Main Street Toccoa Press Releases

Main Street Awards Reception Huge Success!

2012-01-27T11:25:00.004-05:00

TOCCOA, GA, January 26, 2012 –The Toccoa Main Street Program held its annual Main Street Awards Reception on Tuesday, January 24, 2012. Nine businesses and several groups and individuals were honored with awards. Mayor David Austin and members of the Downtown Development Authority reviewed 2011 downtown revitalization efforts during the program as well as looking ahead to 2012.

The award winners were:

Best Historic Restoration Project - Organic Spa and Salon Anastasia

Outstanding Community Partner – Global Partitions

Main Street Newcomer – Sanders Drug Store

Best Adaptive Reuse – Cups – n – Cones

Outstanding Volunteer – Bob Troup

Best Historic Rehabilitation – Johnson and Fields

Special Recognition – Roots, Rhythm, and Rails

Dedicated Downtowner – Northland Communications

Best Historic Renovation – Toccoa Tileworks.

Also recognized were the many volunteers who helped with the 20 different events that were held in the downtown this year.

Following the presentation of awards, the 2012 Downtown Development Authority was introduced. DDA Board Members for 2012 are Chair Lynn Cox, Clay Fisher, Pam Keener, Michelle Lamping, Joann Raybon, Joe Sewell, Michele Whiten, and Terry Carter, the City Commission Liaison.

Mayor David Austin stated, “As we look back at 2011 it has been a year of major changes and much activity in the downtown. We expect to see a continuation of improvements in 2012 as we work together in both the public and private sectors. In our 22nd year as a Georgia Main Street, we intend to continue to make Historic Downtown Toccoa a place where people will want to come to live, shop, eat and be entertained.”

Second Historic Plaque Placed at The Toccoa Record

2011-12-06T10:49:00.002-05:00

The second historic plaque, in a series of 10 plaques to be placed at historic buildings in Toccoa, was set and unveiled on Thursday, Dec. 1, in front of The Toccoa Record.

The paper started in 1873, one year before the city received its charter. Originally named The Northeast Georgia Herald, the paper was later renamed and moved operations to 67 W. Doyle St. The building was completed in 1906 and has been the home to the paper for over 100 years.

In the 1970s, the business changed ownership from a local family to a sole proprietor, Charles Hamilton. With the new change of ownership, Mr. Hamilton excavated the basement for the newest line of newspaper press units, allowing paper to become the first weekly newspaper in Georgia to incorporate the use of offset printing. The business progressed even further by the 1980s and became the first to convert to an all computerized newsroom.

In 1995 the paper was bought by Community Newspapers, Inc. (CNI), and merged with a weekly publication, The Chieftain. Both continue to be a part of CNI, which includes 28 other newspapers.

Eight more plaques are scheduled to be unveiled in the upcoming year, eventually aligning with a walking tour and podcast to highlight the historic aspects of downtown Toccoa. The next plaque is dedicated to be unveiled on Jan. 5, at 5 p.m. All persons are invited to attend!

Toccoa Christmas Fest 2011

2011-11-29T09:31:00.000-05:00

Toccoa, GA, November 28, 2011 – The city of Toccoa will be welcoming in the Christmas season on December 2 – 3, 2011 in the Historic Downtown area. The fourth annual Christmas fest will begin at 5:30 p.m. until 8:30.

Take in the sounds of the holiday season during this special evening. This year there will be Victorian Carolers who will stroll down the streets and in the stores throughout the evening, serenading the shoppers. A beautiful carriage will take you through the town’s historic district to see the beautifully lit streets. The carriage rides are $1 for children and $3 per adult and begin on Doyle St near the Toccoa Record.

The live nativity will allow the children to enter into the stall, pet the animals and experience what it may have been like on the first Christmas.

Santa will be located on Doyle St for visits and pictures and to take the children’s letters. Also for the children, Santa’s Express train will take the little riders around the town. Rides are $3.00 per person.

The Festival of Trees will be in the Stephens County Historic Courthouse from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Friday and noon to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. With ten beautifully decorated trees, visitors will be able to vote for their favorite. Entrance is free but it is $1.00 per vote. Proceeds of the contest will go to the charity or nonprofit organization represented. The winning tree will receive a grand prize sponsored by local businesses. Classic guitarist, John Oliverus will perform throughout the evening in the courtroom.

Special entertainment will be performed at the stage located in front of the city Christmas Tree on the courthouse lawn. The Rhythm Academy Dance School will perform at 6:00 p.m. followed by the local group, Ray of Hope.

At 7:30 p.m. City Commissioner Bob Troup will count down from 10 to 1 and the city tree will be lit for the 2011 Christmas season. This year the tree will be on Sage St across from the Whistle Stop caboose.

For more information go to www.mainstreet.com or call 706-282-3309.

2011 Festival of Trees

2011-11-11T11:46:00.000-05:00

Local businesses and civic groups are invited to help their favorite non-profit organization by sponsoring a Christmas tree at the Festival of Trees. “This is a great way for our local businesses to give back to the community through helping our local non-profits,” stated Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator for Toccoa.

Participants must provide a decorated tree, with lights, that will be on display in the Historic Stephens County Courthouse from Friday, Dec. 2 through Saturday, Dec. 3. The group will be responsible to take down the tree by Dec. 5.

The decorated trees will be on display in the Courthouse in conjunction with the 2011 Toccoa ChristmasFest, held the evening of December 2 from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm and Saturday December 3from 12 noon to 4pm.

The public will then cast a vote for their favorite Christmas tree, for a cost of $1 per vote. Each non-profit organization will keep their proceeds. The tree receiving the most votes will win the “grand prize.”

For more information or for an application, please call the Main Street office at 706-282-3309 or go to www.mainstreettoccoa.com.

Main Street Historic Plaques Program

2011-11-04T10:45:00.002-04:00

The Toccoa Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has begun a historic plaques program to highlight ten historic buildings in downtown Toccoa. The plaques will be placed at the ten historic buildings over the next ten months. Each one will be unveiled at a ceremony the first Thursday of the month at 5 PM. The ten properties were selected by the DDA as they reflect the interesting and diverse history of downtown Toccoa. The City of Toccoa has funds set aside in the Main Street budget for the cost of the plaques, which are provided to the downtown businesses at no charge.

The history of these ten buildings will be highlighted in a walking tour that will feature the plaques. The history of these buildings will also be discussed in a podcast to accompany the walking tour. Main Street has developed the historic plaques program to create more interest in downtown and its history with local residents and visitors. Main Street Information and Graphics Specialist, Katy Sides said “the historic plaques program will be a great way to create awareness and excitement about the interesting history of downtown Toccoa.”

The first historic plaque was unveiled Thursday, November 3, 2011 at The Studio in downtown. The plaque at the Studio was the first plaque unveiled, as this is the oldest building in downtown Toccoa, and dates to when Toccoa was still part of Habersham County. The building, circa 1857, was best known as the Acree Mitchell Grocery Store. It was originally a free-standing building and a popular gathering place for early Toccoa residents. Since then, the building has been a Masonic Lodge and is currently an art gallery. The bricks used in its construction are hand-made and you can still see horsehair in some of the bricks. The building also features wide plank wood floors upstairs.

The next plaque will be dedicated at The Toccoa Record on December 1 at 5 PM. Everyone is invited to attend the plaque dedication. Please contact the Main Street Office staff for further information.

Downtown Restrooms Updates

2011-10-19T09:58:00.001-04:00

The public restrooms in downtown Toccoa will be receiving a facelift, courtesy of Global Partitions on Tuesday, October 25, 2011. Global Partitions will be installing new partitions in both the men’s and women’s restrooms, as well as new toilet paper dispensers. They will also be providing hand driers and soap dispensers to update the restrooms as well.

Global Partitions are providing these products at no cost to the City of Toccoa, to the benefit of all who use the downtown public restrooms. The installation process will be used as a training session for Global Partition customer service employees.

The public restrooms will be closed Monday, October 24 through 27, 2011 to allow for these improvements and other repairs. The restrooms will be reopened Friday, October 28.

Main Street Toccoa and the City of Toccoa would like to thank Global Partitions for these generous gifts. The public restrooms will be outfitted, which will create a welcoming environment for visitors and residents who frequent these facilities. Please contact the Main Street Office staff for further information at 706-282-3269 or Global Partitions at 706-827-2700.

Harvest Festival October 29-30

2011-10-18T12:28:00.002-04:00

It’s the time of year when the cooler northern winds blow through the Northeast Georgia mountains and the trees begin to change their leaves into brilliant shades of gold and red. It is also the time for the 35th Annual Toccoa Harvest Festival. This year it will be held October 29 - 30, 2011, in historic downtown Toccoa. Enjoy music and dancing while taking in the aromatic bouquet of fall mingling with roasting peanuts, mulling spices, and regional and international foods! There will be more than 175 craft and food vendors. All crafts will be "homemade, home baked, or home grown", featuring jewelry, wind chimes, candles, soaps, hand crocheted items, wreaths, wooden birdhouses and much more. There will be a wide range of mouth-watering foods including homemade cakes and fried pies, funnel cakes, peanuts, Asian, Greek, and Cajun style entrees, Bar-B-Q and almost anything else your tastebuds desire!

New this year is the arrival of an excursion train hosted by The North Carolina Transportation Museum Foundation and the Watauga Valley Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 12:00. The visitors will debark at the Historic Train Depot and enjoy all that the festival offers. One of the passenger cars and the souvenir car will be open to the public during their stay. Admission is free.

This year the Harvest Festival is pleased to welcome again the Plainsmen, an American Indian drum and dance group. The group often presents dances that are not even performed often at powwows, which makes this a once in a lifetime opportunity for Toccoa residents! The Plainsmen specialize in the hoop dance and eagle dance. Audience members will even be asked to participate in some of the dances! These dances are not difficult and are sure to be fun for all that take part.

The Plainsmen will perform on Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30. Their dancing will be something you will not want to miss, so make plans to be in downtown Toccoa for the Harvest Festival and Plainsmen performance!

Browse the downtown antique market as well as an eclectic array of shops including antiques, gifts, art, collectibles, clothing, sportswear, and home accessories. See the Currahee Artist Guild show and sale on West Doyle Street. For children the festival will offer face painting, Atlanta Puppet, train rides, and pony rides. Other children and youth activities include a rock-climbing wall, inflatables, a petting zoo, and remote controlled race cars. Take the whole family on a free wagon ride.

The Toccoa Harvest Festival is from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and opens at 10:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. Don't miss the fall fun at Toccoa Harvest Festival! For more information call the Toccoa Main Street office at 706-282-3309.

Costume Parade on October 31

2011-10-18T12:23:00.001-04:00

The Toccoa Main Street program will host the twenty first annual children's Costume Parade Monday, October 31, 2011. Children will begin lining up promptly at 9:45 a.m. as the parade begins at 10:00 a.m. Preschool age children between the ages of two and five are invited to attend. Area preschools will also be participating.

This year the parade route will go down Doyle Street through the center of the downtown. The children should begin to assemble at 9:45 a.m. (so we may begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.) on West Doyle Street, in front of The Toccoa Record, and continue to form the line along the sidewalk at West Doyle Street. The children will walk down West Doyle and cross the street at Sage Street, and then continue down Doyle Street to Family Eye Care. They will then cross over to the other side and continue down the sidewalk to Sage Street. Merchants will meet the children along the way and give them goodies. Refreshments will be served at the corner of Sage St. and Doyle St. and the awards given out. Prizes will be awarded in various categories for ages 2, 3, and 4. The parade events should be over by approximately 11:30 a.m. Each child should have their name and age clearly marked on a nametag to help the judges make their choices. The Main Street program will provide treat bags. Prizes will be awarded in several categories, and refreshments will be served after the event.

Parents and grandparents are invited to watch the parade or join their children in the parade. Volunteers will direct the participants along the route and policemen will help with street crossings.

The Main Street Department invites all eligible children to come and enjoy this safe alternative. A fun time is anticipated for all. For more information, call the Main Street office at 706-282-3309.

Chamber’s Political Debate is Today, October 18th at 6pm, Historic Courthouse

2011-10-18T08:41:00.001-04:00

The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee and WNEG AM 630 are sponsoring a political debate prior to the November 1st General Election this Tuesday October 18th at 6pm in the Historic Courthouse. Doors open at 5:30pm. Please plan to attend or tune in live on AM 630 WNEG to learn more about the candidates.

Georgia State Senate 50th District candidates are Rick Austin, John Wilkinson, David Strickland, Curtis Burger and Mary Beth Focer. The City Commissioner Post 1 candidates are incumbent Janice English and Terry Carter. The City Commissioner Post 4 candidates are Gail Fry, Wayne Perry and Bill Good who are all running for the seat currently held by Bob Troup, who is not running for re-election. All Stephens County voters are voting on the continuation of the county’s education SPLOST to pay for the new high school and other capital projects for school improvements.

The Community is invited to the upstairs Court Room in the Historic Stephens County Court House located in downtown Toccoa. Doors will open early at 5:30pm so the audience can submit questions for the candidates.

The Moderator is Lee Hicks, Chairman of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee and a lawyer from Moore & Hicks Law Firm in Hartwell. Each candidate will introduce themselves and then take questions from both the moderator and the media representatives. Each candidate will also have the opportunity to ask his opponent an issue-oriented question. At the end of the program, each candidate will be given two minutes for a closing statement.

Early voting has started for elections in Toccoa and Stephens County. In addition to the early voting Monday through Friday, there will be early voting on Saturday, October 29 for both the city and county election from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., also at the Registrar’s Office. The Stephens County Registrar’s Office is located in the Stephens County Government Building in downtown Toccoa. Voters must remember a picture ID.

For more information, call the Stephens County Registrar’s Office at 706-886-8954.

Currahee Military Weekend is this weekend

2011-09-28T11:47:00.002-04:00

In 1942 with the world at war, the United States government acquired a mountain and the surrounding land in Toccoa, Georgia as a training facility for a new type of soldier, the paratrooper. Young men from across the nation who had little in common except a shared future, descended on the small north Georgia town to train to defend their country.

To honor the men of Camp Toccoa and as a show of appreciation for the sacrifices they made, the Currahee Military Weekend and Reunion is this weekend Sept. 30 - Oct. 2. The event is hosted by The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, Stephens County Historical Society and Toccoa Main Street Program.

It is estimated that as many as 17,000 soldiers from the 501^st, 506^th, 511^th, 517^th Parachute Infantry Regiments trained at Camp Toccoa during WWII. With the paratrooper population being greater than the town’s population, one can imagine the impact of the soldiers on the community. The once sleepy town was now a booming military town and quickly became a regional financial, medical and transportation hub for northeast Georgia.

Camp Toccoa reshaped the town and the soldiers training there ultimately became the inspiration for the Home Box Office mini-series The Band of Brothers, movies Saving Private Ryan and The Dirty Dozen as well as the History Channel’s Los Banos Prison Raid.

“We look forward to the paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa and their families coming back to Toccoa for the reunion to reminisce about their experiences with their friends who shared this very significant time in their lives,” says Brenda Carlan, County and Currahee Military Museum Executive Director. “Visitors can meet some of the paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa and listen to their stories. There are thirteen Camp Toccoa Veterans registered to return this year. Scheduled Events with the Veterans include school visits, a BBQ, a book signing, a Veterans’ Parade and Opening Ceremonies and a Banquet with special guest speaker James Madio, the actor who portrayed Frank Perconte in the HBO mini-series “Band of Brothers.” Guests can also visit the Currahee Military Museum and walk through the actual stable that housed some of the soldiers while they were fighting in Aldbourne, England. We look forward to honoring the men of Camp Toccoa again this year.”

Chamber of Commerce President Wendi Bailey says the military weekend is one of the most important events for the town and serves to create community pride. “We are thrilled about this year’s t-shirt design created by local artist Carl Fennell exclusively for the Weekend which displays a star for each of the Camp Toccoa regiments, 501^st, 506^th, 511th and 517^th, 295^th and 38^th“ said Wendi. “There are a number of activities planned including a BBQ, a Hangar Dance and the famous Currahee Challenge Run/Walk “3 Miles Up-3 Miles Down” Currahee Mountain which served as the paratroopers’ base camp and training facility. There will also be an Airport Show with a Parachute Jump Team and a once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase a ride in one of the vintage WWII aircraft flown by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing and the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation.”

The majority of the weekend’s events will take place in close proximity to the historic district of downtown Toccoa where the Chamber of Commerce, Welcome Center and Historical Society and Currahee Military Museum are all housed in a historic, restored train depot.

“This event is a great opportunity to showcase our award winning downtown revitalization as well as thank the downtown merchants and restaurants for being there,” said Main Street Events Coordinator, Sharon Crosby. “There will be re-enactor encampments on the courthouse lawn where visitors can experience a WWII camp site and living history exhibits,” said Sharon. “There will also be a memorabilia show and sale with items from the Civil War, Indian Wars, WWI and WWII. There will be something for kids of all ages as we celebrate our military’s commitment to America.”

Toccoa-Stephens County is an All-American Patriotic Community and we “walk-the-talk” every year at the Currahee Military Reunion Weekend Celebration. The Currahee Military Reunion Weekend serves to honor the veterans who trained at Camp Toccoa, the thousands of veterans who have served our country on many other battlefields, and the active military men and women who are serving the country. Here is a schedule of events. The times are subject to change:

Thursday, September 29:

10:00am–6:00pm: Museum Open, Adults $8 & Children $3. Registration, Train Depot, Mitchell Allen Room

Friday, September 30:

10:00am–6:00pm: Museum Open, Adults $8 & Children $3. Registration, Train Depot, Mitchell Allen Room
10:00am–10:00pm: Hospitality Suite (Registered Guests Only)
11:30am–1:30pm: Chicken BBQ Lunch at the Toccoa First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $7 at the Chamber or at the door.
1:00pm–4:00pm: Book Signing in the Mitchell Allen Room with the WWII veterans
7:00pm-11:00pm: USO Hangar Dance at the Toccoa-Stephens County Airport, old LeTourneau Hangar – Atlanta singing group Vintage Vocals sing songs from the 1940’s and Actor James Madio. Music by Flash the DJ. There will be a Costume Contest and dance demonstrations. Tickets are $10 at the Chamber and $15 at the door. $10 at the door if you are in 40’s attire.

Saturday, October 1:

7:00am: Day of Registration for the Currahee Challenge Run/Walk: 3 Mile at 7:45am and 6 Mile at 8:30am. Come run the infamous Currahee Mountain trail, “3 miles up - 3 miles down,” that served as part of the rigorous basic training where the men were hardened to become battle-ready paratroopers. 1^st, 2^nd 3^rd prizes are matted 2011 CMW Art suitable for framing. Fee is $15 in advance and $20 after 9-25-11.
10:00am–4:00pm: Museum Open, Adults $8 and Children $3, Train Depot
10:00am–4:00pm: Memorabilia Show (in the former Whiten’s Shoe Store) on Doyle St: Military arms and memorabilia of the Civil War, Indian Wars, WWI, WWII, Vietnam and more, Downtown Toccoa.
10:00am-4:00pm: WWII Re-enactor Living History Encampments and displays on the Court House lawn.
10:00am–4:00pm: Military Recruiter Displays and vintage military vehicles, Downtown Toccoa.
10:00am-4:00pm Airport Show: Dixie Wing WWII fighter 20 minute plane rides include a Fairchild PT-26 for $95, L-16 Grasshopper for $50, SNJ Zero for $295. The Army Aviation Heritage Foundation is bringing a Huey Helicopter and a 10minute ride will take you 1,000 feet up with the doors wide open. A load is 10 people, will go up with 6 people, $50 per person, $40 for Veterans. Rides are available on a first come first serve basis. There will be a Navion aircraft and other vintage planes. The US Army will display and have a Rock Wall. Civil Air Patrol will offer a Café for snacks.
10:50am: Parachute Jump Team, Downtown Boyd Field
11am: Veteran’s Parade Grand Marshal is James Madio will include the High School Marching Band, Army recruits, JROTC color presentation, vintage vehicles, Army H# Hummer. Check in at the American Legion, Doyle Street, Downtown Toccoa. 500 American flags will be given out.
11:30am: Opening Ceremonies and Purple Heart Ceremony for Jonathan Merck. Toccoa Falls College Brass Band, JROTC Presentation of the Colors, the Blue Ridge Rifles and the singing of the National Anthem.
1:00pm, 2pm & 3:00pm: Re-enactor weapons demonstrations. Courthouse lawn.
2:00pm at the Airport: Parachute Jump Team
7:00pm: Banquet and Auction at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center featuring special guest and speaker Actor James Madio. A fundraiser auction benefiting the Stephens County Historical Society will follow the dinner. Tickets are $50.
Sunday, October 2:
8:30am: Remembrance Service given by Pastor Scott Borderud, a veteran and a minister. Taps by William Tucker and Re-enactor 21 Gun Salute. Meet at the Parachute Infantry Regimen Memorial, Currahee Mountain. Take highway 123 to the Patterson Pump and Milliken-Humphrey plants. Breakfast at BJ’s Restaurant.
10:00am–4:00pm: Museum Open, Adults $8 and Children $3

This is a community-wide collaboration and celebration of Toccoa’s rich military history. The event would not be possible without broad support from our sponsors, volunteers and Civic Clubs.

2011 Currahee Military Weekend Sponsors

BBQ

Community Bank & Trust

Quality Foods

Springer Mountain Farms

Gold Sponsor - North Georgia Technical College Culinary School

Bronze In-Kind Sponsor – Adams Container

Bronze In-Kind - Zaxby’s

In Kind Sponsors: 1^st Baptist Church of Toccoa, McDonalds, Captain D’s, Elk’s Lodge & County EMS pit, Toccoa Elementary and Stephens County High School Chorus, BBQ Shack

WWII USO Hangar Dance

In Kind Sponsors – VFW Post 4346, Foothills Aviation, Mountain Side Aviation, Flash the DJ, Fernside Package Store, Stephens County Airport Authority, Civil Air Patrol

Currahee Military Reunion

Sponsors: Acree-Davis Funeral Home, Acree Oil Company, Dr. Ken Schneider, Eaton, First Citizens Bank,

Georgia Baptist Conference Center, McClure, Ramsay Dickerson & Escoe, Quincy’s Family Steakhouse, Stephens County Historical Society, Stephens Federal Bank. In Kind Sponsors: Super Wal-Mart, Stephens County High School Marching Band, Stephens County High School JR ROTC, WNEG Radio, Toccoa Record, Dal Studios, Good Machine, County and City Employees, Marine Corps League, American Legion Post 104, Pilot Club, Rotary Club

Currahee Challenge Run/Walk

Community Bank & Trust

Gold Sponsor – Caterpillar

Gold Sponsor - Stephens County Hospital

Silver Sponsor– Georgia Baptist Conference Center

Silver Sponsor – U.S. Army

Silver Sponsor - Super Wal-Mart

Bronze Sponsor - Skelton Morris Associates

In Kind Sponsors: Toccoa Rotary Club, HAM/TARS Radio Operators, State Patrol, Stephens County EMS & EMA, Cub Scouts Pack 168, Wendy’s

Airport Show

Toccoa Falls College

Gold Sponsor – Addington Enterprises

Gold Sponsor – Toccoa Clinic

Silver Sponsor – American Woodmark

Silver Sponsor – SAGE Automotive Interiors

Bronze Sponsor – BJ’s

In Kind Sponsors - Civil Air Patrol

Re-Enactors WWII Living History & Weapons Demonstrations

Bronze Sponsor – BJ’s

Main Street Façade Grant Program

2011-09-26T16:03:00.002-04:00

Before Facade Grant

After Facade Grant

The Toccoa Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has recently announced a newly updated façade grant program that is now available to any Main Street Tax District property or business owner. The City of Toccoa has funds set aside in the Main Street budget for the renovation of Main Street tax district buildings’ facades. A business owner may participate in the program, with a letter of consent from the property owner. The mission of the façade grant program is to encourage property owners to improve the appearance of buildings in the Main Street tax district.

Funds are only available for exterior improvements, and may be applied to a front, side, or rear façade, provided the façade faces a public street or parking. Grants will be based on 50% of the total façade renovation costs with a grant maximum of $2,500.00. Work must be preapproved by the DDA, which funding reimbursed once the project has been completed. Buildings must be located in the Main Street tax district to be eligible.

The first downtown business to take advantage of the newly updated façade grant program is Johnson and Fields, LLC, who received a $2,500 grant for the renovation and painting of the façade of their office building.

Due to limited funds, the DDA will process applications in the order they are received. An application/brochure has been sent to all businesses in the Main Street tax district. Please contact the Main Street Office staff for further information at 706-282-3269.

Downtown Toccoa Celebrates Currahee Military Weekend

2011-09-19T14:25:00.000-04:00

Downtown Toccoa is getting ready to welcome returning WWII veterans, their families and friends, and hundreds of visitors during the Currahee Military Weekend, September 30 – Oct. 2, 2011. The mission of this weekend celebration is to honor the courageous men who trained at Camp Toccoa, to teach WWII history to our young people, and to celebrate our military’s commitment to America.

Many of the weekend events will be held in the downtown. Friday, September 30, registration will begin at the Currahee Military Museum at 10:00 a.m. in the Mitchell Allen Memorial Hall. Then from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. there will be a book signing with WWII veteran authors at the same venue.

Saturday, October 1, the day will begin with the Special Forces Association Parachute Jump Team who will jump over Boyd Field at the start of the Veteran’s Parade around 10:50. They will jump with their spectacular signature 20ft by 30ft American Flag. The Veterans parade will start at 11:00 a.m. and will begin on Doyle St and Pond St, go down Doyle St, turn on Sage St, and then go down Foreacre St to the Historic Depot. This year’s parade will be the biggest yet with the returning veterans, several large military vehicles, the SC High School band, as well as the SCHS JR ROTC and CAP.

The opening ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. with the Blue Ridge Rifles team from North Georgia College and State University. The special speaker for the event will be, Julie Schugars, daughter of Joe Beryle. During the weekend there is an exhibit from Russia made possible by Russia, the United States and the Joe Beyrle family that will be displayed in the Currahee Military Museum. Beyrle’s story of being captured by the Germans, escaping and then joining up and fighting with the Russians against Germany is told at the exhibit.

Throughout the day, visit the living history displays on the courthouse lawn and see what the living conditions were for the soldiers during the war. There will also be a Memorabilia Show and Sale on Doyle Street. The show will have memorabilia from WWI, WWII, and other foreign wars.

Downtown businesses and restaurants will be open during the weekend.

“We want to welcome all of our guests and visitors to this special weekend. We never want to forget the sacrifices that were made for us, not only by these brave men during WWII, but also by the men and women in uniform today,” said Sharon Crosby of Main Street Toccoa.

35th annual Toccoa Harvest Festival

2011-09-06T09:32:00.002-04:00

The 35th annual Toccoa Harvest Festival will be held Saturday, October 29 & Sunday, October 30, 2011. The event typically boasts some 200+ vendors. The fee for craft vendors is $40 per space. Since it is a craft festival all products must be "homemade, home baked or home grown". The Main Street Promotions Committee goes to great lengths to verify that this criterion is met. This is to give crafters a market for selling handmade products without having to sell their products competing with retail product prices.

Many local residents have already been accepted into the festival, as well as crafters from nearby communities in Northeast, Middle and South Georgia, and South Carolina, and as far away as Florida, Wisconsin, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Types of crafts being sold at the event include handmade quilts, soaps, fountains, jewelry, wooden furniture, wooden accessories, and wooden toys, baskets, pottery, crocheted items, Christmas decorations, wreaths, jellies, pickles, candles, children's clothing, bottle wind chimes, aprons, birdhouses, a variety of baked goods, painted gourds, folk art, blankets, pillows, neck pillows, and painted glass.

The Toccoa Main Street Program wants to invite anyone who has a handmade, home grown, or home baked product to participate in the 35th Annual Toccoa Harvest Festival. For information or to receive an application please contact the Main Street office at 706-282-3309 or visit Main Street's website to download the application.

Toccoa-Stephens County Prepares for the 9th Annual Currahee Military Weekend

2011-08-31T09:21:00.002-04:00

The Stephens County Historical Society, the Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, and the Toccoa Main Street are once again teaming up to host the 9th annual Currahee Military Weekend Sept. 29 – Oct. 2, 2011. The events will take place in downtown Toccoa, the Stephens County Airport, and Currahee Mountain.

The event began 9 years ago to honor the men of Camp Toccoa and as a show of appreciation for the sacrifices they made. It is estimated that as many as 17,000 soldiers from the 501st, 506th, 511th, 517th Parachute Infantry Regiments trained at Camp Toccoa during the two years that they were located at the base of Currahee Mountain. With the paratrooper population being greater than the town’s population, one can imagine the impact of the soldiers on the community.

“We look forward to the paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa and their families coming back to Toccoa for the reunion to reminisce about their experiences with their friends who shared this very significant time in their lives,” says Brenda Carlan, County and Currahee Military Museum Executive Director. Each year, some Camp Toccoa veterans return for the first time since they left in the 1940’s. It can be very emotional for them to see some of the places they frequented while they were in training. During the weekend visitors can meet some of the paratroopers who trained here and listen to their stories. Each year the veterans and re-enactors visit local school and teach the students about WWII from a firsthand perspective.

New this year is a traveling exhibit from Russia made possible by Russia, the United States and the Joe Beyrle family that will be displayed in the Currahee Military Museum during the event. Beyrle’s story of being captured by the Germans, escaping and then joining up and fighting with the Russians against Germany is a fascinating story. Beyrle returned to Toccoa on many occasions to attend reunions, meet with old friends and to visit Stephens County Middle School, where he was very close to the students. He often shared some of his WWII experiences with them during his visits. His daughter, Julie Schugars will be the guest speaker at the Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, October 1 at 11:30 a.m.

Also, this year marks the tenth year anniversary of the release of the HBO miniseries “The Band of Brothers.” This story immortalized the lives of some of the courageous men who trained at Camp Toccoa and fought as paratroopers during WWII. James Madio, who portrayed Frank Perconte in the film, will be the special speaker for the banquet on October 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center. “Events like this are a small fraction of what I can give back to the men and women who have served our country. It would be pleasure to join you guys,” said Madio about attending the events during the weekend. Tickets are $50.00 and can be purchased from the Stephens County Historical Society. The event is open to the general public.

This will be the first year that the Stephens County Historical Society will have possession of a part of the original property that made up Camp Toccoa. Recently the Pacolet-Milliken company donated nearly six acres of the property as well as the last remaining building of the camp, a long concrete block building that was once a mess hall. Initial plans are for a pavilion holding about 300 people to be built there. Visitors can go and visit the site during the weekend.
The weekend events also include the Hanger Dance on Friday, Sept. 30 at 7:00 p.m., a spectacular parachute jump on Boyd Field, Sat at 10:50 a.m., a Veterans’ Parade, the famous Currahee Challenge Run/Walk “3 Miles Up-3 Miles Down”, special opening ceremonies, as well as weapons displays and living history displays.

There will also be an Airport Show at the Stephens County Airport with the opportunity to ride in one of the vintage WWII aircraft flown by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing and the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation.

A solemn remembrance service on Sunday morning at the foot of Currahee Mountain is a fitting end to this special weekend. As “taps” is played in the early morning, the lives of the heroes of the past are remembered as well as the heroes of today.
This is a community-wide collaboration and celebration of Toccoa’s rich military history. The event would not be possible without broad support from community sponsors, volunteers and civic clubs.

For more information, contact the Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce at 706-886-2132 or the Stephens County Historical Society at 706-282-5055.

Currahee Military Museum to host “Joe Beyrle: A Hero for Two Nations"

2011-08-30T10:38:00.001-04:00

Toccoa's Currahee Military Museum will host “Joe Beyrle: A Hero for Two Nations." The story of WWII Paratrooper, Joe Beyrle the only known American to fought with the Russians and America after being captured by the Germans and escaping.

The traveling exhibit from Russia will be on display in the museum Friday August 26th to October 3rd.

Hours are Monday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm; Sunday 1pm to 4pm.

Admission: Adults $8.00; Students $3.00; Active Military and Historical Society Members Free!

Please make plans to attend this wonderful event!

Triple Crown Watercross returns to Lake Hartwell August 12-14

2011-08-05T11:09:00.001-04:00

Upstate Watercraft Promotions-International Jet Sport Boating Association (UWP-IJSBA) national tour event returns to Lake Hartwell Aug. 12 – 14. More than 150 riders are expected to compete in this year’s “Triple Crown Watercross.”

The 2011 national tour event will take place at Saddlers Creek State Park in Anderson County, and spectators can view the race and acrobatic action from land or water. Admission is free. Race course trials begin Friday Aug. 12. Races begin at 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 13 -14. For more information, visit www.mylakehartwell.org or www.uwpinc.com.

This extremely popular national tour event combines the electricity and appeal of traditional beach events with the thrills of competitive motor sports. Featuring the highly explosive and exciting sport of watercraft racing, all top USA riders and race teams will be in attendance. Riders will utilize the most advanced equipment and technology to help their watercraft reach speeds of over 80 mph. This thrilling competition, referred to as NASCAR on the water, includes handle bar-to- handle bar action that pits rider and machine in a personal watercraft battlefield and creates an “extreme sports” water venue for performing Olympic-style acrobatic and choreographed freestyle shows.

“Returning to Lake Hartwell is a dream come true for these nationally recognized athletes,” said A. J. Handler, director of Upstate Watercraft Promotions in Penfield. N. Y. “Last year’s competition could not have been more fun, and now were coming back. The spectators were terrific, the course is wide open, and the race teams fell in love with the area. Lake Hartwell is where we need to be for our southern national tour stop.”

Larry Torrence, executive director of Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance, said that the move to Saddlers Creek State Park is a positive for all. Torrence likes the idea of this powerful event being in Anderson’s back yard giving thousands of visitors from all over the region an easy opportunity to enjoy this spectacular weekend.

“We welcome the opportunity to stage this national on-water sports event here in Anderson County,” said Kathy Benson, executive director of the Anderson Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Lake Hartwell is one of our great amenities and we expect visitors from Georgia the upstate and beyond to stay and enjoy our beautiful destination. We can’t wait to showcase our outstanding hospitality and generate a positive economic impact.”

The Triple Crown event is being coordinated by the Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance, which is the marketing arm for the destination of Lake Hartwell. The alliance is comprised of approximately 200 tourism and business professionals with an interest in developing economic growth through tourism. All alliance members live or work in the six counties surrounding Lake Hartwell: Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties in South Carolina and Hart, Franklin and Stephens counties in Georgia.

Back to School Bash to be held this Saturday

2011-08-02T08:57:00.001-04:00

Over 100 clowns will invade downtown Toccoa at the second annual Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 6. The City of Toccoa, the Stephens County School System, and Georgia Baptist Conference Center will host the event which will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Doyle St from Pond St to Alexander St. The clowns will have completed a week of “clown college” at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center where they studied a variety of skills. They will put their new skills to good use at the event. The clowns will be entertaining the children through juggling, face painting, puppet shows, and illusion.

Among the new things being offered this year are free haircuts for children. Students from the North Georgia Technical College Cosmetology Department will provide haircuts for any child who would like to have one. They will be located at the old Nickel Back Shoe Store on Doyle St near the public restrooms.

There are two opportunities for those interested in helping local children. The Food 2 Kids program, a program of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, will have a drop off at the Stephens County Board of Education booth at the event. This program helps to provide food for children who have little or no food from Friday to Monday. They are asking for packets of instant oatmeal. The oatmeal packets will be distributed by the Food Bank to students enrolled in the program during the 2011 – 2012 school year. There is also the opportunity to donate school supplies to children unable to attend Saturday’s event. The Stephens County Chamber of Commerce will be receiving donations of supplies at the Welcome Center on Alexander St. until Saturday. The Welcome Center will be open from 10:00 – 4:00.

A “Front Porch” reading area, sponsored by Partners for Success and located in front of the Stephens County Courthouse, will be available for children to just sit for a while and listen to their favorite story being read to them.

The Stephens County School System will have several booths with giveaways as well as important school related information for the children. Other businesses and nonprofits will also be there with information about their services as well as supplies for the students.

An entertainment stage will be located at Pond St and Doyle St where local dance schools, school groups and local bands will perform. Inflatable games, as well as a dunking booth will be located at Doyle St and Sage St.

For more information, call Ann Ash at 706-886-3133 or Sharon Crosby at 706-282-3309.

North Carolina Transportation Museum Plans Train Excursion to Toccoa

2011-08-02T08:52:00.003-04:00

The North Carolina Transportation Museum Foundation and the Watauga Valley Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society will host two day trip excursions to Roanoke, Va. and Toccoa, Ga. this fall. These trips allow passengers great views of the fall colors combined with the romance of riding the rails to a great destination. If you want to see the Appalachian Mountains at their peak of beauty, these trips are for you.

The Georgia Autumn Special features a day trip to Toccoa, Ga. Oct. 30. While Roanoke was a destination for last year’s excursions, Toccoa is a new location and an exciting opportunity for those who take the trips each year.

Sunday, Oct. 30, the Georgia Autumn Special will depart from the N.C. Transportation Museum at 7:00 am with additional stop/pickup at the Spartanburg, SC Amtrak station at 9:00 am and will traverse what was once Southern Railway’s main line, running from Washington, D.C. to Atlanta, Ga. Passengers will enjoy the gala fall colors of Carolinas’ rolling foothills, before crossing the 100-foot Seneca River trestle spanning Lake Hartwell to arrive at Toccoa.

Nestled into the foothills of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, the historic town will be bustling with activity during the 29th annual Harvest Festival. Passengers will have approximately three hours to enjoy the festival, which features handmade, handcrafted and home-grown items from more than 200 vendors, as well as delicious regional foods, great entertainment on two stages, children and youth activities, buggy rides and much more.

Toccoa Falls, named for the Cherokee word “Toccoah” meaning beautiful, is a must see.Located on the campus of Toccoa College, the 186-foot falls are 26 feet taller than Niagara Falls. Shuttle buses will be making a continuous loop between downtown Toccoa and Toccoa Falls.

Departing Toccoa at 3 p.m., the Georgia Autumn Special will return to Spartanburg, SC at 5:45 pm and back to Spencer, NC at 8 p.m.

Four classes of tickets are available, Dome Class, First Class Premium tickets, Deluxe Coach tickets and Tourist Class. Tickets are on sale now. If you are interested, visit www.nctrans.org and click the available links or call 704-636-2889.

I Love My Pet Day coming to Toccoa

2011-07-12T11:47:00.001-04:00

The Toccoa Main Street Program and the Stephens County Humane Shelter will be hosting a new event on July 23, 2011 called, "I Love My Pet Day." The event will start with a pet parade beginning at 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and finish with a movie at 9:00 p.m. The events will be located in downtown Toccoa on Doyle Street from Sage St to Alexander St for the Pet Parade and Sage St for the movie.

Registration for the parade will be on Sage St beginning at 9:00 a.m. Each entry must register at the registration booth. The parade will move down Doyle St to Alexander St and then back up the other side of Doyle St to Sage St. Judging will take place at the intersection of Doyle St and Alexander St. The different categories that will be judged are Best Costume, Most Unusual Pet, Owner-Pet Look alike, and Most Obedient/Best Tricks. There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category. You may participate in the parade and not participate in the judging. There is no charge or entry fee.

For everyone’s enjoyment the following rules will be followed:

All animals must be leashed (on a 5 ft – 6 ft retractable leash), licensed and have complete, up-to-date vaccinations and rabies shots.

Pets must be kept under control at all times. Unruly participants will be asked to leave.
Animals not trained to walk on a leash must be properly confined to a carrier.
Water will be served in a community-bowl style. If you require a separate drinking container for your pet, please bring one.

Participants are expected to practice responsible pet ownership – please come prepared to clean up after your companion animal. Baggies and trash receptacles will be provided.

No bicycles, skateboards, or skates are allowed. The walk route is wheelchair & stroller accessible.

The event sponsors retain the right to deny participation to any animal due to health or behavior reasons.

The movie "Rango" will begin at 9:00 p.m. on Sage St. This delightful story is about a sheltered chameleon living as an ordinary family pet, while facing a major identity crisis. After all, how high can you aim when your whole purpose in life is to blend in? When Rango accidentally winds up in the gritty, gun-slinging town of Dirt - a lawless outpost populated by the desert's most wily and whimsical creatures - the less-than-courageous lizard suddenly finds he stands out. Welcomed as the last hope the town has been waiting for, new Sheriff Rango is forced to play his new role to the hilt.

Everyone is welcome to bring their chairs or blankets and enjoy this movie with their families and friends. There is no fee for the movie.

"We are looking forward to this new event," said Sharon Crosby, special events coordinator for the City of Toccoa. "Everyone loves their pets and enjoys showing them off. It will also be a good time to get some information about what our community offers as services for our animals."

“In a pickle” at Sage Market

2011-07-05T15:02:00.001-04:00

This month’s Sage Market, sponsored by the Toccoa Main Street program, will feature not only fresh produce and hand crafted items, but several new additions to the event. Located in Historic Downtown Toccoa in the Stephens County Market Building at 409 Broad Street, the market will be held this Saturday, July 9 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.

Each month the Sage Market joins together with the Stephens County Farmers Market and provides farm-fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, seed plants, herbs, honey, flowers, and eggs as well as baked goods and desserts, handmade children’s clothes and accessories, quilts and other special gifts.

New this Saturday there will have a pickling station at the market for those interested in learning how to make pickles. Shoppers can purchase pickle ingredients from the local farmers and then make a pint of pickles with the help of the farmers. There will be a nominal fee to cover the cost of the jar, sugar, vinegar, etc. A copy of the recipe will be included. If interested, post a reply on the Stephens County Farmers Market Facebook page in order to ensure there will be enough supplies.

"Fresh Market Jam" music with Chuck Taylor and friends will also be featured this Saturday. Come and enjoy some good "foot stomping music" while shopping. There will also be samples of some of the fruits and vegetables along with some new and different recipes.
Sage Market is located in the Stephens County Market building at 409 Broad Street, next to Los Primos restaurant. Plenty of parking is available and is within walking distance of downtown Toccoa.

The dates for the 2011 season are August 13, September 10, and October 8.

City of Toccoa Receives Heritage Tourism Grants for Historic Theater Projects

2011-07-05T10:35:00.001-04:00

The Historic Preservation Division (HPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Tourism Division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), and the Fox Theater Institute announce that they have jointly awarded five grants totalling $10,000 for heritage tourism projects located throughout the state. The partnership grant program was created in response to the increasing interest Georgians have in the preservation and promotion of historic theaters located within their communities. This special Historic Theater Heritage Tourism Grant Program is funded by GDEcD and will be administered by HPD, with technical support from the Fox Theater Institute.

The City of Toccoa has been awarded $2,000 to produce a historic structures report for the Schaefer Center (formerly the Ritz Theater) in downtown Toccoa. The historic structures report will provide information regarding documentary, graphic and physical information about the building. The City intends to use a historic preservation planner/architect to produce the historic structures report, which will then be the framework for all future restoration work, as it will identify the theater’s architectural history. This will provide the necessary data for preserving the historic structure and for the on-going care of the building.

In addition to the City of Toccoa, four other projects were funded:

The Statesboro Arts Council received $2,500 for a puppet show history of Bulloch County at the Averitt Center for the Arts.

The President Theatre, Inc. of Manchester received $2,000 for a brochure, signage and marketing to promote the theater.

The Springer Opera House Arts Association, Inc. of Columbus received $1,715 to produce a brochure for the opera house.

The Theatre Guild Valdosta received $960 to produce a brochure and slideshow on the history of the Dosta Theater.

The Washington Little Theater, Inc. received $825 to produce a promotional brochure and upgrade the theater’s website.

HPD Director David Crass said "This 50%/50% matching grant program was created by the three organizations to promote and raise awareness of Georgia’s historic theaters through heritage tourism. Even though these are modest ‘seed’ grants, their ripple effect often spurs other preservation/tourism projects at the theater, as well as other historic resources within the community."

GDEcD’s Tourism Product Development Director Bruce Green said, "Georgia’s historic theaters represent one of the more significant landmarks within a community. We are pleased to have been able to offer this funding, thereby providing the ‘seed’ capital to assess and promote the cultural infrastructure found in our local communities."

Fox Theatre Institute Director of Restoration Molly Fortune said, "this grant program reinforces our mission to assist historic theater throughout Georgia."

Main Street Toccoa’s Information and Graphics Specialist Katy Sides said "this grant provides a wonderful opportunity for downtown Toccoa and the cultural community of Toccoa-Stephens County as the historic structure report would enable us to learn the architectural history of the building and the best way to move forward."

I Love My Pet Day

2011-06-21T09:14:00.001-04:00

On July 23, Main Street Toccoa will partner together with the Stephens County Humane Shelter and host an “I Love My Pet Day.” There will be a pet parade from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. with several prizes given to the winners of different categories. Pet lovers, plan on coming downtown to show off your special pet! That evening we will show this summer’s only outside movie at 9:00 p.m. called “Rango.” If there is rain the movie will still be shown at the Schafer Center.

Family Fun Fest to be held June 28

2011-06-21T09:11:00.001-04:00

On Tuesday, June 28, Main Street Toccoa will sponsor the first Family Fun Fest! The Family Fun Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pruitt Park in downtown Toccoa and will be an event for children and their families. Activities will range from face painting, cookie decorating, a bouncy house and scrapbook pages. Most activities will be free so plan on joining us at Pruitt Park on June 28!

2011 Sage Market Season Begins May 14

2011-05-04T12:49:00.003-04:00

Main Street Toccoa announces that the new season of Sage Market will kick off on May 14, 2011. Sage Market takes place the second Saturday of every month from May – October, from 8 a.m. to noon. The market is held in Historic Downtown Toccoa at the Stephens County Market Building located at 409 Broad Street.

Sage Market features only homemade, handcrafted, and homegrown items. Therefore, the market provides vendors access to farm-fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, seed plants, herbs, honey, flowers, and homemade soy candles and lotions. Other items that will be available include baked goods and desserts, handmade children’s clothes and accessories, as well as quilts and jewelry.

If you are interested in participating at Sage Market as a vendor there is still time to register! Residents from Toccoa and Stephens County interested in selling products they have grown or made are invited to participate. Booths are available for $10 per Saturday or, if you are going to participate for three or more months, booths are only $25. All booth rentals must be reserved through the Toccoa Main Street office by calling 706-282-3309.

Sage Market operates in conjunction with the Stephens County Farmers Market. This market operates every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. They are a group of local farmers committed to bringing the freshest vegetables and fruits to residents of Stephens County. By providing people access to local, fresh food they ensure healthy options for the Toccoa area.
The Stephens County Market building enables some of the vendors to be located outside, while others will have booths inside the building. There is plenty of parking at the market, which is also located within walking distance of downtown Toccoa. Plan a great Saturday and bring your family to Sage Market and then visit downtown!

In addition to the first Sage Market on May 14, other Saturday markets will be held on June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, and October 8. All Sage Markets are open from 8 a.m. to noon.

Toccoa celebrates National Train Day

2011-05-04T12:49:00.001-04:00

The City of Toccoa will join with Amtrak in celebrating the 2011 National Train Day on May 7, 2011 with a special event at the historic train depot in downtown Toccoa. Mayor Janice English, city officials and citizens will welcome the train when it stops in Toccoa on its way to Atlanta at 6:15 a.m. New this year to the celebration will be a special train display in the Mitchell Allen room of the Currahee Military Museum. Dess Oliver, from the Railroad Museum in Rabun Gap, will display his collection of "trains throughout the decades." The display will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on National Train Day. Admission is free.

AM630 WNEG Radio will broadcast live the morning of May 7. A drawing for several prizes will also be held at the event. Enter to win the drawing at these locations: Ionosphere Travel, WNEG Radio, and the Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Toccoa’s history is centered on the railroad industry. The city originated in 1873 following the development of a coaling station for the Atlanta to Charlotte Railroad after the Civil War. Due to the city’s access to the railroad, industry developed in Toccoa as well as a college and a United States military paratrooper training camp. The city has also benefited from the railroad for the past thirty years, as we are one of only three stops in Georgia in Amtrak’s Crescent Line. In 2008, more than 3,000 people came through the historic downtown via Amtrak and the number increases every year.

"Not only does the National Train Day celebration help focus on the importance of the railroad to our community, it highlights the opportunities it presents today. We continue to promote Amtrak travel as a relaxing way to visit Toccoa," states Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator.

The Crescent Line travels through more states – including the District of Columbia – than any other Amtrak route. Offering daily service, the 1,377 - mile route travels from New York’s Penn Station to the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal in 30 hours, stopping in 33 communities along the way.

Toccoa celebrates National Train Day

2011-04-25T15:50:00.001-04:00

The City of Toccoa will join with Amtrak in celebrating the 2011 National Train Day on May 7, 2011 with a special event at the historic train depot in downtown Toccoa. Mayor Janice English, city officials, and citizens will welcome the train as it stops in Toccoa on its way to Atlanta at 6:15 a.m. AM630 WNEG Radio will broadcast live. A drawing for several prizes will be held at the event. Enter to win at these locations: Ionosphere Travel, WNEG Radio, and the Chamber of Commerce.

New this year to the celebration will be a special train display in the Mitchell Allen room of the Currahee Military Museum. Dess Oliver, from the Railroad Museum in Rabun Gap will display his collection of "trains throughout the decades." The display will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The City of Toccoa has had a long history with the railroad industry. In fact, the city originated in 1873, and can be traced back to the development of a coaling station for the Atlanta to Charlotte Railroad after the Civil War. Over the years, due to access to the railroad, industry came to Toccoa as well as a college and a United States military training camp. The city has also benefited for the past thirty years from Amtrak’s Crescent Line being one of only three stops in Georgia. In 2008, more than 3,000 people came through the historic downtown via Amtrak and the number increases every year.

"Not only does the National Train Day celebration help focus on the importance of the railroad to our community, it highlights the opportunities it presents today. We continue to promote Amtrak travel as a relaxing way to visit Toccoa," states Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator.

The Crescent Line travels through more states – including the District of Columbia – than any other Amtrak route. Offering daily service, the 1,377 - mile route travels from New York’s Penn Station to the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal in 30 hours, stopping in 33 communities along the way.

Toccoa Downtown Tree Planting Completed

2011-03-23T16:09:00.001-04:00

The City of Toccoa was one of seven recipients of the Georgia’s Growing Green Program. In March, 86 trees were planted in downtown Toccoa as part of the program and will be maintained for the next year. The grant was funded by the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the Georgia Forestry Commission and Toccoa received $25,787 to plant the trees.

The grant trees were planted along Doyle, Boulevard, and Tugalo Streets. Additional trees were planted at Doyle Street Park. The trees were planted in ways to supplement the dogwoods planted by the Toccoa Woman’s Club 40 years ago. Around 60 of those dogwoods had died, so the funding was used to replace and maintain these heritage dogwoods.

Trees planted include 59 dogwoods, 12 trident maples, 6 red oaks and 9 white oaks. The trees expand Main Street Toccoa’s urban forest to include popular walkways to downtown shopping and restaurants as well as along seating and play areas in Doyle Street Park. The trees make downtown Toccoa more pedestrian friendly.

The primary purpose of the grant is to create jobs as well as enhance the environment in Toccoa. Eberhardt Landscaping of Hartwell, Georgia purchased and planted the 86 trees March 11-16.

Toccoa-Stephens County More Ready Than Ever for Film and TV Productions

2011-03-21T09:42:00.002-04:00

The Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office will host the designation ceremony for Georgia’s newest Camera Ready Communities, including Toccoa, today at the State Capitol. Governor Nathan Deal will designate 73 Georgia counties Camera Ready at 10am.

Being named Camera Ready means T-SC has in place a program that provides film and television production companies with easier, faster and better access to local resources and location information. The T-SC Chamber of Commerce is the primary local contact for production companies as the Camera Ready liaison. They partner with Main Street Toccoa and the Development Authority to identify local resources, from locations and hotels to businesses, such as caterers and dry cleaners.

Camera Ready will help to ensure we can stay ahead of the competition by meeting the very specific local needs production companies have. There are a wealth of locations, talent and assets in our community and in our state that production companies can use to everyone’s advantage. Camera Ready is one more way we’re making sure they do.

LOCAL AUTHOR JEFFREY STEPAKOFF HONORED AT STATE CAPITOL

2011-02-24T08:17:00.000-05:00

Veteran Hollywood television/film writer and noted Atlanta author Jeffrey Stepakoff was honored at the Georgia State Capitol Thursday, Feb. 10 when the legislature passed a resolution officially declaring Feb. 10 "Toccoa-Stephens County (T-SC) Fireworks Over Toccoa Day." Stepakoff’s novel, Fireworks Over Toccoa (St. Martin’s Press, April 2010), was published last year to national critical acclaim and is the inspiration behind the day-long celebration coordinated by T-SC Chamber of Commerce. Gov. Nathan Deal, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, executive branch officers, and legislators received signed copies of the novel, met the author, and attended photo sessions.

"A Fireworks over Toccoa Day inspired by this amazing book is worthy of recognition by this body," the House resolution introduced by Rep. Michael Harden of Toccoa read. State Sen. Jim Butterworth of Clarkesville introduced a similar resolution the Senate.

Coordinated by the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, the day’s events featured a legislative orientation and briefing, proclamations, lunch, and photo sessions with state officials. Signed copies of Stepakoff’s "Fireworks over Toccoa" were placed on legislators’ chamber desks in both the House and Senate, compliments of publisher St. Martin’s Press. More than 150 political and business leaders, residents and students from Toccoa and Stephens County participated in the celebration.

"I am so flattered that my work is being recognized by our state legislators," said Stepakoff. "It is truly an honor."

Stepakoff, a veteran Hollywood TV and film writer of such well-known series as "The Wonder Years," "Sisters," Disney’s "Tarzan, "Major Dad," and "Dawson’s Creek" (where he was also co-executive producer), returned to his hometown roots several years ago and is making a name for himself as the master of the "new love story."

Stepakoff’s Fireworks over Toccoa is a coming-of-age love story set in the small North Georgia town of Toccoa during World War II. The novel has been translated into four languages and will be released in paperback on March 15.

His latest book, The Orchard, is also a love story that focuses on two prevalent themes in today’s society: organic foods and sustainability. The novel is set in the small Georgia town of Ellijay and is slated for publication July 5, 2011.

Toccoa Harvest Festival This Weekend

2010-11-03T09:40:00.003-04:00

The 34th Annual Harvest Festival will be this weekend, November 6th and 7th in downtown Toccoa.

Saturday the festival will be open from 10 am - 5 pm and runs from noon to 4 pm on Sunday.

Make plans to celebrate fall in beautiful, historic downtown Toccoa at this free outdoor festival featuring regional music, homemade and handcrafted items, classical cars, and local as well as international food.

Don't miss this family friendly event!

Fox Carolina's Town Takeover of Toccoa Tomorrow!

2010-11-03T09:35:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow FOX Carolina's Morning Anchors Cody Alcorn and Margaret Burnquist will be broadcasting LIVE from downtown Toccoa.

Everyone in Toccoa is invited to come downtown Doyle Street to enjoy a free morning of music, food, giveaways and the excitement of being part of a live TV broadcast as FOX Carolina puts Toccoa in the spotlight!

WHEN: Tomorrow, Thursday, November 4

TIME: Anytime between 6:45 – 9 a.m. – or stay for the entire show!

WHERE: Downtown Toccoa on Doyle Street

WHY: To show everyone why Toccoa is THE place to live, work and play

The broadcast will take place rain or shine, so make plans to head to downtown to show your support of Toccoa! Bring signs supporting Toccoa and bring your family and friends to enjoy this free event and support the city. This is Toccoa’s time to shine!

The Official Best Living History of Georgia

2010-10-19T15:25:00.000-04:00

The City of Toccoa and the Stephens County Historical Society are proud to announce that the Official Best Of Travel website selected Toccoa as the "Official Best Living History of Georgia." The Official Best of is a travel company that promotes the best tourist sites states have to offer. No attraction can ask to be included in the Official Best Of Travel Guide, instead the company does its own research to determine the best attractions in a state. They highlight the best family attractions, restaurants, spas, hotels and more in nineteen states across the country and 2010 is their second year featuring locations in Georgia. Toccoa was selected as the Best Living History in Georgia for 2010.

Toccoa will be included in the Official Best Of’s upcoming television special "The Official Best of Georgia – 2010" and on their travel website at www.OfficialBestOf.com. The half-hour television program will air on WSBTV Channel 2/ABC on Saturday, December 11 at 3 p.m. and on The Travel Channel on Wednesday, November 17 at 8 a.m. Toccoa will be featured as the "Official Best Living History in Georgia" due to its military history. Other locations in Georgia that have been featured on the Official Best of Georgia include Roswell as the Best Southern Trilogy and Rome as the Best Historic Downtown. They will feature no more than twelve Georgia attractions in 2010 and each will be in a different best of category.

As the "Official Best Living History Of Georgia," various historical sites and cultural opportunities in Toccoa will be featured on the both the website and the television program. Camp Toccoa, Currahee Mountain and the Currahee Military Museum will be included in order to highlight Toccoa’s connection to the paratroopers of World War II. An estimated 17,000 soldiers trained here that later became known as "The Real Band of Brothers" all members of four elite parachute infantry regiments that trained at Camp Toccoa by running up and down Currahee Mountain, their goals, to be the best of the best and "to hit the ground running." Their history is outlined at the Currahee Military Museum and was featured in HBO’s "Band of Brothers" and the film "Saving Private Ryan." The video will also feature Travelers Rest Historic Site, a former 19th century inn and plantation home, downtown Toccoa, a local historic district founded in 1874, and the historic 1905 Stephens County Courthouse.

The Official Best Of is the only travel website with video segments about each of the award-winning attractions selected as the best in each state. Their website will include the video segment, information as to why Toccoa was selected as the "Official Best of Living History of Georgia," and contact information for the City of Toccoa and the Stephens County Historical Society, the partners bringing this production to Toccoa.

For more information call the Main Street Toccoa office at 706-282-3269 or the Stephens County Historical Society at 706-282-5055.

FOX Carolina's Toccoa "Take Over" November 4

2010-10-11T14:44:00.000-04:00

FOX Carolina Morning Show
Ready for Toccoa "Take Over" on November 4

FOX Carolina Morning Anchors Cody Alcorn and Margaret Burnquist will be broadcasting LIVE from downtown Toccoa on November 4 as part of FOX Carolina’s "Town Take Over" series and they’re inviting everyone in Toccoa to enjoy a free morning of music, food, giveaways and the excitement of being part of a live TV broadcast as FOX Carolina puts Toccoa in the spotlight!

WHEN: Thursday, November 4, 2010
TIME: Anytime between 6:45 – 9 a.m. – or stay for the entire show!
WHERE: Downtown Toccoa on Doyle Street
WHY: To show everyone why Toccoa is THE place to live, work and play

FOX Carolina encourages people to bring signs supporting Toccoa because they WILL be on TV. Bring your family and friends to enjoy this free event downtown on November 4 and support the city. This is Toccoa’s time to shine!

If you have any questions please contact Main Street Toccoa at 706.282.3232. We look forward to seeing everyone downtown to support Toccoa on November 4!

Tour de Tugaloo 2010 Promo Video

2010-09-21T09:28:00.001-04:00

Check out the Tour de Tugaloo as bicyclists ride along the Tugaloo River through Stephens County November 6, 2010!

Triple Crown of Watercross Event Makes a Splash on Lake Hartwell

2010-08-17T14:25:00.001-04:00

Press Release August 16, 2010: Triple Crown of Watercross Event Makes A Splash on Lake Hartwell

Media Contacts:
•Wendi Bailey, Toccoa-Stephens County (T-SC) Chamber President, 706-886-2132
•Kathy Benson, Anderson, South Carolina Convention & Visitors Bureau Ex. Director, 864-716-3660
•Connie Tabor, Toccoa Mainstreet Director, 706-282-3269
•Larry Torrence, Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance (LHMA) Chair, 706-436-0166, visit www.mylakehartwell.org.
•Upstate Watercraft Promotions has Race Results on www.uwpinc.com
•International Jet Sports Boating Association, www.ijsba.com
•Pictures courtesy of Glenn Brill, Director Anderson County Parks, Recreation & Tourism Division, 864-260-1092

The inaugural Triple Crown Watercross Competition on Lake Hartwell was held August 13-15th at the Big Oaks Recreation Area in Hart County. Over 150 watercraft racers participated and spectators came by car and boat - about 2,500 on Saturday and 3,000 on Sunday, to see speed and stunts. Rob Flores from Las Vegas and Ermino Iantosca from Naples were two points leaders racing to qualify for the upcoming nationals.

Mainstreet Director Connie Tabor and Chamber of Commerce President Wendi Bailey both serve on the Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance (LHMA) board along with other lake-surrounding county’s representatives from Franklin, Hart, Anderson, Pickens and Oconee. The LHMA successfully attracted the Watercross event to the Lake and the board as well as many volunteers organized the weekend activities.

The riders each received Lake Hartwell gift bags at registration with gift items and brochures from each of the counties. All reports indicate they loved the warm weather, deep water and Southern hospitality. It was the perfect environment for the first event of its kind in the southeast!

The PR and media coverage leading up to and during the event, including ESPN brought great visibility to our Lake Hartwell region. WNEG TV News Channel 32, WNEG Radio AM 630 and Advantage Cable Marketing sponsored the event by running commercials created by Good Machine. Riders and spectators came from all over including Canada and Germany. They ate food from Shirley’s Sole Food, heard music from Flash the DJ and learned about the region by visiting the county’s information booths.

T-SC volunteers included Peter and Wendi Bailey, David and Lynn Cox, Harry and Patti Joiner, Don and Connie Tabor and Jackie Whitmire. They helped share information about our T-SC attractions and upcoming events. “Many of the riders are staying in the region before leaving for Charleston, West Virginia for the next race,” said Connie Tabor Mainstreet Director, “we invited them to visit Toccoa-Stephens County attractions, restaurants and retail shops this week.”

On Friday, the counties and sponsors each entered a team of amateurs in the Corporate Challenge. The Toccoa-Stephens County team placed 4th out of 11 teams. Mike Haynie from 1st Franklin Financial Corporation had the fastest team time of 1:07, Peter Bailey, Wendi Bailey and Roger Guimond each had times of 1:08. The Mayor of Hartwell, Jennifer Scott had the overall fastest time of 1:04.

On Saturday, nine types of Riders (beginner to pro) on four types of watercrafts (seated or standing) competed in four types of classes (stock to modified) and five different events (endurance, drag racing to freestyle tricks). Each race begins with 20 racers, male and female, side-by-side all wanting to be first going into turn one.

Upstate Watercraft Promotions, the national promoter partnering with the International Jet Sports Boating Association is looking at venues in Anderson, SC for the 2011 event. Organizers believe it will continue to grow and be an economic boost for the Lake Hartwell region for years to come. “We are excited about the future of the LHMA and the other events being contemplated now, said Wendi Bailey Chamber President. “Tourists don’t see borders, just warm smiles and friendly faces. I came home with brochures from each of the counties and plan to create a new section in our Welcome Center called the Lake Hartwell Region.”

Watercross Event programs, T-shirts, caps, poster art, gift bags and other LHMA souvenir items are still available for purchase. Please call the Chamber at 706-886-2132.

Making a Splash

2010-07-19T10:26:00.002-04:00

National Race Tour Comes to Lake Hartwell

The Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance announced a personal watercraft racing tour will roar onto Lake Hartwell August 13-15, 2010. The big Oaks Recreation Area in Georgia will host the Toyota Upstate Watercraft Promotions-International Jet Sport Boating Association (UWP-IJSBA) Tour, one of the nation’s leading personal watercraft racing circuits.
"The event will feature top U.S. and international racers doing battle against one another while negotiating buoys, obstacles and pounding waves at speeds up to 80MPH on the ½ - ¾ mile course," said A.J. Handler, Director of Upstate Watercraft Promotions. He added "this is like motocross on water, closed course racing is handle bar-to handle bar. The course is designed to keep competition tight and fans close to the action."

The event will also feature a freestyle segment "which highlights the acrobatical abilities of the highly specialized athletes and their watercraft. Freestyle features two minute routines in an Olympic-style format in front of a panel of judges. Competitors choreographed tricks are performed to music," said Handler.

"In addition to racing for professional riders, local competitors who have little or no racing experience will also have the chance to compete on the same course," said Handler. The Toyota UVVP-IJSBA Tour consists of six racing weekends. Races are scheduled in Florida, New York (two weekends), Wisconsin, and West Virginia. Racers accumulate points to qualify for the International Jet Sports Boating Association’s World Finals in Lake Havasu, Arizona.
Besides the action on the water, "a beach volleyball tournament is planned during the race weekend, along with vendors, food & drink and an education area on personal watercraft. Admission to the races and other events will be free," said Kathy Benson of the Anderson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Co-Chair of the planning committee.

The Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance is comprised of 150 tourism professionals and businesses with an interest in the lake. All live or work in the six countries surrounding Lake Hartwell: Anderson, Oconee & Pickens in South Carolina and Hart, Franklin and Stephens in Georgia. "The alliance’s goal is to market the lake and its surrounding region as one destination, disregarding county and state boundaries," said Bill Griggs of docks South, Co-Chair of the planning committee for the event. For more information or for sponsorship call Main Street Toccoa at 706-282-3269.

Back to School Bash

2010-07-07T09:04:00.001-04:00

Back to School Bash

The City of Toccoa, the Stephens County School System, and Georgia Baptist Conference Center will host the first annual Back to School Bash on August 7, 2010. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Doyle St from Sage St to Alexander St.

According to Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator for the City of Toccoa, "The purpose of this event is two-fold: 1. to make families aware of the opportunities and services that are available to them in our community and 2. to let our children know that we value education and that the community supports them and their educational goals. "

Businesses, agencies, nonprofits, and churches are invited to participate by having a booth with information about what they have to offer families. Each group is asked to provide giveaways or have drawings for the children, if possible. For a registration form or more information contact Ann Ash at 706-886-3133.
In celebration of National Clown Day, there will be over 100 clowns entertaining the children through juggling, face painting, puppet shows, and illusion. Entertainment will be provided by local dance schools, bands, B&G Steppers, and church children’s choirs. Inflatable games will also add fun to the day.

"We invite the whole community to come and help us welcome the new school year and to encourage our children," stated Crosby.

Celebrating National Train Day in Toccoa

2010-05-10T14:04:00.005-04:00

By Sharon Crosby

For those who love trains, 6:15 a.m. is not too early to come to a celebration of trains! On May 8 close to 100 train enthusiasts attended Toccoa’s 2nd annual National Train Day at the historic train depot. The crowd cheered as the Amtrak train pulled into the station surprising the conductor and the riders at such a hearty welcome so early in the morning.

Mayor Bob Troup and his wife Betty as well as Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator boarded the train to Gainesville and handed out information packets about Toccoa to those on the train.

Drawings were held for free round-trip tickets to Atlanta (donated by Amtrak and won by Knox Holcomb) and a $500 Amtrak voucher (donated by AM 630 WNEG and won by Kevin Avrett).
A framed commemorative Crescent poster (won by Chris Freshour) and a special Amtrak tote bag (won by Annette Boswell) were also given away as part of the event.

Mayor Bob Troup said, “The turn out was fantastic! This is a great event for Toccoa.”

One of this year’s guests was a WWII veteran, Jessie Sisk, who drove from Royston to participate in the event. During the war he would take the train from Toccoa to New Orleans, then transfer, continuing thru Texas on to California, transfer again and finally end up in San Francisco. He had many fond memories of his train trips.

"We want to thank Amtrak, Ionosphere Travel Agency, and AM 630 WNEG Radio for their event sponsorship," said Special Events Coordinator Sharon Crosby. "And we also want to thank every one who came out to help welcome the train. We are already looking forward to next year’s event."

To view a video of the event, go to www.mainstreettoccoa.com/events.

Amtrak tickets can be purchased online or locally by visiting Ionosphere Travel Agency in Historic Downtown Toccoa (706.886.9471).

Celebration of Fireworks Over Toccoa planned for March 30

2010-03-23T11:32:00.003-04:00

Fireworks Over Toccoa author Jeffrey Stepakoff records audio for a podcast sponsored by AM 630 WNEG Radio and Main Street Toccoa. The podcast will feature eight stops that inspired Stepakoff in downtown Toccoa.

Toccoa will be celebrating the nation-wide release of Fireworks Over Toccoa at several events, starting in the early morning hour of March 30 and ending with a fireworks show at Toccoa Elementary in the evening.

Early birds will able to purchase the first copies of the novel at [ash-lings] Booksellers on Doyle Street in historic downtown Toccoa. The bookstore will open at 11:00 p.m. on March 29 and close at 1 a.m. on March 30. [ash-lings] will have Mexican Coke-a-Cola on hand, and author Jeffrey Stepakoff will be signing books.

From 7 to 9 a.m. Stepakoff will be conducting interviews via Skype at the Rebel Café. He will then meet with the Friends of the Library and the Toccoa Woman’s Literary Club at Simmons-Bond Inn at 9:30 a.m.

During lunch, Stepakoff will be signing books at the Currahee Military Museum (pre-ordered books can be picked up as early as 9 a.m.). Hot dogs, chips and drinks from Sosobee’s Hotdogs will be available for $5.00 from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Vintage Vocals will be singing.
At 2 p.m., Stepakoff will be signing books at Troup’s Studio and Gold Crown Hallmark on Doyle Street. At 3:30, he’ll be at AM 630 WNEG Radio to officially release the podcast detailing his thoughts on downtown Toccoa as it relates to the novel.

During supper, Stepakoff will be at the Cornerstone Restaurant on Doyle Street. Tickets are $15 each and should be purchased in advance at the restaurant. Supper includes salad, entrée, and beverage. Call 706.282.7771 for more information. Vintage Vocals will provide entertainment.
At 7:30 p.m. come to Toccoa Elementary to see the fireworks show.

The program will be held in the back upper parking lot of Toccoa Elementary School (outside the school cafeteria). The Toccoa Falls College Jazz Band and the Vintage Vocals will perform. Mayor Bob Troup and Stepakoff will speak. Fireworks will begin at dusk. Pawnee Street will be closed to traffic from Short to North Pond Streets. Parking will be available on Savannah, Tugalo, and Pond Streets from Toccoa Elementary School to Tugalo Street.

For more information, visit www.MainStreetToccoa.com/fireworks or call 706.282.3309.

Main Street Toccoa awarded $25,787 Grant

2010-02-19T08:48:00.001-05:00

Doyle Street will be greener and more pedestrian friendly in a few months, thanks to a grant from the Georgia Forestry Commission.

A $25,787 grant was awarded to Main Street Toccoa to replant and maintain the heritage dogwood trees that line Doyle Street. The Toccoa Woman’s Club originally planted the dogwoods some 40 years ago.

Georgia Forestry Commission Representative Gary White will make the announcement at the Main Street Toccoa Arbor Day celebration at Pruitt Park on February 19, at 4 p.m.

The funding comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through a Georgia Forestry Commission program entitled “Tree Planting for Ecosystem Restoration and Green Jobs: Georgia’s Growing Green Jobs.”

The project will expand Main Street Toccoa’s urban forest of some 200 trees in downtown Toccoa to include the popular walking areas that lead to downtown shopping and dining destinations.

Main Street Toccoa’s application, “A Walk in the Shade: Creating Green Jobs in Toccoa” was awarded full funding and will enable the City of Toccoa to plant and maintain 59 dogwoods and 12 trident maples along Doyle Street, a portion of Boulevard Street, and a portion of Tugalo Street.

“This project will provide shaded sidewalks for the people who walk along Doyle Street,” said Toccoa’s Community Planning and Downtown Development Director Connie Tabor. “The trees will encourage more people who work downtown or live in the area to walk to and around downtown on their lunch breaks as well as before and after work, and increasing pedestrian traffic will boost sales in our Main Street district.”

No matching funds were required for the grant, however Main Street Toccoa will set aside some funding to keep the plants watered and maintained until they are self sustaining.

Work on the project is expected to begin in the fall.

Beautiful in the Snow, Toccoa

2010-02-16T09:12:00.001-05:00

Book reading draws standing room only crowd

2010-02-12T17:02:00.002-05:00

If local excitement is any indication of a novel’s success, Fireworks over Toccoa is going to be a New York Times best seller.

Author Jeffrey Stepakoff read to a standing room only crowd Thursday night from his book set for release by St. Martin’s Press on March 30, 2010. (You can listen to the reading here: http://www.mainstreettoccoa.com/events/stepakoff_reading.WMA)

Stephens County Historical Society President Cindy Tatum and Toccoa Mayor Bob Troup welcomed Stepakoff to the Mitchell Allen Meeting room at the Currahee Military Museum in downtown Toccoa and spoke about the book’s potential impact on Toccoa’s economy.

Stepakoff was introduced by family member, and local resident, Marvin Tabor.

After reading from two passages in the novel, Stepakoff took questions from the audience. He said he is currently writing his second novel, set in north Georgia, and that he is working on securing movie rights to Fireworks over Toccoa.

Stepakoff gave away a signed copy of Fireworks Over Toccoa to Diane Hewitt and also signed bookplates for those who pre-ordered the book.

Stepakoff will return to Toccoa on March 30 for a community celebration being planned in honor of the book’s release including a fireworks show in downtown Toccoa and several media events.

First Franklin Financial, the Stephens County Historical Society, and [ash-ling] Booksellers have pledged financial support for the celebration.

To find out more about Jeffrey Stepakoff visit his official website (http://www.jeffreystepakoff.com/).

Fireworks reading set for Thursday, Feb 11

2010-02-09T09:48:00.011-05:00

A love story that takes place in Toccoa is the subject of a new book being released, and the community is invited to meet the author and listen to excerpts from the book.

Author Jeffrey Stepakoff will be reading from his upcoming fictional novel, Fireworks Over Toccoa in the Mitchell Allen Room of the Historic Train Depot in downtown Toccoa on Thursday, February 11 at 7 p.m.

Doors to the meeting room will open at 6:30 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a seat. People who want to come earlier are permitted to purchase a ticket to tour the Currahee Military Museum and enter the meeting room through the museum.

Those who pre-order books at the event will be given a bookplate which will be signed by Stepakoff. There will also be a drawing for a signed pre-release copy of Fireworks Over Toccoa at the event.

The book is set for Hardback North American release by St. Martin's Press on March 30, and events are already being planned to celebrate this event in historic downtown Toccoa.

The book is also available as an audio edition, an eBook, and in a Large Print edition, and it’s a selection of The Doubleday Book Club, The Rhapsody Book Club, The Literary Guild, The Doubleday Large Print Club, and France Loisirs, The French Book Club. Translated editions of Fireworks will also be released this year in numerous foreign markets, including, France, Germany, Italy.

Stepakoff has written for fourteen different series including The Wonder Years, Sisters, Major Dad, Beauty & The Beast, Simon & Simon, and Dawson’s Creek where he was Co-Executive Producer. He currently lives in Atlanta, where he teaches dramatic writing at Kennesaw State University. If you want to find out more about Jeffrey Stepakoff, you can become a fan on his facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jeffrey-Stepakoff/267609936422?ref=ts) or visit his official website (http://www.jeffreystepakoff.com/).