home

safety plan that includes working smoke detectors, a fire

extinguisher nearby (kitchen extinguishers are a must have)

and calls made to 911 immediately.

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MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 7

POA News

Getting ‘shot’ with a Bone Gun Visiting Big Canoe’s nature

Information and photos submitted by Ricky Jordan museum is an educational delight

Director of Public Safety Back when Big Canoe was young, Dr. Robert B. Platt,

Professor Emeritus at Emory University who happened to
What do the words “Bone Gun” bring to mind? Prob- live in Big Canoe, brought his
ably nothing pleasant, but the latest addition to our Public passion for natural habitats and
Safety team’s arsenal can be
wildlife to create a nature mu-
a life saver for many. This
seum which all could enjoy.
piece of equipment was
Dr. Platt played an im-
made possible by a generous
portant role in conserving the
donation from the Wellness
natural beauty of the area and
Collaborative.
protecting the animals and birds in it. The museum Dr.
Bone Gun is the casual
Platt and his wife Deanie created was gifted to the POA
name for Emergency Vascu-
and it’s now housed on the second floor of Canoe Lodge.
lar Access.
The museum houses glass cases filled with wild ani-
It’s a tool which is used
mals along with two dioramas. All animals were found
to provide IV access to a
deceased; no hunting or trapping was done to obtain the
patient who critically needs
creatures. A professional taxidermist painstakingly posed
IV medications or fluids but
the animals and birds in natural positions.
has poor vascular access. An
Kids visiting the museum are particularly fascinated by
example would be a patient All these Bone Gun components a large, mean looking coyote with a hapless pheasant car-
in cardiac arrest when the ried in its mouth. Scary stuff!
heart is not beating suffi- are needed to save a life. There’s a beaver, bobcat and an assortment of birds to

ciently to fill the valve inside read about too. Native plants are also included. Descrip-
with blood, thus regular IV access would be difficult. tions paint vivid images of all that’s contained in this won-

The “gun” is really a drill that inserts a needle into derful source of information for kids and adults alike.

large bone marrow spaces in the leg or arm to deliver medi- The museum is open during regular business hours at
cations into the body as effectively as a standard IV. Canoe Lodge and there’s no charge. Stop by and become

It might sound scary but is a valuable tool for our EMTs acquainted with your furry and feathered neighbors who
as they race to save lives. Thank you, Wellness Collabora- share this beautiful place we call home.
tive, for helping make Big Canoe a state of the art emer-

gency medical provider.

10586 Big Canoe, Jasper, GA 30143

Phone: (706) 268-3346

Fax: (706) 268-3765

Websites: www.bigcanoepoa.org

www.insidethegates.org

email: [email protected]

Advertising: [email protected]

Communications & Marketing Manager: Tim Moran

Practice, practice, practice! Training is important to learn how to Articles written and edited by Alice Eachus
use the device effectively.
Official publication of the Big Canoe POA

© 2020 Big Canoe Property Owners Association

8 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

POA News

That’s the way our own
Paul Bunyan does it

Tipton’s thrones in the forest

Article information and photos submitted by Joe Tipton

When storms play havoc with Big Canoe’s trails and Next I cut a v-shaped notch in After rough-in is complete, it’s
streams, who ya gonna the chair back to remove more time to move the chair to its
call? Big Canoe Trails waste material. final position which is about
100 yards away.
Committee, of course!
Final rough carving is pretty
We are fortunate to have much done at this point.

a hardworking volunteer

squad that keeps our

trails in tip top shape. We My first attempt at carving a chair
salute our band of forest from a log began by cutting a section
warriors.
of a fallen pine tree to length.
Recently a member

of our woodland gang Getting closer! As I carve

decided to carve seating for weary hikers along the new the back, I periodically “test

High Gap Trail. Plans are for three benches and a chair. Joe sit” in the chair to see where

Tipton was the craftsman and shares his process of carving adjustements need to be made

a chair from nature’s fallen bounty. to its shape.

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MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 9

POA News

Debbie Pickett is the ‘Face of When winter storms come calling
Big Canoe’
When a POA e-blast announces a winter blast is head-
If ever there was a “Face of Big Canoe,” Debbie Pickett ing our way, what do you do? Do you pile in a stack of
books to read, but forget about grabbing a loaf of bread or
would be our cover girl. For a sum total of 35 years, Debbie gallon of milk? Be forewarned. A sprinkle of snow in our
mountains can cripple even four-wheel drives and guys who
has been one of the first faces seen by new residents. Her say stuff like, “I lived in Montana, I can handle this!”

friendly demeanor Not so fast. Our mountains are unique and that inch of
glistening snow might camouflage deadly black ice. You
and easy welcom- never know.

ing smile assure new Don’t try to make a run to the IGA when snowflakes
are falling. You might not make it home. Many folks have
residents they made been stranded in ditches or worse because they thought they
were immune to Mother’s Nature’s quirks and surprises.
the right choice mov-
Public Works and Public Safety are busy handling
ing into a home in bad road conditions and medical emergencies; they aren’t
a taxi service because you didn’t prepare adequately. Our
our mountains. teams won’t leave you stranded, no worries there, but you
may have to wait a spell for help because emergencies take
Debbie got preference.

her first paycheck During the winter months, even if a storm isn’t fore-
cast, it’s good to keep food, water and medicine supplies on
from Big Canoe in hand, just in case you’re stranded for a few days and suffer
from a case of cabin fever. That’s when your stack of books
1977 and worked comes in handy.

in administration When a Weather Alert announcement fills your screen,
take heed. It’s posted to keep you safe and secure. We’re
until 1987. With a nearing the end of winter’s fury, but there still may be
threats of bad weather on the radar.
newborn second son
If you’re not connected to the Internet, ask a friend or
who liked to stay up neighbor who is connected to sound the alarm to keep you
informed.
all night, the young
Let’s all take care of each other. It’s the Big Canoe way.
mother decided to

stay at home for a For 35 years, Debbie Pickett has been
while to catch up on an important part of the Big Canoe
sleep. scene.

She returned to

her desk in 1995 and

hasn’t left it since. All told, Debbie Pickett has been a 35

year employee.

This beautiful lady loves clothes and accessories. It’s

fun to see what stylish ensemble will greet each day. Deb-

bie always creates a cheerful presence in the Canoe Lodge

where she now holds the title of Director of Administrative

Services.

Over the past 35 years, Debbie has seen many changes

come and go in our community, but she feels it still retains

the friendly spirit that early “settlers” enjoyed. Ever since

she first started crossing under the covered bridge to come

to work, she’s marveled at what a pristine, delightful place

Big Canoe is. Back in her early days, there were no more

than a couple dozen permanent residents, no IGA and not a

restaurant in sight. How things have changed!

We congratulate Debbie Pickett on her decades of ser-

vice to Big Canoe. We hope her pretty smile will meet and

greet residents for a long time to come.

10 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

POA News

How Inside the Gates Radio Pump it up for free

came to be Have you ever walked out to your driveway and noticed

By Craig Looney Old Nellie looked a little lopsided? After an around the car
inspection, you discover a low tire was causing the tilt. This

Inside The Gates Radio has built one of the most sometimes happens when winter temps drop.

unique music libraries available to all. We’re the Big Canoe For your peace of mind, did you know there’s an air

Community Radio hose at Public

Station and so were Works that can

initially guided tease your tire

by key Big Canoe to full float?

demographics. The air

Our library is hose is located

built for and in- at the Public

fluenced by many Works adminis-

folks that call tration building

Big Canoe home. behind the trash

We’ve put together facility. It’s on It’s air and it’s free! For all your inflatable
the left side of needs, stop by Public Works Maintenance and
music for people the building at fill ‘em up.
the end.
who think, played

by people who feel. Just thought

If you think about we’d let you know about this often unknown service for

that, our station residents. Public Works aims to please!

is calling to just By the way, the Public Works mechanic can help get

about anyone who’s Who doesn’t remember this classic your private pontoon boat ready for the season ahead. If you
serious about what Beatles’ album?
they listen to. need a check-up or work done, call Regina Silvers at (706)

Our library 268-3390 and she’ll set an appointment for you.

goes back to the era when Bono meant the gregarious

Sonny Bono, not the humorless U2 singer. I was 13 when many, has not been breached by what has come since.

The Beatles first appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show. Sul- The years 1964-1972 are arguably the finest time in

livan knew what he was doing since you had to endure the pop music history. Our Inside the Gates Radio library starts

entire show until The Beatles appeared at the end. there, but doesn’t end there. That era defined exceptional

The topic of conversation the next day was all about music and that’s what we try to keep for your listening

The Beatles. Who was your favorite? At that time, I didn’t pleasure.

have one, but a friend shared George was his favorite be- Remembering the pioneers of exceptional music, Inside

cause he looked like he could take the others in a fight. Ah, The Gates Radio’s dynamic library strives to bring listen-

the depths of music comprehension! I was unprepared to ers the finest mix of music from the early 60s to the now.

evaluate my interest (or lack of it) in music back then, when There’s no time like the present to listen to Looney’s Tunes.

my collection of 45s consisted of songs like Monster Mash. Get ready, get comfortable with your favorite beverage

But from that point on, something happened. lined up and listen to Sunday evening’s Looney’s Tunes live

One great group after another started appearing on the show comin’ at ya every week.

music scene and we were inundated with great bands creat- Experience what we’ve created for the Big Canoe com-

ing passionate music, music that responded to life’s climate munity. Visit our website at www.insidethegatesradio.com

at the time. to find out everything you need to do to listen and enjoy.

The war, social movements and issues, refined musical Contact us at [email protected] with questions

tastes all seemed to put music on a pedestal from which, for or comments.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 11

POA News

Public Safety can help residents Penning the pigs

with minor hassles Which name is most offensive

Don’t you hate that feeling when you walk out your or disgusting to you? Boars or

front door with your pigs? Boars played the bad guys in

arms loaded and hear an Grimms’ Fairy Tales while piggies

ominous “Click” at the are often described as sweet and

very instant you real- cute. That is until the adjective

ize you left your keys “wild” is attached, then both boars

inside? Even worse, don’t and pigs can be frightenly scary.

you hate it when you’re Recently wild boars/wild pigs

running late, jump in have been invading the uppermost

your car, turn the key part of Big Canoe. They like to take a trek from Dawson

and hear…nothing? Bat- Forest over the mountain to Big Canoe. Obviously the crea-

tery dead as a doornail. tures don’t know this is a private enclave.

No worries, a quick call to Public Safety will get help Good news from our Public Works Department. In

for these minor inconveniences. The Public Safety team just one week, 16 critters were caught. That’s 16 munching

will provide jump starts and unlocks as a courtesy to home- mouths that won’t be destroying our tender spring gardens.

owners. There is no charge for this service. To trap that many in a week is quite a feat, but the traps

Keep in mind though, these services are done as staff- will stay up to catch even more invaders. If you happen to

ing and call volume allows. The primary responsibility of see a wild boar/wild pig roaming around, give a quick call

Public Safety is medical and fire response. to Public Works at (706) 268-3390 and our guys will meet

But, isn’t it nice to know the guys have our backs! the challenge of cooping them up.

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12 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Wellness Collaborative salutes catur Presbyterian.
Ellen Finley and Dave Johnson After settling in Big Canoe, Dave was looking to get

involved in something up this way. The Wellness Collabora-

Just like the Energizer Bunny, some volunteers keep tive fit the bill and he felt BC Rides suited him perfectly.

going and going and going. Two valuable volunteers for He enjoys driving and is pretty good at it they say.

the Wellness Collaborative who Dave has become the early

have given hours and hours of morning and long distant

service are Ellen Finley and driver of choice now. He’s

Dave Johnson. usually up by 5:00 a.m. so

Sometimes the call for help early drives don’t bother

comes quickly and these two him at all.
Having driven all over When not driving Collaborative
volunteers respond at the drop
Atlanta as part of his small clients to medical appointments,
of a hat. Their dedication to group health insurance looks like Dave Johnson has his
business, Dave knows most eye on the sky.
helping others is inspiring. of the shortcuts. Helping

Ellen has been a very active Ellen Finley can often be people get to doctor’s appointments gives him a good feel-

BC Meals volunteer, provid- found standing at her stove ing. That’s the plus for volunteering.

ing meals to those recovering preparing meals for Wellness We salute Ellen and Dave for their dedication and com-

or incapacitated. Ellen has Collaborative clients. mitment to helping others. Their service has benefited so

been cooking up a storm since many in Big Canoe who find aging in place isn’t so easy,
especially when health issues become difficult.
the Collaborative first started and doesn’t miss an event or
To learn more about Big Canoe’s Neighbor Helping
volunteer forum.
Neighbor program, visit bcwell.org.
An Atlanta native, Ellen graduated from Emory and

retired from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. She

and her late husband moved to Big Canoe 20 years ago to

escape traffic and enjoy our golf courses, her husband’s pas-

sion. Ellen’s love of nature blossomed in her new commu-

nity, as did her desire to help others, first through the Big

Canoe Chapel, then through the Wellness Collaborative.

She continues to be actively involved in Chapel activities. Get A Home Loan From The

Once services were provided to those who needed help BEST BANK IN THE SOUTH

through church families, friends and neighbors and Ellen

did her part to help then. She quickly embraced the ex-

panded services of the Wellness Collaborative as she feels Whether you’re building,
the needs are real in our community and likes the idea of buying, renovating, or refinancing
neighbors helping neighbors. It’s what makes a community.
your home, Donna can help.

Dave Johnson is often called the “long haul driver” for DONNA TORRES
the Collaborative. He takes clients on the long drives for 678.895.7599
medical treatment and keeps them comfortable and secure.
[email protected]
Dave and his wife Charlotte moved to Big Canoe in donnatorres-renasant.com
2016. Charlotte heads up the BC Visits program for the
NMLS#: 1204791

Wellness Collaborative. After moving, Dave was too far

away from his Atlanta volunteer work with CURE Child- Ask About Our Single Close
hood Cancer at Emory’s Egelston Children’s Hospital. He Construction Permanent Options!

had been involved with CURE for 14 years.

Dave spent a good deal of time doing volunteer work, ©2019 Renasant Bank. All loans or offers of credit are subject to credit and
primarily with the Boy Scouts as Assistant Scoutmaster, underwriting approval. Other fees, conditions, and restrictions may apply.
Scoutmaster, and Committee Chairman at his church, De- This is not a commitment to lend. Please contact a loan officer for details and questions. Bank
NMLS: 402669 | Eff. Date04/11/2019 | 04112019-ACT-1

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 13

Events & Happenings

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY MARCH 2020 THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
WEDNESDAY
1 2 3 5 6 7
4
• Sunday Brunch Clubhouse Closed • Pine Needle Quilt • DAR Luncheon • Healthy Walkers • Paper Crafters
• Healthy Walkers Guild • Wildflower Bunch • Artists’ Club • Squires & Stags • BCAR Open House
8 • Men’s Bridge at the • Girls’ Night Out • Healthy Living • Lit Lunch • Bocce Camp
• Mah Jongg • Coffee Klatch • Wine and Crime • Bocce Camp
• Sunday Brunch Swim Club • Trivia Night • Healthy Walkers
• Bocce Camp • Canasta at Canoe • Knit Togethers Book Club
10 • Cribbage Crowd • Poker Night
15 Lodge • Bocce Camp • Acoustic Showcase
• Monday Night • Ridgerunners • Bocce Camp
• Sunday Brunch Meeting
• TED Talks Bridge at Canoe 11 12 13 14
Lodge • Mah Jongg
• AWOL • Bocce Camp • North GA Vets • Chapel Guild • Lit Lunch • BCAR Open House
• Trivia Night • Coffee Klatch Meeting • Squires & Stags • Kids’ Leprechaun
9 • Healthy Walkers • Duplicate Bridge
17 • Knit Togethers • POA Board Work • Healthy Walkers Party
Clubhouse Closed • Cribbage Crowd Session
• Healthy Walkers • St. Patrick’s Day
• Men’s Bridge at the Sale at Golf Pro • Poker Night
Shop
Swim Club 18 19 20 21
• Canasta at Canoe • Mah Jongg
• Trivia Night • Coffee Klatch • POA Board Meeting • Valentine's Dinner • BCAR Open House
Lodge • Healthy Walkers • Poker Night • Duplicate Bridge • Photography Club
• Monday Night • Knit Togethers • Healthy Walkers
• Travel Club
Bridge at Canoe • Cribbage Crowd
Lodge
• Bocce Camp
• Beeswax Candle
Making at Activity
Center
• Healthy Living

16

Clubhouse Closed
• Healthy Walkers
• Men’s Bridge at the

Swim Club
• Canasta at Canoe

Lodge
• Monday Night

Bridge at Canoe
Lodge

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

• Sunday Brunch Clubhouse Closed • Mah Jongg • Coffee Klatch • Poker Night • Healthy Walker • BCAR Open House
• Healthy Walkers • Trivia Night • Healthy Walkers • SYAH Game NIght • MGA Opening Day • MGA Tournament
• Men’s Bridge at the • Knit Togethers • Artists Club Spring • Jazz/Blues Night
• Cribbage Crowd • Artists Club Spring
Swim Club Fine Arts Show
• Canasta at Canoe Fine Arts Show

Lodge
• Monday Night

Bridge at Canoe
Lodge

29 30 31 Note: A full
calendar of all Big
• Sunday Brunch Clubhouse Closed • Mah Jongg Canoe Events
• Local Candidate • Healthy Walkers • Trivia Night can be viewed at
• Men’s Bridge at the bigcanoepoa.org.
Forum Property Owners
• Artists Club Spring Swim Club must log in to view
• Canasta at Canoe the calendar.
Fine Arts Show
Lodge
• Monday Night

Bridge at Canoe
Lodge

14 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Meet and greet local Hippity hop, the Easter Bunny
candidates on March 29 is on his way

Get out the vote! The Big Canoe POA is sponsoring a It’s not too early to make Easter plans, especially if they
Wine and Cheese involve families with kids. Big Canoe will host its annual
Meet and Greet for Easter Egg Hunt on
local candidates in Saturday, April 11 on
Dawson and Pickens the Activity Field (old
counties. Both par- soccer field). Times
ties will be repre- for the hunts to be
sented. announced. Hunts are
separated by age so
There are many every kiddie has a fair
excellent candidates chance. There will be
in both parties who special hidden eggs
have innovative and with unexpected monumental surprises in them.
interesting plans
for the area. Both Kids will scamper over two bouncy houses. Then it’s on
Dawson and Pickens counties are growing so get on board to the Build a Bear booth, petting zoo and Kona Ice Truck.
to hear what directions are being charted. Kona has it covered as the vendor will sell ice treats if it’s
warm and hot cocoa if winter isn’t finished with us yet.
The event will be held in the back of The Clubhouse on
Sunday, March 29 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. For a delightful Easter treat, Dinah Sutton will be sell-
ing her gorgeous decorated cookie creations. Absolutely
The event is free for residents. perfect to fill Easter baskets or set as a dinner table favor.
This is your chance to learn about those who lead our
counties and what their plans might be. We’re gearing up Circle the date on your calendar now and treat your kids
for an exciting election season, be part of it! to an eggs-traordinary day of fun.

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MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 15

Events & Happenings

Be cool at our Jazz and Blues Enjoy a free Country
dinner show Breakfast at The Clubhouse

Ready for a little hot jazz and smooth blues? On Satur- Enjoy a free Country Breakfast at the usual Squires &
day, March 28, EG
Kight will entertain Stags meeting time at 8:00 a.m.
at our very own
Clubhouse. EG is a on Friday, March 6. The guest
well known blues
singer that Big speaker is Northside Hospital
Canoers first heard
on a POA day trip Forsyth’s Lynn Jackson. The
to Crimson Moon.
The evening begins gathering will be in Mountains
at 6:00 p.m.
Grille. Everyone welcome.
To sense the
sounds you’ll hear that night, check out EG on YouTube, All your Southern breakfast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKmazkrUYNY.
favorites will be served on a
The dinner show is sponsored by our partners at scrumptious breakfast buffet.
Northside Hospital in Forsyth. This keeps the cost down for
dinner guests. Come join early risers and hear

The evening begins with a fabulous dinner featuring the funny and engaging Chief Lynn Jackson, COO of
a beet and blue salad, sweet tea glazed pork loin, three- Operating Officer of Northside Northside Forsyth Hospital,
cheese mashed potatoes, slow simmered Southern style Forsyth tell us about the hospi- will be the featured speaker
green beans, rolls and beverage. You can’t have a Memphis tal’s many services and answer at the breakfast meeting on
blues night without a dessert bar. Our bar will include fa- questions we all have been dy- March 6.
vorites like bourbon pecan pie and Mississippi mud cake. ing to know.

Dinner guests will also be treated to a complimentary While the breakfast is com-
cocktail, your choice of a Mississippi Mule, beer or wine.
plimentary for residents, attendees must make reservation
Cost is $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Call Dot
Grogan at (706) 268-1253 for reservations. by Wednesday, March 4.

All you jazz and blues lovers won’t want to miss the Contact Dot Grogan at [email protected] to
best Memphis Blues Night this side of Bourbon Street. Jazz
it up a little! reserve your breakfast call.

Kids and leprechauns,
what a mix!

Begorra! Big Canoe kids and grandkids will mingle
with leprechauns on March 14 at the Activity Center. Wear-
ing of the green is
encouraged as kids and
their keepers celebrate
St. Patrick’s Day with
treats, laughs and
games. There’s bound
to be mischief afoot!

Last year’s party
was a pot full of fun as
kids found golden good
times at the end of the
rainbow.

Be sure to check POA weekly e-blasts for more details.
It will be a party to remember as kids innocently ex-
claim, “The leprechauns made me do it!” Don’t believe it!

16 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Four tons of rice is the goal. Explore the wonders of ancient
Can you help? Egypt by land and sea

Information submitted by John Feight Information submitted by Margo Vallone

As a cereal grain, rice is the most widely consumed Uncover the mysteries of the Nile River and beyond on

staple food for a large part of the world’s human population, AmaWaterways’ brand-new Egypt cruise and land adven-

especially in Asia. It is the agricultural commodity with the ture beginning in

2021.

Journey into the

heart of this ancient

world, spending time

in such fascinating

cities as Cairo and

Luxor. Additionally,

take in the extraor-

dinary sight of the

sole survivor of the

Seven Wonders of the

Ancient World, the

4,000-year-old Great

third highest worldwide production, after sugarcane and Pyramid of Giza. Much more is planned for this once-in-a-

maize, so reports Wikipedia. lifetime trip.

Rice is a nutritious staple as most of the grain processed Be among the first to experience a real connoisseur’s

in the USA is packed with extra vitamin power. This makes delight of Egypt while embraced in the luxurious, warm

it a valuable food source to feed those in need. and welcoming atmosphere only AmaWaterways provides.

On March 21 at the monument dedication at Eagle’s Learn more about this adventure from Kathy Brock at

Rest Park on Mt. Oglethorpe, a collection will be taken the March 18 Travel Club meeting held at The Clubhouse

to buy four tons of rice, that’s a whopping 8,000 pounds! at 6:00 p.m. It’s sure to be special when Dream Vacations

The rice will go a long way to helping CARES of Pickens announces their planned trip for 2021.

County feed the hungry in that county. Note the Travel Club meeting is a week earlier than

The mission’s goal is to buy all this rice over the next usual. Remember, each time you attend a Travel Club meet-

12 months. Rice will be bought at the Atlanta Food Bank at ing, your name is placed in a drawing for a fabulous vaca-

10 cents per pound. A great price! tion to be awarded at the end of the year.

You can help by writing a check payable to “CARES of

Pickens County” and mail to:

Kathleen Ingram

Mt. Oglethorpe Foundation

10619 Big Canoe

Jasper, GA 30143

Please note on your check: Rice for Pickens Hungry.

Big Canoe Boy Scout Troop 20 will also be collecting
money to buy rice at the March 21 monument dedication.
Mt. Oglethorpe was gifted to the public by Big Canoe resi-
dents Ken and Billie Ann Rice.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 17

Events & Happenings

What inspires innovation and Don't miss your chance to
creativity in humans? see Hamilton

TED Talks provides some answers Tickets are very limited, don’t miss your
chance to see live theater
By Bob Littell
Get your calendars out now, this is one event you won’t
The March 15 TED Talks will be held at the Canoe want to miss! On Friday, May 1, the Programs & Events
Lodge from 4:00 p.m. - Committee will be taking a
6:00 p.m. The talks will group of 40 to the Fox Theatre in
feature two outstanding Atlanta to see the wildly popular
presentations, both deal- show Hamilton.
ing with innovation and
creativity. The big charter luxury bus
will leave Big Canoe at 3:30 p.m.
The first talk by Simon Don’t be late, we’re giving you
Sinek will be on leadership. plenty of lead time!
Sinek will describe why
the greatest leaders think The trip includes a sumptuous dinner at the famous
and act differently, which Mary Mac’s, Hamilton tickets and transportation.
then enables them to inspire action. He explains the part of
the brain that helps form rationale thought is not the part Due to the expected rush for tickets, they will be sold
of the brain that drives behavior. Another part of the brain by lottery. Email your request for up to two tickets to
motivates great leaders to take action and is what sets early [email protected] between midnight, March
adopters and innovators apart. 1 through midnight, March 4. One request per lot number
and email, please.
The second TED Talk will feature Sir Ken Robin-
son. His key premise is our educational system kills cre- The all-inclusive cost is $204 per person. Lot number
ativity, partly as a result of putting so much emphasis on charges only.
math and science and not enough on the arts, whether that
be music, art, or dance. It’s a very entertaining presentation You’re never too old to play
that presents the advantages of multi-disciplinary learning in the dirt
and explains why women are better at multitasking.
Bees are buzzing, butterflies are fluttering and gar-
If you’re interested in attending this informative and dener’s hands are itching to play in the dirt. For all kinds
interesting session, please respond to Bob Littell at boblit- of flowery information and
[email protected]. helpful gardening tips, visit
Big Canoe Garden Society on
The Writer’s Yours is the last word . . . Facebook.
Pen Pal
• Manuscript analysis On it you’ll find places to
Alice Eachus (727) 460-2800 • Editorial services buy the usual and exotic as
[email protected] • Proofreading well as garden construction
• Memoir development plans. Recently a Big Canoer asked for advice on turning
• Blogging an extra room into an indoor garden. That’s mighty ambi-
• Coaching tious, but a good way to keep veggies and flowers growing
• Consulting all year long.
• Seminars and Workshops
Landscape designer Nicky Sensale created the Face-
book page and set the souls of novice and experienced gar-
deners on fire. After all, gardening is cheaper than therapy
and you get tomatoes!

18 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Summer concerts are ready bring another great slate of musicians to Big Canoe’s
to star at The Terraces amphitheater; we will once again bookend the upcoming
summer season with our opening concert in May and final

By Graham Nicholson concert in September.
For those not familiar with The Terraces, it’s a large

semi-circular seated venue located on Steve Tate between

The Long and Winding Road, Leavin’ on a Jet Plane, Big Canoe’s two gates. Folks place their chairs at the am-

I’ve Travelled Far and Wide and Takin’ It Easy are songs phitheater on the Saturday morning of each concert. That

that might have defined a special moment or a special time way folks have comfortable seating and a “reserved space.”

in our lives. Maybe all of them are hidden in our hearts. Keep Terraces concerts in mind when you make your

In my case, late spring and summer plans. To help folks tune in to

all are special. what’s happening, follow us on Facebook, The Terraces of

Having lived in Big Canoe Chapel.

Europe in three We’ve already booked two tribute bands, one features

countries before the songs of Tom Petty and the other highlights Bob Seeger,

settling back in with still another fan favorite in the works.

Georgia, I had We’re almost ready to announce the full schedule of

close friends summer entertainers. We’re very grateful to our sponsors

move away, most who defray much of the cost.

often by jet plane, While some pack a picnic to enjoy pre-concert, the

and I travelled Clubhouse Food Truck is returning to make it as easy as

around Europe possible for concert-goers to enjoy food and drink on a

using boats, beautiful evening under the stars.

planes, cars, and See you soon at The Terraces!

way back then even by bicycle and on foot. That last song is

pretty much my mantra these days. What about you? What

song(s) define the best of moments of your life?

The constant in all is music. This past holiday season

went full force with Macy’s Lighting of the Tree preceded

by a large, rousing and varied musical program. We equate

time, the passage thereof, and events with fellowship shared

and entertainment.

The Terraces prides itself with the moniker of a smaller

version of Chastain Park. We attended a Mark Knopfler

concert at Chastain last year with close friends from col-

lege. The music was incredible as well as the setting, but

the weather was hot and steamy.

Comparing this experience to our own Terraces, we

handle hot weather here by giving out free water bottles

provided by our sponsors to keep folks cool. Being in the

mountains with shade trees overhead helps too.

An experience at Red Rock Amphitheater near Den-

ver gave another insight into outdoor musical experiences.

Huge red boulders, a strong breeze and an incredible view

of the surrounding valley made the night extraordinary.

That was most impressive but our own Terraces provides its

own intimate physical and green venue.

The Terraces Committee continues to work hard to

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 19

Events & Happenings

The Instant Pot quandary, what third degree burns moving hot soup from the stove to the
to do with it? blender. It’s all accomplished in a single, small appliance.

Email christine.fl[email protected] to reserve your

By Christine Flaherty place at this informative event. There will be a $3 charge at
the door to defray the cost of ingredients.

Walks expand to Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Did you get an Instant Pot for Christmas? Do you have We continue to walk and socialize on the beautiful

one languishing in the recesses of a remote cabinet? Per- trails in Big Canoe. All this happens at 9:30 a.m. three

haps you’re considering adding one to your array of gently- days a week. A new, easier Wednesday walk of three loops

used appliances? The Healthy Living Committee can help. around the wooded outskirts of the Wildcat Pool area has

Join us for been added. Each loop is about a half mile and walkers can

a tasting and do as many (or as few) as they like.

demonstra- We continue to walk at McDaniel Meadows on Mon-

tion, the sixth days (one or two miles and a modest challenge) and the

in this popular Wildcat red and blue trails on Fridays (two to three miles

series of pre- with some pronounced elevation changes). Friendship

sentations on literally improvescar-

eating health- diovascular function-

fully. Whether ing, your immune

you own an system and how you

Instant Pot or sleep, according to a

are still unde- recent article in the

cided whether Wall Street Journal.

to become part So join us to make

of the Cult of the Pressure Cooker, you’ll want to hear about new friends, and stay

the pros and cons of this food preparation phenomenon. healthy.

On Monday, March 9 at 3:00 p.m. in the Broyles Center Email christine.

at the Big Canoe Chapel, we will address the pressing ques- flaherty21@gmail.

tion - What do I do with an Instant Pot? com for more infor-

For example, have you ever forgotten to take something mation and to have

out of the freezer? (That would be me.) Just toss those rock your name added to our walkers’ reminder email list.

hard chicken breasts into your Instant Pot with vegetables, The Healthy Living Committee is a part of the Wellness

potatoes, a little seasoning and you can take dinner from Collaborative, a 501(c)3 organization. Visit the Wellness

frozen to finger-licking in 40 minutes. Simply set it and for- Collaborative website at bcwell.org for more Healthy Living

get it. Impressively, food actually tastes better as the pres- offerings and information about our other services.

sure enhances flavors in such a way that normally would

take hours of simmering to achieve. What’s more, you are

often left with just a single pot to clean. What’s not to like?

Healthy Living will introduce you to the concept of

sous vide cooking, a feature of the newer Instant Pots. It’s

a cooking method used extensively by professional chefs to

very slowly cook in a water bath at very precise tempera-

tures. This allows a steak, for example, (in a freezer bag) to

be cooked to exactly medium rare and held there, until you

are ready to serve. It’s quite remarkable.

Soup you say? We will also show you a new blender

that doesn’t just chop and puree, but actually cooks your

ingredients first, all in a single appliance. No need to risk

20 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Volunteer Fair offers rewarding Tuesday Trivia can get your grey

opportunities on March 13 cells popping

Information submitted by Scott Auer Is 2020 the year you hope to increase your little grey

cells, as Hercule Poirot would say? For those of us who like

Are you searching for ways to make a difference in Big to stay sharp, there’s no better place to show what you know

Canoe or in our surrounding communities? Volunteering is (or don’t know) than at Big Canoe’s Trivia Night.

always a wonderful way to help others and make yourself Every Tues-

feel good too. day night at 6:00

p.m. brainiacs

gather at The

Clubhouse to

match wits with

others who like to

know it all. The

competition is

“friendly fierce,”

but everybody has

a good time.

There’s al-

ways a special Trivia Night meal served by accommodating
staff.

The game is played in teams with a caller asking ques-

tions about any and all possible subjects, from astrophysics

to comedy stars. No worries about being put on the spot like

Sometimes it’s difficult to know all that’s available for was done in the Spanish Inquisition, answers are decided by

service to others. Leadership Big Canoe makes it easy for the whole team so nobody is singled out.

you to find a charitable organization that’s a perfect fit. Why not start your own team and give it a quirky name

Thirty organizations will be represented at the annual like Let’s Get Quizzicle, I Am Smarticus, or The Know It

Leadership Big Canoe Volunteer Fair on March 13 from Ales? Or, join a team that’s been around awhile.

9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at The Clubhouse. Contact Dot Grogan at [email protected] to

Some of the organizations attending are Angels on find out how to get in on the fun. It’s a good way to meet

Horseback, Georgia Forest Watch, Good Shepherd Clinic folks and show what you know. You might even learn stuff.

(Dawson), Good Samaritan Health & Wellness Clinic (Pick-

ens), North Georgia Boys and Girls Club, Piedmont Moun-

tainside Hospital Auxiliary, Prevent Child Abuse (now

known as North Georgia Partners), Big Canoe Wellness

Collaborative and various POA committees.

Wander the many booths and find something that

sparks a glow in your heart and then learn more.

Residents who attend are eligible for a drawing for four

individual $25 POA gift certificates.

Over the years the Volunteer Fair has matched many

Big Canoe residents with charitable organizations to bring

rewards to both sides. Won’t you be part of the movement to

make ours a sharing, giving community?

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 21

Events & Happenings

What happened at the Broyles Conference co-chairs Frank and Nancy Schwartzmiller
Mission Conference? stated, “It takes many hands to prepare for the Mission
Conference. We
By Brent Carroll were blessed with
an incredible team
The 30th anniversary of the Broyles Mission Confer- who worked with
ence at Big Canoe Chapel is very successfully concluded. amazing flexibil-
No thanks to Mother ity. They never
Nature. lost sight of the
larger purpose,
Winter’s breath which was bring-
blew cold with snow, ing the community
rain and icy roads together in fellow-
resulting in a mad ship to see how
scramble to resched- they can be the hands and feet of Christ through outreach
ule, reorganize, re- and service. This community continues to blow us away
print, and essentially with their service and commitment.”
re-plan how to pack
a four-day event into 36 hours. The sound was called, the Hearts were moved. Minds engaged. Big Canoe stepped
challenge hurled, and the Broyles Mission Committee cou- up with giving. If you’ve wondered how the gifts are used,
rageously met that challenge with lots of help from Chapel consider this. Last year, three Indonesia villages were so
staff, members, and the four guest speakers from Atlanta malnourished that one out of five children died before the
Mission, Hope for age of five. Today, the villages are malnutrition-free.
Haiti’s Children,
Young Life Pickens Right here at
and North Georgia home, the Broyles
Family Partners. Mission Confer-
ence helped equip
Calm was No Longer Bound
restored and the Mis- to increase its staff
sion Conference went to meet the needs
on, better than ever. and serve the men
Over 200 Chapel with dual diagnosis
members enjoyed a gourmet dinner, cookies, ice cream and of substance abuse
lots of fellowship. Music performances by the renowned disorder, depres-
University of North Georgia Singers brought standing ova- sion, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
tions. Saturday’s fun-filled Hospital Art Paintfest reso-
nated with laughter, smiles, and amazing wall murals by In Syria, Help the Persecuted has been able to aid
Big Canoe resident hundreds of Syrian families with winter clothing, food,
amateurs. But the furniture, kitchen supplies and heaters for cold days. Speak-
show-stoppers were ing for Help the Persecuted, Mary O’Brien writes, “...Never
the moving, powerful seen this much joy on the faces of children and adults.”
and inspirational pre-
sentations delivered For the past 30 years the Broyles Mission Conference
by the four speakers has supported over 180 selected organizations in 50 coun-
who represented each tries with well over $1,500,000 raised toward the improve-
of the Christian orga- ment of the human condition.
nizations.
Donations may be mailed or dropped off at the Big Ca-
noe Chapel, 226 Wolfscratch Circle, Jasper, Georgia 30143.
Checks should be made payable to Big Canoe Chapel/Mis-
sions.

22 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Events & Happenings

Living in harmony with black Bears celebrate all things Irish on
bears in Big Canoe March 13

Black Bear Project will come to you for a chat Information submitted by Bob Mackey

Information submitted by The Black Bear Project Shake your shamrocks at the Bear Society’s Eighth

Annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration on Friday, March 13.

Spring is coming and that means our beautiful black Since this date is traditionally a day of bad luck, you can

bears will soon be roaming our mountains foraging for bet leprechauns will be working overtime to make sure this

food. Cubs have been born and while now safely settled day is full of fun

with Mama Bear, expect to see them scurrying after her and good luck.

soon. The day begins

Yes, they’re at 1:00 p.m. in front

cute and their of The Clubhouse

antics are charm- when the Irish flag

ing, but remember will be unfurled

bears are still wild and hoisted up the

animals. Black flagpole. To salute

bears are probably all things Irish, a keg of beer or two will be tapped.

more afraid of you An hour later, the Bears’ annual golf tournament,

than you are of Bagpipes and Birdies, will hit the links. This is a 9-hole

them. But there are best ball scramble. If you’d like to swing a club in this often

cautions to take. rowdy game, sign-up at the Golf Pro Shop.
The number After a couple hours on the course, an official awards

one rule is a simple one - don’t feed the bears! This is also ceremony will honor the winners as bagpiper Tommy

true for all our wild creatures. They know how to find food Burns pushes the pipes and Big Canoe’s own Art Shand

on their own and feeding them can be harmful both short jig fiddles to the crowd gathered at the Black Bear Pub and

and long term. Enjoy looking at our bears when they cross Sunset Veranda.

your path but don’t interact, just go on your way with a As the afternoon heats up, Irish pub grub will be piled

smile on your face. on plates. Corned beef and cabbage might be on the table,

There are a lot of misconceptions about bears, espe- along with colcannon, boxty and soda bread. Come dis-

cially held by our newer residents. To help understand our cover the hearty food of Ireland prepared by our Clubhouse

forest neighbors, Will Jackson of The Black Bear Project chef.

has offered to meet with neighborhood groups in informal From 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., everybody Irish, or Irish

settings to explain how we can live harmoniously with these wannabes, will dance to the sounds of Suburban Road with

magnificent creatures. our own Brad Morgan who highlights the event.

Clubs and organizations can get involved too. The If course, there will be plenty of Guinness to pour and a

Black Bear Project would be happy to make a presentation selection of fine Irish whiskey for toasting.

to any group in Big Canoe. Don your best bright green and come celebrate this

What a wonderful opportunity to invite neighbors for happy Irish holiday. Unless you’re into pinching, avoid

an afternoon or evening gathering with a purpose. To set up wearing orange.

a meeting, visit the Black Bear Project Facebook page and Everybody in Big Canoe is welcome at the party, don’t

submit your request. If you don’t have access to Facebook, miss it.

email Will at [email protected]. As you party hearty, there’s one thing you should keep

Always remember, don’t feed the bears, even if they in mind, when Irish eyes are smiling, they’re usually up to

ask! something. Be forewarned!

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 23

Wining & Dining

Grab a bite at Duffer’s on a fine It was a night of wine and roses
spring day

Ah, spring is almost in the air! Golfers will soon be
swinging on the green armed with a season’s worth of
excuses to explain their game. Even better, enjoying an out-
door meal is welcome after being behind closed windows
all winter long.

The chow down hangout for golfers is Duffer’s, our Champagne flowed too! February 14 was celebrated in
little bistro behind the golf cart barn, but you don’t have to fine style as Big Canoers gathered at the newly reopened
be a links-man or links-lady to grab a bite of breakfast or Clubhouse for a sweet Valentine dinner dance. Tables
lunch. were embellished in delicate pink with a deep red rose
placed at every setting. It was a night to celebrate love and
Duffer’s unlocks the door bright and early at 8:00 a.m. friendship in a subdued setting, subdued until the sounds of
with complimentary fresh brewed coffee to savor. What’s a Sock Monkey rocked the room. The night was truly one to
cup of java without a nibble to go with it? Breakfast lovers remember. (Photo by Jasmin Ilazovic)
will find sweets, muffins, breakfast wraps and sandwiches
and even sausage gravy biscuits. What a great way to start All Major Cruise Lines • Escorted Land Vacations • Groups
the day! River Boat Cruises • Luxury Cruises • & Much More!

For a little entertainment, take your morning meal to www.VacationsByMike.com • 706.579.5005
the patio that’s just a stone’s throw from Duffer’s. There For information call Mike Ziegenbalg & Associates, Big Canoe, GA
you can watch golfers stretch, bend and practice their swing (Independently Owned and Operated)
before they hit the course. Since most haven’t been playing :H[LSSP[L 6ѝJL 5V^ 6WLU 5VY[O .H[L :[H[PVU
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If late morning is your time to shine, why not catch Personal Service
lunch at our bistro? You’ll find ‘burgers, dawgs, hot and
cold sandwiches and icy salads. Snacks too.

Duffer’s closes at 4:00 p.m. so if take-out is your plan,
call in your order to (706) 268-3273 before the griddle cools
down.

As the days grow longer, there’s a saying about
spring…Spring is the time of year when it’s summer in the
sun and winter in the shade. Whatever the case, the great
outdoors is calling you!

24 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Wining & Dining

It’s a Super Sunday at the Sconti New tastes are featured on
The Clubhouse menu
Starting the week on the sunny side guarantees a
fabulous week ahead. There’s no better way to welcome The grand re-opening of The Clubhouse introduced
the next seven days than at our own Sconti Clubhouse. The new choices on the
Breakfast Buffet offers a fine selection of breakfast and menu, as well as
brunch dishes for you to enjoy for only $15.99, kids under a brand new look.
12 $10.99. Don’t fret, many of
your favorites are still
Sundays at the Clubhouse are relaxed and easy, just the on the board, along
way you like it. With a stunning view of the mountains, it’s with new dishes
the perfect place to dine with friends and family and linger which are sure to
over coffee. tempt and please.

If a buffet isn’t your thing, a full menu board is also To start, a selec-
available. Delicious breakfasts including Eggs Benedict tion of appetizers is offered including Barbequed Shrimp,
served in several styles, Sage Rubbed Steak and Eggs, Pan- Goat Cheese and Crispy Fried Calamari, to name a few.
cake Tacos, Banana and Almond French Toast and Chicken
and Waffles are just a few choices. Salads for a lighter meal are served icy cold, but still
filling and fancy. Diners can enjoy a Cobb Salad, Caesar
If you prefer to wander in later in the morning or early and Beet Salad, along with others.
afternoon, lunch is on the menu including such salad favor-
ites as the Clubhouse Caesar and House Aged Balsamic. Hand helds are always popular at lunch or dinner. Try
the Pastrami Reuben, Salmon BLT, Pub Burger, Grilled
Flatbreads are featured too. You’ll find the Pub Classic, Chicken or Fish Tacos.
Mushrooms and Fontina, Buffalo Chicken and Greek will
fully satisfy your appetite. Dessert will finish the meal for a sweet ending.
Every day will bring a Special to the menu board. The
For a heartier meal, try a lunch plate presenting Grilled Clubhouse culinary staff will present Bang Bang Shrimp,
Salmon, Fish Tacos, Black Bear Pub Burger, Veggie Pasta, Chicken Alfredo, Baby Kale and Quinoa Salad and Steak
Fish and Chips and a Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Can we Tacos from time to time. Let the chef know which are your
swoon delicious? favorites, he aims to please your palate.
The menu will be offered for both lunch and dinner.
Save room for dessert! A selection of Key Lime Pie It’s a menu that will change with the seasons so there will
with Blueberries, Bread Pudding, Brownie with Ice Cream always be something new to savor.
and Cobbler will crown your Sunday enjoyment. The Clubhouse is open from noon until 9:00 p.m. Stop
by and treat yourself with family and friends. Our Club-
Remember The Clubhouse is only open from 10:00 a.m. house is a “Cheers” kind of place. Come enjoy!
until 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Sunday dinner isn’t served.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 25

Getting Fit & Healthy

So, how’s your heart these days? Zumba your way to fitness

Heart specialist shares his knowledge with you Look good while you dance and prance your way to

good health! We’re talking about the dance exercise called

By Steve Panetta Zumba. Even

the name sounds

Dr. Edward Dyckman, M.D. FACP specializes in like fun. Classic

general cardiology. He has a particular interest in clinical music plucked from

cardiology, lipid management and preventative cardiology. Memory Lane will

With over get you moving and

40 years experi- grooving. Tunes

ence, this Big all the way from

Canoe resident classic Motown to

has served as modern Latin beats will rock you. Oh, the calories you’ll

Chief of Medi- burn!

cal Services Beginners and experienced dancers are welcomed by

in the United Zumba instructor Kate. This exercise class doesn’t care

States Air Force what your fitness level might be as every class has some-
and is an active staff member at Piedmont Mountainside thing for everybody.

Hospital, as well as other local hospitals. Zumba classes are held at the Wellness Center on Satur-

Dr. Dyckman has volunteered to educate the communi- days at 8:45 a.m. and Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

ty with a monthly series of talks. The topics will be cardiol- Call the Wellness Center for more information. The

ogy based and will cover areas such as: number is (706) 268-3441.

• Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease Get a move on, kids, and join the party!

• Clues and Symptoms

• Recognizing Symptoms and How Best to React Strike a Tai Chi pose
The sessions are complimentary and will be held in the

Wellness Center aerobic studio. Each session will last about Just how old is the ancient art of Tai Chi? At least
an hour, 30 minutes for the presentation and 30 minutes al- 600 years old. The physical art form began in China but
lotted for Q&A. is now practiced all over
the world, even in Big
The first session will be offered Thursday, March 19 at Canoe! Tai Chi is exercise
1:00 p.m. A sign-up sheet will be posted in the lobby of the done in very slow motion.
Wellness Center for those wishing to attend. Call the Well- Observers might think it
ness Center at (706) 268-3441 or stop by to sign up.

looks easy, but the practice

works all the muscles in

your body.

It improves balance,

helps circulation, eases

arthritis, blood pressure

and stress along with other

benefits. Plus, you look

cool making poses!

Classes are held at the Wellness Center on Mondays

at 7:15 p.m. and on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. These specialty

classes are $10 per session. Contact the Wellness Center at

(706) 268-3441 to learn more.

26 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Getting Fit & Healthy

Starting an exercise program activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a
week. The guidelines suggest you spread out the activ-

By Steve Panetta ity over the course of the week.
• Perform strength training exercises for all major muscle

Are you thinking about starting a fitness program? groups at least two times per week. Aim to do a single

Good for you! You’re only a couple steps away from a set of each exercise, using a weight or resistance level

healthier lifestyle. heavy enough to tire out your muscles after 12 to 15

Starting a repetitions.

fitness program • Start low and progress slowly. If you’re just beginning

may be one of to exercise, start cautiously and progress slowly. If you

the best things have an injury or medical condition, consult your doctor

you can do for or an exercise therapist for help designing your pro-
your health. gram. The Big Canoe Wellness Center offers personal

Physical activity trainers and New Beginning Therapeutic Services.

can reduce your • Find the time. Schedule your exercise just as you would

risk of chronic any appointment. Plan to watch your favorite TV show

disease, improve while walking on the treadmill, read a book while ped-

your balance and aling away on a stationary bike.
coordination, help • Plan different activities. Different activities can keep
you lose weight
boredom away. The Wellness Center offers a multitude

and even improve of classes, some in the water. Racquet sports and a wide

your sleep habits and self-esteem. There’s more good news. array of exercise equipment, even a new Core and More
You can start a fitness program easily. class offered outside.

Assess your fitness level • Allow time for recovery. Don’t be too gung-ho with

You probably have some idea how fit you are. But as- your new program; sore muscles can be a motivation

sessing and recording baseline fitness scores can give you a killer. An injury is even worse. Plan time between your

benchmark against which to measure your progress. To as- sessions to allow your body to rest and recover. Treat

sess your aerobic and muscular fitness, flexibility, and body yourself to a massage, it will aid in recovery.

composition, consider recording: Assemble your equipment

• Your pulse rate before and after walking one mile. You’ll probably start with athletic shoes. Be sure to pick

• How long it takes to walk one mile. shoes designed for the activity you have in mind. Run-

• How many standard pushups you can do at a time. ning shoes are lighter and less supportive in side-to-side

• How far you can reach forward while seated on the movement that you may encounter in an exercise class.

floor with your legs in front of you. You may consider using a fitness app for tracking steps,

• Your waist circumference, just above your hipbones. calories or heart rate. Get started

Design your fitness program Now you’re ready for action. As you begin, keep these

It’s easy to say that you’ll exercise every day, but you’ll
need a plan. As you design your fitness program, keep these tips in mind:
• Start slowly and build gradually. Give yourself time to
points in mind:
warm up and cool down with an easy walk or gentle
• Consider your fitness goals. Are you trying to lose
stretch. The speed up to a pace you can continue with
weight? Are you training for a race? Are you trying to
for 5 to 10 minutes without getting overly tired.
improve your balance and coordination? Having clear
goals can help you gauge your progress and stay moti- • Break things up if needed. You don’t have to do all of
your exercise at one time, you can weave in activity
vated.
throughout the day. Exercising for 10 minutes through-
• Create a balanced routine. For most healthy adults, the
out the day may fit your schedule better than one
Department of Health and Human Services recom-
30-minute session.
mends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 27

Getting Fit & Healthy

• Listen to your body. If you have pain, shortness of Hot Salsa dance lessons at the
breath, dizziness Wellness Center, free!
or nausea, take a
break. You may be By Steve Panetta
pushing yourself
too hard. In the month of March, the Wellness Center is offering
free Salsa lessons. Salsa as in dancing, not preparing some-
• Ask for help. The thing to go with chips. Please
Wellness Cen- thank Bill and Lisa Dempsey
ter has a host of and Carmen Crouch for sharing
individuals at your their skills and time to teach
disposal. You can this Latin dance associated
consult with a with the music genre of the
trainer or ask the same name originating in the
staff how to oper- 1960s in New York City.
ate a piece of equipment.
Monitor your progress Salsa sessions are offered on Wednesday evenings at
Retake your assessment six weeks into your program 6:30 p.m. in the Aerobic Studio. The room can accommo-
date approximately 16-18 couples. Singles are welcome too.
and then again every few months. If you lose motivation,
set new goals or try a new activity. Exercising with a friend There’s a sign-up sheet located in the lobby of the
or taking a class may help too. Wellness Center; stop by to sign up or call the front desk
and we’ll add you to the list. The Wellness Center phone
Starting an exercise program is an important decision, number is (706) 268-3441.
but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. By planning
carefully and pacing yourself, you can establish a healthy Hot times in Big Canoe - be there!
habit that lasts a lifetime.

28 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Around the Tees

Our own Lydell Mack works at Summer Junior Golf Camp
ready to tee off soon
the Masters Golf Tournament

By Lydell Mack Summer is the time to get your kids and grandkids out
on the golf course. Our Pro Shop will be offering two camp

Each spring there is excitement in the air over the com- sessions for all skill levels on July 7-10 and July 21-24.

ing golf season, spurred on by the approaching Masters Camp is offered to kids ages 5-15.

Golf Tournament, right

here in Georgia. I’m

proud to announce I’ve

been invited to work the

tournament for an 18th

consecutive year!

I want to thank Ja-

son Brownell for being

so generous in allowing

me the time away from

Big Canoe to make that

happen. Each year I’m

excited to be a part of

golf history and to learn

from my fellow course

superintendents who The cost is $275 per Junior and includes PGA instruc-

volunteer from around tion, lunch, gifts, prizes and free golf on the course all

the world. that week. There will also be a Parent and/or Grandpar-
ent/Junior Tournament when kids can show off all they’ve
Potential Creek course Working the Masters Golf
learned.
renovation Tournament is a special honor.
So, what will they learn? Putting, chipping, full swing
I hope everyone has Big Canoe will be represented.

had a chance to attend and how to have fun on the golf course.

one of the informational presentations given recently by Bill Contact the Golf Pro Shop at (706) 268-3323 for details

Bergin and myself. If not, please take the time to inform or to sign up.

yourself by watching a recording of either the November 2 Volunteers are needed to help with the camp too. Offer

or February 1 presentations on our website. your services for a good time chasing little white balls with

Secondly, please watch your mail for a summary of the the kids.

information from these presentations in a brief mailer. The

vote for approval is upon us and we surely want everyone

informed with the facts before casting their vote. an 18-hole golf course for at least 10 months.

If this project is approved by the community, the next At present, based on Bergin Golf Design’s estimates

steps will be signing with Bergin Golf Design for the ex- from last summer, the proposed project will cost approxi-

ecution of the plan, having five reputable contractors bid on mately $2.165 million. This cost will be spread out as we

the work and creating the new irrigation system design. pay in installments through the duration of the project, not

There is a narrow window of opportunity to have the in one lump sum. The funding for this is available through

work begin in 2020, based on contractor and material avail- earmarked monthly assessments, available cash reserves

ability, but the decision has to be made quickly to allow that and possibly the proposed capital contribution fee. There

to happen. The alternative is to begin in Spring 2021 and will be no debt incurred, nor special out-of-pocket assess-

complete in November 2021, which is the ideal window for ments to Property Owners.

construction in our region. Either way, we will operate as

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 29

Around the Tees

ACES hold Fourth Annual Hey, Big Canoe women golfers
Appreciation Dinner and Learning Ladies…

By Lou Reiter Let’s get this party started

Home Restaurant was sold out for the ACES Golf By Rhonda Turner

Fourth Annual Appreciation Dinner. Nearly 80 ACES and Opening Day is just a few weeks away! Please join us
for an informal gathering of Big Canoe 9-hole and Learning
their significant others gathered for the annual Commis- Ladies golfers on Wednesday morning, March 4, from 9:30
to 11:30 a.m. at the Swim Club. We hope to see many new
sioner change. faces at our get-together, including those of you who have
never golfed before.
Tom Merriman
Joan Delk, LPGA professional and Big Canoe Learning
thinks he must have Ladies instructor, will be there to welcome women golfers
of all playing levels and explain how everyone has a place
been absent when in our Learning Ladies golf program. Joan would love for
you to come by, say hello, and will answer any questions
he was nominated you have about attending Learning Ladies as a beginner or
intermediate golfer.
to replace the 2019
Our 9-hole women are invited to attend and share their
Commissioner, fun experiences, embarrassing moments and personal tri-
umphs with old and new friends.
Jon Schoeler. The
Enjoy a cup of coffee and a muffin, and participate in
newly installed learning or reviewing the rules of golf presented in a fun
way.
Commissioner of
Whether you have never played golf, have played a
Complaints is Fred little golf, or are an established golfer who enjoys playing
nine holes with a great group of women, please join us on
Meyer. This is an Wednesday, March 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the Swim Club for the
kick-off of a great golf season!
on-going task of
Questions? Please call Joan Delk at (404) 234-3734.
resolving com-

plaints like what to We salute the 2020 ACES
do with the award Commissioners, Tom Merriman and Fred
pot of money if rain Meyer. (Photo by Lou Reiter)
stops play during

the round, or when

might it be appropriate to tee up the ball on the fairway.

The dinner and festivities were guided by our old

standby, Steve Melching. This year Dean Golden, ACES

member and owner of Golden Bear Studios, captured the

dinner and a year of reflections from the links of Big Canoe

in a stirring video.

The surprise Survivor Award was given to Don Win-

berg for his quick return to the ACES tournaments after
suffering a broken femur at the ACES last outing to Brass-

town Resort in October.

ACES Golf has been a part of Big Canoe for over 15

years. Today there are 95 active members on the roster with

another 35 “sometime members.”

Twice a week members engage in a 9-hole scramble
mainly for bragging rights. ACES are somewhat different.

We talk, gossip, laugh and have fun during our play. The

foursomes have become more competitive since member

Bill Daniels created the computer-pairing program (for golf,

not hookups).

30 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Around the Tees

MGA is ready to hit the links Leaping leprechauns! Big golf sale
for the season on March 17

By Keith Sievers Feeling lucky on March 17? You could get real lucky if

you stop by the Golf Pro Shop on this day and really, really

You’re probably reading this in the month of March, lucky if you’re wearing green. But as tradition dictates, no

but it is being written in the middle of a snowstorm that just orange allowed. That might cost you pinch or two.

dumped five inches of snow on Big Canoe. While I enjoy The Golf Pro Shop

the smell of is having a Wearing of

a wood fire, the Green Super Sale
catching up with 25-50 percent off

on past issues retail only on St. Pat-

of Golf Digest rick’s Day.

and having Pick up a lucky

an excuse not shamrock and find out

to do yard what your pot of gold

chores, it’s might be at the end of

about time to the rainbow.

put the wet But, that’s not all! If you’re wearing green, you’ll get an

and cold weather behind us and get back on the golf course! extra $5 off purchases of $50 or more.

The really good news is that as you read this, our 2020 How lucky can you get?
Men’s Golf Association (MGA) season will be officially

under way. leagues in Big Canoe and implement efficiencies that Golf
Our recent member survey of 233 members looking Genius provides for the Pro Shop in their efforts to support

back on 2019 was highly favorable, with an overall 85

percent satisfaction rating for last year’s events. We had a all our events. Our new website is now available at our old

number of fairly consistent suggestions to “tweak” formats, link: www.bigcanoemga.org.

improve our food and beverage offerings and keep a good I do want to take a minute to recognize our core group

balance between fun, fellowship and the competitive nature of volunteers that support the MGA: David Jett, Steve

of our events. The MGA board reviewed all the member Mitchell, David Keller, Jim Rice, John Hansen and Tim
ideas and we will implement the vast majority of these Towle. Please thank them for their efforts and feel free to

throughout 2020. Details will be included in the February share thoughts, feedback or suggestions with this group.

update to MGA members. We hope everyone has an enjoyable season of golf with

At a glance, our season will feature a balance of for- no injuries, many birdies and certainly a lot of fun.

mats. Opening and closing days will be a team scramble

and shamble respectively, as course conditions early and

late in the year lend themselves to more forgiving formats.

Our two Member/Member Tournaments will be back

with best ball and replay formats, along with an individual

replay event and our most popular team event, the NFL

Classic. Players with the most season points will again com-

pete for the Big Canoe Cup. Our Lone Ranger team event

will be updated with a new format, to be announced. Lastly,

our traditional team and individual match play events will

begin on March 15 and run throughout our entire season.

The year will also see the MGA transition our web site

to Golf Genius. This update will align the MGA with other

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 31

Around the Tees

It’s a brand new year for the WGA On March 30, there will be three technical training
sessions. The 18-hole meeting, limited to 50 attendees, will

By Martha Power train on the website, phone/tablet apps, and some handicap
training on the new regulations. This meeting will last an

The Big Canoe Women’s Golf Association (WGA) hour.
opening day is Wednesday, April 1 starting at 8:15 a.m. The second session is for 9-hole players and will cover
with breakfast and an opening business meeting at The
Clubhouse. An 18-hole short course scramble will kick off the same subjects. The third session, limited to 50, will
after breakfast with 18-hole and 9-hole players participat- cover the website as well as additional information for so-
ing. cial golfers that do not have a handicap yet.

Lady Players have been playing over the winter and will
continue their Friday play days for 18-hole golfers. Sign up

is on the WGA website under Golf Genius.

The 4Gs (Golfing Gals Golf Group) is a new golf group

playing 18 holes on Monday mornings starting April 6. This

women’s golf group is for the golfer who wants to enjoy a

relaxed golf game and play with other like-minded golfers.

The 4Gs are open to all women golfers who are Property

Owners or long term renters of Big Canoe. Golfers will play

with pace of play guidelines and USGA golf etiquette/rules.

Participants are encouraged to have an established 18-hole

handicap, though not required, which falls in the medium to

high range. Golfers who are interested in the new Monday

Women’s Golf Association vice-presidents Carolyn Witt, left, and morning 18-hole group should call the Golf Pro Shop at

Kim Haczynski finalize plans for opening day April 1, 2020. (706) 268-3323 to sign up.

There will be a “breakfast only” option for $25. Fol- UPCOMING EVENTS
lowing play golfers will gather for snacks and dessert and
scramble winners will be announced and prizes awarded. XXI/Cleveland/Srixon Demo Day – Friday,
The registration deadline, available on Golf Genesis, is March 6
March 25. Registration fee is $68 which includes cart fee, Bear Society St. Patrick’s Day Event – Friday,
cart barn tip, tee gift, prizes, breakfast and dessert. March 13
MGA Opening Day – Saturday, March 28
The WGA board has been busily working on the 2020 WGA Tech Training – Monday, March 30
golf season. The WGA website can be accessed from the WGA Opening Day – Wednesday, April 1
POA site (www.bigcanoepoa.org) and will be used by GSGA Play Day – Monday, April 6
WGA members to sign up for tournaments and weekly play MGA Replay – Friday, April 17 thry Saturday,
days using the Golf Genius system initiated last year. April 18
Good Samaritan Tourney – Wednesday, April
“The WGA has a big debt of gratitude to John and 29
Mary Ann Hansen for their support, education, training If you would like to be added to the Golf Shop
and help for 2020. As many people probably know, John email list to view special sales, event promo-
Hansen is a Customer Manager for Golf Genius and not tions, results and more, please send your contact
only has extraordinary knowledge of how Golf Genius information to [email protected].
functions, he also innately has a very strong customer focus
and strives very hard to be sure the users of the site are well
served. Mary Ann’s strong technical knowledge and insight
into women’s golf helped add a special touch for the easi-
est navigation for that platform,” reported WGA President
Janet Vandenbark.

32 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Around the Tees

Don’t miss the spring sale at fect for any sport and are great for travel.
the Golf Pro Shop If you’re in need of a nice gift for yourself or a loved

one, we have logo wine

Article and photos by B.J. McCranie glasses, mugs, trays and
cutting boards.

We always have a

There’s no need to venture outside of the community; great selection of apparel

Big Canoe Golf Shop can satisfy all your merchandise on sale. Come check out

needs. We our 40 percent off retail

have all rack. Only in March, all

your favorite in stock Adidas shoes

brands: Foot- for men and women are

Joy, Donald 30 percent off retail.

Ross, South- Also, take advan-

ern Tide, Sun tage of our special golf

Mountain, Ad- ball promotion; buy one

idas, Callaway, You don’t have to be a golfer to shop at the Golf dozen XXIO balls and
Tail, Titleist, Pro Shop. There’s something for everyone.
receive a free leather

XXIO, Cleve- valuables pouch and two

land, Srixon, Taylormade and more! We also have a variety additional sleeves. Ladies show their love of wine
of high quality lifestyle items for non-golfers such as sweat- Watch for a special wearing this cute shirt.
ers, sweatshirts, hats, jackets, logo glassware, license plates visit from leprechauns

and beautiful wood trays. We add new products daily. on St. Patrick’s Day.
To kick off our spring season, come in and check out They’re sure to leave you a lucky shamrock with magical

discounts.

Fabulous sales are yours in March at the Pro Shop. Golf Shop

the new 2020 clubs from Callaway, TaylorMade, XXIO and Hours of Operation
Titleist. We have drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons
ready for purchase or to demo. In addition, we just received March
a shipment of new putters. We have Odyssey Stroke Lab, Golf Shop
Triple Track and TaylorMade Spider X. They are sure to 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
take a few strokes off your putting game. Tee times
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Just in for the ladies are San Soliel tops. We have some
really cute, fun prints. These tops provide protection from Starting tee times are weather dependent
the sun with vented sleeves to keep you cool. They are per- Tuesdays and Thursdays will host a 10:00 a.m.

Shotgun Start for all players.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 33

Racquets 'Round the Nets

When to restring your tennis It was a ‘snow day’ slow day
racquet, do you know? at the Racquet Club

Submitted by Linda Powell Article and photos by Linda Powell

Just like selecting the right string, knowing when to What to do when Big Canoe’s amenities are closed?

restring your racquet is subjective and unique to each indi- Sometimes you just have

vidual player. to be creative to get your

Whether you’re using hy- exercise in. Our tennis

brid, natural gut or another players in Big Canoe get

variation of tennis string, quite restless when the

there’s really no set-in-stone amenities are shut down

answer to the exact time you due to weather and they

should restring. But there are Craig Adams gets ready for his are unable to get to the Tim Hanofee seems to have
some things to consider when next tennis game. (Photo by tennis or pickleball courts picked up a new tennis partner.
you’re trying to decide if it’s Linda Powell) to play. But that didn’t
time. stop our diehard racquet

Why you should change fans.

your tennis strings at all? For starters, tennis strings, no They simply played

matter the style, have a tendency to lose tension quickly and in the snow like the kids

tension is what helps control the ball on your racquet. they are at heart. Tim

When the tension on your racquet decreases, your Hanofee with his partner

strings are likely to stretch more during impact. This means Lefty won the Ridgeview

the ball will stay on the strings longer, which translates into Snow Invitational on Joscelyn Slade got in a little
a less-controlled trajectory when the ball finally comes off
Saturday, February 8.
the racquet. Joscelyn Slade can usually snowboarding action on Big
be found boogie boarding Canoe’s first snow day of the year.
This is why it’s important to restring your tennis rac-

quet on a consistent basis. So what does consistent mean at the beach. But when
in this case? There’s a rule of thumb swirling around the a snow event offers an alternative option, she seizes the

industry that you should take the number of days a week opportunity. We wonder if a few snowballs were slammed

you play and use that as the number of times a year you with old racquets.

should change your string. Meaning, if you play tennis four Big Canoe’s tennis players don’t let a little white stuff

times a week, you should restring your tennis racquet four spoil their fun. They’re game for anything!

times a year.

This guideline could work well for the recreational

players who play to reap the benefits of the exercise but you’d be restringing your tennis racquet roughly 10 times a

aren’t as focused on the competitive aspects of the game. year.

Now, if you’re focused on improving your ranking and Consistently restringing your tennis racquet will save

winning tournaments, considering that your racquet is your you from the frustration of having to overcompensate for

best weapon against your opponent, you’re probably going your strings’ lack of tension. As mentioned before, an exact

to want to take another approach when it comes to restring- answer as to when you should restring your tennis racquet

ing. doesn’t exist. However, just like when picking your strings,

For the more competitive, frequent players, you’ll likely base your decision on how the ball feels on your string. So,

want to base your restringing on the frequency of play. Let’s let your strings do the talking and be sure to listen.

say you play five times a week. You would take that num- The Big Canoe Racquet Club is a full service shop and

ber and double it to figure out how many times a year (give can take care of restringing your racquet to optimize your

or take) you should restring your racquet. In this example, game. Stop by and see us.

34 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Racquets 'Round the Nets

Kids looking for something to do a Pee Wee Camp just for them. Kids will swing racquets
this summer? from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. daily. The cost is $50 weekly or $15
daily.
Summer Junior Tennis Camps swing with fun
So, what will the big kids do every day? Check this out:
Information submitted by Linda Powell Campers will receive tennis instruction from 10 a.m.
until 12:00 p.m. At noon campers will be escorted to the
Dozens of Big Canoe parents and grandparents are sit- Swim Club for lunch and swimming until 2:00 p.m. Camp-
ting around the kitchen table these days trying to figure out ers may bring their lunch or purchase lunch at the Swim
their kids’ summer schedules. Camps are front and center Club. After that, campers return to the Racquet Club for
but fill up fast. Get your kids signed up for Big Canoe’s further instruction and game based drills until 3:00 p.m.
Junior Tennis This is a very active camp and campers should be age
Camps now so seven and up. Children age six and under should participate
you’re not disap- in the Pee Wee Camp that runs from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.
pointed. Campers should wear comfortable clothing and ten-
nis shoes. Campers should bring a tennis racket (we can
The Rac- provide a racket if needed), sun screen, hat or visor, bathing
quet Club offers suit, towel, lunch or money to purchase lunch (approxi-
Junior Tennis mately $7.00).
Camps to keep Tennis camp will be coached by Matt Motil, Big Canoe
kids outdoors Director of Tennis. Matt is USPTA certified and has ex-
while building tensive experience in junior development, as well as Junior
healthy bodies Tennis Camps.
and a love for the For additional information or to sign up, call the Rac-
game of tennis. quet Club at (706) 268-3367.
Camps fill fast
so check the Bundle and
dates to ensure Save
your kids get
the weeks they want. Camp runs from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 Auto • Home •
p.m. daily. Umbrella

The cost is $250 weekly or $55 per day. A $50 non- FRAN FARIAS, Agent
refundable deposit is due when signing up. A minimum of Phil Farias, Bus.Mgr.
four campers with a maximum of 24 campers accepted for www.FranFarias.com
each week. 770-668-0222

If you have kids or grandkids age six and under, there’s Big Canoe resident since 2000

2020 SCHEDULE Here to help life go right.®
Jr. Camp 1 June 1 – 5
Jr. Camp 2 June 8 – 12 1708158 State Farm
Jr. Camp 3 June 15 – 19 Bloomington, IL
Jr. Camp 4 June 22 – 26
Jr. Camp 5 June 29 – July 3
Jr. Camp 6 July 6 – 10
Jr. Camp 7 July 13 – 17
Jr. Camp 8 July 20 – 24
Jr. Camp 9 July 27 – 31

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 35

Bocce

Time to get things rolling in Big Canoe there are specific rules used when playing in
Big Canoe league competition. To keep things consistent, we ask all
league players and substitutes attend one two-hour session
By Linda Powell of Bocce Camp if they have not attended Big Canoe bocce
Come on out and learn the game! All communities camp previously.

play the game of bocce with slightly different rules. In We are offering two-hour Bocce Camp sessions on the
following dates and times. You must call the Racquet Club
Bocce is a fun, social sport that’s easy to play. at (706) 268-3367 to register for camp. There is no charge,
but you must register.

Don’t want to play in a league? No worries, we are
happy to teach you anyway; it’s not a requirement that you
play in a league. We welcome all Big Canoe residents to
come out and enjoy the game.

Spring Bocce Camp Dates and Times

• Wednesday, March 4: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• Thursday, March 5: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

• Friday, March 6: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• Saturday, March 7: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• Sunday, March 8: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• Monday, March 9: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• Tuesday, March 10: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

36 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Marina News and Fish Tales

Lake Petit served up two huge One of these trout has your name
trout in February on it, yes it does

By Big Canoe Marina Staff

On February 1, Paul Newman caught a beautiful golden

trout, one of the few loaded as surprise catches in Lake Petit

this year. There’s gold in

them thar waters!

The very next day, Na-

than Wilson caught a huge

rainbow on a five weight

fly rod casting a woolly

bugger. A wooly bugger is

an artificial fly commonly

categorized as a wet fly

or streamer and is fished

under the water’s surface.

This is an old fall back fly

used when all else fails. It was an exciting day at the Big Canoe Marina on

You can tell Nathan’s Paul Newman landed a beautiful February 19 when Tellico Trout Farms delivered half
fish has been in the lake golden trout on the first day of a ton of rainbow trout to Lake Petit. It’s an interesting
for many years due to its February. Looks like he surprised sight to behold as trout are ceremoniously shot into the
hooked jaw. Nathan said himself. lake. These fish are prime and ready for catching. Get
the trout took the wooly out there on the shore or in a boat and deliver dinner to

bugger and went straight to the bottom. It took almost an your table with a fine finny flourish. (Photo by Marina
hour to land the fish. A real battle! Staff )

Hey, Ladies of the Lake For all the pontoon social directors from last year, an
Ladies of the Lake are scheduled to return to Lake Petit email will be soon coming asking for your commitment
for evenings of fun on the first two Wednesdays of April at for the evening boating seasons. The scheduled dates for
5:00 p.m. For the remaining spring and summer months, Ladies of the Lake are: April 1 and 8, May 6 and 13, June 3
the departure time will be 6:00 p.m., other than October and 10, July 8 and 15, August 5 and 12, September 9 and 16,
which again will return to 5:00 p.m. and October 7 and 14.

Safety tip of the month

When fishing, hooks are an ever present danger. If one

becomes embedded in the skin with the barb beneath the

skin, do not try to extract it. This is best to left to an emer-

gency room doctor at a hospital who knows how to remove

a hook safely and how to cleanse the wound.

Be mindful of those standing nearby when casting so

you won’t bury a hook deep into a friend’s flesh.

Marina hours

Marina hours through March are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Call the Marina at (706) 268-3303 to make reservations for

pontoon, kayak and paddle board rentals. Property Own-

A day after Paul landed the golden, Nathan Wilson caught a ers can also make reservations online by going to the Big
huge rainbow trout. Mighty fine fixin’s for dinner! Canoe POA website, bigcanoepoa.org.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 37

Marina News and Fish Tales

Teasing the taste of trout Worm your way to the marina to

catch moonbeams

Balmy Spring days will soon be a propelling force for

those fisher guys and gals The full moon in March could be cast as a little

who thought winter was squirmy since it’s

entirely too cold for hang- called the Worm

ing out at Lake Petit. With Moon. Why such a

a new shipment of rainbow yucky name for this

trout now swimming in the heavenly wonder?

grottos of our biggest lake, As spring brings

it’s time to cast a line and warmer tempera-

grab dinner. tures and the ground

Rainbow trout are plentiful in Lake Petit and with a softens, earthworms

dose of patience, you’ll hook one sooner or later. appear announcing

What to do when you land that baby? Take it home and the return of red-breasted robins. Robins love worms, hence
prepare a meal fit for King Neptune.
the name was given by American Indians long ago. They
Trout are healthy, low carb, gluten-free and full of
might have playfully called it the Red Robin Moon, but,
protein along with being pretty. They are mildly flavorful alas, they didn’t.
so fillets don’t need much seasoning although many kitchen
The moon will show its splendor on Wednesday, March
chefs buy or make dry rubs to enhance the eating experi- 20, at 9:43 p.m. just under four hours after the vernal equi-
ence. Rubs are made from dried paprika, chili powder,
nox, that magical moment when the length of day and night
ground ginger, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt and
on Earth is nearly the same, marking the start of spring
pepper and whatever dried herbs that might tickle your taste in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern
buds.
Hemisphere.
If you’re not comfortable throwing a fillet in the oven
It will also come a day after the moon reaches the clos-
with your own special touch, here’s a recipe from Julia’s Al- est point to Earth, making this March globe the first Super
bum blog that you’re sure to find tasty. Julia added aspara- Moon of the year. Super Moons appear about ten percent
gus to add accented color to the meal.
larger than a usual full moon.
Baked Rainbow Trout with Lemon,
This is something to celebrate, all you nymphs of
Black Pepper and Garlic
spring. After a winter being bundled indoors, now is your
Ingredients
time to dance and prance in moonbeams.
1 pound rainbow trout
Why not gather a few friends and neighbors and wander
1 pound asparagus
down to the marina for an evening of moon watching over
3 tablespoons olive oil
the water? It’s a great way to socialize, especially if moon-
5 cloves garlic, minced
shine is in your backpack.
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper, cracked olive oil. Place asparagus all around the trout on a sheet
1/2 lemon, sliced pan.

Instructions Sprinkle the trout and the asparagus with salt and pep-
Preheat oven to 400 F. per. Add minced garlic on top of the trout fillet and aspara-
Line a rimmed small baking sheet with parchment gus. Top with lemon slices.
paper.
Place rainbow trout skin side down in the center of the Bake for about 15 minutes at 400 F in the preheated
baking sheet. Brush half of the olive oil over the top of the oven until the trout is cooked through.
trout fillets.
Toss the asparagus (ends trimmed) with the remaining Remove from the oven and remove lemon slices from
the trout before serving

Now, get out there on Lake Petit and catch a rainbow,
what are you waiting for?

38 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Let’s Go Clubbing

Showcase gives Top Gun Books and More
Greg Morris a salute
By Susan Starling

By Tom Kilpatrick The Big Canoe Chapel Women’s Guild is sponsoring

Ever wonder how month after month there is an out- a new sale this Spring. This will replace the annual Mar-
ketplace. It will take place in the lower level of the Chapel
standing Acoustic Showcase of talented musicians that
comes off without a hitch? Maybe there’s a wizard behind on April 23-25. Proceeds from this event will benefit the
Guild’s commitment to charities in Pickens and Dawson
the curtain? Nope. It takes a boatload of planning, coordi- counties. Included will be the Heavenly Coffee Shop which
nating and just plain hard work to make the magic happen. will feature water, coffee, iced tea and small treats during
Who does all that?
Acoustic Showcase was founded years ago by Vince the days of the sale.
We thank you for the books that have been donated
Ciliberto, who started the event as a jam session for a
so far. We are still in
handful of Big Canoe
need of more. Collec-
residents to share
tion boxes are located at
their love of acoustic
the Postal Facility and
music. As interest
the Wellness Center to
grew, more and more
accept the following
musicians showed up There are always good sounds when
as did other folks com- Big Canoe musicians take the stage. books: hard and soft-
ing to listen. Vince (Photo by Steve Papke)
was our first Adminis- back fiction, children’s,
travel, cookbooks, local authors, classics, coffee table,

trator. audio, and even jigsaw puzzles.

Eventually, Vince turned the reins over to John Herzler, In addition, we are collecting nearly new women’s ac-

who masterfully orchestrated additional growth and fur- cessories, such as jewelry, scarves, purses, and gently used
ther improved the event. After John, Greg Morris, a long hats and shoes. These are collected in the basement of the
time Big Canoe resident, took over as Administrator. Under Postal Facility on Wednesday mornings between 10:00 and
10:30 a.m. only.
Greg’s leadership, more improvements ensued, culminating Additionally, ladies can drop off their baubles, bangles
in the Acoustic Showcase of today.
February’s Showcase was outstanding, as usual. What and beads on Saturdays, March 14 and 28 at 10:00 a.m. also
at the Postal Facility. Jerry Justice and Jo Young would be
was not usual was the announcement that Greg would be thrilled to receive your offerings.
stepping down as Administrator. Greg has been the brains
Please contact Pat Papke at mom.steveandpat@gmail.
and brawn behind Acoustic Showcase. Self-described as
com or Judi Schoeler at [email protected] for ad-
“Helper Boy,” he has been in charge of everything from
publicity to arranging the programs to arranging the chairs ditional information.

in the Swim Club. In case you didn’t know, “Helper Boy

Greg” is a Top Gun Fighter Pilot who spent several years

defending our freedom.

Greg said “Sorry, Goose, but it’s time to buzz the tow-
er.” And with that, Greg and Laura flew off to Texas. They

claim the move to Texas is to be near family. We all know

the real reason is so they can wear obnoxious Burnt Orange

Jerseys and yell “Hook ‘em Horns” without fear of reprisal.

And there was something about a new golf course.

Greg and Laura will be sorely missed. To Greg from all

of the Acoustic Showcase musicians and attendees, “You

can be my wingman anytime.”

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 39

Let’s Go Clubbing

Ladies are invited to visit historic, Knit Togethers keep each other

artsy Asheville from unraveling

Haywood Park Hotel stay is offered to Information submitted by Mimi Zentgraf
everybody in Big Canoe
Just like a knitted scarf fashioned by a newbie needle
All women in Big Canoe and their friends are invited clicker might grow and grow, so has the band of crafters
to share a Ridgerunners’ trip to Asheville, a city that has called the Knit Togethers grown over the last few months.
everything to keep ladies (over 21, please) well entertained.
There are fantastic shopping experiences, dining adven- Ladies who love
tures, museums and galleries to enjoy. Explore the city or the feel of a skein of
visit the Biltmore’s Downton Abbey exhibit. yarn and dance to
the sounds of needles
The trip will be from March 16 - 18, leaving Big Canoe clacking meet every
at 8:00 a.m. on Monday and returning by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon
Wednesday. In at 2:00 at the Swim
addition to two Club to enjoy their
overnight stays version of an old-fashioned sewing bee. One Knit Togeth-
at the beauti- ers member adamantly insisted, “Knitting keeps me from
ful Haywood unraveling!”
Park Hotel, also
included in the Knitters, and those who crochet, weave and needle-
price are: Round- point, are welcome to join the party.
trip luxury bus
transportation Knit Togethers work on their own projects but also
with snacks, use their creative talents for charity too. Each year the
goodie bag, club donates hundreds of chemo caps and baby blankets to
curbside valet service at check-in, and breakfast Tuesday hospitals.
and Wednesday mornings at Isa’s Bistro.
If you’ve never held a knitting needle in your life, no
Cost of a King Double is $275 per person double occu- problem. There are plenty of women who are eager to teach
pancy (retail value = $449 each) or King Single at $415 per their craft and will even give new members supplies to
person (retail value = $749). King Double rooms feature start. What’s stopping you from unraveling a ball of yarn?
one king-sized bed, a pull out “sleeper” sofa plus a separate By next Christmas, you could give everybody on your list
sitting area. something you made especially for them!

Plan it yourself If you’re interested in joining this creative bunch, con-
In addition to the bus trip, rooms are offered to Big tact Mimi Zentgraf at [email protected] or give
Canoe residents (age 21 and over) in the Ridgerunners’ her a ring at (706) 579-1979.
hotel bloc for those who are interested in visiting Asheville
independently during this same timeframe. No transporta- Water
tion is included; you will be on your own for tickets, other Heater
activities and trip exclusives. King double rooms only. Pay- Specials
able by check.
Cost is $349 for the two-night stay (retail value is ■ Rinnai tank-less
$664.54).
Visit www.BigCanoeRR.com for more information or heater installed
sign up for this exciting travel opportunity, or email BigCa-
[email protected] with your questions. 770-386-6268 for $999.00
■ Gas tanked 40

www.blossmangas.com or 50 gallon for
$399.00

40 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Let’s Go Clubbing

Cats and kittens are yearning for Join the Big Canoe Marina table

forever homes and save the world

Article by Sherry Shelton
Photos by Julie LeCorre

You can’t find a better place to adopt a cat or kitten than

right here in your own back yard. Big Canoe Animal Res-

cue (BCAR) makes

sure you get a healthy,

happy pet.

When a cat ar-

rives at BCAR, they

first visit the vet. The

animal is tested for

disease, given appro-

priate vaccinations,

treated for fleas or Every other week or so, Big Canoe’s Cigar Club
parasites if needed gathers at the Marina Shack to light up (or not), sip their
and microchipped. favorite beverage of choice, and engage in banter on any
Thereafter the cat is and all subject matter. Some of their ideas might even
checked into Maggie’s save the world! Join in on the fun and add your two cents’
House, the Big Canoe worth to this amicable group of guys. Contact Steve
cat shelter, and social- Papke at [email protected] or Bob Mackey at
ization begins with [email protected] to find out more or to get on the
other cats, kittens and club’s email shout-out list. All Big Canoe guys are invited
volunteers. to the bull pen to share their news and views. (Photo by
Steve Papke)
If you are inter-
ested in adopting a

cat or kitten, visit of $100.00 will secure your chosen companion.
http://www.bigca- If for any reason the adoption does not go well, you can
noeanimalrescue.org/
adoptable-pets/ for return the cat or kitten within 15 days for a full refund.
photos and a brief BCAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill shelter for home-
description of cats and
kittens available for less dogs and cats found in the Big Canoe community, pro-
adoption. Stop by our viding them with a safe, healthy and positive environment
Open House every until they are adopted into their forever loving homes.
Saturday from 11:00
a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Here’s how you can get involved:
meet our adoptable • Call BCAR (706) 268-1346.
felines. • Check out the BCAR adoption postings in the Big

Adoption agree- Canoe Postal Facility.
ments are provided • Go to www.bigcanoeanimalrescue.org.
and a veterinary • Check us out on Facebook.
reference and personal • Come to the BCAR Open House every Saturday, 11:00
references will be requested along with a home visit. A fee
a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Temporary foster parents needed.
• Volunteer!

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 41

Let’s Go Clubbing

Daniel Boone has nothing on ‘Once a Scout, always a Scout’
these guys
By Bob Hopper
Information and photos submitted by Steve Papke
That’s right, these men and millions of others were once
Before the Big Canoe Hiking Club takes off for a Boy Scouts. How about you?

wander far from our gates, a scouting party is sent out If you were a Scout, Scout Leader, Scout Parent, or a
Scouting Friend, you are invited to a free Big Canoe Scout
to determine if the Alumni Breakfast at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 19 in
Big Canoe Cha-
chosen trails are pel’s McCormick
Hall.
suitable. This deter-
Besides fun
mines if other club and fellowship, the
featured presenta-
hikers can handle tion will cover
the World Scout Many famous men were once Scouts. How
the trek. Jamboree held last many do you recognize?
year right here in
On a recent the USA. With 40,000 international Boy Scouts, it was the
largest World Jamboree ever!
warm February
Do you remember your first camp-out? How about the
day, Mike Trimble, time when your Scoutmaster fell out of the canoe? Or, how
you felt when Mom pinned on your first badge? This is a
Steve Duesler and great chance to rekindle your Scout memories.

Steve Papke hiked If you can you attend, you’ll have to do two things: 1)
Make a reservation - It’s just a continental breakfast, but we
around Dawson That water looks a little chilly for wading. still need to know how many to plan for, and 2) Bring some
Forest (over 11 of your Scout patches, photos, and other fun stuff.

miles) to discover if Please reserve your spot by March 15 by emailing Bob
Hopper at [email protected].
the Falls Creek Trail
the cold water stream and chuckled when Steve Papke took
might work for a off his boots to wade the waters with his toes screaming.
After drying off, guess who had warm feet for the rest of
club outing. the hike?

Nothing comes It was a fun yet tiring day, but members of the Hiking
Club now know what lies ahead, thanks to the three Daniel
easy when rain has Boones.

been an almost At trail’s end, a beautiful waterfall is a good place to rest.

daily visitor. Higher

water levels made Nothing like scooching across a log to
the hike a bit of a make a good day better.
dare. There were

plenty of eleva-

tion changes and

stream crossings.

The guys even had

to “scooch” over a

fallen tree to make

it to the other side.

That’s a manly

adventure!

Another cross- Okay, now what?
over had a rope to

help navigate the

rushing water, but it was still plenty tricky as the high

water submerged rocks making crossing a guessing

game.

At one crossing Mike and Steve marched through

42 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

Let’s Go Clubbing

Trekkers heed the call of the an absolutely amazing hike providing incredible, limitless
wild mountains views. Ten out of 40 mountains were climbed by two of the
hikers in the SB6K Challenge. These hikes definitely push
Information submitted by Mike Trimble and way past the comfort
Karen Steinberg zone.
Photos by Karen Steinberg
Some hikes in
It seems a few of our Big Canoe hikers blaze trails, of the Challenge re-
quire hiking after
sorts, far from our gates. They look for adventure and visits the sun has long set
using headlamps and
with Mom Nature as they trek through woods and water- sometimes spending a
winter night or two in
falls far from Big Canoe. the Smokies to pick up
peaks in the northeast This incredible view makes the trail
Recently Mike Trimble, Karen Steinberg and Ken corner of the park. journey worth the trek.

Bechely spent three hours driving to the southern end of Logistically there
will be issues with
the Blue Ridge Parkway to hike four peaks on the South weather related road
closures along the
Beyond 6,000 (SB6K) Challenge. The threesome ended up Blue Ridge Parkway
and around Mount
standing on the summits of Waterrock Knob, Mount Lyn Mitchell, hence the
word “Challenge” is
Lowry, Plott Balsam and most appropriate.

Yellow Face. All are part of Hiking buddy Ken Karen finds fun on the trail by taking
won’t be taking the full selfies to document the experience.
the SB6K Challenge. Challenge, but as an
exceptionally knowl-
As if that wasn’t edgeable hiker and expert trail reader, he will help Mike
and Karen as they plan their outdoor adventures.
enough exercise in winter
Hiking is a good way to see the great outdoors with
weather, they also climbed fellow trekkers. For greenhorns, you might try mastering
the miles of trails in Big Canoe before you head to more
Browning Knob which is mountainous challenges. Pick up a trail map at the Wellness
Center and map it out. You can do it!
over 6,000 feet but doesn’t

quality for inclusion in the A relatively easy walk, you say.
list of 6,000 footers in the Wait ‘til you see what’s behind
Challenge. the bend!

“We thought this rela-

tively short hike (a bit over

11 miles) was a hard hike,”

Mike shares. The entire

hike was on an un-main-

tained trail that was hard to

follow in many places and

also included a bushwhack

to the summit of Plott RESIDENT OF BIG CANOE

Balsam.” Whether you have been
injured, need help updating
But, the main reason your wills, a Power of Attorney,
the hikers considered this A rest stop for the weary. collecting a debt, defending
a complaint, or dealing with
hike difficult was the steep- an insurance company, Ron
can provide you with the legal
ness of the trail in many areas and because it was an “out
assistance needed.
and back” hike, which meant they had to re-climb many of
Call for Free Initial Consultation
the mountains climbed on the way out.
(404) 861-9798
This hike took the three nearly eight hours and there Ronald
Reemsnyder [email protected]
was only one mile in which the three hiked faster than a
Attorney
30-minute mile; in fact, their average was 36 minutes a

mile (actual moving average). Still they thought this was

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 43

Let’s Go Clubbing

DAR announces American History Lit Lunch invites Samuel Beckett

Essay Contest winners to the table

Information submitted by Margaret Clark By Fran Holman McKenzie

The theme of this year’s DAR American History Essay Lit Lunch will meet Friday, March 6 to discuss “Dante

Contest was “The Voyage of the Mayflower.” The year 2020 and the Lobster,” a short story by Samuel Barclay Beckett.

marks the 400th Anniversary of the Mayflower crossing Samuel Beckett was born on Good Friday 1906 in

and the founding of Plymouth Colony. Foxrock, Ireland. He lived most of his life in Paris where he

This essay contest is open to students in fifth through died in 1989.

eighth grades. The students were asked to imagine they He entered

were one of the passengers on the Mayflower. What would Trinity College

they have packed in 1620 to prepare for the trip? After final- in Dublin in 1923

ly landing at Plymouth Colony majoring in French

after two grueling months at and Italian. His col-

sea, do you think you pre- lege tenure was so
pared well, and what different luminously note-

items might have been good to worthy that he was

bring along? awarded a lecture-

The theme of the Chris- ship in English at

topher Columbus Essay the Ecole Normale

contest, which is open to Superieure in Paris. He became a member of a literary

high school students, was “A circle that included James Joyce.

Sailor’s Experiences as Part of Throughout his career, Beckett wrote poetry, short sto-

Christopher Columbus’ First ries, novels and plays, including the renowned play Waiting

Expedition to the Americas.” for Godot. His original style and unconventional innova-

The students were asked to write the essay from the per- tion would earn him the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1969.

spective of a sailor who accompanied Columbus and has “Dante and the Lobster” is the opening story in More

now returned to Spain. They were to describe their impres- Pricks than Kicks, a compilation of 10 stories that has been

sion of Christopher Columbus, give details of places visited, compared to James Joyce’s The Dubliners. The protagonist

the people they met, and what they saw as the significance of “Dante and the Lobster” is Belacqua, named for an indo-

of these discoveries. lent Florentine musician in Dante’s 4th Canto of Purgatory.

Here are this year’s American History essay contest Belacqua Shuah, a student of Italian in general and

winners and how they fared district wide. Dante in particular, presents as a character searching for

• Ada Keener, 7th grade Pickens Junior High, placed self and meaning in an incongruous world. From the moral

third in NW Georgia District. and mundane to the sublime and spiritual, the reader loiters

• Blake Moss, junior at Pickens High School, Christopher in the ancient and the now.

Columbus Contest, placed third in the NW Georgia Join Lit Lunch at noon on Friday, March 6 as we peruse

District. “Dante and the Lobster.” Order your lunch from the Pub

Both were presented with certificates and a bronze menu and engage in a discussion that is always lively, inter-

medal at the DAR Chapter meeting on Thursday, February esting and informative.

6. Fran Holman McKenzie will facilitate. Contact her

Ada’s parents are Anita and James Keener. Her teacher if you wish to be added to the Lit Lunch email roster or

is Lori Holbert. Blake’s parents are Marty and Shelty Moss if you’d like additional information (franholman@yahoo.

and his teacher is Leann Daniel. com).

Congratulations to the pair and to all the students who To reserve your place at the table, call The Clubhouse at

wrote such meaningful essays. (706) 268-2420 or email [email protected].

44 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

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Eagle’s Rest Park, home to a Bon appetit! Scout Lasagna
special Indian monument Fundraiser a success

All are welcome to the dedication on Article and photos by Jeff Dodson
Mt. Oglethorpe Scoutmaster Troop 20

An old Indian proverb says: “The Spring Equinox is It was as well organized as Henry Ford’s Model T as-
a time of renewal and we should start new things on that
day.” Therefore, the Mount Oglethorpe Foundation, the sembly line. Mr. Ford would have been proud of Troop 20’s
Mountain Stewards, and Steven Stone, artist and sculptor,
are pleased to announced the dedication of the Georgia In- lasagna assembly
dian Removal Me-
morial to be held at line.
Eagle’s Rest Park,
Pickens County, on Nearly 20 vol-
March 21 at 1:00
p.m. Please mark unteers consisting of
your calendars.
Scouts, Scout leaders,
Government
policies have long family and friends
suppressed the
complete story met at the Culinary
about what hap-
pened to the Native Arts Classroom at
Americans during
the many decades Pickens High School
of their removal
from the Southeast- to assemble 200 la- Troop 20 Senior Patrol Leader Charlie
ern US. Now, another light is being shone on this Ameri- sagnas. In its second Gibbons and Troop Librarian Blake
can tragedy. An educational memorial, teaching about the year, the Troop 20 Hobgood prepare lasagnas.
events in Georgia that contributed to the genocide of a race Lasagna Fundraiser
of people, has been designed and erected.
has proven to be a
In March, 2019, a decision was made to create the
memorial and resources to construct it were contributed glowing success – raising monies to fund many of Scout
by people who wanted to play a role in the project. Steven
Stone, the artist and sculptor, created the design and carved Troop 20’s activities and camps throughout the year.
it into a marble slab donated by the Georgia Marble Com-
pany. It was completed in October, 2019. In early Novem- If you missed the Lasagna Fundraiser and would like to
ber, the 4,000-pound memorial was lifted into place in the
display structure. At that time the memorial was opened for donate to Troop 20, contact Lynne Dodson, Troop 20 Trea-
visitors. Signage telling a more comprehensive story of the
removal will be added before the dedication in March 2020. surer, at [email protected] or (706) 248-9819.

Everyone is invited to join the tribal leaders and the Meet Boy Scout Troop 20 and their leaders and friends.
dignitaries expected to be at the dedication March 21 at
Eagles’ Rest Park on Monument Road in Pickens County. Visit eaglesrestpark.org to read the history and features
of this park, a gift from Ken and Billie Ann Rice of Big
The back gate to Mt. Oglethorpe will be open from Canoe.
11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. for easy access to the park.
For further information, please contact Kathleen In-
gram. President, Mt. Oglethorpe Foundation, kingram@tds.
net or Don Wells, President, Mountain Stewards, mountain-
[email protected].

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 45

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Getting the wild into your NGV hear about America’s
wildlife photos Strategic Nuclear Defense

By Steve Carlisle All military veterans are invited to the March 11 lun-

cheon meeting of the North Geor-

In today’s visual world we are surrounded with stimu- gia Veterans organization. It will

lating images. With cameras built in to our cell phones, tak- be held at The Clubhouse at 11:30

ing pictures is never more than a click or two away. When a.m. The speaker will be Colonel

you are ready to dive into the exciting world of photography Bob Priest, USAF (Ret). Colonel

and seriously learn how to use a more sophisticated camera, Priest will discuss “America’s

it helps to get advice from a pro willing to show you the Strategic Nuclear Defense Pro-

basics. gram.”

You’re in luck because the Big Canoe Photography Colonel Bob Priest served in

Club provides a monthly forum to learn from some very the military a total of 43 years, Colonel Bob Priest will
accomplished artists who are happy to share what they’ve the first three decades in the US be the featured speaker
spent a lifetime learning and perfecting. Guests are invited Air Force. His operational experi- at the March 11 NGV
to lecture on a variety of interesting topics each month. It’s ence included Strategic Air Com- luncheon.
a great way to meet others that share your interest in taking mand (SAC) with assignments

pictures you would be proud to hang on the wall. as a flight commander in the Minuteman II ICBM and Hq
The speaker for the March SAC staff. Within Air Combat Command (ACC), he was in

21 meeting is John Seibel, base command three times, one during Desert Storm and
a wonderful photographer on the Hq ACC staff. Over the years Colonel Priest man-

based in Dawsonville. He’s aged DOD Security Assistance Programs for Egypt (US

spoken at Big Canoe before Embassy Cairo), developed and managed command, control

and will present “Putting the & communications (C3) systems in Europe (HQ USAFE),

Wild Back into Your Wildlife Washington, DC (Asst Sec USAF-Acquisition) and Hq

Photos.” Seibel plans to show ACC.
some of his favorite photos Photo by John Seibel He also helped develop the first use of instructional
and will offer tips, techniques
technology in USAF training and taught at Air University

and strategies to make your and the USAF Academy. His remaining years of service

wildlife shots more interest- were mostly Joint oriented, supporting the DOD analyzing

ing. and consulting on future Joint and Combined operations

Born and raised in Ohio, based on US Iraqi wartime experiences.

Seibel joined the Marine After retirement he moved with his wife into Soleil

Corps after high school, “Ahhhh” Photo by John Seibel Laurel Canyon in Canton. The luncheon menu will fea-
where he saw exotic and ture Chicken Cordon Bleu. The cost is $17 per person. For

beautiful places like Hawaii. He treasures the photographs additional information or to register for the meeting, visit

he took during his time in the service, even those he took in ngvets.org. Membership in NGV is open to all who served
far-off destinations like Somalia. After college his love for and received an honorable discharge. There is no cost to

photography grew and eventually his passion became his becoming a member of North Georgia Veterans.

profession.

He is now a successful professional photographer in you can’t get a shot if you’re not there.”

Dawsonville. Seibel specializes in photographing sunsets, The Big Canoe Photography Club meets on the 3rd

sunrises, nature, landmarks and architecture. In addition to Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at the Swim Club. Club

creative use of light, he applies the “Three Ps” to his pho- president, Mark Green, welcomes everyone, to come hear

tography: Patience, Placement, and Perseverance. Seibel’s John Seibel and see his outstanding imagery on Saturday,

philosophy is, “You can’t get the shot that isn’t there and March 21 at 9:30 a.m.

46 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

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Ridgerunners learn about local Service to help develop the NPS Trail of Tears National
American Indian culture Historic Trail website and has been president of the Georgia
Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association for more than 10

By Christine Flaherty years.
“There are so many important stories to tell about the

history of the American Indians in this region of the state,”

American Indian customs have impacted almost every said Bishop. “I feel fortunate to be given this opportunity to

aspect of our lives today. Our language, government, litera- help tell those stories.”

ture, recreation, medicine and food have all been influenced You will not want to miss his discussion starting with

by their culture. These indigenous people, including the the area’s earliest evidence of the Creek and Cherokee tribes

Cherokee, Choctaw and Creek, have lived and worked in covering their complex tribal lives, then bringing us all the

way to the shameful Trail of Tears. This final Ridgerunners

presentation of the year promises to be a fascinating survey

of a culture whose origins are all around us.

Garden Party, Luncheon and Fashion Show

Ridgerunners are invited to the club’s end of the year

festive spring gathering at nearby Willows Farm, on Tues-

day, April 14. The luncheon will include a fashion show by

Chicos and be capped by the announcement of the 2020

Ridgerunners Woman of the Year. Tickets are $35 and are

available through lot charge only at www.bigcanoerr.com.

Members are invited to join a wait list should the event be

sold out.

Georgia going back over 12,000 years. Indeed, the Georgia WANT TO LIST YOUR HOME
Cherokee’s primary area of residence was in North Georgia THIS YEAR?
where they resided until their forced removal in 1838 that
was aptly described as the Trail of Tears. CALL ME!

On Tuesday, March 10 at 10:00 a.m. in the Sconti 2019 was another great year
Clubhouse, Jeff Bishop, author and director of the Reinhardt for sales
University’s Funk Heritage Center and expert on Southeast-
ern Indian history, will offer his insights on the American Carolyn Littell
Indians that inhabited the land and navigated the waters we
enjoy today. 404.630.4185/Cell
706.268.2354/Direct
Bishop has 20 years experience as an award-winning
journalist and headed the McRitchie-Hollis Museum in www.bigcanoe.com
Newnan, Georgia. He has a master’s degree in public his-
tory. Email: carolyn.littell@
bigcanoe.com
A well-known author on the Cherokee in Northwest
Georgia, Bishop is considered an authority on the Indians Get the expertise you deserve!
of the Southeast. He also worked with the National Park

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 47

Let’s Go Clubbing

Spring into a good book to read Wildflower Bunch opens their year

this March with blooms

Fa, la, la… it’s almost springtime! While this season By Judy Kaufman

calls gardeners out to

play in the dirt, book Hurray, it’s the month the lions leave and the lambs re-

lovers cherish time turn. It’s springtime!

indoors when curling up March also

with a good read is the means the Wildflower

perfect ending to a day Bunch’s 2020 season

of toil. After a bubble will begin. The club

bath to ease those tired warmly welcomes

muscles, why not settle back returning mem-

in with one of these bers and also looks

Ridgerunners book club forward to meeting Early blooming hellebores herald
selections? new members. spring’s arrival.

Blue Stockings: The Book Woman of Troublesome The board has

Creek by Kim Michelle Richardson planned an excit-

Godivas: The Weekenders by Mary Kay Andrews ing calendar of events with traditions honored and some

Ridgereaders: The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather changes to keep us intrigued. We will listen, craft, and go

Morris on adventures. In other words, we are offering many options

The Noveladies: Educated by Tara Westover for everyone.

Viewpoint: The Overstory by Richard Powers Mark your calendar to come to The Clubhouse on
Gray Matters: Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult March 4. Visit and catch up over coffee at 10:00 a.m., then

Leaf Turners: The Gown by Jennifer Robson at 11:00 the program will begin with a presentation by our

Book Belles: Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan time-honored gardener, Cynthia Hendry. Cynthia always

Chapter 13: News of the World by Paulette Jiles has lovely slides of horticultural accomplishments in our

Sworn Sisters: Woman Who Smashed Codes by Jason North Georgia mountains.

Fagone Please check the Wildflower Bunch bulletin board in

Divine Readers: Jesus: An Obedient Son by Michael the Postal Facility, located to the right of the package/hold

Phillips mail window, for more details about the club and our pro-

Woodland Readers: Giver of Stars by JoJo Moyes grams. Pick up a membership form while you’re there. The
Page Turners: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia club also offers online registration at wildflowerbunch.com.

Owens Anyone who loves to play in the dirt or see how others

Between the Lines: Fly Away by Kristen Hannah succeed playing that game are welcome to join the Wild-

Novel Ideas: The Dutch House by Anne Patchett flower Bunch.

Between the Covers: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Reminder: All birdfeeders should be down, cleaned,

Happy Bookers: Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Cal and stored inside by March 1.

lahan

Who Picked This Book?: Escape From the Deep by Women, Words, and Wine: The Storytellers Secret by
Alex Kershaw Sepal Badani
Papyrus: This Is How It Always Is by Lauren Frankel Between the Wines: Jackie’s Girl by Kathy McKeon
Hooked on Books: The Book Woman of Troublesome Chapter Chics: The Rent Collector by Cameron Wright
Creek by Kim Michelle Richardson

Adventure Bound: As Bright as Heaven by Susan Submitted by Susan Eanes
Messner Ridgerunners Book Clubs Chair

48 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

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‘Standing on His Promises’ AWOL toughs it out to learn self
defense moves
By Susan Starling

Information and photo submitted by Karen Steinberg
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,

by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your It all started with a little stretching and then the ladies

requests to God.” Philip- learning Self Defense got

pians 4:6 down to business. Detective

The Big Canoe Millholland visited Big Canoe

Women’s Guild is look- for the second time to instruct

ing forward to welcom- women how to defend them-

ing Robyn Dykstra to selves in dire situations.

speak at their March 12 The detective taught

meeting. The subject incredible defense moves,

of Robyn’s talk will be easy enough to be practiced at

“Standing on His Prom- home. After all, repetition is

ises.” She will share how the best way to reach perfect

saying “Yes” to Jesus is Robyn Dykstra will bring an inspiring moves and develop confi-
just the first step in the message to the Chapel Women’s
lifelong process of sur- Guild on March 12. dence.
rendering to God. She’ll
The classes were spon-

help us discover the five sored by AWOL, the short

foundational promises to make faith come alive. form for Awesome Ladies of Wow, looks like Ninja moves
the Lake. Karen Steinberg is are going on.
Robyn Dykstra is a captivating national speaker and the instigator.

best selling author. For decades, she has helped thousands This casual group of

of women on their Journey to trust God and follow Jesus. women meet once on month on the first Monday at 5:00

Her book, The Widow Wore Pink, was inspired by the p.m. Gatherings are usually at the marina and don’t resem-
ble “meetings” at all. With iffy weather during the winter
events from her own life. These are events she didn’t plan

or want. months, AWOL has been meeting at Canoe Lodge.

Abuse. Addiction. Betrayal. Divorce. Death. That’s where the March 2 gathering will be held. Even

If you have experienced loss or trial in your life, though Mardi Gras is past tense, AWOL will honor the
saints who marched on the official day with a belated Mardi
whether self-induced or thrust upon you, you’ll want to hear

Robyn’s encouraging discoveries to energize your faith in Gras party. There will even be a King Cake! Just bring your

God and find the strength to face life’s challenges. beverage of choice.

Surprisingly funny and refreshing after all she has All Big Canoe women are invited to join the good

been through, Robyn is a Humorous Speech Champion and times. No membership, no dues, just show up.

hilarious storyteller. Through her in-depth Biblical teaching

and funny personal illustrations, she will have you laughing

one minute and crying the next as you discover fresh truth bring together women of Big Canoe and the surrounding

from God’s Word for a life that works. communities, to encourage Christian fellowship, to under-

Please join us in the Broyles Center, on March 12 at stand God’s will for our lives through Bible study, and to

10:00 a.m. to experience Robyn’s funny and refreshing promote activities that benefit the chapel and surrounding

stories. Robyn can be contacted at robyndystra.com. communities.

Looking Forward More than $1 million has been donated to agencies in
Our speaker for April 9 will be Nancy Lucenay. Her Dawson and Pickens counties through fundraising efforts of

topic will be “Getting Through the Going Through.” the Guild. For more information about the Women’s Guild,

The purpose of the Big Canoe’s Women’s Guild is to visit bigcanoechapel.org.

MARCH 2020 INSIDETHEGATES.ORG | 49

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Artists’ Club Spring Fine Art Better start reading fast, crime
Show March 27-29 doesn’t wait

Article and photos by Monica Burnette Information submitted by Lou Reiter

Planning for the Big Canoe Artists’ Club Spring Fine Big Canoe’s band of sleuths, known as the Wine and
Art Show is well underway! It will be held at the Swim Crime Book
Club March 27, 28, and 29, with the Opening Reception Club, will meet
on Friday, March 27 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. This is the on Thursday,
club’s signature event showcasing the fine art talents of Big March 5 from
Canoe’s artists. Come early as the art and wine will all go 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
quickly. at the home of
Lou Reiter and
Jane Clay and Lisa Schnellinger display a work that is typical of Marilyn McFad-
eco art. den in Choctaw
Village.
At our February meeting, Lisa Schnellinger discussed
an art show she is arranging at the Bowen Art Center to Following
honor former club member Sara Lindkrantz who passed their own police procedure, two crime books will be dis-
away last year. It will focus on found object/recycled items cussed - An Unsuitable Job for a Woman by P.D. James and
art, known as “eco art.” The show is named “Don’t Throw Lost Hills by Lee Goldberg. Better start reading now, even
It Away, Make Art!” if it means burning the midnight oil. If you don’t have time
to finish the books, come to the discussion anyway. You
This juried show is the inspiration of a fabulous artist, never know what clues you might pick up.
Sara Lindkrantz of Big Canoe who encouraged others to
help Mother Earth and give new life to recyclables. Sara Sounds like the ladies rule at this March book club.
saw the value and beauty in everything. The sale of Sara’s Discussions are always interesting as viewpoints are shared
over wine and appetizers. There are several authors in the
Take a tour through your junk drawer and discover treasures to club which gives a unique perspective on writing styles.
use for creating art.
If you’re interested in becoming an armchair detec-
tive, email Lou Reiter at [email protected] to get on the
crime board roster. Everybody is welcome.

works will provide prize funds for this exhibit.
The month’s demo focused on the creation of eco art.

Jane Clay and Lisa Schnel-
linger demonstrated making
art from found and other ob-
jects. Any recycled material
can show artistic flair like
metal, plastic bags, old paint,
broken furniture created for
a collage, sculpture or wall
hanging.

Anyone can enter this Such a whimsical piece created
unique show. Show details from “just stuff.”
and entry form can be found
at https://www.bowenarts.org/events/eco-art-competition/.

50 | INSIDETHEGATES.ORG MARCH 2020

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Choctaw Village morphs into the Pull up a chair at Wednesday’s
Coffee Klatch
Olympic Village

By Marilyn McFadden Ladies, are you downright confused or even baffled at
the many clubs and organizations to join in Big Canoe? Are
At high noon on February 22, Choctaw Village Olym- you looking for a friendly casual group that meets in the
morning?
pic Commissioners and game originators Lynn and Keith
Look no further than the weekly Wednesday morning
Downie called Coffee Klatch that meets
at Village Station at 9:30
“Hola” from the a.m. Every. Wednesday.
Morning.
doors of House
There’s no agenda,
Mexico to the no meeting, just bring
your morning beverage
more than forty of choice and sit around
the table and chat.
Olympian Villag-
Coffee Klatch offers
er competitors. a wonderful way to meet other women, one on one. The
group was the brain child of Lisa Kent who wanted Big
After open- Canoe women to simply connect over conversation. Simple
as that.
ing ceremonies in
No need to sign up, just walk right in and be welcomed
Mexico, competi- warmly.

tors moved on the At dusk, House India welcomed the crowd with “Na-
maste” and the closing Olympic ceremonies. House Spain
hour to House took the Gold for the Most Creative House category, in an
unbelievable rout of six other
USA, (Donna worthy competitors.

and Tom Welch), Team Women rolled
over Team Men and took the
Bermuda (Mal- Games Gold.

issa and David Nancy Barr, with a
costume few will ever forget,
Jett), Canada Ole! The Spanish team arrived on bulls. beat out David Jett for the
Best Country Costume.
(TyAnne and Brad (Photo by Marilyn McFadden)
Finally, Ken Palazzo
Schmidt), Spain took the “Kick Ass” award;
he visited each house, drank
(Joan and John Delk) and finally House India (Dawn and each native drink was still Steady, steady. It takes skill
standing and still wearing his and patience to master Jenja.
George Poulson). Banyan by closing ceremo- (Photo by Lou Reiter)
nies.
Each country provided indigenous food, drinks and
Although 2020 doesn’t have an award category, it
non-indigenous games: Jenja, Beer Pong, Trivia, Heads Up, deserves one. This was the best Village Olympics, the very
best, and will remain so until next year.
Lost My Balls and Moves Like Jagger.

Choctaw Manly Men sport international flair. (Photo by Lou Reiter)