Folio GA 
NJ.DD. p2., 
SI 
V,~to ;, 
 
Volume XIT 
 
Vogel State Park, Georgia 
 
75th anniversary of Georgia State Parks 
 
Vogel State Park along with 62 other Georgia Parks and Historic Sites will be celebrating a 75th binhday during 2006. 
Vogel being the second oldest state park in Georgia will be celebrating in style. 01,ar park guests are encouraged to panicipate in programs scheduled throughout the year that celebrate our Appalachian heritage and park history. 
There have been many changes at Vogel throughout the years but one thing that has remained constant is the naturally friendly atmosphere that welcomes our guests. 
Vogel bas long bee.o a destination for families with generations visiting and returning year after year. Vogel seems 10 have a mystique about itself that just brings people back. 
One young park guest knows what this mystique is all about. His farher was relating how the family bad craveled all over the 
 
United States that summer. They had made the grand tour, visiting all the major attractions in Florida; hiking imo the Grand Canyon; camping in Yellowstone National Park; trekking across glaciers in Canada; stopping at. Mount Rushmore: and on and 
on. It was a trip 10 end all trips. 
To end the summer they decided to spend a weekend at Vogel camping. When the young man went back to school in September, what should he relate to his class during show and tell? Vogel State Park. His father was so upset when he realized he could have saved thousands of dollars by just spending the summer at Vogel. 
Another generation has been woo over. This young man will share his wonderfuJ memories with his children one day. Maybe we have another 75 years in us after aJI. Visit Georgia State Parks this summer. They have been there aJI the time and they are just begging to be explored. 
 
2006 Issue 
 
A facelift 
 
Reunion of past 
 
By: David Foot 
The newest trend today is cosmetic surgery and a facelift for many people. This medical 
phenomenon bas even drifted over to Vogel State Park. What? You may be asking why has the staff resorted to the knife ro remove those 
deep worry lines or bags from under the eyes from s leepless nights? Not. to worry. the same old faces will be greeting the guest as they coi...e back to V o ge l . 
A facelift of sorts has taken place at Vogel on a sextuplet of 72-year-old dames. These elderly ladies received a tan that is now a lovely brown just like they bad when they were youngsters. New wigs were placed on their'"'heads. They were given new lenses to brighten up their outlook on life. As happens to all individuals in their older years, they had somewhat of a sag in the middle. 
Their ~guts" (excuse the lack of polite- 
ness for some very polite ladies) were rearranged . Their porcelain was given a new luster. They had joint replacement. A good coat- 
ing of Maalox to coat that interior was the 
 
piece de resistance 10 complete the facelift. 
Someone said that must have been quite a piece of work to get six aging woman to agree to have that much work done on them all at once. The job was made easier because they couldn't taJk back. You see the work was performed on the park's six CCC constructed log cabins. To translate what was done in layman 
terms, lhe cabins received a fresh coat of paint that would have been their original dark brown color. They received new roof shingles. They received new lighting to make the interiors brighter. They received new kitchen cabinets and appliances. The bathrooms received all new porcelain fixtures. Cracks were sealed 
throughout and they received a fresh coat of interior paint. 
After 72 years, it was only appropriate that these lovely ladies got spruced up for the big birthday. 
 
Vogel employees 
 
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of Georgia State Parks in 2006, 
 
Vogel State Park is holding a reunion of past e mployees. All past 
 
employees and their families are invited t.o anend this June 10. 2006 
 
event. The program will be held in the park group shelter beginning 
 
at 11 a.m. Activities will include a covered dish lunch, story telling, 
 
and fun for the family. This day coincides with the Kid's Fishing 
 
Rodeo held during the morning. This will be a great opportunity to 
 
introduce the children or grandchildren 10 the wonders of Vogel State 
 
~k. 
 
. 
 
The park staff is looking forward ro meeting those intrepid souls who helped make Vogel what it is today. The employee is expected to 
 
come armed with stories of fun and frustration. 
 
Four Brothers from Copperhill. Tennessee were lifeguards 
 
throughout the late 1940's and 1950's. They tell of hitchhiking to the 
 
park every May. working all summer and hi1chhi.king home after 
 
Labor Oay. They so looked forward 10 seeing the green trees and 
 
mountains that just didn't exi.st at home. They wouJd meet girls, call square dances, and bave a world of fun all summer Jong. Stories such 
 
as this are what the park is anempting to preserve. The park is look- 
 
ing for old photos of days gone by as well. These will be included in 
 
future park museum exhibits. 
 
Do you remember the miniature train ride, or the sailboats on 
 
the lake. or the evening square dances? Did you meet your love at the 
 
park during a summer romance? Tell your story. It will bring back a flood of wonderful memories. 
 
The lunch will be covered dish so bring your favorite creation. 
 
The Vogel Volunteers will provide refreshments, fried chicken and 
 
paper products. Past Vogel employees are encouraged to give the 
 
park a call a1 706-745-2628 if they plan 10 attend. Vogel, operated by 
 
the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is located 11 miles 
 
South of Blairsville on US Highway 129. Spread the word so the 
 
75 - annjversary can be celebrated in style. For further information 
 
contact David Foot, Park Manager at vogel@aJltel.net. 
 
 P"ge 2 
 
Volunteers 
 
Yoiceo/J/ogd 
 
.I 
 
Vogel State Park privileged with volunteer contributions 
 
Old log bathhousetut by the CCC. 
Memories of an early 
 
Vogel landmark 
 
Did you visit Vogel 
State Park as a child wilh your family or perhaps as a 
newlywed on your honey- 
moon? If so, you may re- 
member the log balh house built by I.he Civilian Con- 
servation Corps in I.he mid 
1930s. le sat on Lake 
Trahlyta where the I.heater is now located and was con- 
sidered a landmark of northern Georgia; however, 
it was totn down in the 
1960s due to irreparable 
decay. We have been re- 
searching this extinct building and searching for pic- 
tures, blueprints, plans, or 
whatever we can get our 
bands on which will help us recreate pans of I.he struc- 
ture. In particular, we want 
to take the roof off the current theater and replace it 
with a log roof and siding 
similar to the original de- 
sign. We feel re-creating this struc1ure would compliment 
the park's historical setling 
 
  ttnU:!QI 
more so than the current roof on Trahlyta Theater. Accordingly, if you have anything !hat might be help ful in our endeavors, please feel free to stop by the park and share your memories or photos. This project will be an under1alciog of 1he Vogel Volunteers, a group which has made incredible contributions to the park through raising money for special projects such as this and contributing their time working a1 various park events. Donations for this projec1 would be greatly appreciated. 
 
Vogel has had the privilege of having a s1rong volunteer following for the past ten years. Without this wonderful group of individuals, Vogel would not be in the fine shape it is today. Besides donating in excess of 100,000 hours of time 10 the park in hosting. maintenance and programming, the Vogel Volunteers have donated financial resources to the park. With budget cuts, these donations in equipment and supplies has helped keep the park budget in the black. The following is just a sampling of wha1 has been conlribu1ed over the years. 
The Volunieers have raised in excess of $40,000 for the development of the new CCC Museum. They also contributed many hours 10 actual coos1ruction. Funds were donaled for the office and meeting room expansion in the administrative building behind the visitor's center . They have participated in Volunteer Work Days for the pasteleven years accomplishing many projectS that would have otherwise gone undone. Some examples of these projects include: construcling campsites, spread- 
Every year in April, the Vogel staff hosts a multitude of volunteers 10 make improvements to the park and to wake it up after a cold winter. 
 
THE O'CONNORS 
Riley and Meredith O'Connor have been volunteers at Vogel for many years. They have participated in Volunteer Work Days doing whatever needed to be done.This couple enjoys life, making it apleasure t.obe around them. They are fascinating to talk to as wel. Bsewhere in this 
paper there is an article written by Riley on the Vogel train. If you have any question whatsoever about model trains or the real thing for that matter, he is the man to talk to. They are the perfect volunteers. They will fill any void when work needs to be done. Living inAtlanta, they enjoy coming to the park to tent camp. They rough it to decompress from their hectic city life schedule. 
Considerbeing a voltltteerso you too can decon1)ress from yourever,day hassles. Besides providing aheallhy environment to relax in, Vogel offers plenty of opportunities to share in the fun of perfonning a myriad of volunteer projects. 
 
LONGTIME VOLUNTEERS 
One couple that has been camping at Vogel for years and have been instrumental in the progress of the Vogel Volunteers are Wimam and Gail Dilbeck ot Jasper, Georgia. As volunteers, they have held officer positions in the organization, gotten dirty on Volunteer Work Days, and participated in park functions and projects cootri>uting thousands of hours of tine over the years. 
The Oilbecks have even gotten their children and grandchildren involved with the park and volunteer activities. Becoming a volunteer is an evolutionary process. You never know when or how you got started but after years ofvoblteering you feel likeyou have doneit al yourffe. Andit has been agoodifeas avolunteer.The Oilbecks areno exception. You just SOf1 of take for granted that they havealways been there.However, Gail has dose ties with the history of Vogel as her dad was in the Civian Conservation Corps. Pemaps this is how shebegan as avolunt88f.Gail wanted to reciscofflher dad'sCCC roots and thought Vogel~ be a good 
start. From this mill contact Wiiam and Gail became deticatedand loyal contooutors to the CCC Mus8IITI project with the Vogel Vobltllffl. How about ifl1wovilgyotwifebybecoming avoll.llteerat alocalpartorroosetlTI? Justlikethe Oillecks it wl make I cliff8f80C8 in yow ife. 
 
ing mulch, cleaning the beach, installing wjnd screens on the pavilion, installing seating under the paviJioo, installing erosion control on stream banks. installing trout stream habi- 
 
tat structures, and tree planting. Purchases have included: A mountain bike for park patrols, cold water ice rescue sui1, sound system for programs, fire fighting equipment, taxidermy, and 
 
Annual volunteer work day 
 
This has always been a successful day despite some years that had less than desirable weather. The staff and volunteers make it an enjoyable day of cleaning, 
 
cons1ructing, painting, s1aining, gardening, raking and shoveling. Despite get- 
ting dirty, everyone bas a wonderfuJ time. Breakfast and lunch are served and the 
 
Memory Walkway at Vogel 
 
CCC Museum displays. Many thanks go to 
our wonderful volunteers. Being a Vogel Volunteer does make a difference. Consider being a pan of the fun. 
evening banquet is always a wonderful way 10 wind down. Consider being a part of making Vogel State Park a berter place ro relax and play. 
 
Vaune XII 
 
VOICE OF YO&fl VoQII Statl Park, Georgia 
 
2006 Issue 
 
Nlilhadby VaflllStatt Pat. 7485Vaflll Sutt Part Rotd 
 
Opntld bytht 
6eoflia Department 
 
BIiis... GA 30512 
 
Of Natural Resoun:ts 
 
Pn Manager: David f1>ot 
 
Assistant Manlgar: Randy Gmnl 
 
Layout & Otsign: Nonnan Coopw 
 
Printld by: West Pmting ~ f1lldad by:Vaflll Vobltas FHr. .,..,,,,,_ 
 
f'Ofthose whon flmiar wittl theVoice ofVogel. the,,..-for thepast 
 
almn iuues (11 years) has consisted of eight pages. At times it has 
been astruggle to sqiaezeeve,ything wewanted to say into these991t 
 
pages. The ecitorial staff decided to stop fighting the battle of the bulge 
 
and let out our belt to stuff more news into this issue. 
 
We hope you find this 12 page issue of the Voice of Vogel informative. 
 
Wt tllolq,t it only appropriate to make this 2006 issue a special one for 
tht 75th annivemry oftheGeorgia State Parks calebraoon: 
 
The Vogel Volunteers are sponsoring the de- r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , 
 
velopment of a Memory Walkway by selling en- I 
 
Yqel State Pr Memery Walkway Onltdorm 
 
I 
 
graved bricks. The walkway is located on the path- I Name_________________ I 
 
way 
 
in front of the beach. The goal is to have the 
 
entire 
 
length 
 
of 
 
the 
 
I 
 
Addrw City - - - - - - - - -S-tlta_____Zi_ip____ 
 
I 
 
pathway paved with the bric~. This is an ambi- I Phone 
 
E-mail 
 
--- I 
 
= - 
 
I tlOus_go~. but ~ne iu.-a.- f ...,....__ 
 
so - - - - - - - - - - 
 
that 1s qwte obtamable with the re- 
 
I 
 
.....,_ 0 111~ - 
 
x  
 
lhaveanclosed1cJiicformoneyorderi,tbt~toU_ _ .OO 
 
I I 
 
sponse ceived 
 
we so 
 
have refar . The 
 
I 
 
Mail to:Vogel StittPn Memory Walkway Project c/oVogel Stitt Pn, 7485 Vogel State Pn 
 
Rd. 
 
I 
 
money raised from I . Bllimila, GA 30512 
 
I 
 
this project will be I Brick should btangmed as folows 
 
I 
 
used by the Vogel _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I 
 
Volunteers to work 1 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 
 
on . special proJects o r to 
 
park pur- 
 
L 1---- 
 
- - --- 
 
- - --- 
 
- - --- 
 
- - --- 
 
- - ---- - --JI 
 
chase equipment for to three lines with 14 characters per line. Ordering a brick is 
 
the park staff that easy. Fill in the application below and submit a check for $SO 
 
could not have ~n per brick. Make checks payable to: The Vogel Volunteers, Inc. 
 
purchased o~rwlSe. Mail orders to: Vogel State Park, Memory Walkway Projec1. 
 
The bricks are 748S Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville, GA 305l2. 
 
$50 each. They can 
 
Any questions can be directed to the park staff a1 706-745- 
 
. be engraved wtth up 2628. 
 
 Voice of Vogel 
 
Puge3 
 
Family traditions 
 
If you are a red blooded American, you know it is tradition to celebrate Memorial Day, July Founh and Labor Day in the out of doors. Lt is even bener if you can do it camping, picnicking, swimming or fishing or hanging out over a smoking grill. Have you considered the fact that these three holidays may not be the only time to celebrate a holiday? Have you considered camping at Thanksgiving or staying in a conage at Christmas? Vogel is a busy place even when the thermometer may be registering a balmy 35 degrees. As crazy at it may sound, camping in the winter can be fun, if you are prepared for 
it. 
Thanksgiving at Vogel wouldn't be tradition without the turkeys smoking in the campground and seeing large groups of families gathered around a table at a campsite eating all the fixings. Chrisonas is no less exciting with guesrs setting up Lrecs, decorating the cabin, bringing grandma and grandpa and all the presents and celebrating the holiday in a peaceful setting. Can you imagine waking up Christmas morning with fresh fallen sn.ow on the ground? This would be a vacation to remember. Vogel is known for making family traditions. How about makjng some of your own? 
 
Geeks on the wlldslde 
How do you relax when you go camping? The St.angers of Norcross enjoy working on their laptop computers while they sit around the campfire. As strange as this might seem to some people, the park staff bas discov- 
ered that this is not au that uncommon. With ceU phone service available in the park now. campers are able to gel the latest stock market quotes through their computer right from the comfon of the campsite hammock. Now this is taking casual Friday to a new extreme. 
 
. - -fia 
Third generation enjoys Vogel 
A chird generation of Hullihans Manbew, 
Ryan and Ethan - is enjoying the evening delight of 
eating ice cream on the front porch of the park visitors center . These boys are the sons of Tim Hutliban of North Palm Beach, Florida. Tim was raised at 
Vogel on summer vacations. He knew a good thjng, 
so he and bjs wife have continued the family traclition. 
 
Interview with LeVere & Elinore Brown 
 
Life was good for 
 
LeVere and Elinore Brown 
 
when they got married. 
 
They had survived the De- 
 
pression and felt far re- 
 
moved from the turmoil 
 
going on in other pans of 
 
the world. Thei r sma ll 
 
world in Macon. Georgia 
 
was secure! 
 
Things changed when 
 
LeVere was drafted to fight 
 
in World War IJ. Elinore 
 
was expecting their first 
 
child who would come into 
 
this wo rld I month after 
 
LeVere was shipped over- 
 
What a surprise! 
 
seas to the Pacific Theater. 
 
Despice the fact Elinore 
 
_ This was Barbara Townson's reaction when would write everyday, 
 
she saw ber picture on the 75th Annive rsary tee- LeVere would not receive 
 
shirt being sold at the Vogel Visitors Center. Bar- 
bara is sitting in the middle of the padclleboat. The photo was taken in 1956. State Parks were only 25 years old at the time. Barbara still enjoys the park 
to this day. By the way, she bought severa l of the 
 
any mail for months on end. The mail never would quite catch up with him as he bounced around the Pacific. When he finally did get an opponuniry to respond to 
 
tee- shirts. 
 
his name being called at mail call he would receive 
 
Eleanor(pitgrancinotherl,Susan &amon (grardnothe,l, EizabethJones 
(mother), Levere Brown (great grandfather), Stephen and Josh Jones 
(twins). 
 
a stack of leners. Some of these letters wo uld have photos of a little girl that he watched grow up from thousands of miles away. It was discouraging to see bis linle girl grow without him being around. ,When he16-1 
 
natty did get to go home, this little girl was 1- 1/2 years old. She didn't know her daddy!! 
To make up for lost time, LeVere thought he should spend some quaJity time wiih, pi$ family ;J;ne 
 
best way seemed to be camping. So off they went packing up their army surplus pup tent and going on many grand advenrures. h was 
fun. The children played 
and swam while mom and dad sat around the campfire. Mom would cook in an old iron frying pan. When this got to be too much trouble, they decided to trade in Green Stamps for a new gas 
stove. This new equipment allowed the fami ly to travel across the country in comfort and style. This family tradition continues today with that linle girl taking her children camping using equipment har,ded down from LeVere and Elinore. 
Camping is a family experience. Consider making it pan of your family fun and create lasti ng memories. You will never regc~ this time wel) ,spent. 
 
 Page <I 
 
Staff 
 
Voice of Vogel 
 
You do What? 
 
By David Foot 
 
turning each year at the same 
 
A 2 a.m. phone call wakes 
 
Do you Live oo the park? time. Their friends in school en- David with the caller requesting 
 
Whal is it like 10 raise a fam- joy coming out 10 the park 10 have him to deliver an emergency mes- 
 
ily in a park setting? 
 
a good time with the ranger's kids sage. Sunday evening finds 
 
You live a vacation every who know all the neat places 10 Randy mopping the floors of a 
 
day of the year don't you? 
 
play. Daddy is never very far cottage that has just been flooded 
 
These are common questions away when he is on the park. 
 
from a burst water pipe. 
 
that we hear all the time. I must 
 
We would 001 be successful 
 
Lynn and Pam call each 
 
say. the life of a ranger is inter- rangers were ii not for our loving other asking where Randy and 
 
esting and has proven to be won- and loyal wives. These ladies put David are. Come to find out they 
 
derful career. However, appear- up with a 101 from their husbands' have responded to a motorcycle 
 
ances can be deceiving. 
 
job. It takes a strong marriage 10 accident adjacent to the park. 
 
David Foot, Park Manager, tolerate the long hours and Lack 
 
You know what? We 
 
and Randy Gambrell. Assistant of privacy. 
 
wouldn't have it any otb_er way. 
 
Manager, both live in "Govern- 
 
The ranger is called out late Being a park ranger is a very sat- 
 
ment subsidized housing " on a night to handle a disrurbance in isfying career. Not one day is the 
 
Vogel Stale Park. 
 
the campground. His onJy backup same. 
 
We are both fortunate 10 have very nice homes in which to raise families. Randy and Lynn have two young children and David and Pam have three grown boys. 
The children have found that it is a pretty good life living on the park. During the busy season there are always other kids to pal 
around with. You can always look 
forward 10 the same people re- 
Park working with fewer staff 
 
is his wife manning a radio sit- 
 
There is tremendous variety Aipet moment finds Randy and Lyoo Gambrell (leh) and David and Pam ~t relaxing. 
 
ting on the bed night stand where in lbe job. We are innkeepers, 
 
they were awoken from a sound electricians, plu mbers, peace position for you. Don, forget, to radio traffic gridlock reports 
 
nights sleep. Pam has prepared a wonder- 
 
keepers, garbage man, public relations expen, accountant, com- 
 
you have 10 be fortunate enough to marry a partner who will put 
 
from Atlanta; and t.alce vacations at odd limes of lbc year. 
 
ful meal to only have it get cold puter 1echnician, law enforcement up with your long odd hours; tol- 
 
Randy and David have been 
 
because David has been called out 10 search for an overdue hiker. 
Lynn has to tuck the kids into bed wilbout daddy because 
 
officer, fireman , doctor, psychologist, teacher, naturalist, mentor. 
and housekeeper. lf this career sounds glam- 
 
erate guests from all over the world who will eventually become lifelong friends; live in the most beautiful place in the world; 
 
very fonuna1e to have wonderful, understanding wives who enjoy sharing their husband's career challenges. We are the luckiest 
 
Randy is clearing a fallen tree orous to you. the Georgia Depart- have a work commute each morn- husbands in the world who just 
 
RAl'I GER ~rALES 111 fromaroadinaragingrainstorm. 
 
ment of Natural Resources has a 
 
ing of 10 yards while you listen 
 
happen 10 be park rangers. 
Look what's happened while 
 
This past year has been 
 
you were gone 
 
a trial for the park having to deal with four vacant yearround staffed positions. 
With budget cuts, it has become necessary to delay in 
 
Ranger Tales is one of the more popular articles in the Voice of Vogel. Yes, these are all true incidents. You go11a wonder some times. 
 
in to the store and keep 
 
buying the rather ex- 
 
pensive 
 
$3.09 
 
windproof matches. 
 
Wben the ranger goes 
 
While the Vogel guest was taking a long winters nap and dreaming of the next summer vacation , the park was bustling with projects to 
 
filling positions that have be- 
 
 The gate attendant 
 
outside to make sure spruce things up. 
 
come vacant. 
 
asks a driver for payment for 
 
they are not up to DO 
 
Streamside cottages 14- 
 
The positions that are a Park Pass. The driver re- 
 
good, he discovers they 20 received new wood decks 
 
vacant at the time this article fuses, saying he bought an 
 
have spent over $12 to get to malce for a more appealing 
 
was written are the housekeepers, one maintenance staff, and one clerk in the visitor's center . 
This staffing shortage places more demands on the 
remaining staff. It also delays 
maintenance projects and creates a climate of do the best you can with what you have to work with. The Vogel staff has always been resilient and made the best ofa difficult situation. 
Hopefully the guest 
 
Annual Pass three years ago, and hasn't gotten hjs money's worth yet. 
 " ls the beach anywhere near the !alee?" 
 An individual standing on the shoreline of the lake asks, ulf the dam breaks, will I be safe here?" 
 A four year old child had been talking to his dad for some time about their pending t ri p to Vogel. On the morning of the day they are to leave, the child runs into the parent's bedroom 
 
.. 
Rushmore, even Disney World. When one of the children returns to school at the end of the summer he presents a sbow and tell project to ~is class. The title of the project was, .. My Summer Vaca - 
tion." He talked entirely about 
 
a cigar and cigarettes lit. 
 
What an appropriate way 
 
LO get sick. 
 
 
 
A voluntee r 
 
receives a knock on her 
 
camper door. A man says he 
 
was supposed to get married 
 
five minutes ago. I need a 
 
ride to the pavilion. Can you 
 
help me? He had dropped his 
 
wedding c lothes in a mud 
 
puddle. Can you spell ner- 
 
vous? 
 
 Do you have indoor 
 
plumbing? 
 
 "Ob, how modern, 
 
entrance. Comfort stations 2 & 4 in the camping area received new solid plastic stall doors. This is probably one of the more overlooked of the new projecrs, but one that will make the comfort stations more appealing and easier to c lean. 
The fireplaces in several 
of the smaller frame cottages had new firebrick installed in the fireplaces. The old brick, which had seen 60 years of fires. had burned out. 
And of course the log cabins received a facelift (see 
 
won' t see any impact to the hollering, " Wake up it's their stay at Vogel State Park. you take credit cards!" Yeah, related article). New lighting 
 
park services caused by four happy Vogel day!" This is a The father was so upset when we even have indoor plumb- was installed in cottages 21- 
 
fewe r employees. 
 
true believer. 
 
he discovered all the money ing. 
 
30. Trail maintenance was 
 
We want to thank our 
 
 A family bas a won- he could have saved by just 
 
 A woman asks if performed. The housekeep- 
 
guests for understanding the derful summer vacation, trav- staying at Vogel. Another be- ducks would like to eat whole ing staff did a thorough clean- 
 
situation and appreciare all the eling all across the country liever. 
 
wheat or white bread? 
 
ing of all the cottages. We 
 
guests do to make our job visiting, the Grand Canyon, 
 
 A group of boys 
 
Our guests never cease hope you enjoy the improve- 
 
easier. 
 
Yellowstone, 
 
Mount abour 14 years of age come to entertain us. 
 
ments . 
 
 Voice of Vogel 
 
Staff 
Jeanette Watson (left) works in the visitor center as store manager and Sharon Kidd is our park secretary. 
 
Page5 
 
The Vogel maintenance crew is comprised of(from left) Tony Cruce, Roger Phillips and Larry Thomas. 
 
The Vogel Housekeeping staff includes Gay Cross, Dale Culberson. Linda Fonenberry and Wanda Green. 
 
Life outside the park 
 
The park guest only sees the employee on the job. Believe it or not the employee has a life too. The following tells the rest of the story of what the Vogel employee enjoys doing after hours. 
Glenn & Barbara Alderman, Maintenance & Gate house: Glenn enjoys puttering around the workshop making wood creations. Barbara can be found horsing around with her pet. Her horse is her pride and joy. 
Gay Cross, Housekeeper: When Gay gets an opponunity she enjoys visiting Gatlinburg. She does work on the s ide and enjoys shopping. Perhaps she works to support her shopping habit in Gatlinburg. 
Tony Cruce, Maintenance: Tony has a grading business where he gets to play on a bulldozer and tractor. He also does bush hogging for private landowners. 
Dale Culberson, Housekeeper: Dale enjoys collecting 
anything related to bears. She has a wide collection of stuffed animals. She says after she has cleaned her own home, she just 
 
enjoys loafering. David Foot, Park Manager: 
Enjoys woodworking. Especially making items for the grandchildren. Whe n Pam and David get an opponunicy they go camping. Pam tries to keep David from pestering and asking questions of other park staffs when they go camping. He can't quite leave the job behind him. 
Linda Fortenberry, Housekeeper: lf you want 10 know how to pickle beets or can beans. Linda is the source. She stays busy when the garden crops are coming in. When she' s not putting up, she is cooking what she put up. Linda also cleans the home of a blind woman. 
Randy Gambrell, Assist.ant Manager: Randy enjoys hunting and fishing. If you have a question about either of th.ese activities, he can answer it. Randy even talces six year old Leannah and four year old Luke hunting, hop- 
ing they will get the fever as well. 
Wanda Green, Housekeeper: Wanda enjoys sewing and doing crafts. She has some adorable 
 
grandchildren she enjoys spending time with. 
Sharon Kidd, Secretary: Sharon enjoys four-wheeling. She and her daughter carli are active in the Girl Scouts and church activities. 
Roger Phillips, Senior Ranger: When asked what he did on his days off, Roger said, "bustin wood". When you live in the mountains, this is a necessary evil if you want to stay warm in the winter. He aJso enjoys hunting and fishing. 
Larry Thomas, Maintenance: Larry is a shade tree mechanic perfonning a lot of work for neighbors and friends. He is very accomplished in this area. He is also an avid fi sherman. 
Janette Watson, Store Manager: Janette and Henry enjoy camping and taking day Lrips. They also enjoy attending re- 
gional musical programs. They like going to antique "bit or miss" engine shows. Janette says she would sure enjoy having one of those gasoline powered washing machines to wash Henry's clothes. 
 
Cleaning up 
 
Have you ever wondered who cleans the cot- 
tages and maintains the comfort stations and 
restrooms throughout the park? It is four very industrious and hardworking 
ladies. Gay Cross, Dale Culberson, Linda 
Fonenberry and Wanda Green are responsible for 
this massive undenaking. 
What is so unique about these four employees 
is that they enjoy working with each other. It is a 
rare organization that this number of individuals can work so closely together day in and day out 
 
and not have a cross word. If you stick your bead in a door while they are 
working, you may hear laughing, joking and feel a general pleasant atmosphere. 
With a combined Vogel work history of only 18 years, this crew works like they have been together fifty years. 
The next time you see the white linen van packed at a cottage or comfon station, take a moment to talk with these ladies and thank them for a job well done. 
 
DIDYOUDOW ... 
 at 2280 feet, Vogel State Parle is 300 feet higher in elevation than AsheV1lle, N.C; 500 feet higher than Cherokee, N.C.; and 1,000 feet higher than Gatlinburg. TN?  there use to be a mica mine on the park with a dynamite shed?  the camping area use to be located where the ball field is now?  there use to be a miniature amusement train ride on site in the vicinity of picnic shelter #2?  thenl use tobe apay by the pol.lld trout pond on site locatedwherePoSStm Hollow is now? There are still remnants of the water diversion devices still evident on the stream bank. 
 there was once a large fenced enclosure whereinjured deer were kept? It was located between picnic shelter 3 and the Superintendent's residence.  the cottages were once runbered without the mrnber 13? It was fisted as 12A. 13 tosome people is considered bad luck. 
 there use to be sailboats for rent on the lake in the 1940's?  there use to be horse stables and miles of bridle trails on the park up into the 1960's? 
 highway 180 use to come through the park? The park entrance and the road past the beach exitilg out at cabin 35 use to be the '19lway untiit was relocated in the 1970's.  there are no natural lakes in Georgia? Any lake you see. including Lake Trahlytaare manmade.  lake Trahtyta was named for a Cherokee Indian Princess? School chidran were invited to name the lake in a contest in 1935. The winner was a sixth grade studentby thenameof Daisy. Her classwasinvited to spend a night at the part. 
 wtal the log cabins were btilt in the 1930'sby the CCC, the wildowshad iron baninstaled to keep thebears out.  there were concrete boxes located outside the log cabins to store food away from the bears?  that to have hot water in a log cabin originaly you had to buid a fire in the fireplace? Pipes ran through the firebox to a holding tank. It was not very reliable. You just hoped you were the first in line for I shower and kept it short. 
 al the power lines used to be ovemead craamg an ugly scene?  cottages 120 once had windows that ci'dad theentn cottage? The glass windows would side down into the wal to expose the screens for S11Tlffl81' tine air concitionilg. 
 the original park plans from 1934 showed a second lake and dam across Wolf Creek in the vicinity of cottage 12. Where would we have camped and playedbal? 
 the original park plans from 1934 had the entrance to the park crossing over the dMI? This never happened. 
 the lakeside parking lot with the helicopter pad used to be swamp? 
 
 Pagt! 6 
 
History 
 
Voice of Vogd 
 
Civilian Conservation Corps MuseUDl 
 
By David Foot 
Seventy years ago a group of 150 boys between the ages of 17 and 25 got offa crain in Murphy. North Carolina, placed on trucks and were moved 10 Blairsville. Georgia. These young boys were thin. they had ragged clothes, and they appeared to have no direction in life. What was this? 
Was some community-clearing house and getting rid of their unwanted hooligans? Nothing of the son . These boys had joined the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and they ha d come co Blairsville to live in a camp and build a State Park. That State Park is Vogel and seventy years later it is still as popular as ever. 
rr it were not for these boys 
and millions like them during the ensuing nine years National and State Parks would not have been developed, forests would not have bee n protected, t he Midwest Plafos would have cominued 10 blow away, and soil e rosion would not have been slowed. 
The boys of the CCC made a difference. These young men were unemployed as were millions 
 
of other Americans during the Great Depression of the l930's. 
This period in American history was perhaps the most challenging with banks closing, factories and businesses shuuing down, families go ing hungry, and people wandering aimlessly across the country with no sense of dir e cti o n . 
The CCC was just o ne of a score of new agencies started during the New Deal of President 
Franklin Roosevelt. This administration was referred to as the alphabet soup administration because of the new acronyms for infant agencies. 
Agencies such as the WPA - Works Projects Admin.istration; FDIC - Federa l Deposit Insurance Corporation; TVA TeMessee Valley Authoricy; REA 
 
- Rural Electrification Administration. These and many more helped pull the United 
States out of a dark period. Vogel State Park became 
a reality in 1934 because of hard times. This was like making lemonarle from lemons. 
We are to this day enjoying the fruits of the labor of these hard working individu- 
als. To recognize the work of the CCC, volunteers. individuaJ and corporate donors, and the staff of Vogel State Park have contributed 10 build a museum 10 honor the works of the Civilian Conservation Corps. 
This new museum has been a dream of the Vogel Volunteers. The objective in building a museum was 10 protect the hundreds of photos and artifacts that tell the CCC story. 
ThrouJh financial and ma1e riaJ donanons the museum has become a reality. David Foot. Vogel State Park Manager said, " this museum has been a dream for many years. 
It would not have been possible were it not for the gene rous donations and help of so many people and businesses. This mu- 
 
seum will be a regional attraction and a source of research for srudents of the Great Depression. 
Pe rhaps the most noticeable 
feature of the museum whe n one first sees it is the rough textured brown s iding and large posts supporting the porch. This was lumber cut off 1he park. fro m Pine Beede salvaged trees. 
The CCC planted these rrees when the park was under development. The museum features photo exhibits of camp life: a diorama of a CCC camp; exhibits of various trades the boys would have learned such as forestry . masonry, blacksmithing and surveying; and a photo histo ry of Vogel through the years. 
The John B. Derden Civilian Conservation Corps Museum at Vogel State Park is named for a long time Vogel Volunteer and forme r CCC Boy who has been instrumental in preserving the CCC history of Vogel. 
The museum is open on Saturday and Sundays from 1-4 p. m. David Foot , Pa rk Manager is available for public speaking engagements on the Depression History and the Civilian Conservation Corps. 
 
ECONOMICS 101 
For those who have been visiting Vogel for some time may recaQ when prices were a fittle less pricey than they are today. The Georgia State Parks prides itself in t,yiig to keep the price of a stay reasonable. But like everything else. in flation does rear its ugly head every so often.The following prices were taken from actual park brochures. 
1938 $4.00 a day or $20.00 a week 
for alog cabin (1bedroom) They have 8Y8fything except food and ice Swinvning  10 cents Boats  25 cents hour 
or $1.00 aday or $5.00 aweek. 
1970 $8.00 a day or $48 aweek for 2 persons (Each additional person is $1 .00 a day) Mini golf- 35 cents per game. Swimming - 50 cents adults. 25 cents children Horseback riding - long ride  $1.50 Camping$2..50 a night 
1982 1bedroom cottage $28 anight 2bedroom collage $36 anight 3bedroom cottage $42 anight 
Camping $6.50 a night 
 
The Prayer Stool 
 
r.:. . ) By David Foot r-7"" Can you imagine if going 10 work everyday meant climbing a tlight of stairs that consists of more 1han a hundred steps. Working ou1 of a small box with walls of win- 
dows. overlooking some of the most beautiful landscape in the world. No this is no t a hig hrise office tower in downtown A1lanta, but a fire to wer in North Georgia. You are a fire lookout and your office ii; a small 
cubic le o n top of a ta ll to wer. Your job is 10 spot tires, identify their location. and dispatch crews to put the fires out. 
Yo ur days consist of watching beautiful sunrises and sunsets, watc hing eagles soar the air currents or watching a female bear trying 10 teach her young cub the 
proper way 10 behave. Perhaps the most beautiful 
scene i watching cloud formations many miles away buildjng up during the af1emoon heating 10 create storms. One of the more 
a exciling aspects of being a fire 
tower auendant is experiencing lightening sto rm ~ you are more than 100 feet up the air. Many 
 
fire cower anendants have told of seeing lightening bouncing across the Ooor of the tower cab. This could tend 10 put a person on.edge if you were not prepared for such an event. 
There is a piece of safety equipme nt issued 10 a fire tower attendant that could be a lifesaver. Jt is the prayer stool. 
This seems like a strange name for an official piece of government equipment, but the name is accurate. The stool is wood with glass insulators on the feet. This acted as insulation from the noor and a possible hit from lightening. 
The nett time }' OU go to work, think about how easy it is. You don't have 10 have a prayer stool to survive your day's .work. 
 
Vogel's Railroad 
 
By Riley O'Connor 
Many years ago. Vogel State Park had railroad passenger service. Unfortunately. there were no connecting cars 10 Atlanta o r New York, no dining car service on the train and riding this train required you to sit like a frog on a toadstool. But, it was a passenger rrain. 
Even today, such railroads are commonly found in parks; some serve simply as a "kiddie ride" while o the rs ar.e used to transport people between desunations within the park. 
Big companies s uc h as Disney and Si.x Flags have such railroads, and o ther parks such as Breckenridge Park in San Antonio also use miniature trains as transpo rtation syste ms. The Atlanta Zoo had a similar kiddie ride r a i l ro ad . 
Use of such trains dates back to at least the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. The Fair had a Palace of Transportation with over fou r miles of track. 
The railroad was ascendant in those times. and the Fair exhibited other tnubponation novelties such as the automobile: the 
 
The little gir1 riding the Vogel Express in 1962 is Nancy Hickey. She was 5 at the tine. Nancy mscovered her picture on an interpretive post when she was visiting the park. She is shown riding with her sister Francis in the passeoger car of the train that ran in the vicinity of what is now picnic shelter 2 by the lakeshore. The train was aparkfixturein thel960's. The park wu operated under a concession agreement withBonnell Akins, a local businessman. He was park concessionaire from 1953-1963. 
first cross-country automobile Lrip had occurred o nly Lhe year before. 
Vogel 's tra in was m ost 
likely manufactured by the Miniature Train Company o f Rensselae r, Indiana. From the one photograph we have of thjs rrain, 11 appears to be a "G-12" type which o perated o n 12" gauged track. This train usually consisted of a gasoline powered locomotive and three o r four cars. Many of the early G- 12's were painted in color schemes which imitated the real trains which operated in the United States at that time. 0 th- 
 
ers, such as the Vogel Express. were decorated in fanciful livery. 
The Vogel Express was removed from the Park sometime in the late 1960's. and it is likely in the hands of a collecto r somewhe re, mos t likely repainted. These tra ins appear for sale on eBay fl'om time to time, and there is a dedicated group of collecto rs who continue to operate and maintain them. 
lf you have a photograph of the Vogel Express, we would be very interested in seeing it. This little park train rema ins an historical pan of the Park. 
 
Be on lookout for ~CC boys 
 
Mary Whitt, a Vogel employee was talking one day about her cncounLer with some CCC Boys back in the 30's. Mary was born in Union County in 1930. She ri:members the trucks fu ll of CCC Boys driving by the house. As a child she enjoyed standing beside the road waving 10 the boys as they wen1 to work in the forest. One day on the daily trip one of the boys threw a loaf of bread 10 Mary and her eight other brothers and sisters. This became a routine. Mary thinks the boys did this just 10 get a good laugh watching theso little children lighting over the loaf of bread. To Ibis day Mary can still smell that bread. Lt was by far the best bre.,d she ever ate. 
 
 Voice of Vogel 
 
Histor_y 
 
Page 7 
 
How Vogel State Park got its name 
 
By Anne Bohl 
As an out-of-state intern here 
at Vogel State Park, I learn new 
information about the park's llistory just about every day. I grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and 
am working on completing a Bac helor of Science degree in 
Outdoor Recreation at Indiana University in Bloomington. Upon 
being accepted as an intern at 
Vogel. I had no idea there would 
be a connection between the park and my hometown, Milwaukee. I am very excited 10 tell you there 
is a significam link between the two places. 
While north Georgia is a beautiful place for camping. fish- 
ing, and getting some fresh air, it 
is also filled with a rich culture 
and history that was apparent my first day here. It seems like each mountain and vaJley has a story 
10 tell, and every day I learn a little more about the story behind Vogel State Park. The park got 
its name from a German family 
named Vogel who settled first in 
Buffalo. New York in 1846 and two years later moved 10 Milwau- 
kee, Wisconsin. There. Frederick 
Vogel built a small tannery 10 support himself and his wife Au- 
gust, and marketed his leather 
through a store owned by Guido P0ster. In 1853. the two became 
partners and built their own tan 
nery called Pfister and Vogel 
 
Leather Co. which became the largest tannery west of the Alleghenies, and prior to World War l, the largest in the world. Frederick Vogel was the bark-tan- 
ning expert in the company and served as its vice-president and general manager. as well as a republican state assemblyman in 1874. 
As part of Pfister and Vogel's tanning operations. they acquired large sections of land in the north Georgia mountains to provide raw materials, specifically tannin, from the bark of 
trees. At the time, these forests contained large stands of Chestnut, Oak, and Hemlock trees. However, soon a synthetic tanning process was developed and the 
 
Dating back to 1890, this picture of the Vogelfamiy shows August, Fred and son, August, in the back row, center. This photo was 
taken at the 
famiy's 
summer home on Pine lake in WISCOllSin. 
trees, and the lands in northern Georgia. were no longer needed. This prompted Fred and August Vogel 10 donate the land ro the State of Georgia in 1917 and that 
same land was later used for a state 
park built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Frederick Vogel died while returning from a European vacation and the Vogel interests in the business passed on to his son Fred Vogel , Jr. and later to his other son Augustus Hugo Vogel. 
It is great 10 know there are pieces of history that connect rwo very different J?laces. Without the Vogel's donauon of land 10 the State of Georgia. we might not be able to enjoy this spectacular park today . 
 
TheWPA 
You may have heard of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC}. It was the organization I.hat built Vogel State Park during the early 1930's. The CCC was just one of many alphabet soup agencies during the Presidency of Franklin Roosevelt. So many new agencies were begun to help control the Great Depres- 
sion that you needed a map to find your way ll1rough the maze ofacronyms. Agencies with abbreviations like TVA , FDJC, PWA, PAA, FCC, NLRB and many more dotted the political landscape. One of the more successful and well known of the 
New Deal agencies, was th.e WPA. The 
Works Projects Administration constructed roads, public buildings such as post offices. courthouses. jails. community centers, schools and hospitals. Locally, the WPA constructed the Woody Gap School in Sucbes and the city hall in Blairsville, which was originally built as a jail. The WPA also employed artists and authors 10 produce works of artS and 10 write a series of travel guides of all the United States. 
The WPA accomplished many projects that are still in use to this day. At the time. the workers of the WPA were considered lazy and thought of as having taken advantage of a good thing. However, as we look back on their ac complishmcnts we see tJ1a1 perhaps the moniker of We Piddle Along was not wholly deserved. 
 
Looking for old park photos 
This post card is from the 193os sahnodwinloggthebelackhe .__ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _"""' 
house. The park is soliciting old photos from the 40's, 50's and 60's. Did you take a camping trip in an old Army pup tent or stay in one of the cabins before the roads were paved? Do you have a photo of the park when there were overhead power lines? How about a photo of the visitors center before all the expansions and there was just a stone building? Were you camping in the ball field before it was a ball field? PuJI out the old shoebox and show us your Kodak moments from years past. Contact David Foot, Park Manager for further details. 
Vogel's Mica Mine 
There was once a mica mine located on Vogel way before Vogel was a park. Mica is a mineral that is commonly found in the area. It is found in layered sheets that can be peeled apart. The thin transparent layers are like paper. Mica was mined for itS insuJating properties. Large sheets would be used as windows in fireplaces and wood stoves. Before electronic transisrors and silicon chips. vacuum tubes were what ran the first radios. Mica was used in these tubes as an insuJator. 
Mica is still mined today throughout the world. Mica is used in appliances; semiconductors; guided missiles; televisions; lOasLcrs; high speed aircraft canopies; windows for kerosene heaters. furnaces and diver helmets; goggles; paint, ad hesivcs, cement and gypsum board. The mine on the park. was an open banJ.. race loca1ed in the backside of the park. A dynamilc bed stood ni:arby for years. 
 
Southern Mountain dialect 
By Anne Bohl Before I arrived at Vogel State Park 10 begin my inte.-nshap, I 
knew I would be one of the few without a southern accent; however, 
after working here for a little while I soon came 10 realize the dialect in the area is quite different than a typical soul.hem accent. I was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisc-0nsin and my mother has lived in Mil- 
waukee her entire life, so naturally I grew up with a slight Wisconsin 
accent. What does a Wisconsin accent sound like, you might ask? Well , I dink dat de iidea is dat my natifaaccent isss not very attractive and we like lO uuuse da phraase "you betcha., and "yaderhey" a lot. Ahem. Anyways, after attending Indiana University for fou r years my accent slowly faded away. 
After some research, I discovered the soul.hem mountain dialec1 in Northern Georgia has a rich history behind it. It originated from the first settlers who came to the Southern Appalachian Mountain Range and surrounding regions. These settlers were of "Scotch-Irish" descent and were reminded of their homelands in Ireland and Scotland by the landscape of this region. Many of the expressions spoken by these original settlers, and still today, can be traced back ro the days of Queen Elizabeth I and would be considered Elizabethan English with a Scottish and Irish twist. Some of these expressions can be found in works by great English authors such as Shakespeare. AJfred, and Chaucer, 10 name a few. Building their homes on the mountains and down in the ~boile r's" of this breathtalong landscape isolated these seuters from the rest of the country and in doing so, the mainstream of American life. This isolation seems to have preserved the remarkable dialect. lo the mid 1930s, many of these people were brought into the mainstream culrure slightly with the introduction of electricity created by dams. 
This addition ofelectricity brought in many new inventions which furthered the connection with the rest of the country, such as radios. 
I have found the people of thjs area love 10 use vivid descriptions and colorful phrases. which is part of the reason people with a southern mountain dialec t make such good storytelJe rs. While some of the specific dialect has been lost due 10 people moving into the area from out of state and others moving away from the area, there is still a strong and noticeable vernacular to this area. Some expressions and words I have noticed include: bound- "l f ya don'l eat. you're bound to git hungry ", lollygag- "Come on and stop lollygagin"', c rick- "You see that fish up in the crick?". ~sho-nufii". aim- " He aims to marry her", ruck- "I ain' t tuck a drink this week", bub- -The light bub done blowed-. gander- Moo you wanna take a gander at this?". mow- ~Gimme some mow of these beans". There is also some vocabulary specific 10 this region: afeared (afraid). you'ns (y'all, all of you), airish (breezy). baJd (treeless mountain top), bottom (Oat land along stream). britches (pants) and the list goes on and on. I am very pleased 10 have gotten the opponunity to experience this souLhern mountain dialect and find it be a very unique way of speaking. Although outsiders may find the dialect 10 be unsophisticated. it accually involves many complex features and is anything but simple. The people of the Appalachia region have created and maintained a fonn of speech which both preserves their rich history and identity. Mountain talk dis plays local traditions and cultures and is unique socially and linguistkaJly. To hear the people living in the Appalachia Mountains speak is truly to hear the mountains tell their story. 
AVogel time machine 
Can you imagine playing in a stream at Vogel and finding a ring that took you back in time forty four years. Sounds like something from a movie. This is exactly what happened to eight Girl Scouts who were camping at Vogel with their rwo leaders in April 2005. The girls from Blairsville, found a Druid Hills (Atlanta) High School Class of 1961 ring in the stream. All excited, they said finders keepers. However, it was suggested that perhaps they might be able 10 find the owner. Searching the internet one of the leaders found a website and an alumni directory for Druid Hills. The initials in the ring matched an alumnus from 1961 . 
After numerous e-mails with class members. a siste r of the man whose initials were in the ring was found. She said her brother had died in 1998, but she remembered him losing the ring soon after he received it in 1961. His parents were upset with him. The sister me1 wi1.h the scouLS to receive the ring and tha nked them for their honesty and thoughtfulness. For the.ir honesty. the scout troop received a very generous donation and each of the girls received special recogn11ion for their participation in this find. 
This was very exciting and rewarding for the girl They saw how being kind made someone else happy. Consider performing a random act of kiodncss. 1t will pay big dividen~ many times over. 
 
 Page8 
 
Nature 
 
Voice of Vogel 
 
Beaver tales 
 
Hikers around lake Trahlyta can't help but notice alJ the trees disappearing from the shoreline. We often get quesrions of what is chewing the trees? The answer is simple. It is the beaver. The solution to this problem is not nearly as simple. 
The beaver is a water based, 
fur-bearing mammal. Throughout history, the beaver pelt has been prized. The fur is luxurious making it quite suitable for coats and hats. The beaver trapping industry was so wide spread during the 1700's and 1800's that the beaver became endangered. Over trapping and loss of habitat really put the crunch on lb.is unusual creature. 
The beaver is a nocrumal crearure that is very difficult to view. More often than not you hear him rather than see him. With the slap of its flat tail on the lake's surface as a warning to danger, the beaver quickly dives under water to safety. This loud slap is a warning to other beaver. For the unsuspecting human the loud re,. pon of the slapped tail can send goose bumps up the spine. 
The beaver is renown for it's engineering feats of dam and lodge construction. The dams are built to impound water to create ideal habitat. Water is a security bJanket for the beaver where other predators can't rea.ch it. Beaver don't "J ways live in the traditional lodge buiJt of trees, twigs and mud that can be seen as an island popping out of the ponds surface. Beaver, as in the case of the ones living on Lake Trahlyta can den in the lake bank. 
Why do the beaver chew all 
the trees? The beaver tradition- 
 
aJJy uses the cut trees to c-0nstru.ct 
his dam and lodge. But living in a utopian environment such as Vogel's lake with a human made dam, Life is pretty relaxed. 
The beaver gains some nourishment from the cambium layer under the tree bark. But perhaps the most important reason for the constant chewing is the fact it is a way to keep the beaver's teeth 
worn down. The teeth are continu- 
ally growing and if not wom down will grow into the skuJI. 
The beaver have done some major damage to the shoreline trees at Vogel. For this reason we have had to take measures of trapping and Telocating them. They are a very elusive creature and very prolific. 
It seems where there is one 
there are several more waiting in the wings to take its place. When word spreads of a good thing such as at Vogel, who can help themselves but pay a visit and enjoy paradise. 
 
When is Vogel the most colorful 
 
The focest floor and hillsides in and around Vogel are always in a constant change of flowering colors. From early spring to late faJI , the flower, plants, and trees are sharing their delicate gifts o1 beauty. The following is a listing of when blooms can be e,cpected around Vogel. The dates will vary some from year to year. Some 
years, there may still be colored foliage through late November. 
 
SPRING-SUMMER 
 
Serviceberry (white blooms) 
 
April I 
 
Dogwood blossoms 
 
Month of April 
 
BluebeUs (small wildflower) 
 
April 15 
 
Wild Magnolia tree (large white blooms) April 15 
 
Pink lady Slipper (Dry pine woods) 
 
Last of April 
 
Iris and Trilliums  
 
First of May 
 
Flame Azalea {Orange Blossom) 
 
May 5 -25 
 
Mountain Laurel 
 
May 15 - June 1 
 
Native Rhododendron 
 
June 15- JuJy 15 
 
Sourwood (white blooms) 
 
First of JuJy 
 
FALLCOLORS 
 
Sourwood (red leaves) 
 
Mid September 
 
Poplars {yeUow leaves) 
 
Late September 
 
Maples (red & orange leaves) 
 
October 20 
 
Hickory {yellow leaves) 
 
October 20 
 
Oaks (red & yellow lea~es) 
 
October 25 
 
What sort of animals do you have In the park? 
 
Vogel is a refuge for wildlife. We have a wide assorunent 
of creatures. Some are more abun- 
dant at different times of the year. Mammals that are most prevaJent include the white tailed deer, black bear, red fox, bobcat, gray squirrel, chipmunk, skunk, cottontail rabbit , raccoon, field mouse, brown bat, beaver, muskrat, coyote, ground hog, and 
opossum. White tailed deer come into 
the park when life gets quiet during the faJI and winter. They find refuge during hinting season. This past season we have seen an eightpoint buck. Skunks are possibly the most visible of nocturnal animals. They enjoy walking through campsites and vacuuming up food scraps. They generally do not 
 
, 
.,. leave their tell tail scent if left unmolested. 
Other large wildlife include the Barred Owl, Great Homed Owl 
 
and Screech Owl, Wild Turkey, Red-ShouJdered Hawk and RedTailed Hawk., Canada Goose, Mallard Duck, an occasionaJ Wood duck and even Common Loon was once seen here. There are also a wide variety of smaller songbirds. 
Fi!ih include largemouth Bass, bream, rainbow trout and channel catfish. Other aquatic wildlife include bullfrog, salamanders and the hell bender. Snakes include the ganer snake, timber rattJesnake, copperhead. banded water snake, hog nosed snake. 
All wildJife is protected in the park. Fishermen 16 and over require a license. Please respect the wiJdJife. They trust us 10 look after them and to keep their home free from harassment. 
 
Littlest creatures This eastern screech owl was found injured in the park. A car apparentJy bad hit him. He was rescued and delivered to a 
wildlife rehabilitator where he was evenruaJJy released to return 
to its naruraJ ways. Because this owl was an aduJt it was relatively 
easy 10 care for. It was able to eat on it's own. The problem occurs when baby birds that may have fallen out of a nest or 
other animals that may have become separated from mom are brought to the park office. It is aJroost impossible to care for 
these delicate creatures. Park rangers encourage guests to leave wildlife aJone. It is amazing how resilient these creatures can 
be when left to fend for themselves. Some times when humans 
have bandied a baby animal, the parent will ignore it. The next 
time you see a spotted fawn in the grass, a raccoon kit wandering by a stream, or a baby robin flapping his wings, leave them where they are. It is a very good 
possibility mama is not too far away watching everything you and her baby are doing. 
 
Canada Goose management program 
 
By David Foot The problem: As beautiful 
and graceful as they are, Canada Geese are posing a problem for 
parks, golfcourses and other public areas. Because these creatures 
are eating machines, what goes in 
must come out. This fact of life poses pollution problems for bodies of water and makes waJking 
on grass areas and sidewalks un- 
comfortable. Canada Geese can 
aJso be rather aggressive, especially during nesting season. 
Waterfowl history at Vogel 
State Park:Vogel's Lake Trahlyta has aJways been a haven for wa- 
terfowl. 1n years past the park store wouJd sell bags of com for 
25 cents: This tradition always 
helped maintain a large popuJation of ducks and geese on the 
Jake including Mallards, Ring- 
necked Duck, Wood Duck, American Coot, Hooded Mergan- 
ser, and the Common Loon. All these waterfowl are pretty much 
migratory except the Mallard, 
Wood Duck and the Canada Goose. The migratory waterfowl 
will stay for a while during the winter then go on the.ir way. 
Options for removing geese: 
 
I) Shoot- 
ing geese is one option, but not 
practical in a 
park setting. There is a bunting season from 
November through January 
for large bodies of water. State parks are wild- 
life sanctuaries and bunting is 
prohibited with a few exceptions. 
2) The Live trapping or nettin.g of 
geese is another option. An area i.s baited. When the geese are feeding a net is shot over the feedu)g 
area. This method has been used at Vogel in years past. The prob- 
lem with this is you have onJy one opponunity before they are wise to what is happening. 3) The Last option and one that Vogel is pres- 
ently using is referred to as goose 
harassment. This option is the rec- 
ommended course ofaction by the 
Georgia DNR Game Management Division and the U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service. A noise-maker 
that sounds like whistling fire- 
works is shot over the heads of 
 
the goose gaggle floating on the water. They immediately fly off, sometimes to the other end of the lake. This has to be done repetitively until they take flight and leave the Lake. This method causes no harm to the geese except for some anxiety. The ducks do not seem to be aJanned by the noise. 
So, if you bear a whistling firework in the vicinity of the lake, do not be aJarmed, for the noise that is to follow will be the honking of a gaggle of geese heading toward more peaceful waters. Ifyou have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask one of the .park rangers. 
 
 Voice of Vogel 
 
Nature 
 
Page 9 
 
me HlllBlve BBllblJIJdBl' 
 
A.a rmupectBd vlsltor 
 
By Anne Bohl While many fa scinating 
plam and animal species exist in 
Nonhem Georgia, one ofthe most 
illusive and rare of these is the 
Hellbender salamander, which is listed as a rare species in Georgia 
and is being considered for fed- 
eral listing. Its range is the east- 
ern United States from New York 
to Mississippi and west to Missouri. The hellbender c:tn be 
found in small to medium sized 
rivers and streams with clean wa- 
ter and many large rocks, preferably with 1-3 feet of water. They favor streams wilh sections of fast 
moving water and sections with 
slower runs and pools, much like Wolf Creek here at Vogel. Most 
of the streamS still populated with 
Hellbenders are surrounded by 
national forests due to the mini- 
mal pollution from runoff and mining. 
The Hellbender eatS mainly 
crayfish, but also small fish. snails, and worms. Sometimes referred to as Mudpuppy, Allegheny Alliga- 
ror. Devil Dog. Mollyhugger. Mud Cat, Snot-Otter, and Grampus, it is not the largest sala- 
mander in the world but it comes close. The largest Hellbender ever recorded was just less than 29 inches long and weighing between 4 and 5 pounds! 
Hellbenders can range in 
color from dull brown or gray to 
bright orange or red with darker splotches on their bodies and a 
solid colored belly. Their color- 
ings act as camouflage to help protect them from fish, reptiles, 
birds. and mammals. They have tiny eyes, a flat body and head 
and a large keeled tail, which 
helps propel them through the 
water. Their bodies are very slimy which makes them hard to catcb 
 
and handle, but probably helps with frictfon from fast moving water as well as preventing infections. While they do have many tiny teeth, Ibey rarely bite and are not venomous; however. the skin secretions are toxic to other ani- 
mals. 
Because this fascinating salamander likes 10 live in clean, fast moving streams with many scattered rocks, they are an excellent barometer of a streams health. The Hellbender has been found in Wolf Creek which is a strong indicator this is a clean and thriving stream. We hope to keep it this way in order to protect this rare species and the countless other species which call Wolf Creek I.heir home or depend on it 
for survival. Unfortunately, due to stream 
siltation, the damming of rivers, killing, over collect.ion, and pollution, fie IIbender populations have drastically declined or disappeared in areas they once thrived. The buildup of sediment that occurs during stream siltation smothers the rocks they hide un- 
der as well as the rocks their prey. crayfish. hide under. The damming of rivers creares decreased water flow, lower oxygen levels, and warmer water, which are all deuimeotal to the Hellbender lifestyle. This is precisely why we want to keep Wolf Creek clean 
and flourishing. 
If you happen 10 see one of 
rhese antiques, please leave it 
alone. They are a precious re- 
source we would like to have around forever. If you happen to 
catch one while fishing, remove 
the hook carefully and place hlm back in the stream. Remember, 
the Hellbender is our best indicator of a llealthy stream. 
 
By Anne Bohl  As an intern at Vogel. 1 am very fond of the flora and fauna here at the park. I had my first close up encounter with one of the many critters living here my third week into the internship. 1 was awoken in the middle of the night by I.he sensation that something was pitter-pauering across my body as I lay io bed. I quickly sat 
up to see a small lump under my 
covers rapidly mak:ing its way to the foot of the bed. 
As 1 jumped out of bed, I noticed a small rodent run under my closet door. After two more 
run-ms with Ibis unexpected visi- 
tor I relented to stay awake until I began work the oex1 day. The first item oo the agenda was to speak with our wonderful maintenance staff who strategically placed three mousetraps throughout my room. 
Upon retum.ing to my room at the end of the day I immediately checked the traps and found 
Do you have bear io the park? This is a common question and the answer is, yes. It is a rare opportunity to see one of these wonderful creatures, but when you do it will be a memory that will last a lifetime. Here are some factS on the black bear; 
 Binh weight is 8 ounces.  The black bear lives to eat. 59% of its diet is berries and acorns. They also eat grasses, ants and inseclS.  An adult bear will weigh from 150 to 500 pounds.  Bears can be brown or cinnamon colored.  They have curved claws that don't retract. 
 
a small rodent about 5  long and 2" wide who had met his unfortunate demise. While I bad sus- 
pected a mouse was to blame, this 
rodent was darker in color than a 
mouse, bad a very pointed nose, 
and a shoner tail lhan a mouse. l recognized it right away to be a 
vole. Many of you may be asking, 
what is a vole? A vote is a small 
rodent in the mouse and rat family. They are essentially diurnaJ 
(they stay awake during the day 
and sleep at night) short-tailed 
mice that tunnel through grass and 
just below the surface. They eat vegetation, seeds. and some in- 
sects. After some research. l found 
several species of voles that could 
Jive in the park, including the 
woodland vole, meadow vole, 
red-backed vole, and rock vole. 
They are al1 fairly similar in appearance, but slightly different in 
their behavior. The Woodland Vole prefers 
 
moist woodlands with a light, moist soil and thick layer of organic maner and tunnels below the leaf litter. The meadow vole prefers tunneling through grasses and lives in old orchards, aban- 
doned farmland, and low moist 
areas. The Rock Vole is found in 
elevations above 3,000 feet and likes mossy rocks and logs in cool. moist areas and utilizes runnel systems through rocky areas. 
The Red-Backed Vole enjoys for- 
est ecosystems with a large litter 
layer on the soils surface (layer 
of loose soil. leaves. organic matter), rotting logs, mossy rocks, 
and exposed rootS. All rypes of 
voles provide a food source for 
snakes, owls, and bobcats and play an important role in the 
North Georgia ecosystem. Although I did not appreci- 
ate sharing my bed with a vole, th.ey are interesting liule creatures that add to the diversity of wild- 
life found at Vogel State Park. 
 
Die blaek bear 
 
 They have 42 teeth and a 
Jong sticky tongue. 
 They have soft foot-pads that grow anew each year. 
 They have rwo layers of 
fur that they molt during lhe sum- 
mer.  Their sense of smelJ is 50 
times greater than a human.  Average life span of a 
bear is 8 1/2 years. (Life span of a nuisance bear is 4 years.) 
 A bear may travel up to 
50 miles in a day. They will travel up to 100 miles for food, return- 
ing to an area they may have fed 
at years before.  Bears in the south do not 
hlbernate but ralher sleep for ex- 
 
tended periods of 1jme. Threats to the black bear:  Loss of habitat (Develop- 
ment)  Garbage. Trash kills bears.  Bears that lose their fear 
of humans are dangerous.  Poachers. Road kill. Other 
aggressive bears.  Relocating a problem bear 
is a threat to his life, as he may not survive his trip back 10 his original territory. 
If you see a bear, do not get any closer. Never run away. Do 
DOI play dead. Make noise by yelling, wave 
your arms, throw rocks if necessary. Take precautions 
 
Trout habitat structures Have you noticed the smaJI waterfalls in Wolf Creek created by the placement of large logs across the stream? These stream features are called trout habitat structures designed to create a more suitable living environment for the fish . The purpose is 10 create plenty of splash, which in rum supplies additional oxygen, a much needed requirement for the trout. Notice the deeper holes below the log. This too improves the trout's habitat requiremenlS by providing deep colder water. 
Roger Phillips, Senior Ranger has been instrumental in estabHsbing these stnJctures. Wilh the help of his staff and volunteers. Vogel bas been able to improve the fishing opportunities 
in lhe park streams. 
 
Denhave tlJe treugaae1 
 
The dogwoods are dying because of dogwood aothracnose disease; the American Chesmut sprouts die from the blight that has hung around for more 
than 100 years; the elms have died from Dutch elm disease; the Southern Pine Beetle is attacking the pines; sudden death oak syndro me is killing the oaks. Could life for a tree get any worse. You bet. 
The Eastern Hemlock is being anacked by the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid. The hemlock is the tree that shades our stream banks and is so prolific in the we1 areas of the campground. This spectacular tree has the flat feathery needles. The trees grow to spectacular heighlS and size. What an ecological disaster this will cause when this mighty tree disappears. 
The hemlock is gone from the forests of Virginia. This little bug has marched it's way through the Carolinas and has finally reached Georgia. Yes, the adelgid has been found in Vogel. The death is slow for a hemlock. 
Once the bug auacks, a healthy tree may succumb to death in live years if no action is taken. This is going 10 be devastating 10 Vogel. WolfCreek's waters will .warm up from lack of shade giving up 
 
the trout that have lived there since eternity. The campground will take on a whole new look and feel. 
The adelgid can be controlled with chemical treatment and the placement of a predator beetle. However, these measures are very expensive and labor intensive. 
The Forest Service is chemically treating se- 
lected plots of hemlock. The National Park Service in the Smokies has placed predator beetles on infested trees. What can Vogel do? 
We are taking a wait and watch strategy at this point. When there is i'lcreased evidence of the adelgid infesting our trees. we will begin a chemical treatment program . It will be economically impossible to treat every tree in lhe park. We will have 10 select certain specimens and rreat them for as long as is necessary, -.vhich could mean five 10 ten years. During this time. it is hoped the bug moves on or dies off from lack of a food supply. 
The purchase of the chemical will be paid for in pan through Park Pass revenues. So when you pay your three dollar Park Pass. know that it is being .used 10 eradicate a very pesky pest.. 
 
 Page JO 
 
Safety 
 
Voice of Vogel 
 
Recommendations for first time campers Hypothermia 
 
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses bea1 faster 
 
By Randy GambreU  Each year we see va- 
 
- 1.1 I 
 
than it can be produced. The body's core 1emperarure drops. The mos1 imponant prevention of hypothermia is 
 
ca1ions ruined because of 
 
to recognize its symp1oms. To help do 1his, think C-O-L- 
 
unseasoned campers and 
las1 minu1e plan11ing. Maybe some or all of lhese ideas of lhings to do before 
and during camping will 
make your experience more enjoyable at Vogel or any 
olher campground. Motor Homes 
Camper Trailers Fifth Wheels Pop-ups 
Truck Campers Check. with dealersh ips abou1 operational 
training from driving to operating aJI lhe bells and 
 
1ors are secured. Have a check-off list 
for duties that need 10 be completed before moving 
 
Not to make many last minute decisions. 
All tow vehicles/trail- 
ers and i1ems are secured 
 
set up for the night. Wait 
unril the next day to make 
everything nice and tidy. Be considerate of oth- 
 
D. 
C - Change in mental status ... As the body"s temperature drops from the normal 98.6 degree F the brain begins to cool. The results are, the brain is not thinking as quickly and efficiently. This crea1es an apathetic attitude that contributes to loss ofjudgement. 
0 - Onset of shivering ... As the body's temperature drops below 96 degrees F the brain tells the body 10 sta.n shivering to help balance the body's temperature needs. Shivering produces heat. The shivering will increase until the body's temperarure reaches 92 degrees F when the shivering will cease. 
L - Loss of coordination ... Coordination begins to fail when the body temperature drops from 96-94 degrees. Fine motor coordination becomes impaired, affecting the use of fingers. Speech becomes thick and slurred. Between 
 
whistles on your new or your camper/rig (This will such as: equipment. chains, ers while on the road and 95-92 degrees gross motor coordination is affected. The 
 
used rig. 
 
save you $$$$). 
 
straps, hitches. locks, trailer while camping. 
 
vicLim will begin tripping. stumbling and falling. There 
 
If nolhing else, go to an empty shopping cemer 
parking 101 to prac1ice your pulling and backing skills 
wilh whatever type rig you 
own. Set up your camper/ 
rig prior to going camping 
10 make sure everylhing is 
working properly. 
Make sure your homeowners insurance will 
cover your camper while i1 
is parked. Make sure you are in- 
sured while traveling down the highway. 
Before depar1ing, 
 
Tent camping Prepare for ra.in showers or downpours. Bring 
extra tarps for underneath 
the tent (Make sure all edges of the tarp are tucked underneath the sides of the 
tent. If they are not, this 
channels rain underneath 
your bedding). AJso a tarp for hanging over 1he tent 
(Bring extra ropes and prac- 
tice your knot tying skills). Set up your tent prior 
10 ~oing camping to familianz.e yourself with your 
equipmc;nt. 
Make sure tent poles/ 
 
balls and Reece pins are installed properly (Secure it 
as if you were going to be 
following your own trailer, 
camper or rig). 
Lights are working properly on tows, pulling 
vehicle, trailers and rigs. 
Last minute checks before pulling out the driveway 
can save you and someone 
following you much hean- 
acbe in more ways than one. 
Proper brake adjust- 
ments arc made and the 
brakes are in sufficiem con: 
dition for the long haul. 
 
Talk 10 others that are seasoned campers about 
possible camping equipment needs and their unique 
ideas and experiences. Use a check-off list for 
camping equipmem and uti- 
lize it each time you go camping. 
Bring extra tarps, 
ropes and metal stale.es (NO 
NAILS PLEASE). Bring a claw/rubber 
hammer for driving in or 
pulling out stakes. 
Keep all camping equipment in one,Jocation. 
Check all equipment 
 
is muscular rigidity. The body is freezing! D - Doomed ... Below 92 degrees lhe pupils are di- 
lated and the victim is slipping into unconsciousness. Death is not too far off. 
Hypothermia prevention An ounce of prevention is wonb your life. Remember W-A-R-M-T-H. W - When we1. get dry and stay dry. A wet body and clothes will act as an air condi1ioner. So stay ou1 of the wind as well. A - Attire ... Wear clothes that minimize heat loss. even when wet. Wool and polypropylene stay warm when 
wet. R - Raingear ... Always be prepared in the event of 
rain. It can occur withoul warning. M - Munch ... Snack often on carbohydrates. The 
body needs fuel to bum and maintain heat. 
 
look 10 see that the antenna fiber rods are with the tent. When in doubt, replace the for proper functions. 
 
T - Thermoregulation ... Dress in layers that can be 
 
is down. 
 
Treat your tent and brake pads/liners . No 
 
Make menus in ad- shed or added as activity increases or outside tempera- 
 
Cheek your steps and 
stabilizers so tha1 they are 
up and secured. See that the awning is 
locked in before rraveling. 
Stabilizers bars are attached and the tongue 
weight is dis1ribu1ed cor- 
reclly. All compar1ment 
doors are locked and articles in them are secured. 
hems in cabinets. clos- 
ets, drawers and refrigera- 
 
rain fly with a good quality water repellent. Allow suf- 
ficient time for drying and 
sealing. During cooler seasons 
bring an elec1ric ceramic 
heater for knocking off the chill before rurning in for 
the night or waking in the 
morning (This will also dry 
your tem out as well). AU camping units 
Plan in advance be- 
fore taking a camping trip. 
 
brakes are NOT FUN. Have a cenified me- 
chanic check your vehicle 
for highway worthiness be- 
fore going on a road trip. 
Remember you have a trailer or tow vehicle fol- 
lowing you. Allow more 
space for turns, leaning 
trees, tight curves. Also, 
allow more time to stop. Allow enough time 
for arrival prior to the 
campground's quiet time 10 
 
vance. 
Purchase a campfire 
cookbook for fun things to 
cook and eat around the campfire. 
Don't use propane, 
white gas. charcoal or any other carbon monoxide pro- 
ducing fuel inside a nonventilated environment. 
Carbon monoxide kills. Advise proper park staff of 
any dangerous situations 
you may see or encounter. 
 
tures begin to drop. Stay warm. do not overheat or sweat. H - H2O ... Drink plenty of fluids. Water and fruit 
juices are best. Avoid alcohol as ii will make an individual do stupid things as well as dilate the blood vessels 10 cool the body more rapidly. Alcohol will also give a false sense of warmth. The old tale of the Saini .Bernard carry the cask of brandy was the wrong th.ing to tell people. 
Treatment of Hypothermia Hypothermia is a true emergency and immediate 
acrion needs to be taken. A way to remember how to 1rea1 hypothermia is to think R-E-W-A-R-M. 
R - Recognize wha1 hypothermia is. E - Environmen1 - h is imponan1 that sheller is found for the victim. l1 mus1 be away from the wind, it must be 
 
VogelPSI- 
Park 8a81JB 
IBVBBt/gatlOIJ 
 
Can you match these pictur~ with 
places in Vogel State Park? 
 
dry. and it must be wam,t. W - Wet - All hypothermia victims are we1. The mois- 
ture may be from sweat or it could be from a fall in a stream. Get the victim stripped of all wet clothes. Get 1he victim dry and keep them dry . 
A - Apply insula1ion - lnsula1e the victim from wind and make every effon to maintain any heal that may be recovered. Keep the victim off the ground. Insulate th.e head and feet as 80% of all heat ex.its the extremities. 
 
1. - - - - - - - 
 
R - Refuel - Refuel the body if the victim is con- 
 
2. - - - - - - - scious. 11 is imponant that the victim drink swee1 liquid to help improve energy reserves that have been devel- 
 
3. - - - - - - - oped by shivering. 
 
4. - - - - - - 5. - - - - - - - 
 
M - Monitor - Monit0r the airway and vital signs. Keep a close eye on the victim and get to a hospital as soon as possible. 
 
REMEMBER. 
 
Answers on page 12. 
 
WHEN YOUR MOST rMPORTANT TOOL (the brain) FAll.SYOU, 
 
THE BODY IS IN TROUBLE. 
 
 Voice of Vogel 
 
Safety 
 
Page 11 
 
Help of a friend 
 
Bike helments are required 
Geo rgia 
 
By David Foot 
 
State Law re- 
 
November 28, 2005 started out like any other day. quires all chil- 
 
The s1aff had arrived at work and was getting situated in dren ages 15 
 
!heir daily routine, when at 8:44 a.m. things were about and younger to 
 
to change. 
 
wear a bicycle 
 
The visitor's center receives a cell phone call from helmet. This 
 
the sole camper in the campground reporting a plane crash. law is enforced 
 
The caller said Ibey had lhe pilot at their campsite. 
 
to keep your 
 
The staff immediately activated its emergency op- family safe. Ev- 
 
erations plan. Park rangers responded finding a 56 year ery year park 
 
old male with severe burns and abrasions about h.is face range rs re- 
 
and body. The camper had made the victim as comfort- spond lO bi- 
 
able as possible. 
 
cycle accidents. Leannah and Luke Gambrell, children of Assistant 
 
Union County EMS. Fire Rescue and the Depart- And some of Manager Randy Gambrell and wife Lynn, obey the 
 
menr of Natural Resources Search and Rescue Team had these have to go state law by wearing theirbicycle helmets. 
 
all been notified. AJI staff on site was activated 10 assist in 10 the emer- 
 
receiving the emergency response. In !he meantime. !he gency room. Bicycle helmets do prevent major injury and 
 
pilot, now a patient, was tended 10 by the staff until EMS do save lives. Please, keep our children safe by insuring 
 
Search and rescue team 
 
arrived. 
 
!hey are wearing a helmet every time Ibey are on a bi- 
 
The pilot was not. able 10 give very accurate infor- cycle. Georgia Law 40-6-296. 
 
Lost prevention tips The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Search mation as 10 where the accident occurred. Leaving one 
and Rescue Team is available to save a life. The team is ranger with the pilot and campers to try to get more i_n- 
 
comprised of volunteers from Parks & Historic Sites, Wild- formatioo, the ocher staff began a hasty search of the muls 
 
The rangers at Vogel want to give a few helpful hints 
 
life Resources, and Environmental Protection. The team's 
purpose is to perform search and rescue on DNR proper- 
ties as well as assist on missions through the Georgia Emer- 
gency Management Agency. The team is trained in sur- 
 
behind the campground and in the vicinity of the pioneer camping area. As more help arrives, a command post is 
set up in the office. Search crews are dispatched to various locations on 
 
on how to prepare before taking a hike.  Have a plan. Know where you are going. Always 
repon in when you return.  Tell a responsible person what your itinerary is. 
 
vival, technical rock rappelling, Incident Command, the south side of Vogel and the north side of Blood Moun- Tell them where you are going, when you w.ill return, 
 
ground searching and first aid. 
 
tain. Eventually one search crew locates the plane wreck- and what to do if you do not return as scheduled. 
 
- 
 
Hopefully you will never have a need for the ser- age and a deceased passenger just off the Coosa 
 
vices of this team. But you can rest easy knowing there Baclccountry Trail, approximately 3/4 of a mile south of 
 
are trained rangers ready to come to lhe aid of a guest in the pioneer camping area in the Blood Mountain Wilder- 
 
distress. David Foot, Park Manager and Randy Gambrell,  ness Area. 
 
Assistant Manager are Vogel's representatives on the team. 
 
The day before, Sunday, was overcast in Andrews, 
 
NC as Randy and Barbara Hackle of Metter. Georgia de- 
 
 Become familiar with lhe area you will be traveling by studying maps and Hte.rature. 
 Do not travel alone. Hiking is safer in numbers. This way if someone gets hurt, the other person is available to give aid or to go for help. 
 Stay with your group. 
 
cided to fly home after a weekend in the mountains celebrating their 36th wedding anniversary. 
Randy took off in his single engine 140 Piper plane 
 
 Stay on marked trails. Do 001 take shortcuts.  Do not travel after dark. 
 Pay attention to the weather for the duration of 
 
about I:30, but after flying for a shore time decided the your hiJce and beyond. Dress appropriately. For colder 
 
weather was too severe and he returned to !he airpon. At weather, dress in layers so as you warm up, layers can be 
 
3:30 he decided to anempt it again feeling !hings had shed and as you cool down, you can add them back on. 
 
improved. 
 
Be prepared for rain. The weather reports are not always 
 
Flying for just a few minutes, Randy flew into a dense cloud cover as he neared Blood Mountain. He at- 
 
accurate.  Avoid conon clothing. Conon when wet does not 
 
tempted to fly out but tragically crashed ~nto the steep dry fast and will cool the body faster when air passes over 
 
mountainside. The plane was on fire, caught in some trees. it. When wet, get dry. When cold, get warm. 
 
Randy could not find his wife. He fell 10 !he ground and 
 
 Stay out of the wind when resting. 
 
was probably unconscious for a time. Then there was an 
 
 Drink water before you get thirsty. Obtain water 
 
explosion and flames all around him. He stiU could not from a safe source. Assume all wilderness water is im- 
 
find his beloved Barbara. Randy knew be bad to get help, so he began walk- 
 
pure.  
 
lf you do get lost, STAY PUT. 
 
Slow down 
The speed limit throughout the park is 15 miles per hour. With all the pedestrian traffic it is imperative that drivers pay attention to Ibis law. Many of the children and even some of the adults are not paying attention to what they are doing or where they are walking. Park law enforcement rangers will enforce the speed limit. Please 
don' t be a statistic. DRIVE DEFENSIVELY . 
 
ing, finding an old trail and logging road. He wal_ked 
into the pioneer camping area, ta.king shelter for the rught 
under an overturned picnic table. The next morning at 
first light, Randy continues to walk blinded by his wounds 
finding the lone camper in the Vogel campground. 1be camper answers a desperate knock on the trailer 
door and sees a man who is unrecognizable due to bis 
burned face. Randy teUs his story. After a few minutes the camper realizes be knows 
Ibis man. They actually go the same church in Metter, 
 
 Make yourself beard by blowing a whistle. 
 Make yourself visible. Lt is hoped you have a safe and enjoyable bike. if you have any questions, the scaff of Vogel wilJ be glad to assist. 
Onward Christian soldiers 
Every year park rangers perform several medical evacuations from various locations on the park. One of the more memorable incidents involved a woman who 
 
Fire llgbtlng procedure 
 
Georgia. What are the chances of this happening? 
 
was walking down to the observation deck below the wa- 
 
1be camper was scheduled to check: out on Sunday terfall on the dam. She twisted her ankle and was no shape 
 
 Ball paper (about six balls) and place oo bottom but decided to stay one more day so they would not have to walk out. 
 
of fire ~x between log supports. 
 
to fight the returning Thanksgiving traffic. 
 
David Poot, Parle Manager responded with the 
 
 Place small twigs or fat lighter sticks on paper. 
 
Everything fell into place for these two frien~o wheeled Htter. After splinting her ankle lO give it sup- 
 
 Place several small logs across log supports. 
 
meet. 1ne Lord works in mysterious ways, and this was port she bad to be carried out. Being by h.imself, David 
 
 Make sure there is plenty ofair flow around wood. one more example of His way of providing help to an bad ;o enlist the help of the other members of her walking 
 
 Light. 
> Do not use lighter fluid. 
 
injured sole. 
 
party. After giving them direction, she was loaded into 
 
Randy Hackle made his recovery in an Augusta, the basket and wheeled up onto the dam to a waiting ve- 
 
 Keep ftre small and toward back of fire box. 
 
Georgia burn hospital. He bad many months of recovery, hicle. 
 
 Open a window a crack in room wilh fire to 
 
but bis recovery was made possible because of a friend 
 
What made this carry out so unique was the group 
 
a create air flow. , , 
 
, 
 
 Have warm and safe visit. 
 
who happened to be camping hundreds of miles from home singing "Onward Chriscian Soldiers". Besides being an 
 
and was there when be was needed most. 
 
easy -evacuation the event was very inspirational. 
 
 Page 12 
Music in the park Saturday at 8 p.m. 
How about spending an enjoyable summer Saturday evening listening to beautiful music wafting over Lake Trablyta? Every Saturday at 8 PM from Memorial Day weekend through September Music In The Park can be experienced. What a wonderful way to relax and soak up the cool night air. Watch the park bulletin boards for perfonnance schedules. 
 
Voiu of Vogel 
 
July 4th 
 
celebration 
Join hundreds of your closest park friends as they play all day 10 celebrate our Nation's lrrdepeadeace. The day's excitement 
consists of a bicycle parade, 
paddleboat races, sand castle building contests, field games that consist ofsack races, greased pole climb, dizzy tizzy, water balloon toss, egg throw and the traditional watermelon eating. These activities are reminiscent of simpler Limes in AppaJachia when the locals gathered for a July Fourth picnic and games. 
 
Annual wild Dower walk 
On Saturday, April 22, the park will host a Wildflower Walk. This annual sojourn celebrates the beauty of 1he forest floor. Led by a professional naturalist, this walk is a seasonal favorite. Flowers such as False Solomon Seal , Pink Lady Slipper, Bluets, Dwarf Crested Iris. Flame Azalea, Trout Lily. Dutchmen's Breeches and Hepatica are all in bloom for display. Join us for a walk in the park it will open your eyes 10 a hidden beauiy. 
 
Kids fishing rodeo 
What a day to go fishing. Youngsters, 12 and under will have cbe opponunity to fish Wolf Creek for rainbow trout. You will never see so many smiling faces. If the adults don't watch out, lhey may be caught up in the excitement as well. Wildlife Resources Fisher ies Unit wi ll stock Wolf Creek with hundreds of trout. This pretty much guarantees a catch for every child present. Volunteers wiJI be avaiJable 10 assist those children who need assistance. There is no competition involved with lhis program. Rather, we emphasize the fun of fishing. Every child does receive a prize. Thls program is sponsored in part by Coca-Cola Bottlers and many other area businesses. This fishing event is held on lhe second Saturday of June. 
Junior Ranger program 
Youngsters are encouraged to participate in the Department of Natural Resources Junior Ranger Program. Each park and Historic Site in Georgia has the booklets 10 begin the adventure. There are three level of panicipation for ages 6- 12. Level I is for ages 6 & 7: level 11 is for ages 8 - IO: and 
level rn is for ages 11 & 12. Each level has 
a few more challenges and incremental degrees of difficuJiy. 
Subject matter includes study of the 
natural resources found in Georgia. fishing, wildlife, fruits and flowers , history, animals and more. This should be fun for the entire family. The books can be picked up at any park or historic site office. lf you have quesLions, feel free 10 talk with a park ranger. 
Join in on the fun . The staff of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is waiting to show you the fun and excitement that can be found in the outdoors. 
Answers to Vogel PSI on page 10 
I. Memory Walkway by beach 
2. Paddleboat peddle 
3. Side ofCCC Museum 
4. Side oflog cabin wall 
S. Log cabin comer log 
 
ounta 
 
Tbis annual program celebrates Appa lachian culcure with music, song, dance and crafts. This popular program is placed in tbe beautiful setting of theater on the shores of Lake TrahJyta. As visitors peruse the crafts and watch live demonstrations, music that was common I00 years ago can be heard. The program begins at 11 A.M. Admission 10 the music is $5.00 for aduJts, $2.00 children. This festival is the second Saturday of September. 
Fall hoedown 
 
The annual faJJ Hoedown is scbeduJed for October 21st, 2006. This event is always popular with the park guest. Activities include dancing in the lakeside parking lot. hayrides, story telling by the campfire while roasting marshmallows and a new addition this past year with the CakewaJk. The Cakewalk is where individuals pay a dollar for an opponunicy to walk for a donated homemade cake with. the possibiliiy ofbeing able to bring one home. The funds raised through the Cakewalk go 10 the Vogel. Volunteers for projects on the park. 
Outdoor classroom 
 
Spring at Vogel 
 
sees scores of school 
 
' 
 
children coming to 
 
Vogel for educational 
 
field trips. Programs 
 
given by the park 
 
rangers are a continu- 
 
ation of the classroom 
 
studies the students 
 
have had over the pre- 
 
vious year. Program subjects may include: All about the 
 
Black Bear in North Georgia: Lost Prevention or how not 
 
to get lost in the woods; Trout Stream Habitat: The Civilian 
 
Conservation Corps: as well as other resource related top- 
 
ics. Leaming bas never been so much fun . 
 
Christmas program 
The first Saturday of December is a festive time as the park celebrates the Christmas Season. The day is marked with hayrides, caroling, warm refreshments, and the tree lighting. Come join hundreds of the park neighbors and guests as we sing in the spirit of Christmas. 
Annual Clvillan Conservation Corps (CCC) reunion 
The "Boys" of the CCC will gather on May 13th 10 reminisce about a simpler time. Everyone is invited 10 anend this liviog history program. This is a great opportunity to meet a real CCC Boy who experienced the desperate 1ime called the Great Depression. These boys worked across the country in the Tree Army. They have tales to rell of planting trees, fighting fire, planting kudzu, building dams and parks and other experiences that some say were the best days of their lives. This is a fascinating trip back in time as these fellows relive their life in the CCC. This is a great opportunity for young people 10 learn what life was like during the Depression. The program begins at 11 A.M. in the park group shelier. The program is free. The luncheon meal is covered dish. Bring a friend, bring a dish and come listen 10 some Stories of the Civilian Conservation Corps. There will be a mur of the CCC Museum.