400 the life 0429 2018 lake

Explore Lake Lanier ACTIVITIES APLENTY ON GEORGIA’S BEAUTIFUL JEWEL

THE BEST PLACES TO RELAX AND FEAST TIPS TO PROTECT SKIN FROM SUMMER SUN

May 2018

Publisher

IN THIS ISSUE

from the

It’s time to get outside!

One of the best things about living in Forsyth County is the abundance of recreational opportunities available to us.

Whether it’s fishing, swimming, boating, camping or you just have a hankering for good food — warmer weather makes all of those things even more available to us.

Having grown up here, I can honestly attest to having tried pretty much everything we talk about in the magazine this month — and do believe there is something for just about everyone.

So, whether it’s a day on your boat, fishing from the banks with your kids, a short stay in a cabin or local resort or trying out a new place for dinner with a view of the water — pack some sunscreen and get out and enjoy what our area has to offer.

With this edition of the magazine, I would also like to welcome Brian Paglia as the new editor of the Forsyth County News.

Brian is a familiar face to many in the community, as he has served as sports editor of the paper for the last several years.

We look forward to him leading the editorial team in his new capacity and can’t wait to see what he has in store for us!

Stephanie Woody Publisher, Forsyth County News

CONTRIBUTORS

4 Spend a day at beautiful Lake Lanier

4

The best places to dine on the water

8

Camping opportunities plentiful

14

Luxury home a getaway for visitors

16

Protect skin from summer sun

22

STEPHANIE WOODY, Publisher BRIAN PAGLIA, Editor TRACIE PIKE, Production Manager BRADLEY WISEMAN,

Director of Video Production, Photographer

KELLY WHITMIRE, Staff Writer ALEXANDER POPP, Staff Writer NATHAN SCHUTTER, Advertising Director CONNOR KELLY, Advertising Other contributers: Nijja Vargas Pamela A. Keene Jennifer Colosimo

This magazine is a product of the www.ForsythNews.com

Advertising rates available upon request.

Call (770) 887-3126 or email marketing@forsythnews.com

2

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

8

LOS RIOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Thank You for voting us BEST Mexican Restaurant in Forsyth!

678-456-8892 12 TriCounty Plaza, Cumming GA 30040

Lake Lanier:

A beautiful Georgia jewel Activities aplenty at popular attraction

By Nijja Vargas

S

panning multiple counties and observed through several cities is nestled the beautiful Lake Lanier. Through drought and change the lake has endured. For generations and generations families have gathered on or near this magnificent spectacle to enjoy a plethora of different activities. Home of the 1996 Centennial Olympic rowing, canoeing and kayaking events, the lake offers fun in the sun for everyone. You may choose to jump right in and take a swim. The choice is yours. Go out there and enjoy adventure on beautiful Lake Lanier.

4

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

Survey the water Boating, Tubing & Skiing Enjoy the wind on your face by going boating. There is a boat to fit all of your needs. Whether you are in search of a fishing boat, pontoon boat or speed boat you can find one docked at one of the many marinas. They vary in size to fit parties of any size.

Rent a house boat for a weekend and sleep in your own floating oasis.

Maybe you live on the wild side and are looking for some adventure. Tubing or waterskiing behind the boat may be a better fit for you. Hang on tightly, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

You can also choose to skim across the water on a jet ski. The power is in your hands as you navigate the waterways.

Enjoyment at a Slower Pace Kayaking & Paddle Boarding Kayaking can provide a fantastic way to enjoy the water, sun, surrounding nature, as well as getting a nice workout. There are single and double kayaks to choose from so you can either paddle solo or paddle alongside a friend. There are miles of lake waiting for you to explore.

Paddle boarding may also provide you with similar enjoyment. Build your core and view the sights as you glide across the glassy surface of the lake on your board. Choose to paddle from a standing or sitting position or perhaps on your knees. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become. It’s all about balance for this water activity.

May 2018 |

THE LIFE |

5

Exploring the Trails Hiking & Horseback Riding Enjoy the wooded area around the lake by going on a hike. Lace up your boots and set your own pace. Mile after mile of trails lie before you to discover. You may discover a waterfall or your new favorite place far off the beaten path. If you don’t feel like walking, explore the trails while riding atop your new furry friend. Horseback riding around the lake allows you to immerse yourself in wildlife. Whether you are an experienced rider or this is your first time, the lake views will not disappoint. With experienced trail guides to lead the way you are sure to get the most out of your adventure.

Sleeping Under the Stars Camping Take your immersion a step further by spending a night in the woods.

Whether you choose to sleep in a cabin, RV, tent or just your sleeping bag under the stars you will be completely surrounded by nature. If midday leaves you feeling tired, catch a nap in a hammock lakeside and then get right back to the fun. While camping, build a fire and enjoy cooking your own meal over an open flame. Don’t forget the s’mores.

Throw Me a Line Fishing Bring your poles, bait, bobbers and lures. The lake has ample marine life so that you may fish to your heart’s content. Lake Lanier is home to fish of several different varieties such as bass, crappie, catfish and trout. Whether you are fishing from the shores or a boat, you will take joy in reeling in catch after catch.

Love never ages... especially when it’s all around you!

New friendships. New freedom. Maybe even a new love! Towne Club Windermere is senior living that inspires your heart as well as your body and mind.

Surrounded by warm and friendly neighbors, you’ll find it’s easy to make connections that last…share memories and new adventures…and enjoy this stage of life with renewed energy.

Emotional wellness is just one way we promote a healthy lifestyle. We have lots more.

Schedule your complimentary lunch today— you might just fall in love!

770-844-7779 TowneClubWindermere.com

6

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

| 3950 Towne Club Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041

The Great Outdoors Golf & Zip lining The lake makes for an excellent water hazard. Grab your clubs and head out onto the course. Beat your own personal record as you fit in a round of golf before lunch. With multiple courses to choose from you are sure to find the perfect challenge.

Perhaps you’d like to take a bird’s eye view and soar through the sky on a zip line. Explore the vast canopies while strapped into your harness and zipping through the skies.

The Perfect Stay-cation LanierWorld Lake Lanier Islands LanierWorld has an amazing water park to help you cool off on a hot summer day. Slide into fun on one of the many water slides that careen through the park. If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition you can serve up a game of volleyball on the nearby beach. Be careful not to hit any sunbathers who are laid back and relaxed soaking up some much needed vitamin D. They also host full moon parties so you can dance in the moon’s radiant light.

Holidays on the Lake Make holidays special with a trip to the lake. Boats provide an excellent seat to view Fourth of July fireworks. However, summer isn’t the only time you can enjoy the lake. The water park also offers a winter wonderland in the colder months. Drive through miles of expansive Christmas lights. You can also enjoy gliding across water’s icier variety while you snow tube.

FREE

1 HOUR INSTALLATION with any product purchases of $250 or more in Sonos Products, and 3 music streaming device app set ups on two devices included with each purchase.

Client must know own passwords to Music Streaming apps they want loaded to Sonos App prior to install.

1-855-85-MYAVX www.MyAVX.com May 2018 |

THE LIFE |

7

Fresh water feasts

The best places to relax, refuel and indulge on Lake Lanier Among the fare Pelican Pete’s Tiki Bar & Grill offers are Baja fish tacos, succulent grilled fish smothered in creamy Baja sauce atop of a bed of fresh pineapple salsa and shredded lettuce.

By Jennifer Colosimo

L

ake life has its perks. Whether it’s the sunrise mist rolling over the water, watching the horizon warm up at sunset, afternoons spent lounging on the boat, or simply being able to call the sparkling blue-green water your own backyard, there’s a magic to living on the lake that isn’t found anywhere else. But as residents of Lake Lanier know, the sweetest part of lake life here extends beyond the scenery.

In fact, it often ends up right under your nose — on your dinner plate.

The dining options around the lake are plentiful, but the exclusive nosh spots that seat you right up at the water make this area a residence to envy.

Ranging from wooden picnic tables and paper towels to tiki-laden floating docks, resort-style menus and courtesy dock cocktails, there’s truly a place to appease any appetite, to complement a lake day done by an adventurous boat full of friends or a family full

8

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

of enthusiastic little ones, a quiet, couple’s night out or sophisticated sunset cruise.

Once you’ve picked a place, the options on each menu are endless; but we’ve rounded up our favorites and narrowed down their must-order menu items to get you started. We can’t wait to see what you order.

Pelican Pete’s Tiki Bar & Grill Located right in the middle of the lake, this is not the Pelican Pete’s you popped into for hot dogs a few years ago — let’s get that out of the way.

No, General Manager Brian Grill and his team have reinvented the floating dock concession stand to be a true tiki bar with a growing reputation for sitdown eats.

The best part about Pelican Pete’s is the experience it delivers as a part of Port Royale Marina. It’s the perfect way to spend the day on the lake,

PUBLIC SERVICE NOTICE TO THE FORSYTH COUNTY VOTERS S.R. 400

Forsyth County Services not replicated (not all inclusive): CITY OF CHESTATEE

S.R. 20

CITY OF MATT

CITY OF BETHELVIEW

Propose Forsyth County be divided into: 20

R.

S.

S.R

CITY OF SHARON SPRINGS 0

40

.

City of Cumming (County Seat) (Existing Boundries) City of Sharon Springs (East of Hwy 400, South of Hwy 20) City of Bethelview (West of Hwy 400, South of Hwy 20) City of Matt (West of Hwy 400, North of Hwy 20)

- Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (F.C.S.O.) - Forsyth County Board of Education - Forsyth County Parks & Recreation - Forsyth County Water & Sewer - City of Cumming Water & Sewer - Forsyth County Administration - Forsyth County Recycling Centers - Forsyth County Public Library - Forsyth County Health Department - Forsyth County Fire Department - Forsyth County EMS - Forsyth County Animal Shelter / Animal Control - Forsyth County Magistrate, Probate, State, & Superior Courts - Forsyth County Voter Registrar - Forsyth County Tax Assessor - Forsyth County Tax Commissioner - Forsyth County Tag Office - Forsyth County Park Rangers - Forsyth County Senior Services

City of Chestatee (East of Hwy 400, North of Hwy 20)

Cut Out & Mail In PLEASE TELL OUR FORSYTH COUNTY STATE LEGISLATORS TO ADD TO THE NOVEMBER 6, 2018 BALLOT A VOTE BY FUTURE CITY RESIDENTS FOR:

“…We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. -That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.-That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness…”

The Declaration of Independence

1. Creation Of The New City Of Bethelview 2. Creation Of The New City Of Chestatee 3. Creation Of The New City Of Matt 4. Creation Of The New City Of Sharon Springs (May 2018)

Name: Address: Mail To: 4 New Cities, P.O. Box 422, Cumming GA 30028-0422

Proposed Duties of each new City (not all inclusive): - Create a new Comprehensive Plan for land use, housing, economic development, transportation, and quality of life standards.

- Create a new Unified Development Code (UDC) replacement ordinance which implements and regulates the new Comprehensive Plan.

- Code Enforcement of ordinances, building inspections, and soil erosion & pollutants.

- Govern all zoning actions using the Comprehensive Plan to eliminate Spot Zoning.

- Issue all [ordinance] permits and [business] licenses (excluding those issued by the F.C.S.O., Health Dept., Fire Dept., water & sewer, etc.).

- Obtain Georgia EPD Local Issuing Authority (LIA) certification to issue Land Disturbance Permits (LDP).

- Govern all sanitation, landfills, power plants, waste transfer stations, MARTA, roads, bridges, storm water, etc.

- Collect all zoning, use, permit, and license fees.

- FoCo Voter approved SPLOST shall be used to construct each new city hall complex.

- Redistribution of FoCo Maintenance and Operation (M & O) Real Estate tax and SPLOST to each new city. No Real Estate tax increase for property owners to create four new cities, but possibly a decrease by trimming government fat.

- City elections outsourced to FoCo Voter Registrar.

*Paid for by Hank Hanson

Fish Tales has live music and beautiful views of Hideaway Bay Marina. Some of the food available includes grouper sandwich’s and fish tacos stuffed with blackened tilapia.

especially if you don’t have a boat. Your crew can park the car, rent a boat on site, stock it with all the day supplies you’ll need (floatables, coolers, snacks, life jackets and more) and grab either lunch or dinner, or both, when you come back to refuel.

Second only to the seemingly endless view of the horizon, Pelican Pete’s menu is one of the best on the lake.

Choose an entree to amp up the island feel, like the Baja fish tacos, succulent grilled fish smothered in creamy Baja sauce atop of a bed of fresh pineapple salsa and shredded lettuce. Wash it down with The Lava Flow — a traditional Pina Colada swirled with luscious, strawberry puree.

New this season, the Captain’s Burger adds a southern twist on the staple burger selection, topping a fresh, handmade patty with sharp, rich pimento cheese and tangy green pepper jelly, served with zesty seasoned fries. Get one thing straight — although your food may come served in a plastic basket (it’s a floating dock, after all), it’s culinary craftsmanship all the way.

Enjoy it to the tunes of live music, watching your kids play in the water feature or just counting the boats that go by. They’re open every day once summer starts, so whether you come for the food, the buoyant ambiance or the famous frozen cocktails, your next trip to these docks will leave a tasty mark. Visit bestinboating.com/lake-restaurants/lanier-pelican-petes for more information.

Fish Tales Far from your typical dining experience, lunch or dinner at Fish Tales is more like going on vacation. The courtesy docks let you jump from water right into whetting your whistle. And a giant sandbox filled with beach toys keeps the kids happy before and after the meal.

10

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

Ahi Tuna is one of Fish Tales specialties and includes yellow fin tuna seared with sesame seeds and black pepper and served over fresh greens, drizzled with a spicy sriracha honey soy sauce the chefs make from scratch.

THE MOST POWERFUL CANCERFIGHTING NETWORK IN GEORGIA

Taking on cancer requires an elite clinical team. That’s why Northside Hospital Cancer Institute has the most board-certified medical oncologists in Georgia. We diagnose and treat more new cancer cases than any other hospital in the state—providing care at 48 cancer centers. Backed by expertise and experience, we’re built to beat cancer.

Learn more at builttobeatcancer.com

Photos courtesy Lanier Islands

Bullfrogs Bar & Grille is a casual indoor-outdoor restaurant located on the ground floor of Legacy Lodge.

The live music and beautiful views of Hideaway Bay Marina plus a menu to satisfy everyone on board keeps the adults happy, too, delivering a bottom line that Fish Tales has everything to make you want to kick back and stay awhile — like going to the beach, without ever leaving your neighborhood.

Start your vacation by ordering the signature item — a platter of Fish Tales for the table. These fresh, hand-cut grouper fingers are served with a creamy, homemade dill tartar sauce. Bigger appetites can tackle the giant grouper sandwich, a heaping serving of fried grouper filet served on a banh mi roll (made from H&F Bread Co. out of Atlanta) and topped with lettuce, juicy red tomato and classic crunchy onion.

Fish Tales’ fish tacos are stuffed with blackened tilapia, lettuce, cheese and homemade Pico de Gallo before getting doused in the restaurant’s own spicy boom boom sauce. You can order them with grouper, red snapper, salmon or shrimp, if you can resist the temptation to order all four.

The menu’s hidden gem is the Ahi Tuna. A fresh switch from the fried food sampling, this dish is a feast for your belly and your eyes with a gorgeous plate of vibrant yellow fin tuna seared with sesame seeds and black pepper and served over fresh greens,

12

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

drizzled with a spicy sriracha honey soy sauce the chefs make from scratch.

The culinary goals at Fish Tales make this one hard to pass up when making your lakeside snack selection. They’re aiming for something a little different, which as a result, makes them stand out. Just make sure you get there early — because it’s no longer a secret, and tonight’s line has probably already started. Visit fishtaleslakelanier.com for more information.

Bullfrogs Bar & Grille It’s hard to talk about living on the lake without mentioning the biggest resort on the local radar. Lanier Islands offers a full-service way to soak up all that lake life offers — golfing, spa days, boating, water sports, outdoor adventures and more — in one place.

That includes good meals at Bullfrogs Bar & Grille, a casual indoor-outdoor restaurant located on the ground floor of Legacy Lodge.

Bullfrogs is easy access for guests already on the property, and just a short walk from the water for drive-by boaters.

So whether you crave draft beers or frozen cocktails ordered onsite from the pool window, or you’ve settled on a table outside packed with plates of the restaurant’s award-winning racks of ribs and finger-licking barbecue shrimp, from the second you pull up

Skogie’s offers live music, great food and drinks with a family-fun vibe.

to that courtesy dock — or leave your room — you’re in for elevated and creative culinary concoctions.

The menu includes classics like a crispy fried seafood sandwich and burgers served with sweet potato waffle fries, nachos or veggie quesadillas. They’re known more for being fresh and inventive, and options like the grilled cheese sandwich stacked high with creamy mac and cheese, juicy red tomatoes and crispy fried bacon on buttered Texas toast prove it. Added to an array of lighter options like an Antioxidant salad or black-eyed pea hummus, anything you order makes it hard to even think about packing your own picnic. That includes dessert.

The cakes, pies and more are all homemade, with a menu that changes so often, the servers deliver it audibly. The real treat is that you can enjoy whatever you order with a fire pit crackling amidst friends and family conversation, the lake twinkling in the moonlight in front of you and the pool sparkling at your back — truly, a glimpse of the good life that’s pretty hard to beat. Visit lanierislands.com/dining/bullfrogs for more information.

get off the water. If you’re one of the regulars, then you know it’s the kind of place where they know your order before you even sit down. If you’re just passing through, then it’s the kind of place that won’t take long to make you want to be a regular.

Husband and wife owners Tony and Heather also own the coffee shop inside The Lawrence Pharmacy nearby, so plenty of people already start their day with them in mind; but Skogie’s combination of a family-run feel and a relaxed, laid-back vibe make it a can’t miss for any lake dweller. Anyone can enjoy the most important meal of the day with them on Saturdays, or during brunch on Sundays. Tony himself may even be the one cooking your omelet. That level of personal service is what makes Skogie’s such a hit — they’ve infused a little of their own personalities into the everyday experience.

You’ll see classic Key West-inspired decor and nuanced menu items from Tony’s 37 years in the business – like the Cuban sandwich, the Caribbean plate with fried plantains or the classic jerk plate of chicken, pork or grouper. People will preach about the burgers, but the Blackjack chicken sandwich and the salmon B.L.T.A. have held their own as customer favorites since they first popped up on the menu. Just like their neighbors to the south, expect everything to be hand breaded, battered and made to order.

Nothing fancy, this tucked away, pick-your-own-table kind of place offers indoor, air conditioned seating or picnic tables on the patio, a brand-new bar with 14 craft beers on tap, plus live music on the weekends. Whatever meal you join them for, this restaurant’s beachy, comfortable vibe lets you continue your lake day, seemingly uninterrupted, as you dock, dine and get back out there. Land captains welcome, too. Visit skogieslakefrontrestaurant.us for more information.

Skogie’s on Lake Lanier Good news for lake dwellers on the north end of Lake Lanier: you haven’t been forgotten. As the only waterfront restaurant above Browns Bridge Road located near the Gainesville Marina, Skogie’s holds its own, offering regulars and first-timers, seniors and young families a little bit of everything — stellar food, great live music and the perfect place to have an ice-cold pint when you

May 2018 |

THE LIFE |

13

File photo

There are many places to camp, including Shady Grove Campground, above, around Lake Lanier.

Camping opportunities plentiful around lake

By Kelly Whitmire Lake Lanier is one of the most popular destinations in metro Atlanta and offers swimming, boating, fishing and all kinds of aquatic fun, but the land around the lake is popular as well.

Around Lake Lanier is a plethora of places to camp for a night — or longer — with many having unique elements to set them apart from others. All in all, each fills up quick.

“All the campgrounds stay busy,” said Nick Baggett, natural resources manager with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “I really advise people if you want to reserve a spot go online and reserve it … a lot of times people will come a day or two before a major holiday or a weekend and find the campgrounds is full.”

The Corps operates seven campgrounds around the Lake with 482 campsites including 430 with water and electric hookups.

Baggett said two of the campgrounds the Corps oversees are operated with help from volunteers and stay open all year.

“One of our most popular campgrounds,

14

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

and it’s fairly unique, is Bolding Campground up in north Hall County,” he said.

“It is one of the campgrounds that we had some challenges with because of our budget constraints, and we decided to use volunteers to help us reduce the cost of managing the campground, and also leave it open year round. We went from struggling with that campground and visitation to usage, to now it’s one of the most popular, if not the most popular, campgrounds we have, and it’s completely managed by volunteers.”

In the future, Baggett said other campgrounds could be operated the same way.

In addition to a place to sleep, many of the campsites offer picnic areas, showers and restrooms, grills and a chance to explore natural amenities through walking and hiking trails and lake access.

The counties surrounding the lake offer their own camp sites as well, such as Shady Grove Campground in Forsyth County, Hall County’s River Forks Park and War Hill Park in Dawson County.

There are plenty of places to camp on Lake Lanier. Below are a few places to check out.

• Sawnee Campground: 3200 Buford Dam Road, Cumming • Shoal Creek Campground: 3600 Shadburn Ferry, Buford • Duckett Mill Campground: 3569 Duckett Mill Road, Gainesville • Old Federal Campground: 6219 Old Federal Road, Flowery Branch • Bolding Mill Campground: 4055 Chestatee Road, Gainesville • Shady Grove Campground: 7800 Allyn Lane Memorial Way, Cumming Visit www.sam.usace.army.mil/ Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/ Lake-Sidney-Lanier/Camping/

Thank you for voting us BEST PEDIATRICS in Forsyth 770-888-8888 Monday - Friday | 8am - 5pm 1800 Northside Forsyth Drive | Suite 460 Cumming, GA 30041

www.cummingpediatricgroup.com

Ark on Lake Lanier a vision from God Photos courtesy Ark on Lake Lanier

Couple renovated home, rents to groups, visitors

By J.K. Devine When Jeff Hylton stepped onto a lakefront property just west of the Sardis area in Hall County, he knew he had found a new home for his family.

“I fell in love with it,” the Gainesville father of three said. “I could envision ATVs and ziplines.”

His daydream was just that, a daydream. The owners of the 5-acre property were not willing to sell.

“I made a deal with God,” Hylton said. “I said to God ‘If I am meant to have it, then you will find a way to bring it back to me.’”

Six months later, God agreed. The owners were ready to sell.

“It was like God saying ‘OK. Here you go,’” Hylton said with his wife, Alycea, nodding in agreement.

Ark on Lake Lanier was born as a home for a family. Fastforward 10 years, it is now self-proclaimed as a premier luxury vacation rental with a higher purpose by providing a refuge for nonprofit organizations.

“It is a ministry house that is self-sustaining,” Jeff said. “We now rent it out as much as we can to cover the costs of providing a haven in the off-season to those who need it most.”

A place to relax and recharge The Ark on Lake Lanier offers plenty of space for groups large and small. The lake house with 14 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms sleeps up to 45 people in the 12,000-square-foot space.

16

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

The master bedroom and bathroom are a sanctuary for visitors.

Amenities of all types can tend to the needs of the young and old.

Outside is a hot tub and pool for visitors looking for a dip.

Or they can enjoy Lake Lanier with boats, jet skis or canoes.

To play on land, visitors can jump on the trampoline or smack around a volleyball on the sand-filled full-size volleyball court. Tether ball, corn hole boards, croquet, a small basketball court and some frisbee golf targets are also available.

For those looking to relax, they can sit in a hammockstyle swing in a couple of spots on the property or under the covered and screened deck.

“My favorite place is the fire pit,” Jeff said.

If the weather is chilly, visitors can play a game of billiards or watch a movie in the 16-seat theater.

“The theater is my other favorite place,” Jeff said. “It’s a glorified man cave.”

Alycea’s favorite place is the upstairs master bedroom with its private bathroom.

“You can watch both the TV and the fire while sitting in the jacuzzi tub,” she said. “I could stay there all day.”

This place of relaxation and refuge, however, did not start out as one.

A place to renovate and rebuild After the Hyltons bought the home, they started renovations.

“We gutted the interior,” Alycea said. “We added the kitchen. And we added a theater room (on the second floor.)”

Five months later, disaster struck. A fire destroyed a half of the home. At the same time in September 2008, Lake Lanier had reached a low point, dropping 25 feet.

“The stock market crashed that year, too,” said Jeff, who is a financial adviser with Merrill Lynch.

“That was when our personal dreams died,” Alycea said.

Jeff, Alycea and their children — ages 8, 7 and 4 at the time — moved out of the house for nine months while it was cleaned.

Once they returned, the Hyltons contemplated their next move.

God answered, but the Hyltons were unsure. Jeff said he felt pulled to build more rooms despite having plenty of space. He delayed acting on it until 2010.

“I couldn’t shake the idea that we needed to add to the house,”

Jeff said.

So, they turned the barn and stable into guest cabins, renovated the house for a second time and increased the number of rooms.

Once they finished, Alycea learned a mission group’s housing accommodations had fallen through. She suggested letting four boys from the group stay in the cabin. Jeff countered with letting the 18 girls stay in the house while they rented another home.

“I said ‘OK, let’s try it,” Alycea said, adding her family lived with the mission group for a couple of months before finding a rental home in Gainesville.

“And that was the beginning (of Ark on Lake Lanier.)”

A permanent place for visitors After the mission group stayed for 11 months, the Hyltons started renting out the home. First, it was to mission groups and families. Then it expanded.

Now, it can be used for family reunions, corporate retreats and other getaways, according to its website, arkonlakelanier.com.

In the meantime, the Hyltons continued improving the property. They added a fire pit and other outside amenities.

“I designed the inside by collaborating with an Atlanta space planner,” Alycea said. “And Jeff did the backyard.”

Their hard work is paying off.

Several companies and even organizations such as LoveNotLost.org and the Boys and Girls Clubs regularly reserved the space.

“We have one family from Alpharetta who books it every Labor Day,” Jeff said.

Of course, the Hyltons block out a few dates during the year for their own use.

“In April, we will have my son’s birthday party here,” Jeff said.

“And in May, we will have our daughter’s graduation party from high school here.”

Having the place constantly filled with people is the Ark on Lake Lanier’s purpose.

“It was hard to be here with five people,” Alycea said. “It feels right with 20.”

May 2018 |

THE LIFE |

17

Sail away with sailing clubs on Lake Lanier

By Pamela A. Keene You can take part in the romance of sailing on Lake Lanier through nearly a half-dozen clubs on the lake. All you have to do is contact the clubs and they can help you connect with sailors who are willing to use you as crew on races or perhaps offer you a cruise to introduce you to the sport.

Some of the clubs support education and casual events on the water; others focus on racing specifically. With five clubs to choose from, there’s a chance for people of any interest level to get their feet wet sailing on Lake Lanier.

Here’s information about the lake’s membership sailing clubs: Atlanta Inland Sailing Club – AISC hosts the Dogwood Regatta each spring and 20 Wednesday night races in the main channel of the lake off Aqualand Marina in the summer. The group’s chief

18

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

purpose is racing. It is active from late March through September. Visit aiscracing.com.

Barefoot Sailing Club – BFSC is known for its annual Barefoot Open Regatta each fall, but it’s also a great social and educational outlet for people interested in sailing, new sailors and old salts. The club hosts cruising and events and members are encouraged to take new sailors out on their boats. The club’s monthly meetings on the fourth Monday of the month take place at Nemoe’s Tavern and Grill, 6025 Peachtree Parkway, Norcross, and visitors are welcome. Speakers’ topics include how to cruise, boating safety, racing pointers and special guests who share their stories of the sea or the latest information about sailing and technology. Social events include monthly cruising and an annual lobster boil.

Visit www.barefootsailingclub.org.

Photo courtesy Southern Sailing Club

Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek provides an engaging and supportive atmosphere for our residents, with skilled caretakers available around the clock. Our location (approximately 2 miles from Emory Johns Creek Hospital) and our highly trained staff provide peace of mind for our residents and their families.

May 2018 |

THE LIFE |

19

Photo courtesy Lake Lanier Sailing Club

Lake Lanier Sailing Club, Flowery Branch – LLSC is one of two land-based sailing clubs on Lake Lanier. It hosts an annual open house for the community — this year’s event will be held on May 12. In addition to regular sailboat races for one-design boats and larger auxiliary boats, the club holds three multi-day sailing camps for youngsters each summer; these camps are typically open to children of members only. The club offers a full year of social events, including wine tastings and sunset concerts.

Both wet-slip and dry storage are available for members. Visit www.llsc.com.

Southern Sailing Club – SSC hosts the Love the Lake Regatta each September to benefit the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper.

Known for its laid-back approach to sailing and racing, the club hosts several competitive racing series each year. The club’s website is rich with content about sailing techniques, social events

and information for both racers and cruisers. Visit www.southernsailingclub.org.

University Yacht Club, Flowery Branch – As a private members-only club, UYC offers its members full club services, including both wet and dry storage for all kinds of boats, social events and boating outings for members and their families, plus a clubhouse with dining room and restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner on select days. Fuel, pump-out and a ship’s store are located on site. UYC’s Bulloch Chapel is the site of Sunday morning church services in the summer. Visit www.universityyachtclub.org.

With this many options, there’s no excuse to simply watch those pretty sailboats from the shore or the cockpit of your power boat. Give sailing a try and you may just be hooked.

Additionally, there are several sailing schools on Lake Lanier that provide various levels of instruction and sailing certifications, and social events: • Lanier Sailing Academy, headquartered at Holiday Marina. Visit laniersail.com.

• Lord Nelson Charters, located at Lanier Islands. Visit www.lordnelsonsharters.com.

• SunRise Sailing Academy, based at Sunrise Cove Marina. Visit sunrisesailingclub.com.

• Windsong Sailing Academy, with on-shore classes and in-water instruction based at Holiday marina.

Visit www.windsongsail.com.

20

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

Mother’s Day Specials

$50 off Dysport | $100 off All Restylane full size products $100 off Micro-Needling when buying 3 treatments | 10% off product (except Latisse)

Mother's Day Specials end May 31, 2018

CoolSculpting Special 25% Off! Receive 25% off when you come in for a New Patients Only (Limited Availability!)

Call for a FREE Consultation 770-814-8222 and Pick a Date below

Call 770-814-8222 Cumming Location Ext. 209 | May 16th, June 13th Duluth Location Ext. 210 | April 30th, May 30th, June 27th 1230 Bald Ridge Marina Rd. Suite 300 Cumming, GA 30041 *Newest Location* (Across from Costco)

3850 Pleasant Hill Road Duluth, Georgia 30096 (Between Peachtree Industrial Blvd. and Buford Hwy.)

3370 Paddocks Pkwy.

Suwanee, GA 30024 (Off 141 close to BP gas station and Laurel Springs Sub. Div.)

3331 Hamilton Mill Suite 1106 Buford, GA 30519 (Across from Kroger Shopping Center)

www.naderm.com

Protect skin from summer sun Advice on sunscreen, other precautions

By Pamela A. Keene Sunscreen. It’s the word at the top of the list when talking about summer skin care. But what sunscreen is best? How much SPF (sun protection factor) should it have? How long will it last on the shelf?

“Right off the bat, we can talk about sunscreen: the big thing is you want to make sure you have 30 SPF or above,” said Weston Waxweiler, M.D. board-certified dermatologist with North Atlanta Dermatology. “Then the other key that a lot of people forget is applying every two hours. You put the sunscreen on at 9 a.m., by 11 a.m. it’s already worn off because the sun is breaking that down.”

You can also wear Ultraviolet Protection Factor clothing to reduce your risk of exposure. It’s widely available in selections from swim suits and shirts to pants and hats at many sporting goods retailers and online.

“Wearing a hat with a brim and sunglasses are both good ways to provide some protection from the sun,” said Carli Wakefield, aesthetic nurse with North Georgia Plastic Surgery’s Aesthetic Center of Gainesville. “And be aware that your cheeks can get a bit more sun reflected off the lenses of your sunglasses, so protect delicate skin.”

Wakefield recommends that you reapply sunscreen at least every four hours or after swimming or exercise. “Use a liquid or cream, then retouch with a spray product is a good approach,” she said. “Using foundation with sunscreen in it may not provide strong enough protection, so be sure to apply sunscreen as well.”

22

|

THE LIFE | May 2018

Skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, is the most prevalent type of cancer. The organization’s website offers tips about how to stay healthy and reduce the risk of getting skin cancer. Those tips include eating right, staying active and not smoking.

“To keep your skin healthy and hydrated, use moisturizer morning and evening,” she said. “For daytime, find a moisturizer that has vitamin C, which can help reduce the darkening of your skin’s pigmentation. Overnight it’s OK to use a moisturizer that contains retinols, but because it’s photosensitive, do not use a retinol product. It can damage skin.”

To help with hydration, drink plenty of water. The guideline is usually eight 8-ounce glasses a day.

“It’s a way to hydrate from the inside out, and it will help you replace fluids that you lose through perspiration.”

What can you do if you already have sun-damaged skin?

“Basic treatments, such as chemical peels or microderm abrasion can help alleviate the damage,” Wakefield said. “For more severe damage, consider laser resurfacing or micro-needling.”

She also suggests eating a healthy diet, avoiding refined sugars and processed foods, and staying active.

“No matter what your age, the sun is harsh on our skin,” Wakefield said. “Take precautions and be consistent. It will help you avoid further skin damage, fine lines and wrinkles.”

Brian Paglia contributed to this story.

IF YOU DON’T SEE HOPE AND WILL,

IT’S NOT CHILDREN’S

ORTHOPAEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE We would like to welcome the more than 30 orthopaedic and sports medicine physicians, surgeons and advanced practice providers formerly of Children’s Orthopaedics of Atlanta to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta family.

Remember, if you don’t see Hope and Will, it’s not the Children’s expert orthopaedic care.

©2018 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH

410 PEACHTREE PARKWAY, STE 300, CUMMING

CHILDREN’S AT OLD MILTON

3300 OLD MILTON PARKWAY, STE 310, ALPHARETTA

choa.org/ortho

ROOFS FOR TROOPS

We are pleased to offer a

$300 REBATE

to all veterans and active duty personnel

Thank you for your service to our country!

Roofing, Seamless Gutters, Full Restoration Services

Call 678-771-5372 Today!

GAF Certification #ME23664

www.hopewell-roofing.com