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Gilmer GAB

Pick Ellijay Podcast (PEP)
PEP Talk
Asa Jones
Join us weekly as we explore the businesses and events that make up Gilmer County!
Pick Ellijay Podcast (PEP)
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PEP Talk: Friends of Harrison Park

March 6th, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:09:59
Asa and Ron welcome Linda Lancaster, representing Friends of Harrison Park, to discuss the upcoming Sasquatch Strut on April 27 and to talk about the Friends of Harrison Park's progress and accomplishments. The goal of the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is to provide a place for friends and families to gather without spending too much money. Through upcoming events, the organization is making Harrison Park a place of community.

PEP Talk: Cartecay Bike Shop Brewery

February 28th, 2024 12:00am
This week, the PEP Talk podcast crew welcomes Dondi Fontenot, co-owner of Cartecay Bike Shop Brewery on North Main Street in Ellijay. Asa, Ron, and Dondi discuss the newest addition to the shop: the brew room, serving small-batch craft beers, including ales, IPAs, pilsners, wheats, and seltzers made in-house. With over 45 years of experience in the bike business, the shop’s new addition takes it to the next level, allowing guests to unwind with artisanal brews after riding the trails in the Mountain Bike Capital of Georgia.

PEP Talk: North Georgia Vineyard Tours

February 21st, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:12:11
This week hosts Asa and Ron welcome Benjamin Grimmer of Ellijay Excursions, Patrick Hagler of A Grape View Tours, and Noble Zuschlag of North Georgia Wine Trips to discuss the ins and outs of guided vineyard touring and what you can expect when booking one of these convenient touring services in the beautiful wine country of Ellijay and North Georgia. North Georgia Wine Tours https://www.north-georgiawinetours.com/ https://www.facebook.com/northgawinetrips (706) 889-2068 A Grape View https://www.agrapeview.com/ https://www.facebook.com/agrapeviewtours 706-972-1187 Ellijay Excursions https://www.ellijayexcursions.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ellijayexcursions 706-502-3745

PEP Talk: Ellijay’s Little Italian & The Roof

February 14th, 2024 11:50am | Duration: 00:12:23
This week, Asa and Ron welcome returning guests Annette Cavallaro from Ellijay's Little Italian and Matt Bond from The Roof to discuss their restaurants and featured dishes. Ellijay's Little Italian is an authentic storefront and features calzones, stromboli, pastas, and more. If you're looking for a hearty Southern restaurant, head to The Roof for dishes like bologna sliders, fried green tomatoes, and burgers.

Mardi Gras Meets River Street

Your favorite Gilmer restaurants are teaming up this week
February 7th, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:12:49
Your favorite Gilmer restaurants are teaming up this week—and on this podcast—to celebrate Mardi Gras in Ellijay. The Butcher & Bottle, River Street Tavern, Ellijay's Little Italian, The Roof, Boardwalk Pizza & Pub, and Cajun Depot Grill are all collaborating on Mardi Gras themed specials, cocktails, and merch. This week we are joined by special guests Nicole Furness of River Street Tavern, Matthew Bond of The Roof, Annette Cavallaro of Ellijay's Little Italian, and Kayleigh T. of The Butcher & Bottle. Each will reveal details about their restaurant's menu and Mardi Gras plans.

PEP Talk: Ellijay Songwriters Festival 2024

January 31st, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:14:57
The Ellijay Songwriters Festival is coming up and Ray Green with Ray Dog Productions joins Ron and Asa with all the details. This year, the festival will last two weeks, from May 20 through June 2, with special performances throughout the festival, a VIP Songwriter Welcome Reception, Memorial Day Celebration, 5K Run, Golf Tournament, Car Show, wine dinners, vendor village, shopping, local cuisine, outdoor activities, and fun for the entire family. Listen now and mark your calendars for this celebration of songwriters!

PEP Talk: Chateau Meichtry Vineyard and Winery

January 24th, 2024 11:30pm | Duration: 00:10:50
This week on the Pick Ellijay podcast, Asa and Ron welcome Bobby McNeill, owner of Chateau Meichtry Vineyard and Winery in Talking Rock. Listen for details on Chateau Meichtry’s upcoming 2024 entertainment line-up. Plus, learn about the popular varieties of wines you can get at Chateau Meichtry.

PEP Talk: Sips Trail & Wine About Winter

January 17th, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:07:10
This episode features host Asa Jones in conversation with tourism director Ron Cheslock about the new and improved Sips Trail, now featuring the mobile pass, just in time for Wine About Winter in February. Make plans to escape to Ellijay this Groundhog Day weekend to indulge in a delightful array of events, one-of-a-kind experiences, and, of course, local wines amidst the picturesque North Georgia mountains. Why whine about the weather when you can wine about winter?

PEP Talk: Carters Lake Nature Center

January 10th, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:13:08
In this episode, host Asa Jones and tourism director Ron Cheslock welcome Allen Earhart, operations manager of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, to discuss the newly renovated nature center at Carters Lake, now with interactive displays and virtual reality activities. Through the new activities developed in partnership with Kennesaw State University, as well as summer guided classes, visitors will learn about controlled burning and water safety. Plus, discover the many campgrounds and trails to explore around the area.

PEP Talk: 2023 Recap

Happy New Years.
January 3rd, 2024 12:00am | Duration: 00:08:15
Happy New Year everyone! In this episode tourism director Ron Cheslock and host Asa Jones take a look back at some of the events discussed on the podcast during 2023. Ron and Asa also take a look at the tourism grants given out. Plus, enjoy a sneak peek at some of the businesses being featured on the Pick Ellijay PEP Talk in 2024.

PEP Talk: Jessica Carmichael and Sari Saroukos of The Falls at Blue Ridge and Picture Perfect Cabins

December 26th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:13:08
PEP Talk welcomes Jessica Carmichael and Sari Saroukos of The Falls at Blue Ridge and Picture Perfect Cabins to talk about amenities you can enjoy, including horseback riding, ATV riding, a fine dining chef catering to your needs, and more. From family fun cabins featuring a bowling alley to the most picturesque backdrops for the perfect wedding, The Falls at Blue Ridge luxury wedding and event venue and Picture Perfect Cabins has the adventure you’re looking for. https://www.thefallsatblueridge.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TheFallsAtBlueRidge/ https://www.blueridgemountains.com/directory/picture-perfect-cabins/ https://www.facebook.com/pictureperfectcabinrentals/

PEP Talk: Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears

December 19th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:10:30
Gerald Hodge of Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears joins us for this week's episode to discuss everything you need to know for hibernation season. We cover the hibernation process, ?cubs born during hibernation, ?humans' effects on bears, and more unique stories about black bears in the Southern Appalachian region. The mission of Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears is to reduce conflict between bears and humans, ?advocate through proactive education outreach programs, and increase public awareness about coexisting with black bears. Listen in and visit AGFriendsOfTheBears.com to learn even more about the Appalachian black bears in your own backyard.

PEP Talk: Damon Gabriel & Davis Lacey

December 12th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:12:32
This week we welcome Damon Gabriel of Artful Ellijay and Davis Lacey of Ellijay Cigar Lounge back to the studio. Damon discusses Artful Ellijay’s recent “Best of Georgia” Home & Garden Shopping award from Georgia Business Journal, plus, how he and his team plan to celebrate the prestigious win. Damon also gives us a sneak peek of what’s in store for 2024. Davis reflects on Ellijay Cigar Lounge’s successes so far since opening its doors in 2022, as well as upcoming specials for the remainder of the year.

PEP Talk: Pam Burns, executive director of the Gilmer Arts Playhouse in downtown Ellijay.

December 5th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:07:59
In this week’s Pick Ellijay podcast, we welcome Pam Burns, executive director of the Gilmer Arts Playhouse in downtown Ellijay. The Playhouse hosts the return of perennial favorite Atlanta Pops Orchestra on Sunday, December 10, as the orchestra continues its seventy-five year legacy of enriching communities throughout the southeast with live performances of popular orchestral music. Also on The Playhouse’s calendar are Sip and Paint sessions with artist Maria Sarmiento on December 16 and 19. See more upcoming events at The Playhouse at gilmerarts.com/gilmer-arts-events/.

PEP Talk Rewind

November 29th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:11:36
We’ve selected some of your favorite clips and episodes for this look back at 2023—featuring Wyatt Espalin, Robin & Afton Salmon of Surrender Hill, Danny Myrick, Abbey Prieto, Irene Witt, Adina Elfaituri, Christine Cleberg, and Lynn Robey.

Gilmer County University of Georgia Extension Office

November 22nd, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:10:26
This week, PEP Talk welcomes Gilmer County University of Georgia Extension Office County Extension Coordinator Nancy Adams and 4-H Youth Development Agent Joshua Aaron to discuss Georgia 4-H Youth Council field trips, services offered by the UGA Extension Office, and the office’s plans to hire an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent.

PEP Talk: Pick Ellijay welcomes Paul King with 29 North Wine and Art in downtown Ellijay, a new tasting room and art studio which opened its doors in October.

November 15th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:10:36
This week’s episode of Pick Ellijay welcomes Paul King with 29 North Wine and Art in downtown Ellijay, a new tasting room and art studio which opened its doors in October. The unique space, a canvas for creativity, invites visitors to explore the artistry of Georgia wine and local artists as each glass and each painting tells a story. 29 North celebrates the fusion of flavors and artistry while also hosting live music performances from local favorites. Cheers! Visit on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552569407122

PEP Talk: It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Ellijay!

Beau Lowman with BEAU-tiful Creations returns to the studio to talk all about Light Up Ellijay and the 2023 Christmas Parade.
November 6th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:09:46
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Ellijay! Beau Lowman with BEAU-tiful Creations returns to the studio to talk all about Light Up Ellijay and the 2023 Christmas Parade. On Friday, November 24, Light Up Ellijay features photos with Santa, a 25-foot inflatable gingerbread house for children, and more from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on the Square in Downtown Ellijay. Stop by the BEAU-tiful Creations studio on Southside Square for gingerbread crafts throughout the day. Then, on Saturday, December 2, holiday festivities downtown kick off at noon with music and caroling and a Christmas market, then the Christmas Parade begins at 6:00 p.m. Following the parade, come to the afterparty at BEAU-tiful Creations with a holiday movie screening, plus, come in throughout the day to paint ornaments.

PEP Talk: Howard Berk with Ellijay Mushrooms stops by to discuss different types of mushrooms

October 31st, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 00:09:42
In this week’s Pick Ellijay podcast episode, Howard Berk with Ellijay Mushrooms stops by to discuss different types of mushrooms, the growth process, and where you can find delicious mushrooms from Ellijay Mushrooms. Visit online at EllijayMushrooms.com or Facebook.com/EllijayMushrooms.

PEP Talk: Cherry Log’s Brett Cantrell with Country Financial

Pick Ellijay Podcast
October 24th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 09:58
This week the Pick Ellijay podcast welcomes Cherry Log’s Brett Cantrell with Country Financial. Brett is a Gilmer Chamber board member as well as a local musician. Hear all about his musical career and what he enjoys about performing in Gilmer County.

PEP Talk: The Falls at Blue Ridge, a new wedding venue and event space in Ellijay.

Guest: Ashley McGowan, Director of Weddings and Events
October 10th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 09:45
In this episode of PEP Talk, we welcome guest Ashley McGowan, director of weddings and events at The Falls at Blue Ridge, a new wedding venue and event space in Ellijay. Nestled on 700 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Falls at Blue Ridge is a stunning wedding and event venue offering breathtaking views, gorgeous indoor and outdoor areas, rustic-luxe details, an in-house gourmet chef to oversee the most exquisite menu options, and unparalleled client services. Lushly manicured lawns, beautiful gardens, creeks, a serene lake, a koi-pond, waterfalls, and the main majestic waterfall make the perfect setting for your unforgettable event. Learn more about Ellijay’s newest event space at https://www.TheFallsAtBlueRidge.com.

PEP Talk: Georgia Apple Festival

Interview with Jennifer Grimmer, President and CEO of the Gilmer Chamber
October 2nd, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 12:25
It’s Apple Fest! This week we bring Jennifer Grimmer, President and CEO of the Gilmer Chamber, to discuss the Georgia Apple Festival. The festival lasts for two exciting and fun-filled weekends of the 14–15 and the 21–22, with many more events every weekend in October.

PEP Talk: Roo Mountain Vineyards

September 25th, 2023 12:00am | Duration: 11:24
Roo Mountain Vineyards is the newest winery on the block! With 6 acres of vines on nearly 250 acres of beautiful land, Roo Mountain Vineyards offers roughly 20 varieties of wine and a good selection of ciders. Join Host Asa Jones as he converses with Robert Loomis, the head winemaker, and Michelle Raffaelle, the owner of Roo Mountain Vineyards. Enjoy live music every Saturday, Cars and Coffee on the third Saturday of each month, and other special events. Don't miss Friday, September 29—it's a Low Country Boil feast! Roo Mountain Vineyards 1497 Old Flat Branch Road, Ellijay, GA 30540 https://roomountainvineyards.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Roomountainvineyards https://www.instagram.com/roomountainvineyards/

PEP Sept 20, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
September 20th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome Gerald Hodge, CEO of Appalachia Georgia Friends of the Bears. The organization helps educate people about our native Black Bears and advocate for the safety of the bears. We talk about a few black bear behaviors, and how human-bear conflicts can occur.

PEP Sept 13, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
September 13th, 2023 10:00am
We are joined by Lee Delk, co-owner of Ott Family Vineyards. It's Harvest season so sign up to volunteer, plus join them every Tuesday for open mic nights. Starting every other Thursday will bring wine and food pairings you don't want to miss!

PEP Sept 13, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
September 13th, 2023 10:00am
We are joined by Lee Delk, co-owner of Ott Family Vineyards. It's Harvest season so sign up to volunteer, plus join them every Tuesday for open mic nights. Starting every other Thursday will bring wine and food pairings you don't want to miss!

PEP Sept 6, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
September 6th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome back Michelle Kellogg with the Coosawattee River Resort. The next Pick' Concert lineup will be September 9th with Greg Erwin and 200 Proof. Look for all the lineups on www.mycrra.com/announcements. October brings Trunk or Treat and look other exciting activities throughout the rest of the year.

PEP Talk: Farming Grapes for Boutique Wineries

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast, Aug 30, 2023
August 30th, 2023 10:00am
Gilmer and neighboring counties are cultivating award-winning grapes for boutique wineries across North Georgia. Cartecay Vineyards is no exception. Larry Lykins, the owner of Cartecay Vineyards, explains what it is like to farm grapes. Larry also explains the difference between grapes grown for boutique wineries and large market wines.  Crush Festival at Cartecay Vineyards, September 23–24 Grape Stomping Vineyard Tours Live Music Food Truck Wine Tasting Arts & Crafts Tickets are ON SALE NOW! Act fast!! https://cartecayvineyards.com/events/

PEP Aug 23, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
August 23rd, 2023 10:00am
We welcome back Abby Pieto and Irene Witt with the Ellijay Bacon Festival. The Ellijay Bacon Festival hosts several different bacon products and vendors including a spicy bacon eating contest. This is a one day event. All proceeds go towards the Gilmer Food Pantry. Sunday September 24th from 10am to 5pm. Gilmer River Park across from the hospital.

PEP Aug 16, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
August 16th, 2023 10:00am
This week we welcome Grant Parker with Twisted Horn Rodeo. Get ready for the exciting Ellijay Stampede Rodeo on September 2nd and 3rd.

PEP Aug 9, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
August 9th, 2023 10:00am
Get ready for the next Food Truck Tuesday in September followed by Ellijay Up In Smoke. We welcome event organizer Adina Elfauituri to fill you in on all the deatails about these delicious events.

PEP Aug 2, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
August 3rd, 2023 12:00am
This week we bring on Chris Cleberg and Lynn Robey, organizers with the Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market. The Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market has nearly 100 vendors offering produce, meat and poultry, and crafts. Running every Saturday from 8:30am to 12:30pm now through September 30th. 1 Broad St, Ellijay, GA, United States, 30540

PEP July 26, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
July 26th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome back Joe Sewell the information specialist. We dive into fishing in Gilmer County and Carter's Lake.

PEP July 19, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
July 19th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome back Cindi Jackson with Grapes and Ladders Vineyards and Winery to discuss Harvest and the new Sips TRAIL.

PEP July 12, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
July 12th, 2023 10:00am
A look back at some of our many wonderful businesses and guests that we have featured throughout the year.

PEP July 5, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
July 5th, 2023 12:00am
We welcome back Jennifer Grimmer and Caitlin Neal with the Chamber to discuss the new business TRAILS in Ellijay. Featuring Sips, Sweets, and Antiques themes with prizes.

PEP June 14, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
June 14th, 2023 10:00am
Guest: Joe Sewell an information specialist with Gilmer County and a Travel Counselor. We discuss the many attractions to that Gilmer county has to offer including apple orchards, hiking trails, and water activities.

PEP June 7, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
June 7th, 2023 10:00am
We introduce Michelle Kellogg with the Coosawattee River Resort to talk about their Pickin' Concert Series and other yearly events to look forward to.

PEP May 31, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
May 31st, 2023 10:00am
We welcome back Leslie Thomas with the Tabor House and president of the Georgia Chapter of the Trail Of Tears Association.

PEP May 24, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
May 24th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome in Danny Myrick. Danny Myrick is one of the many songwriters who will be featured at the Ellijay Songwriters Festival. Danny has written hit songs for artists such as Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Craig Morgan, and others. This podcast featuring his song “ I Love This Life”

PEP May 17, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
May 17th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome Terry Ellis with Kharisma and the Gilmer Arts to discuss the Blue Ridge Wine and Jazz Festival, Raising the Roof fundraiser, Plein Air, and other upcoming events that you do not want to miss.

PEP May 10, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
May 10th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome Jessica Carmichael with Picture Perfect Adventures. Picture Perfect Adventures features horseback riding, ATV tours, and rental cabins with activities for the whole family.

PEP May 3, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
May 3rd, 2023 10:00am
We welcome the duo known as Surrender Hill featuring Robin and Afton Salmon. Listen to the full episode for a sneak peak at one of Surrender Hill's songs, Quiet Western Town.

PEP Apr 26, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
April 26th, 2023 10:00am
Join us today as we welcome in Pam Burns with the Gilmer Arts Playhouse. We discuss monthly events including open mic nights, story telling, and summer programs.

PEP Apr 19, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
April 19th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome Leslie Thomas with the Gilmer County Historical Society to tell us all about the Tabor House Museum.

PEP Apr 12, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
April 12th, 2023 10:00am
GA Mountain Trails Partnership and Friends of Harrison Park are teaming up to bring you a 5k (Sasquatch Strut)/fun run and the Trail Festival at Harrison Park on April 22nd starting at 8:00 am. Featuring different food trucks and Vendors throughout the day.

PEP Apr 5, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
April 4th, 2023 05:00pm
We welcome Russ Ginger with Gingershack Farms, and Karen Moss of Strings and Stitches Yarn Shoppe to talk about the upcoming Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival.

PEP Mar 29, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
March 29th, 2023 10:00am
Get ready for the Ellijay Songwriter Festival starting May25- 28 at 6 different wineries in Gilmer County.

PEP Mar 22, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
March 22nd, 2023 10:00am
We get together with members of the Georgia Mountain Trail Partnership, Benton McKaye Trail Association, and the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club. We also welcome Peggie Morrow with Color My Nest in Ellijay.

PEP Mar 15, 2023

Official Gilmer Chamber Podcast
March 15th, 2023 10:00am
We welcome guest, Sylvia Harris, with the Friends Of Gilmer Animal Shelter. Get ready for Wolfstock, and a network meeting at Expedition Bigfoot.

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