North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountain Neighbors Face a Tough Challenge

"To allow drink or not allow  drink, that is the question" that faces Fannin County voters who will decide on November 6^th. Although parts of Fannin are already allowed to sell beer and wine, and those who want to drink do, we have an important resolution before us.

Fannin County, "gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains", where the lifestyle here is unhurried, tranquil and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.   Where we enjoy plenty of adventures from waterfall sightseeing, fishing, horseback riding, camping, hiking and boating to name a few.  More importantly, we enjoy all of these things as neighbors.  Neighbors who live next door, down the road or even on the other side of the county.  We run into each other at the store, library, downtown shops, festivals, school events and even eat together in some of the local eatery's.  Nothing proves more that we are neighbors with no boundaries when it comes to helping out another neighbor through church fund raisers or other venues.  That's a big part of our mountain charm in Fannin county, we really are neighbors and distance between houses have no bearing.  Let's remember ETC's slogan, "neighbors helping neighbors" and not loose sight of this important aspect of our culture when it comes to the debate over the "resolution to authorize the sale of distilled spirits".

Business men and women and developers have some valid points for wanting this resolution to pass.  Clergy and private citizens also have valid concerns as to why it should not pass.  One side says it will increase our tax revenue, generate new jobs, boost tourism and in turn, real estate.  The other side believes our way of life here is being threatened, that we won't even recognize our county in less than five years if the resolution passes and we are defeating the purpose as to why people move and visit here in the first place.

Well, it seems to me it's already changing our county if we let it and it hasn't even come to a vote yet.  I've been witness to name calling and failed intimidation tactics plus articles in the local papers with one side accusing the other of not telling the truth and so on.  This is truly beneath Fannin County residents.  This is not at all necessary between neighbors.  Let's agree to disagree but with respect for each other. 

 
You have a right to have your voice heard regardless of your position in this matter and you can do that by voting.  You have a responsibility to do what is right for the overall good of this county and it is up to each one to decide what is right.  You have the freedom to have personal convictions and to honor them.  You have an obligation to know the facts and make an informed, intelligent and rational decision.  Let's keep our emotions in check.  When this is all over, no matter the outcome, will we still be neighbors?

Public comments are welcomed, but please keep them civil and clean.  Inappropriate comments will be deleted.

Donna Yates, Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains
www.move2northgeorgia.net