J Michael McGarity
Lifestyle at Cresswind Twin Lakes
Chelsea Cabasal Lifestyle Director
Hello!
The new year is coming up so fast! Can you believe it is almost 2025?? Where does the time go? We have definitely had a fantastic 2024 in our community as we continued to host great events and residents began to take advantage of all the clubhouse has to offer. In fact, when 2024 began we had 28 chartered clubs. As we close out the year, we now have 50 active clubs! It’s amazing to see the growth and increased activity in the Clubhouse.
The past few months brought a lot of exciting events too. In September we celebrated National Little Black Dress day with a potluck brunch for a second year. It was such a fun time seeing everyone in their little black dress. And the food was delicious! October saw a lot of exciting events, as well. We had a visit from comedian Cary Long and Liverpool Legends, the phenomenal Beatles tribute band, really brought the house down. In fact, it was our most popular outdoor concert ever! We had over 500 people in attendance, which is more than any other concert we have had. And in November, we brought back our annual Holiday Market, where many residents were able to complete some of their holiday shopping.
As we head into December and then into the new year, our calendar is not lacking for things to do. Our annual Holiday Party will take place on Saturday, December 14th, and we are so excited to welcome back one of Cresswind’s favorite bands, The Regulators. For those for a weekend of holiday activity, Sunday, December 15th will be a one-of-a-kind Voices of the Holidays performance, a holiday extravaganza filled with the most recognizable Christmas standards, a little ventriloquism, and lots of laughs. It is sure to be a memorable holiday season!
Even after the festivities and hubbub of the holidays, our calendar has something to offer for everyone. Once you recover from the late night on New Year’s Eve, look ahead at what’s to come in 2025. I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
About this Magazine
The contents for the The Lakes™, Cresswind® at Twin Lakes Magazine is provided to the residents of Cresswind® at Twin Lakes for no profit, to ensure that residents receive relevant and updated content about activities, events and facilities. This magazine is provided at no cost to the residents of the Cresswind® at Twin Lakes community and is printed using advertising profits on a quarterly basis. Please support the advertisers who make this magazine a possibility. If you have any ideas or would like to contribute to its making, please contact Chelsea Cabasal: chelsea.cabasal@fsresidential.com
PGS- Print Graphics Services, Inc.
To advertise in The Lakes™ at Cresswind® at Twin Lakes, contact Charlie Nelson at 678-471-5920 or charlie@printgraphics.net.
The Lakes™ – Cresswind® at Twin Lakes Magazine is a publication of Print Graphics Services, Inc. Subject matter published is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher of this magazine. Advertisers assume responsibility for the content of the ads placed in publication. Material published may not be reproduced without written permission of Print Graphics Services, Inc.
The information and advertisements contained in this magazine are provided to the members of Cresswind® at Twin Lakes and its homeowners association as a courtesy only. No representations are made as to information presented, the quality of goods or services advertised, or the veracity of the statements relating to the goods and services. The printing of opinions, information or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Cresswind® at Twin Lakes community or such opinions, information, goods or services.
“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” – Winston Churchill
Outdoor Concert Liverpool Legends
You might think that the end of October is late in the season for an outdoor concert. But the weather surprised us with a beautiful day, as over 530 residents gathered on the Outdoor Event Lawn for Liverpool Legends, a phenomenal Beatles tribute band.
Hand-picked by George Harrison’s sister, the Liverpool Legends are the ultimate emulation of the Fab Four! Not only have they been nominated for a Grammy, but they’ve also toured the world and headlined the Rose Bowl. So, Cresswind at Twin Lakes was lucky to host such an unforgettable group in our community.
This was, by far, our biggest concert yet. Over 530 people were in attendance and nearly every section of the outdoor seating was full! In typical
Cresswind fashion though, the seats weren’t full for long as concert goers boogied down on the dance floor. From the first note to the last, the dance floor was packed with long-time fans of The Beatles and music lovers in general.
From the 60s-inspired outfits, to the delicious food that many attendee brought in, the night was full of fun for all! As the final notes were played, the crowd’s applause said it all—this was a night to remember. With iconic songs, unbeatable energy, and a perfect evening under the stars, Liverpool Legends brought our community together like never before. We can’t wait to see what unforgettable performances the next season will bring, but for now, this incredible night will be hard to top!
Outdoor Concert by Liverpool Legends
LIFESTYLE at a glance
DEVELOPER UPDATE FROM OUR COMMUNITY DIRECTOR, JENNIFER LANDERS
Jennifer Landers Community Director
Winter Greetings Cresswind at Twin Lakes!
Kolter’s development update brings exciting news: over the past four years, we’ve closed on more than 560 homes and sold over 700 in total. We’re thrilled that the new Publix has opened, and additional commercial properties within the shopping center are on the horizon.
The community is being developed in eight phases,with five already sold out or under construction. All phases are fully designed and permitted, and Phase 6a, along Geneva Way and 7a on Sharp Trail, is currently under development.
The main entrance at Hwy 53 and Twin Lakes Blvd. is moving forward, with a signal equipment expected by the end of 2024. The intersection will be active in early 2025.
The large lake dam construction is complete, and the lake’s water levels are returning to normal. It may take up to 12 months for the lake to fully stabilize at its natural level. We appreciate the community’s patience throughout the project.
The second phase of Pickleball Complex, featuring four tenniscourtsand20morepickleballcourts,isscheduled for installation by September 2025. The courts will be multi-use for both tennis and pickleball, and they’ll be fully lit with shaded benches for added comfort.
Lastly, as development continues, we’ll keep expanding the walking and hiking trails. We’re working closely with the Trails Committee on the next round of trail installations.
We look forward to continuing this journey with you!
Sincerely,
Jennifer Landers, Community Director
•Efficiency boost: Saves energy, lowers bills.
•Longevity: Extends equipment lifespan, delays replacements.
•Consistent performance: Prevents breakdowns, ensures reliability.
•Healthier air: Reduces allergens, improves indoor air quality.
•Safety check: Detects hazards, ensures
AEROBICS ROOM
■ Yoga & Pilates
Monday & Wednesday
7:45–9:15 am
■ Fit & Fabulous
Monday & Wednesday
9:15–10:45 am
■ Tai Chi($) Tuesday: 11:00 am–12:00 pm
■ Yoga by Cassie($) Thursday: 9:30–10:20 am
■ Chair Yoga($) Thursday: 10:30–11:20 am
■ Beginner Line Dance($) Monday: 4:00–5:00 pm
■ Line Dance($) Monday: 5:00–6:00 pm
NATATORIUM
■ Poolates($)
Monday & Wednesday 11:00 am–12:00 pm
■ WaterWorks
Tuesday & Thursday 8:30–9:30 am
■ Aqua Fit
Tuesday & Thursday 10:15 am–11:15 am
Wednesday 5:30–6:30 pm
BRAND NEW
RACE-THEMED HOTEL
CRESSWIND’S HOST HOTEL
3 MILES FROM ROAD ATLANTA
LaQuinta® by Wyndham Braselton offers:
LaQuinta® by Wyndham Braselton offers:
BRAND NEW RACE-THEMED HOTEL
•
106 Guest Rooms and Suites that include in-room Microwaves, Mini Refrigerators, Coffee Makers, 49” Flat Screen LED TVs and High Speed Internet.
106 Guest Rooms and Suites that include in-room Microwaves, Mini Refrigerators, Coffee Makers, 49" Flat Screen LED TVs and High Speed Internet.
wake up on the bright side®
Comfy Pillowtop Beds
• FREE Hot Breakfast
HDTVs with premium channels
wake up on the bright side®
3 MILES FROM ROAD ATLANTA
LaQuinta® by Wyndham Braselton offers:
• FREE WiFi
• Earn more with Wyndham Rewards®
• FREE Hot Breakfast • FREE WiFi • Comfy Pillowtop Beds
Comfy Pillowtop Beds
106 Guest Rooms and Suites that include in-room Microwaves, Mini Refrigerators, Coffee Makers, 49" Flat Screen LED TVs and High Speed Internet.
706-684-3266 | LQ.com
• HDTVs with premium channels • Bright Side Market®
Bright Side Market®
HDTVs with premium channels
• Earn more with Wyndham Rewards®
LaQuinta by Wyndham BRASELTON
Earn more with Wyndham Rewards®
706-684-3266 | LQ.com
lqbraselton@gmail.com
• Bright Side Market®
LaQuinta by Wyndham BRASELTON
200 Kaival Ln | Braselton, GA 30517
200 Kaival Ln | Braselton, GA 30517
Hoschton Hoschton
Chateau
CRESSWIND TWIN LAKES BOWLING CLUB/LEAGUE
Born out of a Facebook suggestion, the Cresswind Twin Lakes Bowling Club/League is alive and well, rolling along (pun intended), in its second season. The club and the league both function together under the same leadership as they support each other. The Bowling Club began in the spring of 2024 with an idea to start a bowling league. We then approached Stars and Strikes in Buford to see if we could do a “Come and Try it Day”, given that many of us had not bowled in 30, 40, or 50 years. They supported the idea, and we had about 35 people join us that first day.
this fall. But it is not all about the scores. None of us are professional bowlers. You do not even need to own a bowling ball or shoes, just be ready to come out each week and have a great time!
From there it took off. We started with a 10-week league last summer with 12 teams and have seen tremendous growth. We currently have a 13- week, 18 team Fall League in progress. It’s our hope to grow the club even larger with our Winter Season (beginning in January 2025).
If you are looking for a great activity with lots of fun, tons of laughs, lots of high fives, and fist bumps, and generally great fellowship with your friends and neighbors....we urge you to check out the Bowling Club/League. It is a handicap league, making it a great activity for everyone as the handicap levels the playing field. The handicap is based on a 200 average with 90% being the handicap (Example, a bowler has an average of 110, the difference between 200 and 110 is 90 pins, we then take 90% of 90 pins which is 81. So an average of 110 would have 81 pins handicap as compared to a 190 bowler who would have a handicap of 9 pins to make it basically even.) All this is calculated by the bowling alley so all you have to do is bowl. We are currently making plans for our Winter League beginning in January 2025 and need singles, couples, entire teams and substitutes. COME
JOIN THE FUN!!!!!
We have some very good bowlers in our midst and enjoy celebrating the talent in the league. We recognize high average and most improved for men and women at the end of the season along with a number of other recognitions for individual and team achievements. Many bowlers who bowled last summer have already raised their average 10-15 pins over last summer. The KingPins (Gary Bennett, Dan Devaney, Pete Noone, Andy Phelps and Tom Tappan) were the League Champions for the first season but they have some stiff competition
If you are interested in joining as a substitute now or joining a team in January, please reach out to Rick Fikes (770-329-7448 or fikes@att.net) or Gary Bennett (404-936-4604 or gbenn445@ gmail.com) Watch the newsletter and Facebook page for information on our organizational meeting probably in mid- December.
■ Amazing View Travel Club
■ Ambassadors
■ Antiques & Collectibles
■ Book It! Book Club
■ Bowling Club
■ Bridge Club
■ Brush Up! Fine Art Painting
■ Bustlin’ Around
■ Cooking Club
LIFESTYLE
OUR CURRENT CLUBS
■ COACT Theater League
■ Dance Club
■ Friends of the Monarch
■ Game Night
■ Ice Hockey Forum
■ Jeep Club
■ Just Craftin’ Around
■ Kiln’ It! Pottery Club
■ Kool Geek Club
■ Ladies Lunch Club
■ Lakes Club
■ MahJongg Tilers
■ Martini Club
■ Memory Makers
■ Men’s Billiards Club
■ Men’s Club
■ Mexican Train Dominoes
■ Motorcycle Club
■ Music Club
■ Pickleball Club
■ Poker Club
■ Pool & Grounds Club
■ Quilting for Kids Club
■ RC Boat Club
■ Real Gurlz Bible Study
■ Samba Club
■ Shalom Club
■ Single & Social
■ Sponsorship Club
■ The Shuffle Group
■ Trailblazers Hiking Club
■ Veterans Club
■ Wine Club For
Expand Your Living Space
The Andrews Brothers • Dueling Pianos
In the fall, Cresswind residents were buzzing with anticipation as they eagerly gathered for a special Friday night event. The community was thrilled to welcome The Andrews Brothers, a dynamic musical dueling pianos duo known for their vast repertoire and sharp comedic banter, which created an entertaining experience from the very first note.
For many in attendance, it was their first time seeing The Andrews Brothers, and while excitement was high, some weren’t quite sure what to expect from the evening. However, it quickly became clear that the duo, made up of Damian Cartier and Mark Kovaly, was more than ready to deliver a night full of surprises. Their high- energy performance, coupled with their effortless ability to engage the crowd, had everyone singing along and laughing together all evening.
The Andrews Brothers’ setlist was nothing short of impressive, either. They knew nearly every song that was requested, seamlessly transitioning between musical eras and genres. From timeless classics like Neil
Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” which had the entire room singing in unison, to forgotten gems such as Meatloaf’s rock opera “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” they catered to every musical taste. Throughout the evening, residents sang, clapped, and cheered, creating a lively atmosphere that echoed with joy and camaraderie. The comedic interplay between Damian and Mark kept the energy high, making it feel as though the audience wasn’t just watching a show, but a part of it.
As the night came to a close, the duo saved a special moment for the finale: a group sing-along of Billy Joel’s iconic “Piano Man.” The familiar song struck a chord with the audience, and soon the entire room was belting out the lyrics, arms in arm, and swaying in unison. It was a wonderful moment that united the crowd, capping off the night on a high note. The Andrews Brothers brought everyone together, and with the final strains of “Piano Man” still lingering in the air, it’s safe to say the audience was already looking forward to their next performance at Cresswind.
Holiday Market
The holiday season always seem to appear in the blink of an eye, and before you know it holiday cheer is everywhere. It is no different at Cresswind at Twin Lakes! On Saturday, November 9th, the multipurpose room hosted 23 vendors for our annual Holiday Market. The room lit up with holiday cheer as vendors showcased their handcrafted goods, artwork, sweet treats, and more. It was onestop shopping for Cresswind residents!
Before going into the multipurpose room to browse the various vendors set up, residents could relax in the lobby and enjoy holiday music on the cello, played by Jordyn Speakman. It was fantastic to hear the foyer fill up the beautiful sounds of the cello to put people in high spirits!
Along with their shopping, residents could stop outside for a bite to eat from the Baltimore Crab Cake Company, who was serving up authentic Baltimore crab cake dishes. The food was delicious and really added to the Holiday Market atmosphere. It was another successful year for our Holiday Market vendors and we are already looking forward to doing it again!
Publix Hosts First Drive Through Clinic at Twin Lakes
In case you haven’t noticed, the new Publix near our community is officially open! Have you checked it out yet? Many of our residents were there on opening day, enjoying Pub Subs and free samples. But Publix offers more than just groceries—it also has a full-service pharmacy, making it a convenient stop for all our healthcare needs.
In fact, the pharmacy recently came to us, hosting our very first drive-thru flu shot clinic. Two representatives from Publix made it easy for residents to stay healthy, administering flu shots right from the comfort of their cars. As long as you had your insurance card handy, you were good to go! Over 40 residents took advantage of this convenient service, preparing for the upcoming flu season.
Way to stay healthy, Cresswind!
UPCOMING EVENTS!
DECEMBER 2024
14th: Resident Holiday Party
15th: Voices of the Holidays
19th: Holiday Trolley
13th & 20th: Trivia
JANUARY 2025
17th: Just Jazz
18th: Health & Wellness Fair
24th & 31st: Trivia
FEBRUARY 2025
3rd: Queenz That Rock
19th: Winter Blood Drive
22nd: Hypnotist Gary Conrad
21st & 28th: Trivia
Cresswind® Twin Lakes
The Boykin Spaniels look forward to your
Advertiser Reference
Budget Blinds ...............................................................706-510-1562
Clark’s Heating & Air ..................................................770-450-4559
Cool Screens GA..........................................................770-667-8200
Cresswind Twin Lakes ................................................762-444-6767
Custom Closets of GA ...............................................770-796-5749
Decorating Den Interiors…… ............................….....770-995-0165
ETS Wealth Management ..........................................770-904-1978
Galloping Galette, The................................................706-684-3080
House of Boykin ..........................................................770-568-2298
Jack’s Local Station ....................................................706-921-4192
La Quinta ......................................................................706-684-3266
Lawson AC & Plumbing, Inc. .....................................770-536-2301
McGarity Group, The Attorney’s at Law ...............................................................................770-932-8477
Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Braselton ...............................................................................See ad page 23
Templeton, Robin-The Insurance Source ...............................................................................770-532-1900
For information on advertising in this magazine, call Charlie Nelson, Publisher at 678-471-5920 Visit our high-end furniture and home décor consignment store and shop our gift boutique for unique items that fit all your
Important Numbers
• TWIN LAKES
• Lifestyle Director: Chelsea Cabasal; chelsea.cabasal@fsresidential.com
• Community Association Manager: John Gallagher; john.gallagher@fsresidential.com
• Cresswind at Twin Lakes Sales Office: 770-532-4926
• SERVICES:
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center: Braselton GA; 770-848-8000
• Library: 706-654-1992, Braselton.net
• Animal Hospital: Hoschton Animal Hospital: 706-395-9100
• Animal Emergency Care: Opens after 6PM; 470-209-7222
• Fire Department: West Jackson Fire Dept., Station 1, Braselton GA, 706-654-2500
• Police Department: Braselton GA; 706.658.2852, Braselton.net
• Driver’s License: Georgia Department of Driver Services 678-413-8400, dds.georgia.gov
• Auto Tag: Jackson County Vehicle Registration Tag Office –Jefferson, GA; 706.367.6319
• HOSCHTON: Mayor & City Hall; 706.654.3034, cityofhoschton.net
• BRASELTON: Mayor & City Hall; 706.654.3915, Braselton.net
Caryn McGarity, Owner
Celebrate the joy of the season at the Best 55+ Community!* From warm gatherings by the fire to cheerful holiday events, Cresswind Georgia brings the spirit of this special time to life. Embrace the beauty of winter, share laughter with friends and create new traditions. Make this season your best one yet at Cresswind!