Lakeside On Lanier April 2023

Your complete news, information and recreation guide to Lake Lanier

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

LLA Member Celebration

This year’s Lake Lanier Association Member Celebration on Saturday, April 22, promises to be filled with “new.” From a new logo to a new recognition award, the annual event takes place at Lanier Islands. Page 8

Lake Lanier renaming paused

By Pamela A. Keene

The Lake Lanier/Buford Dam renaming project announced in early March has been paused, according to the Mobile District office of the US Army Corps of Engineers. However, the Lake Lanier Association is urging its members to contact elected federal officials and the Corps. Page 2

The Spotted Pig now in Clayton

I drove into downtown Clayton and discovered that my old South Carolina friend, the Spotted Pig, had opened a second restaurant on Main Street in downtown Clayton! Page 33

Page 20

Page 10 Lake levels

Lanier map

Page 52

Marinas information Page 40

Outdoor activity calendar Page 36

Recreation guide Page 43

Safety guide

Shore Lines

Columns:

The Careful Captain

Curb Appeal

Page 22

.Page 24

Page 18

Page 42

Design & Remodel Page 47

Glenn Burns Page 20

O’Neill Outside Page 12

On the Water

Vanderford’s travel

will host one of the many special events set for this month. Story, page

Page 14

Page 33

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Skateboarders take their turns around Gainesville Skate Park, located beside Midland Greenway, late last month. The park

35.

is published by Lanier Publishing, Inc.,

3292 Thompson Bridge Rd.

#250, Gainesville, GA 30506

(770) 287-1444

Publisher/Editor

Alan Hope Production

Susan Nish

Susan Daniel Creative, Inc.

Senior Writer

Pamela A. Keene

Contributing writers

Jane Harrison, Millie Adcox

Columnists

Glenn Burns, Vinnie Mendes, Sara Bagwell, O’Neill Williams, Frank Taylor

Travel Editor

Bill Vanderford

Lakeside is published monthly by Lanier Publishing, Inc. based in Gainesville, GA, with distribution in some 300 locations around Lake Lanier and other areas. Opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of Lakeside, its staff or its advertisers. Manuscripts and photographs submitted will be considered for publication. Lakeside cannot be held responsible for such materials in case of damage or loss.

Lake Lanier, Buford Dam renaming paused; LLA urges contacting Washington officials

By Pamela A. Keene

The Lake Lanier/Buford Dam renaming project announced in early March has been paused, according to the Mobile District office of the US Army Corps of Engineers. However, the Lake Lanier Association is urging its members and constituents to contact officials to weigh in by contacting elected federal officials as well as the Corps.

“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is pausing any actions related to project renaming pending further guidance from the Department of the Army,” said Dustin Gautney, public affairs officer with the Mobile District.

The name-change announcement included various federal properties across the country following the release of a report commissioned by Congress in response to the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.

Following procedure, the report was adopted by the US Secretary of the Army, who originally issued a directive that part of the

process be completed by January 1, 2024. With the official pause, no further action is being taken at this time.

“The initial announcement set January 1, 2024, as the date for feedback and suggestions of names and comments to be submitted,” said Clyde Morris, vice president of the LLA. “With that in mind, the association began urging our members to get in touch with elected officials to voice their opinions.”

Member survey conducted Additionally, the association created an email-response survey of its members about the issue, allowing seven days for feedback.

“The survey had 1,171 responses that overwhelmingly reported opposition to a name change,” Morris said. “Issues covered included the complexity of the change, and its effect on tourism and local history.”

A question about removing “Sidney” from the name of Lake Lanier was also posed. Morris said, “Nearly 65 percent of respondents agreed that changing the name to ‘Lake Lanier’ would

be a good choice because it is the predominant name in the area.

Lake Lanier is recognized nationally as perhaps the most-visited Corps lake in the country, and there is no reason to force the enormous costs and inconvenience of a name change on area organizations, schools, buildings, businesses, streets, and the only major resort on the lake when the predominant name in the region can be preserved without commemorating Sidney Lanier, the Confederate soldier.” As far as renaming Buford Dam, 98 percent of the respondents were opposed.

A bit of background

In 2021, Congress enacted the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 that directed “the establishment of a commission relating to assigning, modifying, or removing of names, symbols, displays, monuments, and paraphernalia to assets of the Department of Defense that commemorate the Confederate States of America or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederate States of America.”

As a result, Congress created a commission to review all Department of Defense facilities, including Corps of Engineers properties.

“Both Buford Dam and Lake Lanier were put on the list because these projects bear the names of two men who voluntarily served in the Confederacy,” Morris said. “However, the names chosen for Buford Dam and Lake Lanier were not selected to commemorate these two men’s military service.

“Both Buford and Lanier volunteered for the Confederate Army,” Morris said. “But when the projects were named, their military service didn’t come into play.”

Algernon Buford, for whom the city of Buford is named, was a railroad man, the president of the Richmond & Danville Railroad that came south to Buford. He was a graduate of the University of Virginia and a member of the Virginia House of Delegates.

“Buford Dam was named after the nearby city, strictly on its location,” he said. “It has nothing to See Rename, page 8

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Castleberry Bridge Road, Dawsonville

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+/- acres with approximately 3000 feet on the Etawah River and nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains! There are so many opportunities for the new buyer to develop, buy and hold,hunt and enjoy the beautiful Etawah River. This property is located on the "waterfall" section of the river. There are several wid creeks on the property as well as the river frontage. You'll have beautiful views of the North Georgia Mountains from the cleared area as you drive into the property. This lovely tract has been used as a hunting camp for years and now it's time to sell. Please call David Williams at 404-3864782 or to see the property call Jeff Sorohan at 770-6885168. A 4 wheel drive or an ATV is best to see the property. $2,200,000 (Lumpkin)

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Since 2 Since 2012 12

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Acreage, private lake with fishing pier and workshop

The ultimate private retreat on a beautiful 12.4 acre tract, this spacious, like-new 5BR, 4.5BA home has all the latest in finishes and features. You'll love the expansive open floor plan, remote-controlled fire place, huge work island in the beautifully modern kitchen, WIFI enabled double ovens, quartz counters, 2 owner's suites, rocking chair front porch and inlaid back patio. There is a drivable path to your own picturesque, stocked fishing pond with a brand new fishing pier, convenient party pavilion and cozy fire pit. The versatile bonus building behind the house could be a workshop, 6-car garage or you could even convert it to a barn. This unique property could be a working hobby farm, horse ranch, private retreat or even a new subdivision. $1,080,000

Inherited estates specialists

When a loved one dies, one of the biggest challenges is the sale of an inherited estate. Between sibling disagreements, legal matters, signatory requirements, understanding Corps’ rules, staging, cleaning, repairs, removing furniture…it’s all overwhelming in a time of terrible grief. For that reason, our team specializes in helping families navigate this difficult and emotional transaction. We’ve been through it, and we’re here to ease your stress.

Free staging worked

“Bev Knight and Darlene Plavcan are consummate professionals who delivered the highest caliber of service as listing agents for my property. Their knowledge regarding the market they serve is unsurpassed; in my case this was a niche property with a targeted group of buyers. Their ability to promote a property included a vast array of tools, and they pivoted to other strategies and platforms as necessitated by the shifts in the economic conditions or for the pool of prospective purchasers. In addition, these attributes, Bev and Darlene perpetually demonstrated their commitment to achieving my goals as their client, and surpassed expectations by affording me the assurance that they were always doing their utmost to serve me. I wholeheartedly recommend Bev Knight and Darlene Plavcan to anyone selling or buying a property.”

- Angela H., Dawsonville

Cynthia Runions Operations Manager 865-973-8832

David Scoynes Senior Agent 770-365-7570

Angie Trotman Senior Agent 770-540-9679

Angie Smart Senior Agent 404-368-8880 770-503-7070

FLOWERY BRANCH

$3,185,000 • MAGNIFICENT SOUTH LAKE VIEWS! Custom 6 bedroom home w/3 finished levels of luxury, beautifully appointed with upgrades and custom features throughout. An expansive screened porch allows for outdoor dining and entertaining by the wood burning fireplace. This is one of Lake Lanier's most sought after addresses on the SE side on almost an acre, the home on one lot and an adjacent separate buildable lot, allowing options for expansion, permitted gravel path you can drive to the lake. Enjoy 7+/- acres of USACE land and a deep water max sized twin slip party dock, saltwater pool, hot tub and firepit. Property is fully fenced and gated for optimum privacy.

FMLS #7184981 6538 Bluewaters Drive Sheila Davis 770-235-6907

GAINESVILLE

$1,995,000 • SOUTH LAKE LOCATION, BREATHTAKING LAKE VIEWS, 5BR| 5BA, SOLD COMPLETELY FURNISHED FOR TURNKEY ENJOYMENT! The new 32 x 32 Martin aluminum twin slip dock provides plenty of housing for your boats and toys! Enjoy year-round outdoor living and views! Easy walk to the twin slip dock with party deck for sunning and entertaining! FMLS #7169689 4175 Merritt Drive Sheila Davis 770-235-6907

GAINESVILLE

$1,897,000 • BEAUTIFUL JUST COMPLETED CONSTRUCTION WITH WATER VIEWS ON THE SOUTH END OF THE LAKE IN THE SOUGHTAFTER BAY POINTE ON LAKE LANIER SUBDIVISION! Ready for move-in now, start living LAKE LIFE! Level lakefront lot with 88 ft of shoreline including a covered boat slip. The 4 BR| 4.5BA modern farmhouse plan has an inviting exterior with a covered front porch and 3 car garage. Fish or put in the kayaks and paddleboard from your own backyard that has room for a pool. Covered slip A-10 at the Bay Pointe community dock is included. Quality construction with lots of upgrades. FMLS#7183935 5431 Mayflower Court Stephanie 770-654-4161

$1,895,000 • PREPARE TO BE WOWED BY THE BEST PANORAMIC WATER AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS ON LAKE LANIER FROM THIS BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME! Situated in the gated High Pointe neighborhood with a covered boat slip, this property offers luxury lake living. Convenient to downtown Gainesville and Chattahoochee Country Club. The European style home is designed for entertaining with an open floor plan on the main level and long-range views from almost every room. 5 BR, 4 BA & 2 half BA. 2736 High Vista Point Stephanie 770-654-4161

$1,289,000 • LAKE LANIER CHARMING COMPOUND PERFECT FOR FULL TIME OR 2ND HOME LIFE! 4 bedrooms | 3.5 Baths total. Renovated luxury lake cottage w/water views, and new 3 car carriage house for guests. An easy, gentle walk leads to the boat slip in the HOA managed 8 slip covered dock. Located on a quiet wake-free cove, yet close to the big water. FMLS# 7186949 6563 Crestwood Peninsula Sheila 770-235-6907

$1,250,000 • ONE-OF-A-KIND SOUTH LAKE LOCATION! 1.5-acre lot ready for you to build your dream home! Gentle topo, grass to water, beautiful setting and gorgeous lake views, twin-slip dock permit. Situated on a peninsula with lake on both sides, Easy golf cart ride or walk to and from dock. FMLS# 7185737 6240 Holland Drive Sheila 770-235-6907

GAINESVILLE

GAINESVILLE

DAWSONVILLE

$650,000 • PICTURESQUE SETTING WITH TRANQUIL LAKE VIEW AND DEEP-WATER BOAT DOCK! Approximately an acre of gentle topography and a low corps line. 119+/- feet of water frontage. Private location on a sought-after street. Less than 10 minutes to shopping, dining, and North Hall schools.

FMLS#7164158 5160 Shirley Road Nicole 678-858-0265

$535,000 • HIDDEN HARBOR LOT! Has been approved for 32 x 32 dock upgrade! FMLS# 7006742 5547 Hidden Harbor Drive Jennifer 770-356-2629

MURRAYVILLE

SIDE PAST ESTATES AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS THEN ARRIVE AT THIS GREAT LAKE LANIER HOME! FLAT LOT AND PRIVATE DOCK ON DEEP WATER! 5 BR 3 BA. This home offers options for an Air B&B, full time or 2nd home. FMLS#7129960 8094 Beachwood Drive Stephanie 770-654-4161

DAWSONVILLE

$129,900 • READY TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME? This .75 acre lot offers mountain views

The newest development on Lake Lanier featuring a gated enclave of 15 beautiful estate lots.

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Ranging from 1.42 - 7.37 acres, every parcel is a unique opportunity to build your custom dream home!

Located on the north end of Lake Lanier in Hall County.

$85,000

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LLA Member Celebration to reveal new look, new partnerships

By Pamela A. Keene

This year’s Lake Lanier Association Member Celebration on Saturday, April 22, promises to be filled with “new.” From a new logo to a new recognition award, the annual event takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Peachtree Pointe at Lanier Islands.

“Over the past eight months, we’ve been working on a number of exciting things that will be revealed at our April 22 Member Celebration,” said Amy McGuire, executive director of the 3,500member lake advocacy organization. “We’re ready to launch our new image that will be the springboard for everything we do going forward.”

The celebration includes music. Food will be catered by FUNction Events. The group’s new tritoon boat will be on display. Business members and sponsors will offer a vendor fair from 4 to 5 p.m.

“This year we’re inaugurating

a new award to recognize an outstanding volunteer,” McGuire said. “The Charlie Spencer Award, named in honor of the late lake resident and significant contributor to the association, will be presented.”

The meeting is open exclusively to Lake Lanier Association members, including those who

Corps parks, some campgrounds open

By Pamela A. Keene

As summer draws nearer, US Army Corps of Engineers Parks at Lake Lanier opened in March.

“Our Day-Use Parks will be open as usual, but we will not be able to open three of our seven campgrounds this season due to a lack of qualified park attendant contractors,” said Eddie Grimes, chief ranger for recreation at the Buford Dam Project Management Office.

“Usually we staff the campgrounds with attendants who come here for the season on a fixed government contract, but this year we didn’t receive enough qualified applicants.”

The following campgrounds will be open: Bald Ridge Creek, Bolding Mill, Old Federal and Toto Creek.

Duckett Mill, Sawnee and Van Pugh South campgrounds will not be open this season.

Each year the Corps contracts with paid park attendants to staff the campgrounds, but this year the organization received less than the number of qualified applicants to provide attendants for all the campgrounds.

All the Day-Use Parks will be open; admission is $5 that can be paid through an automated credit card machine at entrance gates.

join on the day of the event at the registration table.

Ticket quantities are available according to membership levels. Additional guests are welcome with a $10 donation that can be made online or at the door.

To join or for more information, visit www.lakelanier.org or call 770 503-7757.

Rename

Continued from Page 2 do with Algernon Buford’s military service.”

Sidney Lanier was much more than a soldier as well. “He was a poet, a musician, a lawyer and taught at Johns Hopkins University,” Morris said. “Lake Lanier

was named after him because of his poem, ‘The Song of the Chattahoochee,’ that described the area that became the lake.”

More info, visit the Lake Lanier Association at www.lakelanier.org.

"Bolling Bridge, 1996, Lake Lanier” by Anne Brodie Hill

Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS

Lake Lanier Artist

www.annebrodiehill.com

• 770-718-7586

Lake Sidney Lanier & Gainesville prints, Postcards, Notecards Original Oil, Acrylic, and Watercolor Paintings

Gallery on the Square, 118 Main Street, Gainesville, GA

Other Fine Artists at Gallery (www.gallerysq.com)

Ann Alexander, Pam Kohler-Camp, Lydia Ferguson, Ann Goble, Jane Hemmer, Paula Hoffman, Shannon Hughs, Joyce Hornor, Connie Lynn Reilly and Shirley Seguin

Prints, postcards, notecards also available at: Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street, Gainesville, GA

Frame-Tastic, 565-B Shallowford Road, Gainesville, GA

A previous LLA Member Celebration.

PHOTO: LLA

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

Lake level: Near full pool

Temperature: 50s

Clarity: Clear in main lake, stained elsewhere

Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good but it has slowed. With the drop in the water temperature recently the bass have backed up some from the shallows. There are still some fish to be caught in less than five feet of water but it seems more fish have simply slid back into the 10- to 20-foot range in the same areas. Secondary rocky or red clay points have been holding steady for fish. Docks with the back in five feet of water and 15 to 20 feet of water in front have also been good targets.

The three eights shakey head with a green pumpkin worm is still a main bait to use but you will need to slow down the presentation to get the bass to bite. The dropshot can also be used around the same docks to get bites, just pitch it to the back of the dock and slowly work it back. A quarter ounce Spotchoker with either a two-eighth or three-inch Keitech worked along the front of the deeper docks or off the sides of points is still producing good fish. One key to look for is the schools of shad in the pockets. They can be anywhere from five to 20 feet deep and when you find them the bass will be close by.

Get ready for the quick Georgia weather swing as 80-degree days are coming back. The shad will react quickly to the warming water and make a move back shallow with the bass following them so be prepared to move up with them. With both the rise in water temperature and the next full moon approach the bass will be feeding up before the spawn so it makes for a great time to be checking areas near the bedding areas. Spring in Georgia is a roller coaster for temperatures and for the fishing but we should be on the warm rebound now so Go Catch ‘Em!

This Lake Lanier bass fishing report is by guide Phil Johnson: pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845.

Lake Lanier stripers are looking for love all over the place. The females are full of eggs and the males are showing off too.

Flat lines and planer boards are luckier than down lines although you should have a couple in water as the schools may show up at anytime.

Planers should have some with weights and some without. Fish the baits 30 to 50 feet behind the boards. Flat lines 80 to 110 feet behind the boat, baits could be a mixture of blue backs and medium to large shiners. Boat speed at .05 to 1.5 mph. Water depth can vary depending on the

creek you’re in. The inside boards should be near the shoreline because the bigger ones are chasing the bait near the bank.

This Lake Lanier striper report is by Buck Cannon, Buck Tails Guide Service, 404 510-1778.

Crappie fishing is good. The water temperatures should rise rapidly with the high forecasted temperatures. Keep looking shallow. Look to the sides of major creeks as they have started moving back to docks and a little deeper water. I like looking for rock walls and standing timber or blow downs in the shallow waters to cast to.

Trolling is good so hit large shallow bays or coves. The jigs that are producing the best for me are the gray color combinations or dark colors. Crappie love the shade so cast into the shadows or shaded areas of dock. When dock shooting the biggest fish are usually the first to bite.

This Lake Lanier crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton, 770 530-6493. Note: Southern Fishing Schools Inc.’s recommended Tackle Box List for bass, striper, and crappie fishing is available for free. Drop a line to kensturdivant@att.net for your copy.

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Record those memories, you’ll be glad you did

Do you have memories of the fishing, hunting, and camping trips you’ve enjoyed over the years? Bet you do. Great to recall and, if you can find an audience, preferably a child or even grandchild, that’s part of your life, and can keep them still for a few minutes, relate to them an adventure or two. Of course, because of the unusual method I’ve been granted to make a living over the last 40 years, literally thousands of hours of details of my experiences are either on video tape, in a book, on a thumb drive and finally a link that can be placed on a laptop and visited. You likely do not.

So, take this to heart as I ask the following. Wouldn’t you love to hear those untold outdoor stories from your father or grandfather now? Surely you would. Do you think, after you’ve passed along, that your family members would love to hear those stories about you? Yes, they would. So, what do you do? Write them down or record a video of you telling your story. You might not

O’Neill Williams O’Neill Outside

consider yourself a writer or a talented storyteller on video, and you don’t have to be either one, for each to be a prize to the reader or viewer a few decades from now by your loved ones. The fact that you have recorded these in various fashions will become like leaves of gold to your descendants.

When I was 10-years old, I fished with my grandfather in the local farm ponds in Walton County. He dressed in a vested suit, white shirt, tie, black wingtip shoes and topped it off with a wide breamed straw had. He was

a Primitive Baptist preacher and was evidently dressed to deliver a sermon anytime and anywhere. We really filled up the stringers with catfish during those days together. My mother’s father was born in Tiger, Ga., orphaned at 10 and worked in a logging camp until 16 when he got a job at Georgia Power spiking railroad ties in place. He retired from Georgia Power 50 years later. When we fished in the north Georgia mountain lakes and streams when I was 8 years old, we only had cane poles and used freshly caught grasshoppers, some crickets and a few nightcrawlers dug from around the barn. We mostly caught catfish and an occasional bream. He dressed in bib overalls, a tan collared shirt and a decades old dark brown fedora. When I started tournament bass fishing in the 70s, I used that hat a time or two. It was lucky.

With me now in my late 70s and them both passed on so long ago, do you think I’d like to see them both now, to hear their

voices, to see them catch a few more as we often did so long ago? You bet. I tear up just thinking about it.

With all that in mind, please take your children and grandchildren fishing, hunting, and camping and take the time to record

your outdoor adventures so your children, grand and great grandchildren can visit your memories.

O’Neill Williams has been a television, radio and print personality for more than 40 years and more recently has added podcasts and video on demand to his rep-

O'Neill and grandson, Travis, during one of his fishing trips.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY O’NEILL WILLIAMS

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2023 Moomba Kaiyen

2020 Supra SL 450

2023 Robalo 266 Cayman

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2016 Bennington 2575QCWTIO

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Navigating blind, or know your equipment and how to use it

I recently enjoyed Frank Taylor’s excellent article about navigating in the fog (Lakeside, February 2023) and it brought back a lot of memories. Probably the most famous example of a collision in fog was the Italian liner “Andria Doria” and the Swedish liner “Stockholm” in 1956. They were both proceeding too fast in conditions of limited vision and navigating by their radars. Sure enough, they plowed right into one another, sinking the Italian ship with the loss of about 50 passengers. This is called a “Radar Assisted Collision.”

Closer to home, where I used to live in New Jersey, there was a commuter ferry line running back and forth to New York City, 19 miles away. Piloting the ferry was a no brainer because you could see where you were going the whole time, from the tall buildings in Manhattan to the lighthouse on top of the hill in Highlands. That is, unless it was foggy! Then you had to depend on instruments and common sense to safely find your way.

In this instance two of the ferry

boats were running in opposite directions and navigating with radar. They were sailing on the same course they traveled multiple times a day. The two captains were talking to each other on the radio when they collided head on! There were multiple injuries but no loss of life.

My most memorable experience in the fog was the Brooklyn Bridge Centennial celebration in 1983. (The bridge was unique in its time because it was the longest steel cable suspension in the world, and the cables had been spun in place.) The anniversary celebration was to be marked at sunset by a spectacular fireworks display over the bridge in NY Harbor. My brother Haik (who had the marina) and I had planned

to take a group of friends to see the show aboard his 38-foot cabin cruiser. Our younger brother Tom was working as a charter captain on a fancy 54-foot yacht, equipped with all the most modern navigational equipment available, including radar and Loran (a sort of radio direction finder). He was taking the owner and his family to see the fireworks as well, and we planned to meet up at the bridge.

On the big day, the fog closed in about noontime cutting visibility to less than 100 yards. Taking the chance that it would clear before sunset we went anyway. Haik and I had a new chart of the area, and we had an accurate compass and a copy of the tide and current tables. We made sure all the running lights as well as our powerful searchlight and foghorn were in working order. Going down the river was no problem because it was our own “backyard.” However, once we passed Sandy Hook into New York Bay we had all kinds of tides and currents to contend with. Since we regularly raced

sailboats in these waters, we were very familiar with the way the currents affected us navigating from buoy to buoy. As we approached Manhattan Island the traffic was increasing, although it was all going in the same direction. All eyes on our boat were on the alert and we used our horn and searchlight to let others know of our presence.

As soon as we got into the East River, the fog magically lifted and we could see stars overhead, the New York skyline, and thousands and thousands of boats! We finally spotted Tom who was anchored under the bridge at our rendezvous point. We pulled up beside him and I asked if we could side-tie instead of anchoring, as the water was 80 feet deep and “what goes down, must come up.” He declined saying that his anchor windlass was five years old, and he didn’t want to wear it out! I replied that we had an anchor windlass “by Armstrong” and it was 42 years old and had worn out a long time ago!

The fireworks were just as spectacular as anticipated and for

a lot of our passengers, a once in a lifetime experience. Afterward, there was a mad scramble as everyone wanted to get their anchors up and beat the crowd heading home. We stayed put for a while, as did Tom until the crowd thinned out because at events like this, there is usually alcohol involved and judgment is impaired, and it’s best not to put yourself in harm’s way.

We finally hauled anchor and headed down the East River. As soon as we got into New York Harbor, the fog closed in again, thicker than before and now it was dark. This is a mixed blessing because even though visibility is less, you can see the reflections of light better at night. We immediately lost sight of Tom with all his fancy navigational equipment so once again it was back to compass, parallel rule and tide and current chart to find our way home. We were in radio contact with him the whole time, and when we finally got into the mouth of our home river, we asked his position and he replied,

See Mendes, page 18

Vinnie Mendes On the Water

04.22.23 | 4-7pm

Peachtree Pointe at Lanier Islands

Live music from Teen Dads, free food and a cash bar. Relax or peruse information and products from area lake vendors and Lake Lanier Association Business Members / Sponsors. Bring a life jacket to donate for use at the Life Jacket Loaner Stations across the lake. Children and Infant sizes are needed most.

This is an LLA Members exclusive event! Not an LLA Member? Join today using the QR Code below! As an LLA Member, you'll support our efforts towards a Clean, Full and Safe Lake Lanier AND get to enjoy this member exclusive event.

Tickets and Pre-Registration Information WWW.LAKELANIER.ORG

Be prepared for safety so you don’t become a boating statistic

It is springtime! If you have not already done so, you are probably close to starting your boating season. You are already thinking about plans for raft ups with friends, trying out that new fishing spot or exploring some new waterways. Just don’t forget to think about safety, too.

Every year, the US Coast Guard releases statistics from the previous year for recreational boating. It details the top causes of boating accidents and boating deaths. In 2021, 81 percent of boating related deaths were due to drowning. Of that 81 percent, 83 percent were not wearing a life jacket. In addition, 75 percent of deaths occurred on vessels where the operator had not taken a boating safety class.

Let’s look at some of the top causes for boating accidents and deaths in 2021 to see what can be done to avoid becoming a statistic:

1. Operator Inattention: The vessel operator was either not paying attention or was distracted by something other than operation of the vessel.

Frank Taylor

The Careful Captain

What You Can Do: Remember that operating a boat requires just as much if not more attention as operating a car. It is common for passengers to be celebrating and having fun while the boat is underway. It is a good idea to let your passengers know that they need to refrain from distracting behavior.

2. Operator Inexperience:

Many new operators expect a boat to handle like a car. It just does not work that way. They steer differently. They are affected by wind and current. They have no brakes. Additionally, inexperienced operators most likely do not know what to do in emergency situations or when something unexpected happens.

What You Can Do: Take a

boating safety class. America’s Boating Club (formerly US Power Squadron) and the Coast Guard Auxiliary both offer boating safety classes to the public.

3. Machinery Failure: Something failed on the vessel. Maybe it was the engine, the steering or something else vital. Unlike a car, if a boat becomes disabled, it does not sit in one place. Wind and current could potentially cause your boat to drift into dangerous areas or large waves hitting the vessel broadside could potentially capsize it.

What You Can Do: Maintain your vessel properly. Also, the more you learn about how your vessel works, the more options you will have available to deal with mechanical failures. Always carry a proper anchor and rode so that you can prevent the vessel from drifting into dangerous areas if it becomes disabled.

4. Excessive Speed: The vessel is moving too fast for safe conditions.

What You Can Do: Operate the vessel at speeds that are appropriate, especially for your skill

level and conditions. Reduce speed at night, in rough weather and in high traffic situations. While you are at it, don’t forget to check those life jackets. Make sure they are in good shape and ready to go.

• Mendes

Continued from Page 14

“I’ve got you on my radar and I’m about 500 yards ahead of you and a little to starboard.” Haik replied: “Great, get us a table and order us a pitcher of beer, we’ll be there in five minutes.” Tom asked what he was talking about, and Haik explained “That position puts you right in the dining room of the Clam Hut” (our favorite restaurant). Tom replied, “No, I’m just coming around the point of the Hook” (with all his fancy navigational gear, he was about five miles away from the position he thought he was in!) He finally arrived about an hour and a half later. After helping him tie up to the dock, I

Have a safe and fun boating season.

Frank is past commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta and is currently a content creator at the YouTube channel “The Ships Logg.”

went aboard to see if he needed any more assistance. I noticed that the Loran chart on his navstation was opened to the wrong page! No wonder he was lost!

I guess the moral of the story is: if you have high tech equipment, know how to use it, and remember that low tech and common sense gets the job done!

Mendes has been sailing all his life and on Lake Lanier for the past 25 years. His family owns a marina/bar/restaurant so he has plenty of real life experiences to draw from. His favorite line: “You can’t make this stuff up.”

Weather has been anything but normal

When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I do is sit down with a cup of coffee and look at the latest weather data for the day. I sit on my chair, looking out the window, and just scratch my head. The weather patterns this year have been nothing short of bizarre, not just globally but locally too.

Our Atlanta area winter was the second warmest on record with temperatures running a whopping 6.8 degrees above normal. Then we had the record high temperatures in January with a high of 80, the warmest it’s ever been for the month since records have been kept.

Then of course in March the hammer

Glenn Burns Lanier Outlook

came down bringing some very cold air to our area, just in time for everything to begin blooming. Pollen counts were setting records with the highest amounts ever seen so early in the year. The freezing temperatures really did some damage to those early blooms.

Then I said to myself in jest, that the next phase would be the pestilence, halfjoking. Then my news feed showed the worms falling with the rain in China!

One theory is that strong updrafts in a thunderstorm picked the worms up and mixed with the rain. Another theory is the objects weren’t worms at all but simply flower blossoms. Who knows!

With winter over we are now seeing another change getting ready to unfold. We’ve gone from a La Nina pattern this winter, to now neutral, but quickly evolving to El Nino, known for accelerating planetary warming and inducing extreme weather across the globe this summer.

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

Raining worms?

PHOTO: NEW YORK POST

Lakeside’s Safety Guide

A GUIDE TO BOATING AND SWIMMING SAFETY RESOURCES PRESENTED BY LAKESIDE ON LANIER

BOATING

Boater Education Courses with Certification

Exam Basics of Boating - America's Boating Course

• Course: Meets Georgia DNR and NASBLA requirements for boater and PWC certification; covers boat handling, safety equipment/procedures, rules of the road, boat types/terminology.

• Instructors: America’s Boating Club – Atlanta (formerly Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron)

• When: Virtual 3-session classes OR In-person Full-day Class: In person - Saturday, May 13; Virtual 3 sessions - May 31, plus June 7, 10; In-person - Saturday, July 8; Virtual 3 sessions - August 2, 9, 12

• Cost: $25 per student

• Information/registration: americasboatingclubatlanta.org/ or Email - ABC@usps-atlanta.org

Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification - USCGA

• Course: NASBLA certified entry level classroom-only course with test for boater education and PWC certification. Covers basic boating terminology, “rules of the road,” navigation, operation, legal requirements, emergencies, water etiquette and more.

• Instructors: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers

• Minimum age: 12

• When: 8:30 am-3:30 pm; April 15, May 20, June 17, July 15, Aug 19, Sept 16, Oct 21

• Where: U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 29, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch

• Cost: Individuals $35; bring lunch

• Information/registration: Hector Colon, hlcolon55@gmail.com, 678-778-2131; http://wow.uscgaux.info/peclass.php?unit=070-02-09

On-Line Courses

• www.boat-ed.com and www.boaterexam.com/usa/georgia include study guide and Georgia Certification Exam with unlimited exam attempts; cost is $34.95 payable upon exam passage. Temporary certificate printed upon passage; permanent card mailed.

• www.boatus.org/free offers free course, exam and print your own certificate; mailed certificate $5.

Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included)

• Advanced Boating Classes in piloting, marine communications, and other boating skills offered periodically by the America’s Boating Club – Atlanta. americasboatingclubatlanta.org.

Vessel Safety Checks

• Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron offers vessel safety check-ups by appointment; americasboatingclubatlanta.org/vessel-safety-check.

• Vessel Safety Checks by appointment: Both U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadrons offer vessel safety check-ups at your boat by appointment. www.safetyseal.net.

Sailing Classes

• Windsong Sailing Academy: Basic and advanced sailing training and certifications including engine maintenance, marine electrical systems, coastal and celestial navigation, marine meteorology and emergency planning. Public and private week evening and weekend classes available. Fees vary. www.WindsongSail.com. (770) 967-1515.

SWIMMING (Lessons/Aquatic Programs)

Frances Meadows Aquatics and Community Center

• Location: 1545 Community Way, Gainesville.

• Information/registration: 770-533-5850, www.gainesville.org/359/Swim-Lessons

• Lessons: Swimming and water safety program for all ages and levels, age 6 months to masters, basic aquatics safety to skill proficiency for competitive swimmers, lifeguard training.

• Lanier Aquatics Swim Team: Competitive swimming groups for Rookie (age 4) through Masters (age 18 and older); www.gainesville.org/753/Lanier-Aquatics-Swim-Team

Georgia Mountains YMCA

• Location: 2455 YMCA Drive, Gainesville

• Information/registration: www.gamountainsymca.org/programs-2/swim-lessons, 770-297-9622

• Swim lessons: For all ages and levels, parent-child swim, Masters Swim Program, water fitness, water safety, life guard certification. Fees and times vary.

Cumming Aquatic Center

• Location: 201 Aquatic Circle, Cumming

• Information/registration: 770-781-1781 www.cummingaquaticcenter.com (register online)

• Lessons: Swimming and water safety program ranges from toddler-age in Parent Child Aquatics Program to teens and adults in Learn to Swim and Adult Aquatics Program. Private or semi-private lessons available. Fees and schedules vary. Competitive swimming and diving programs, Masters Swim Team also available. Lifeguard certification offered.

Gwinnett Swim

• Location: 5396 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford

• Information/registration: www.gwinnettswim.com, 404-590-7946

• Swim lessons: For all ages and levels. Fees and times vary.

Swim Atlanta

• Location: 5059 Post Road, Cumming, 770-888-0010; 1152 Auburn Road, Dacula, 678-8892039; 4050 Johns Creek Parkway, Suwanee, 770-622-1735; other Atlanta locations

• Information/registration: www.gwinnettswim.com, 404-590-7946

• Swim lessons: For all ages and levels. Fees and times vary.

NOTE: Please contact Lakeside on Lanier News to list additional boating and water safety classes. lakesidenews@mindspring.com.

Cumming company brings more glamping to Lake Lanier parks

By Pamela A. Keene

Upscale camping – called glamping – now has two locations on Lake Lanier and the good news is that the program has been created by a local company –Timberlane Glamping Company –founded by Nathan and Rebeka Self of Cumming.

With the recent vote by the Hall County Board of Commissioners in early March, the firm is bringing glamping to River Forks Park in Gainesville, joining 13 glamping sites in Cumming at Shady Grove Park. “We are so excited to be able to expand here on Lake Lanier, giving people an upscale experience a couple of notches above tent camping,” said Rebeka Self, co-CEO of the company that also has glamping locations in Georgia and Florida. “Glamping is perfect for people who want to get out in nature and the outdoors without sacrificing luxury, comfort and style.”

River Forks Park will offer five tented glamping sites, plus one bell tent and a geodesic dome. Timberland Glamping will be leasing the spots from the

county.

Glamping has become the next trend in overnighting and vacationing outdoors. Semi-permanent canvas-sided tents are set up on platforms and include many of the comforts of home, from real beds, furniture and seating areas to accessories such as lamps and other décor. The tents include heating and air-conditioning, a charcoal grill, a fire pit, hammocks and string lights.

“Glamping, a way to enjoy overnights outdoors with the comforts of a hotel, is gaining in popularity,” says Nathan Self, co-CEO of Timberline Glamping. “It is especially popular with people who have never camped before and with older people who formerly enjoyed tent camping but now find it much more convenient to stay in a tent-like setting without all the set-up and worries about what to bring. It’s simply a more convenient and comfortable way to connect with the outdoors.”

In 2018 the couple came up with the idea for Timberline after returning from a not-so-good

hotel experience where noise from adjacent guests and their love of spending time outdoors presented the perfect compromise.

The company’s first location at Shady Grove gave them the impetus to expand, eventually adding glamping sites in Amicalola Falls, Clarks Hill Lake, Kingston Downs, Lake Blackshear and Unicoi State Park, as well as in Hillsborough River State Park in Florida.

The couple is currently developing a management model to expand the business into franchising. “We’re looking for like-minded people who have a passion for the outdoors and want a business opportunity,” she said.

“Our marketing research shows that glamping is the new best trend in outdoor recreation,” she said. “People who’ve never camped before can give it a try without the investment in their own gear or the hassle of setting up their tent and campsite. You may like it so much that you’ll become a regular glamper.”

For more information, visit www.timberlineglamping.com.

Five new “glamping” sites have been developed at Lake Lanier’s River Forks Park in Gainesville by Cumming-based Timberline Glamping.

PHOTOS BY TIMBERLINE

‘What the Riff?!?’ The music-based podcast from Lanier area residents

Shore Lines

From the fascinating to the remarkable, Lake Lanier harbors many personalities and places along its shores. Lakeside presents “Shore Lines” – stories about people who live, work and play around the lake and the places that make the area special.

By Pamela A. Keene

What happens when you put together four die-hard music aficionados, three decades of tunes, nearly 250 podcasts and thousands of “do you remember whens”? It’s “What the Riff?!?,” a deep dive into nearly 30 years of musical hits – and obscure songs – by big-name bands as well as little-known groups.

The semi-regular podcasts feature four songs from an album, usually on the BILLBOARD Charts between 1965 and 1994, and include back-stories about bands, the truth behind the lyrics and snippets of the world happenings during its time of popularity.

The brainchild of four longtime friends who live on and near Lake Lanier, “What the Riff?!?” began in 2018. The first episode, which aired on June 1, 2018, featured the Alan Parson’s Project: “I Robot.”

Current lake resident Wayne Rowan along with Bruce Fricks, Rob Marbury and Brian Dickhute all lived in the Hamilton Mill area when they started creating the energetic 25- to 40-minute podcasts five years ago. Although they’ve scattered a bit, they come together most Saturday mornings at Marbury’s office podcast studio in Duluth to record each episode. Rowan is in construction sales for Pella Windows; Fricks is retired; Marbury owns Marbury Creative Group; Dickhute works in IT security.

“We have been the best of friends for a long time,” Rowan said. “The four of us – all in the same Sunday School class – were all listening to 3-4 hours a day of various podcasts and then we had an epiphany: why not do a music show, but not just a Top 10, but something that wasn’t being done?

“We landed on the idea of showcasing our favorite music to recreate the flavor of the times we grew up in, the soundtracks of

those years.

“Even more than that, we’d build the show around a single song or a couple of songs from one album, and we’d even look for some of those bands that later became groups like the Allman Brothers, or bands that opened for the more popular bands but then became hitmakers themselves. And we’d riff off each other.”

Any one of them can suggest a song or theme – any kind of music – as long as it’s between 1965 to 1994.

“The guy who suggests the song/band is responsible for the research and takes the lead for that podcast, but each of us gets involved and contributes our twocents, memories, comments and opinions. It makes for some interesting, insightful and amazing conversation.”

With their chemistry, the talk flows naturally against a backdrop of that week’s featured music. The podcasts are released on Monday mornings.

“Because of our diverse experiences growing up, we all have different perspectives about the groups and their music,” Rowan

said. “We saw many of them in concert, owned their albums, even bought their singles in the early days. We might go back to the first time we heard a particular band or song, what was going on in our lives at that time, what a concert was like.

“Our passion and enthusiasm really shines through,” he said. “It’s funny, when someone’s on a roll and another of us has something to contribute, we raise our hands. With our mutual respect and friendship, it makes the shows really flow.”

Shows run the gamut from Southern Rock to jazz, the British invasion groups to movie soundtracks and television theme songs. They even do holiday themed podcasts for Christmas and Halloween. From time to time, they invite guests hosts from local broadcast personalities to musicians.

Episode titles draw in fans, such as “The Crow: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack,” “The Birds, The Bees & the Monkees,” “Sam & Dave ‘Double Dynamite,’ ” “Pink Floyd ‘The Wall” and “War ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?” and “They Might Be Giants ‘Flood.’ ”

For Allman Brothers fans, they reached back to the days of Hourglass, one of Duane and Gregg’s first bands in Daytona Beach. They also featured Janis Joplin with Big Brother and the Holding Company; and Ozzy Osbourne when he was with Black Sabbath.

Each podcast has more than 1,000 downloads from across the globe, including Australia, Japan, Russia, Africa, India and South America.

“What the Riff?!?” comments on Apple Podcast Reviews say it all: “I really enjoy the camaraderie amongst the

hosts. It feels like hanging out with friends discussing music, and it seems I finish each podcast learning something new about an artist or song I didn’t know before. Also turned me onto artists I either previously didn’t know, or only knew based off of a radio single.” – Cycle Poet

“It’s way more than just an album review. You get background stories on the making of the album and info about the artists. Also they do a bit of that day in history news plus other songs from different artists that were popular at that time. Awesome blast from the past.” – Texastiger

“WhatTheRiff?!? keeps me up all night, because I found it so entertaining. The four regulars have great personalities and have great knowledge of the albums. I enjoyed their personal stories of songs, concerts and albums. More than just commentary on an album, they also discuss current events and pop culture. I like the surprise of each personal song pick and the comedy pick.” –Kryptshify.

Rowan recalls his younger days when television had only three channels and most songs were sold as “singles” that were played on record players. “As kids, we all played outdoors after dinner and on weekends and that was our entertainment,” he said. “In some ways we were feral kids because we had to make our own entertainment, running around and playing with BB guns and such.”

The first song he heard on a record player was the Beatles’ “I Wanna Hold Your Hand.” He said it made an impression on him. In 1974, he purchased a $5 transistor radio and stayed up late in his room listening to tunes.

In college, he became a deejay at WEGL radio on campus. A graduate of Auburn University, by that time music became more than a hobby. He connected with his fellow “What the Riff?!?” creators when they all ended up living in the Hamilton Mill area.

“These guys are all my closest friends,” Rowan said. “We socialize together, we’ve watched each other’s kids grow up. They’re the guys that you can call up in the middle of the night, no matter what, and they’ll be there. No questions asked. We just implicitly trust each other.

Recently, John Lynch of Mableton joined the show, replacing Dickhute, who left to become a supporting grandpa. Since the beginning of 2023, he has brought music by “The Black Crowes ‘The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion’” and “Skid Row, ‘Skid Row.’ ” Lynch works as a network engineer.

“John’s right there with us and although we miss Brian, he fits in perfectly. We’ve all known him a long time too, he’s around our ages and ‘gets it,’ ” Rowan said. “We’re just having a blast and hope other people will tune in.”

To listen to “What The Riff?!?” tune in to Spotify or iTunes.

Production day in the podcast studio, from left, Rob Marbury producing, with John Lynch, Bruce Fricks and Wayne Rowan.

CREDIT: WHAT THE RIFF?!?

CREDIT: WHAT THE RIFF?!?

What the Riff?!? L-R Rob Marbury, John Lynch, Wayne Rowan, and Bruce Fricks show off the podcast logo.

o Apr. 1, May 6, June 3 – Greeting Card Workshop, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., held at Hall County Library, Gainesville Branch, 127 Main St. Craft a greeting card with the help of Patricia Anderson, who will provide expertise, tools and materials (for age 18 and up only).

Info: 770-532-3311 X4011; hallcountylibrary.org.

o Apr. 10-15 – Adult Coloring Week offered at Hall County Library, Gainesville Branch, as a do-drop-in anytime event. Relax over intricate coloring pages (coloring pencils and sheets provided or bring your own). Times: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Apr. 10, 13; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Apr. 11, 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Apr. 14, 15. Free.

Info: 770-532-3311 X4011.

o Apr. 21 – Tea with Jane Austen Reading Group, Hall County Library, Gainesville Branch from 3-4 p.m. Spend a year reading all novels and some Juvenilia by Jane Austen. Every 4th Friday of the month (April 21 is 3rd Friday.) A different tea each month will be provided while discussing novels in the sequence they were published. (The group began reading Pride and Prejudice on Feb. 24.) The last session will be in November. Register (adults 18 and up only) at gkoecher@hallcountylibrary.org.

Info: 770-532-3311 X4011.

o Apr. 22 – Flowery Branch Spring Festival, held 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at 5302 Railroad Ave., Flowery Branch, will be hosted by BSA Troop 228 in Downtown Flowery Branch. The event will have food vendors, crafts, games, shopping, a kids area, entertainment and more.

Info: 770-467-3833.

Lakeside Calendar April 2023

o Apr. 29 – 14th Annual Bowen Spring Festival, held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Bowen Arts Center, 334 Highway 9 North, Dawsonville, features arts, crafts, home good, garden plants & accessories, community resource info, hot dogs, ice cream and free parking.

Info: www.bowenarts.org.

Brenau University

o Thru Apr. 20 – Judith Surowiec: Moments in Time, an exhibit by Atlanta artist Surowiec, displayed in the Castelli Gallery in the John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts. Gena Brodie Robbins, Brenau Gallery director, says “Surowiec’s paintings are a visual diary,” reflections of her daily life and the world.

o Apr. 4 – Georgia Poetry Circuit Poetry Reading with Courtney Faye Taylor, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m., presented in Brenau Trustee Library. A meet and greet reception in the Library Language Bistro will be held at 3:30 p.m. with light refreshments served.

o Apr. 13-16 – Dance Senior Thesis and Faculty Spring Concert, 7:30 p.m. in John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts. Concert features work by senior dance majors and faculty as well as guest artist’s work from Joshua Blake Carter of Giordano Dance Chicago, Kaitlin Arena and Jesse Zarritt. Times: 7:30 p.m., Apr. 13-15; 2:30 p.m., Apr. 16. Admission: $10, general; $5, seniors/students. Info: mcooper3@brenau.edu.

o Apr. 17 – Department of Music Presents: The Beauty of the Night, 7:30 p.m. in Pearce Auditorium. The Vocal Chamber Ensemble and Spectrum Singers perform songs about the moon, stars and the night. Free.

Info: 770-538-4764; brenau.edu

Buford Community Center

o Apr. 21 – The Tams perform at 8 p.m. in the Sylvia Beard Theatre. Tickets: $30-$40. Info: www.bufordcommunitycenter.com.

Clarkesville’s Historic Habersham Community Theater

o Apr. 12-23 – The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, takes audience members to Narnia where animals talk, trees walk and a battle begins. Times: 7:30 p.m., Apr. 12-15, 19-22;

2 p.m., Apr. 14, 16, 22, 23.

Info: 706-839-1315; habershamtheater.org

Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater

o Apr. 21-23, 28-30, May 5-7 – The Spitfire Grill tells the story of new beginnings and friendship between two strong women told with folk-inspired music. Times: 8 p.m., Fri./Sat.; 2 p.m., Sun. Tickets: $30, adults; $15, students/children.

Info: 706-530-5162; www.hollytheater.com

Gainesville Theatre Alliance

o Apr. 4 – Stage Tour 1984, 6-7 p.m., presented at UNG Performing Arts Center, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood. Hear from designers and director Zechariah Pierce of this stage adaptations of Orwell’s classic dystopian world, which is true to the novel. Free.

o Apr. 14-16, 18-22 – 1984 presented by GTA in Ed Cabell Theatre, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood. Recommended for ages 13+. Times: 7:30 p.m., Apr. 14, 15, 18-22; 2:30 p.m., Apr. 15, 16, 22. Tickets: $16-$24.

Info: 678-717-3624; www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

o Apr. 15 – Clint Black performs 7-10 p.m. in Music Hall, 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. Gates open at 6 p.m. Tickets: $55.

o Apr. 21 – Leanne Morgan: Just Getting Started Tour performs at 7 p.m. in Music Hall. Morgan, a must-watch comedian, and Special Guest Karen Mills, will have you in stitches. Gates open at 6 p.m. Tickets: Section 1: $49.75; Section 2: $39.75; Section 3: $29.75.

o Apr. 29 – Atlanta Rhythm Section and Pure Prairie League perform at 7 p.m. in Music Hall. Gates open at 6 p.m. Tickets: $45. Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.

Interactive Neighborhood Kids

o Thru Apr. 2 – Doctor Craft Week, pretend to be a doctor in the museum and create own doctor craft.

o Apr. 3-8 – Zoo Craft Week, create a fun zoo craft.

o Apr. 10-16 – Easter Craft Week, hop on over and make an Easter craft this week.

o Apr. 17-23 – Dino Craft Week, create own dinosaur this week.

o Apr. 24-30 – Earth Craft Week, help celebrate our planet by creating a fun earth craft this week.

Time/Play Blocks: Mon.-Sat.; 10 a.m.-noon; 12:30-2:30 p.m.; 3-5 p.m.; Sun.: 12:30-2:30 p.m.; 3-5 p.m.

Info: $1 with paid admission to museum; members, free. 770-536-1900; www.inkfun.org.

Piedmont University

o Apr. 2 – Bright Star, performed in the SwanSee Calendar, page 41

For more than 30 years, I have traveled up I-85 and the Cherokee Scenic Highway to my property near Lake Jocassee. On one of the trips several years ago, less than 2 miles from I-85 going north on SC Highway 11 on the right side of the road, I discovered the Spotted Pig. This eatery is a country place with great hospitality and mouthwatering BBQ that is unforgettable and served in hearty portions. Since then, I stop every time that I pass this fantastic restaurant!

For an even longer time, in the days prior to super highways, I would drive up old US 441 into the tiny mountain town of Clayton, Ga., before hitting the backroads in search of trout in a multitude of productive Rabun County streams.

Just the trip to Clayton back then would take several hours, but times have changed. Even if you abide by the speed limits, Atlanta residents can use I-985 and Highway 365 to Clayton in less than 2 hours and discover a place that offers top-of-the-line wines, great food, unique and historic lodging and beautiful golf courses!

I made it into downtown Clayton just in time to have lunch and quickly discovered that my old South Carolina friend, the Spotted Pig (706-960-4448), had opened a second restaurant on Main Street in downtown Clayton!

Just like in South Carolina, the pulled pork was phenomenal, the other food is excellent, service is great, people are friendly and the

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com

BY BILL VANDERFORD

ribs are some of the best quality I’ve ever had at any restaurant.

They have great outdoor seating, and everything is spotless. I sat outside with my service dog, and they brought him treats and a bowl of water.

It’s actually a much larger place than the one in South Carolina with the same great food and hospitality, so I would highly recommend this place! They are open Thursday through Sunday.

After a hardy meal at the Spotted Pig, I would suggest doing some hiking at Georgia’s highest state park, Black Rock Mountain State Park, which encompasses some of the most outstanding scenery in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

Roadside overlooks provide spectacular 80-mile vistas, and four hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small waterfalls and lush forests.

Visitors enjoy the summit visitor center for its views, gift shop

and picnic tables.

Mountaintop cottages surround a small playground, while campsites are nestled under rhododendron and gnarled oaks. Tent campers will appreciate the walkin sites that allow extra privacy.

The park’s small lake is popular with anglers and circled by an easy walking trail. At an altitude of 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is often cooler than other Georgia parks and may close during icy weather.

It is always said that you can never go back to a place of your youth and be satisfied, but in the case of Clayton, that might not be true. The changes are many, but much of it has made the area more attractive to visitors without destroying the best of the past. So, I was impressed and pleased enough that I know I’ll return!

Bill Vanderford has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide.

PHOTOS

One of the overlooks in the Blackrock Mountain State Park.

View from the top at Blackrock Mountain State Park.

The Spotted Pig in Clayton:

The front and outdoor seating area, top right.

Girls working the front counter, middle right.

A couple enjoying lunch, bottom right.

Gorgeous Clayton has added a new jewel to its crown

HIGHLANDS TO ISLANDS TRAIL UPDATE

Trail linking Gainesville to south Lake Lanier continues to link up

By Jane Harrison

The newest section of the Highlands to Islands Trail to open brings visitors out of the tunnel, closer to the reality of a path that will eventually link Gainesville with the south end of Lake Lanier.

The most recent expansion of the planned 30-mile pedestrian and bike friendly paved trail extends beyond the tunnel near Department of Labor on Atlanta Highway/Ga. 13 into the woods abutting the University of North Georgia (UNG) Gainesville campus. There, the new .6-mile segment ends with a bridge over Balus Creek, at the edge of another important link expected to open later this spring.

From its inception more than 25 years ago, the Highlands to Islands Trail has inched forward as a partnership of trailblazers has pieced together designs and construction teams. The collaboration between Hall County, Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and the cities of Gainesville, Flowery Branch, Oakwood and Braselton is paving the way. The trail will ultimately run between Gainesville’s historic Longwood Park on a Lake Lanier cove and the entrance to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands on the southern end.

Improvements and additions

In the year since Lakeside’s 2022 report, additions and improvements to the greenway have escorted in more visitors, events

and businesses. Even during the rainy winter, walkers, runners, skaters and folks seeking a respite from routine set out on the Midland Greenway where a skate park, inclusive playground, dog park, and fitness court await just steps away from Downtown Gainesville.

“Visitors to the park have increased dramatically and any given weekday evening or weekend you’ll see all matter of families, couples, and individuals exercising or walking their dogs, or playing a pickup game of soccer or playing on the playground. Our community is really just enjoying the park, “ said Kate Mattison, Gainesville Parks and Recreation Director.

She added that lighting installations in Midland cast a welcome glow, especially at the Engine 209 Park, where a historic train engine formerly stationed downtown now reigns over a different track. “Engine 209 Park is spectacular at night with the train itself lit, as well as the playground, bridge and mural. It’s a beautiful space,” Mattison said.

New restrooms have opened near the park’s upper end and at the skate park.

Construction continues

The city’s old industrial warehousing hub and once blighted area now attracts thousands to public events such as this month’s Skate the City, Waterfest, and Art Walk. All around, red earth foots construction of new residential quarters and workers refashion old digs into new ventures, such as Nofo Brewing Company’s multi-faceted facility at a former warehouse on the greenway. The brewery, distillery, restaurant and event space are slated to open in July.

A 2.5-mile gap still exists between the Midland Greenway and another popular Highlands to Islands segment, the Chicopee Trail, which hits the woods near Palmour Road and emerges beside bustling Atlanta Highway near the entrance to Elachee Nature Science Center and Chicopee Woods. Currently the north end adjacent to Midland abruptly ends at the intersection of Pine Street and Industrial Boulevard.

“Work continues by the City of Gainesville on the design for the Airport Connector Trail, which will close the gap between the Midland Greenway and the Chicopee Trail,” said Joseph Boyd, Transportation Planning Director for the Gainesville Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization. “Design work is expected to wrap this summer with the city shifting toward construction later in the fall and winter of 2023/2024,” he said. The construction is funded through a $785,000 contribution from Pilgrim’s

Pride plus SPLOST VIII trail and greenspace funds.

Small links are big

The Airport Connector is seen as the biggest piece connecting Gainesville and Oakwood. But even the minor links, such as the segment currently ending at Balus Creek have an impact. “Those small connectors are the catalyst “that can put more people on the trails,” Dan Schultz, Oakwood Planning and Development Director

previously told Lakeside. “People don’t realize what a large effect those connectors can have.”

Boyd said the current goal for the Airport Connector Trail is phased openings beginning in Spring 2024. In the meantime another important link, the entire Tumbling Creek connector, is expected to open in May or June. The rainy winter delayed its planned opening this month. It will extend from the new bridge at Balus Creek to the intersection of Landrum and Mathis Education Drive on the campus.

“We anticipate a ribbon cutting for the Tumbling Creek section of the Highlands to Islands Trail in May; however, as always, that date is dependent on the weather and could change,” said Sarah Crowe, Hall County public information officer. The program will include remarks from county officials and stakeholders and light refreshments.

“The Tumbling Creek section is an important section of the (trail) as it connects the University of North Georgia to the trail and promotes additional interconnectivity to the existing trail along Atlanta Highway. The interconnectedness of the Highlands to Islands Trail makes it ideal for both recreational and commuter use,” Crowe said.

Within days of the planks being laid on the new bridge, runners and walkers were already heading through the former terminus at the tunnel onto the new span over the babbling creek. Some peered longingly at the cut through the forest where the route will eventually put them closer to nature and connectivity with entities in the broader trail community.

A runner whizzes by the Midland Sign.

Cyclists enter Lanier Islands, the southernmost part of the 30-mile trail.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

The end of the newly opened segment of the Tumbling Creek connector.

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

HIGHLANDS TO ISLANDS TRAIL UPDATE

MIDLAND GREENWAY HAPPENINGS

The Midland Greenway south of Downtown Gainesville sprawls between former warehouses and current city facilities like a big, fun backyard. Several events and upcoming developments on the urban pathway include this month’s Skate the City, Art Walk, and Waterfest. Here’s what’s happening:

Art Walk: Murals, sculptures and more

Murals, sculptures and crosswalk paintings share the limelight with other Gainesville aesthetics in the city’s first Art Walk 4-8 p.m. April 20. The tour includes a trolly stop at the Midland Greenway for walkers to see colorful works by local artists crafted on warehouse siding, metal fish poised over a pond, standing guard over the dog park, and spanning a side street. Expect meet and greets with artists, refreshments, and live music. The tour also includes stops on Green Street, the Brenau University district, and downtown Gainesville. See www.exploregainesville.com.

– Jane Harrison

CRK’s Waterfest celebrates Earth Day

There’s a new event in town: Waterfest. Organized by the headwaters office of the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, it takes place on Earth Day, Saturday, April 22, at the Midland Greenway in Gainesville, which is walking distance from downtown.

“Many events and activities are planned for the celebration,” said Mallory Pendleton, outreach manager for the headwaters office. “We’re encouraging everyone to come out for the day to celebrate water, one of our most precious resources.”

A virtual silent auction will feature items such as North Georgia adventure packages and hand-painted water barrels, created by area artists, including Anne Brodie Hill, Fox Gradin, Kristin Davis and Shelley Hassel.

An environmental expo showcases nearly a dozen groups across the headwaters’ region: Friends of Gainesville

Parks & Greenways, the Hall County Library System, Keep Hall Beautiful, Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club, the Redbud Project and Wildwood Outfitters.

The day includes entertainment by five local bands, area eateries with food and beverages and family-friendly activities.

“Our goal is to reach even more people in the community who call the headwaters’ region home,” Pendleton said. “Come on out and meet your neighbors, Celebrate Earth Day and have some fun.”

The event is free. It is hosted in partnership with the City of Gainesville’s Water Department and Gainesville Parks and Recreation.

For more information, visit www.chattahoochee.org or call 678 696-8866.

Pamela A. Keene

Roll around in Skate the City

The return of this fest on wheels rolls in bigger than the inaugural 2019 event. “The original idea was roller skating,” said Julie Butler, marketing manager for the Gainesville Parks and Recreation Department. The new rendition invites “anything on wheels – skates, scooters, bikes, tricycles, strollers. We wanted to make it community wide,” she said.

The April 30 party on wheels runs from 1-4 p.m. on the Midland’s main line and at the skate park. Midland and downtown area businesses jump in on the fun. A DJ from Silverstar Productions will pump out upbeat tunes. The Inked Pig BBQ and King of Pops will serve up meals and treats. Downtown Drafts will open taps.

More action ollies in at the Gainesville Skate Park on the west edge of Midland, off High Street. A skate competition with beats from “Let There by Rock” music school and eats from Carniceria Tapatia and Gainesville Parks and Rec concessions are planned. Butler said an interactive art project is also in the works.

“The first Skate the City was an attempt to get people on the greenway to skate,” Butler said. Since then, the actual skate park has opened, attracting a variety of wheels. On a recent weekday evening, would-be acrobats from elementary-aged kids to middle-aged parents, glided and

flipped on the ramps, pools and bowls. “It’s an amazing thing for folks to watch. It’s beautiful to see all the guys and ladies skating,” she said. For more information, visit: www.exploregainesville.com.

– Jane Harrison

Nofo Brew Company coming soon

A former industrial warehouse is being transformed into a brew ery, distillery, restaurant and event center expected to open in July. Nofo Brew Company is branching from its roots in North Forsyth to a prominent site on the Midland Greenway. The taps will flow at 434 High Street, SE, on the greenway’s main trunkline just south of the dog park and across the pond from the skate park.

“The goal is July 23” revised from an earlier planned opening this month, said Nofo marketing director Eliana Barnard. A rainy winter delayed construction on the 18,000-plus foot warehouse that’s set to become a social centerpiece of Gainesville’s backyard.

“We’re excited. The building is awesome,” Barnard said. She added that the greenway, which any day sees people walk-

ing, running, skating, kicking soccer balls, and working out, fits perfectly with Nofo’s culture. The company’s leadership promotes an active, adventurous outdoor lifestyle, from skiing on Lake Lanier or the Rockies, to running and hiking in the Georgia mountains. Soon it will have a place in Gainesville’s outdoor heart.

In mid-March, construction workers were reinforcing bricks on the exterior wall. Besides a brewery pouring craft beer and distillery mixing craft cocktails, the facility will offer three separate event halls and a restaurant. “There are several fantastic restaurants in the running, but the final restaurant has not been decided just yet,” Barnard said last month.

– Jane Harrison

NoFo Brewery, currently under construction, is literally steps away from Midland Greenway.

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

Visitors pass the new lighted area of Midland Greenway in Gainesville.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Outdoor Calendar April 2023

o Spring Break Week in Garden, Gainesville. Family activities inspired by spring, 10 a.m.noon April 3-7, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. Garden admission $14.95 adults, $12.95 children 3-12, free to children younger than 3 and garden members. www.atlantabg.com, 404-8884760.

o No School Nature Days, Gainesville. Wildflower hike for parents and kids kindergarten5th grade, 10 a.m.-noon April 4, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o In Full Bloom, Gainesville. Guided hike for ages 18 and older to see wildflowers in Chicopee Woods, 1-3 p.m. April 4, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. Limit 20 participants. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Elachee Science Night, Gainesville. Program by New Urban Forestry organization limited to 25 participants, 6-7 p.m. April 4, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Mommy & Me Nature Program, Gainesville. Read a story, do a craft, take a stroll for parents and children ages 18 months to 4 years, 10:30-11:30 a.m. April 5, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 per adult. Limited to 20 children. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 8-9:30 p.m. April 5, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706754-7981.

o Virtual Spring Plant Sale, Gainesville. Purchase native and non-native plants grown in Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, members April 5-9, non-members April 10-12; plant pick-up noon-5:30 p.m. April 21; on-site sale noon-5:30 p.m. April 21 & 9 a.m.1:30 p.m. April 22, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. www.atlantabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o No School Nature Day, Gainesville. Children kindergarten-5th grade explore Walnut Creek accompanied by parent, 10 a.m.-noon April 6, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o In Full Bloom, Gainesville. Adults explore aquatic life in Walnut Creek, 1-3 p.m. April 6, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. Limit 20 participants. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Spring Garden Expo, Gainesville. Annual garden show and sale by Hall County Master Gardeners with 50 vendors selling annuals, shrubs, trees, perennials, vegetable plants and crafts, plus expert speakers on garden topics, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. April 7, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. April 8, Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, 1855 Calvary Church Rd. $2 adults, children free. No pets. www.hallmastergardeners.com, 770-5358293.

o Garden Walking Tour, Gainesville. Guided tour to discover what’s blooming this spring, 1011:30 a.m. April 8, or April 29, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $34, $29 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o Sunset Easter Egg Hunt, Tallulah Falls.

Crafts, popcorn, egg hunt for children 12 and younger, 5:30-7 p.m. April 7, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Bring basket. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-7547981.

o Group Run Wilshire Trails, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 8:30 a.m. April 8 & 29, Wilshire Trails Park, 849 Wilshire Rd. See website/Facebook page for updates.

o Laurel Ridge Hike, Helen. Guided hike on 1.6 mile trail with beautiful view of Mount Yonah, 9-10:30 a.m. April 8, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. Reservations 706-878-3087. www.gastateparks.org.

o Discovery Saturday, Gainesville. Live animal showcase, exhibits, spring wildflower hike and outdoor painting class, various times 9 a.m.3 p.m. April 8, Elachee Nature Science Center. 2125 Elachee Dr. Fees $10-$35. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Day in the Life of a Miner, Dahlonega. Peek at 1830s life of miner with demonstrations on gold panning, blacksmithing and more, 10 a.m.4 p.m. April 8, Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, 1 Public Square. $8-$10. www.gastateparks.org, 706-864-2257.

o Natural Egg Dying, Sautee Nacoochee. Color eggs the old fashioned way with beets, turmeric and cabbage, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 8, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy 17. 706878-1077.

o Build Your Own Pollinator Garden, Helen. Learn how to plant native plants to attract pollinators, plants for sale, too, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 8, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. 706-878-3087. www.gastateparks.org.

o Dan’s Backyard BBQ 10K/20K Trail Run, Winder. 8 a.m. April 15, Entrance B, Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S. Broad St. $45-$75, plus $5 parking. No race day registration. www.dirty-

spokes.com.

o Ryan’s Firepower 5K, Dawsonville. 8:30 a.m. April 15, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $30-$35. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Group Run Wild Wings Lot, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 8:30 a.m. April 15, Wild Wing Café, 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy. See website/Facebook page for updates.

o Discovery Saturday, Gainesville. Wild animal showcase, exhibits, crafts and hike, various times 9 a.m.-3 p.m. April 15, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 ages 2 and older, free to children younger than 2 and Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-5351976.

o Touch A Truck, Gainesville. Kids get up close look at big trucks and more, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. April 15, City Park, 549 Glenwood Ave. NE. www.gainesville.org.

o Wooden Sign Painting Class, Gainesville. Create a wooden sign for your home, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. April 15, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $46, $40 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o Introduction to Growing Your Own Food, Gainesville. Discover basics of starting seeds, growing seasons, gardening resources and more, 10-11 a.m. April 15, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $55, $50 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o Beginner Archery, Tallulah Falls. Learn to shoot an arrow or improve your skills, 1-2:30 p.m. April 15, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Must be strong enough to pull 30- pound bow. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Bear on the Square Festival, Dahlonega. Old time and bluegrass music, artist marketplace, street dance, children’s activities, story-

telling and more, April 15 & 16, Downtown Dahlonega. www.bearonthesquare.org.

o Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo, Helen. 90-, 66-, and 25-mile road bicycle races with timed segments, SAG vehicles, feed stations, 90/60 start 8 a.m., 25 start 10 a.m. April 16, Fest Halle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse. $110-$180. www.granfondonationalseries.com.

o Run Your Bundts Off, Cumming. Baby Bundt Run 8 a.m., 5K 8:30 a.m. April 16, Forsyth Conference Center Lanier Technical College, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd. $25-$40. www.runnersfit.com.

o Art Walk, Gainesville. Meet and greet artists, shop, dine and listen to live music in four historic Gainesville districts, trolley rides/stops included, 4-8 p.m. April 20, various locations Downtown Gainesville. Free. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Braselton Artisan Festival. Home décor, art, pottery, jewelry and more, plus food and drink trucks, noon-7 p.m. April 21, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. April 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 23, 115 Harrison St. www.vintagemarkets.net.

o Food Truck Friday, Gainesville. Food, drinks, and music with The Band Loula, 5-9 p.m. April 21, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd. On site parking limited, shuttles available, courtesy dock available. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Twilight Criterium, Athens. Bicycle races, recreational bike rides, 5K run, plus festival with artist market, music, food and kids activities, various times and registration fees, April 21-23, Downtown Athens. www.athenstwilight.com.

o Run through the Decades 6K/7K/8K/Half Marathon, Sugar Hill. 8 a.m. April 22, Sugar Hill City Hall, 5039 W. Broad St. $40-$70. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Group Run Riverside, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 8:30 a.m. April 22, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. See website/Facebook page for updates.

o Pink & Blue Dash 5K, Gainesville. 8:30 a.m. April 22, Lakeview Academy, 796 Lakeview Dr. $15-$30. www.runnersfit.com.

o Earth Day at Elachee, Gainesville. Naturefocused exhibits, crafts, wildlife programs, tree climbing, food/dessert trucks and more, 10 a.m.2 p.m. April 22, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 ages 3 and older, $5 Elachee members, free to children younger than 3. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Earth Day: Kids Day Out, Sautee Nacoochee. Hayride to covered bridge, games, guided hike and more, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. April 22, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. Hike starts at 1 p.m. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.

o Cumming City Center Spring Market

Local businesses and artists sell homewares, décor, fashion and accessories, plus live music, children’s activities, and food, 10 a.m. April 22, Cumming City Center, Hwy 20 W. www.cummingcitycenter.com.

o I Spy, Dahlonega. Discover local birds and habitats in walk around museum, 2-2:30 p.m. April 22, Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, 1 Public Square. Free with museum admission: $8.50 adults, $8 seniors, $6 youth 7-17, See Outdoor Calendar, page 37

Spring Lanier Boat Show sets tone for 2023 boating season

By Pamela A. Keene

In early March the Lake Lanier Boat Show brought in the crowds, doing exactly what organizers predicted when discussions began more than a year ago.

“Having a show right here on Lake Lanier with in-water and traditional options was just what we had in mind when talks first started,” said Tabor Reins, president of the Marine Trade Association of Metro Atlanta, organizers of the bi-annual event. Reins is also co-owner of Advantage Boat Center in Cumming. “Our dealers wanted a show close to home and we knew that the public would respond well to a North Georgiabased event, rather than driving into Atlanta. Our instincts were correct and based on our fall show last October and the spring show in March, we’re going to keep improving on a good idea.”

The 3-day show, held at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, drew

steady crowds of people interested in purchasing new boats or upgrading. Although the first day was cool and drizzly, the weather faired for Saturday and Sunday, giving a preview of the 2023 boating season.

“It was an excellent show,” said Heidi Moore, vice president of the Marine Trade Association and general manager of Skiers’ Marine in Gainesville. “I believe our attendees enjoyed an even larger selection of boats provided by more dealers, as well as an increase in vendors with plenty for the public to see and do.”

Local dealers offered more than 275 boat models representing more than 50 brands they sell around Lanier. Boat-show special pricing provided incentives for purchasers. Visitors were able to walk the docks, board the boats, speak with dealers and learn about the vessels.

“The camaraderie between our

Outdoor Calendar

Continued from Page 36

free to children 6 and younger. www.gastateparks.org, 706-864-2257.

o Waterfest, Gainesville. Live music, food, drinks, family activities, environmental expo, and more, 2-8 p.m. April 22, Midland Greenway, 682 Grove St. Free. www.chattahoochee.org/waterfest.

o Georgia State Championship Youth Mountain Bike Series, Cleveland. Races for junior USAC cyclists on Yonah Preserve Trails, 8:3011:30 a.m. starts, April 23, 307 Asbestos Rd. $45-$75. www.goneriding.com.

o Grounded Truck Gathering, Cumming. Cruise in, truck show, food, music and more, pre-show gathering, 5-10 p.m. April 28, Cumming City Center, Hwy. 20 W.; truck show 7 a.m.-4 p.m. April 29, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. www.groundedtruckgathering.com.

o Boulder Dash, Cumming. 5K through active quarry, 8 a.m. April 29, 1200 Northside Forsyth Dr. $35-$40. www.runnersfit.com.

o Trillium Trek 5K Run Walk/Half Marathon/10K, Gainesville. Trail walk/runs, 5K 8 a.m., half marathon/10K 8:10 a.m. April 29, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $30-$60. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Gainesville Member Day. Garden members enjoy entertainment, treats and art exhibition debut, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. April 29, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. www.atlantabg.com, 404-8884760.

o Birds of Prey Program, Dahlonega. See hawks and owls up close and personal, 1-2 p.m. April 29, Dahlonega Gold Mine Historic Site, 1 Public Square. Free with museum admission:

dealers and vendors is refreshing; we all banded together to provide a premier on-water event,” Moore said. “We’ve worked to design the show to be more than a boat show, offering an effortless, lowpressure boat buying experience. We plan to further expand it to help us promote a love of water and inspire our guests to imagine countless days spent out on the lake with family and friends.”

Mike Prince, owner of Grass Shack Marine in Buford said the show was a big success for the dealership. “The weather was a huge factor but as far as the show, it was as good as the Atlanta Boat Show s far as traffic and sales,” he said. “We love having it here on Lake Lanier, especially from a transport and logistics standpoint. We were able to move in and out in one work day instead of almost a whole week to go to Atlanta.”

Vendors ranged from dock builders to marine accessory sup-

$8.50 adults, $8 seniors, $6 youth 7-17, free to children 6 and younger. www.gastateparks.org, 706-864-2257.

o Stars Over Elachee, Gainesville. Learn how to use a telescope, view the first quarter moon, stars and constellations 8-10 p.m. April 29, Chicopee Woods Aquatic Studies Center at Chicopee Lake, 2100 Calvary Church Rd. For adults and children age 8 and older. Bring flashlight and pencil. Telescope fee $30 for up to 5 family members or friend group; $15 bring your own telescope, free to Elachee members. Register in advance. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

o Georgia State Championship Mountain Bike Race Series, Winder. Series race at Fort Yargo State Park, starts 8:30-11:30 a.m. April 30, 210 S. Broad St. $45-$75. www.goneriding.com.

o Six Gap Gravel Ride, Dahlonega. Inaugural gravel bike rides by the organizers of traditional Six Gap road bike ride, distances 30, 60, and 80 miles on Georgia mountain roads, 8 a.m. April 30, Camp Merrill, 1 Camp Merrill Rd. 5th Ranger Training Battalion. Registration information: https://6gap.com/gravel-ride/.

o Skate the City, Gainesville. Skateboards, roller skates, bikes, scooters, strollers and more roll on Midland Greenway, includes music, yard games, food and drinks and outdoor painting, 14 p.m. April 30, 682 Grove St. Free. www.exploregainesville.org.

On-Going

o La Calavera Catrina Exhibition, Gainesville. Explore nine colorful larger than life skeleton sculptures of La Catrina, Day of the Dead figure, by Los Angeles artist Ricardo Sol-

pliers, plus food trucks and dining at LandShark Landing.

Looking ahead to the fall show, Reins said he expects growth of the event.

“As the 2023 boating season slows down after summer, our dealers will have previews of the 2024 season models, as well as used boats to offer,” he said.

“Margaritaville has been a good

tero, April 1-Aug. 27, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. www.atlantagb.com, 404-888-4760.

o Vintage Car/Truck Car Corral, Swap Meet, Clermont. 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 1st Saturdays through November, 151 Oxford Rd., next to Clermont Ball Field. www.clermontga.org

o Sunday North Hall Rides, Gainesville. Bicycling on rural roads averaging 17-18 mph at steady pace, 30-45 miles, roll out 12:30 p.m. Sundays from Haynes Rd. velocraig@hotmail.com.

o Turning Leaf Book Club, Gainesville. Monthly discussions of nature-themed books, 11 a.m. first Wednesdays Jan.-May, Sept.-Nov., Linwood Ecology Center, Linwood Nature Preserve, 118 Springview Dr. mastergardener@hallcounty.org.

o Story Times/Sensory Bin Time, Gainesville. Children ages 1-4 listen to stories about bees, flowers and garden friends, 10-10:15 a.m.; families explore themed bins, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays April-Aug. Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. Free with garden admission or membership. www.atlantabg.org, 404-888-4760.

o Group Runs, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Liquid Nation Brewing, 2100 Atlanta Hwy. Check website/Facebook page for updates and other weekly runs.

o Home School Hiking Club, Mountain City. Ranger-led hikes not exceeding 3 miles for home school students, includes activities, 10 a.m.-noon fourth Wednesdays through May, Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy. One time fee $15 adults,

location and we truly appreciate our partnership with them. And we appreciate all the people who continue to support us and the Lake Lanier Boat Show.”

The organization’s fall Lake Lanier Boat Show takes place the weekend of September 29-October 1 at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. For more information, visit lakelanierboatshow.com.

$10 children. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-746-2141.

o Wine & Roses, Helen. Sip wine under giant hemlock tress, enjoy guided tour of historic cottages and gardens, 5-7 p.m. Thursdays in May, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $15. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.

o Saturday Explorations, Gainesville. Explore live animal showcase and other exhibits 9 a.m.3 p.m. Saturdays, Elachee Nature Science Center, Elachee Dr. $10 ages 2 and older, free to Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-5351976.

o Canoe/Kayak/SUP Rentals, Gainesville. Canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals, reserve via email 48 hours in advance for paddling Monday, Tuesday Thursday, Friday and Saturday mornings, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd. $20-$30 per hour, $10 for additional hours, maximum 4 hours. info@lckc.org.

o First Visit Tour, Helen. Guided van tour of Smithgall Woods State Park to see covered bridge, Duke’s Creek, park cottages and more, 10-11 a.m. first Saturdays, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. Donations welcome. Reservations required. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.

o Flowery Branch Farmers Market. 2nd and 4th Thursdays through April 27, 5301 Railroad Ave. www.flowerybranchga.org.

o Farmers Market, Braselton, 4-7 p.m. 3rd Friday in May, patio next to Town Green on Davis Street. www.braselton.net.

See Don Carter State Park Facebook page for park activities. – compiled by Jane Harrison

An overall view of last month’s Spring Lake Lanier Boat Show.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier announce capital campaign, new Buford club

By Pamela A. Keene

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier

is launching two major initiatives for 2023. The Clubs announced a capital campaign to support two projects in Hall County: replacing its flagship “Positive Place Club” in Gainesville and building a new gymnasium at the Joseph F. Walters Club on Memorial Park Drive. The combined facilities will serve an additional 350 youth each day.

Additionally, the organization is opening a new club in Buford, designed to serve after-school and summer programs for 100 youth in grades K-5. The opening is planned for May 2023. It will be located to serve surrounding schools, including Buford Elementary, Buford Academy and Buford Senior Academy.

Great Futures Capital Campaign

“Built in 1972, our Positive Place Club has long served the community and grown – as best we can – to meet the changing needs of the young people we serve,” said Joyce Wilson, chief development officer. “While our current club has served us well, its age, layout and space limitations can’t provide our kids with what they need. Once completed, the new 25,000-square-foot club and wellness center will be able to serve an additional 250 kids and teens. The new facility will in-

clude new equipment and smart technology.”

The new two-story facility will support programming for kids in grades K-5 downstairs; older members in grades 9-12 will occupy the second floor. The adjacent Teen Center will provide dedicated space and facilities for youth in grades 6-8.

The Great Futures Campaign will also provide funding to build a new gymnasium/wellness center at the Joseph F. Walters Club, in partnership with Hall County through Community Development Block Grant Funding.

“The new gymnasium will increase the ages of youth served at the Walters Club, adding grades 6-8,” Wilson said. “Previously it was limited to kids K-5 with limited options for indoor recreation and physical activities. By constructing the gym and wellness center, we can expand programming to middle school teens, as well as offering even more variety in our programming.

The Great Futures Campaign’s goal is $12.5 million, with more than $8.5 already raised.

“These clubs … it’s phenome-

nal what they do – giving them mentoring services, the education services to these kids, as well as the love they provide for these kids on a daily basis,” said longtime supporter and founding member of the former Gainesville-Hall County Boys Club in 1954 Philip Wilheit. “It has become obvious that the needs of our children are much greater than when I was growing up. We didn’t have the temptations; we didn’t have the challenges they have today. It’s a whole different world out there.”

To donate or for more information about the Great Futures Capital Campaign, visit boysgirlsclub.com/great-futures-hall.

Signature events support Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier benefit from several signature annual events. Mark your calendars for these:

• Meet N’ Eat Car Show, April 8, Auto Metal Direct, 3384 Gateway Centre Parkway, Gainesville. Music, food, vendors, live auction for a 1965 Ford F100.

• 25th Annual Rubber Duck Derby, Saturday, May 6, Lake Lanier Olympic Park. $10,000 cash prize, plus other prizes. Fun and games plus food.

• 25th Annual Holiday Golf Classic, October 13, Lanier Islands Legacy Golf Course. 4-man best-ball scramble, 32-team maximum. $150 per player; $600 per team includes food, beverage, cart, green fee fees, gate fee, range balls, drink tickets, gift package, door prize, awards banquet.

For more information on any of these events visit www.boysgirlsclubs.com.

Woman Skippers’ Regatta honors long-time Lake Lanier sailor Holcomb

By Pamela A. Keene

For the 13th year, Barefoot

Sailing Club’s Woman Skippers’ Regatta will honor long-time Lanier sailor Joan Holcomb. The former commodore of both Barefoot sailing Club and Lake Lanier Sailing Club died in 2010, and at that time Barefoot Sailing Club named its women’s race to commemorate her contributions to female sailors on the lake.

This year’s event takes place on Saturday, April 22, and will be co-hosted by Lake Lanier Sailing Club.

“Joan continues to be an inspi-

ration to many of the women sailors on the lake, whether they own their own boats or serve as crew,” said Kerry McGrath, commodore of Barefoot. “This event is a great opportunity for women skippers to show off their skills and have a fun day on the lake.

“It is also an excuse to load up the sailboats with women crew,” she said. “Finally, it allows lessexperienced women racers to gain experience in a competition.”

To participate, a woman must helm the boat and a woman must also make the strategic and tactical decisions. The remainder of

the crew can be either female or male.

Events will take place at Lake Lanier Sailing Club, including the after-race awards presentation and social event.

Nineteen boats, all helmed by women, participated in last year’s event.

“We are pleased to be able to continue to honor Joan for her sportsmanship, leadership and sailing skills year after year,” McGrath said. “It is important that we encourage more women to take the helm and to get involved in the sport of sailing.”

For more information, register or volunteer for crew for the Joan Holcomb Joan Holcomb Memo-

rial Woman Skippers’ Regatta, visit www.barefootsailingclub.org.

Rendering of the new “Positive Place Club” in Gainesville.

PHOTO: BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF LANIER

BALD RIDGE MARINA

Hours of operation: Office, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., marina has 24/7

access.

Phone: 770-887-5309

Website: www.baldridgemarina.com

Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming

Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered.

On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ

Store hours: Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat./Sun.

Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $4.29; $4.49 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs.-Mon. Closed Tues./Wed.)

Security: 24/7 security, gated

Additional amenities: Full-service department, parts department, boat body work and yacht repair.Boating supplies/commissary/dry goods/retail clothing.

Lake Lanier Marinas Info

HOLIDAY MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Phone: 770-945-7201

Website: www.holidaylakelanier.com

Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford

Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100' Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totalling 1238 Slips

Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies.

Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.49 premium; $6.19 unleaded; $6.29 diesel

On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar

Menu: Fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak

Phone: 678 714-7572

Security: 24/7

Additional amenities: Boat rentals, repair service, pumpout station, boat sales, TowBoat US

GAINESVILLE MARINA

Hours of operation: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.

Phone: 770-536-2171

Website: www.gainesvillemarina.com

Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville

Types of slips available: 600 slips, dry stack covered up to 25', wet covered & uncovered up to 80'.

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $5.39 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Ship Store Seasonal: Open May-September

On-site eatery: Skogies

Menu: BBQ, seafood and American fare.

Phone: 678-450-1310

Security: 7 days a week

Additional amenities: Parts department, land service shop, climatecontrolled bath houses, pump-out stations, security 7 days a week/video surveillance. Sales of new, used and brokerage boats.

LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier)

Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 6 days a week.

Closed on Tuesdays..

Phone: 770-945-1991

Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford

Types of slips available: Concrete Wet Slips from 50 - 125 foot covered & 100 foot open slips; 554 covered dry stack spaces up to 36 feet

Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol marine fuel treated with ValvTect; diesel

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.49 regular

Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring

Full Service Department: Barefoot Boating, 770-820-5949

Boat Club: Carefree Boat Club, 678-725-0730

Additional Amenities: Bath house facility with individual private units. Trailer storage, dock carts, ice available, boat detailing service, free pump out for customers; Dry Stack-Boat Cloud smartphone app to control launch/retrieval of boat. Pre-Fueling service, wash racks; Wet Slips-gated/private parking, golf cart valet service, in-slip pump out.

HABERSHAM MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Dock/Store, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week

Phone: 770-887-5432

Website: www.habershammarina.com

Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming

Types of slips available: 600 slips for dry storage up to 28’

Store: Yes

Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $4.69

Security: Yes

Additional amenities: Repair services, detailing and bottom cleaning. Also bathroom and shower facilities are available.

PORT OF INDECISION MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week

Phone: 470 323-3465

Website: www.margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy.

Store: Yes; only open on weekends.

Types of slips available: 14x32, 14x36, (254 units, up to 40’), all covered

Types of fuel: non ethanol.

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.49 non-ethanol

On-site eatery: Various restaurants including Landshark, Cantina, Tiki Bar

Security: 24/7

totaling 815 slips & dry stack storage (521) for up to 39'.

Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $5.49 regular (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)

On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill

Menu: Burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings and more

Security: Gated, 24/7

Additional amenities: Climate controlled bath house with showers, 24/7 self-service pump out, rental boats, courtesy dock for dry stack, two ship stores, full-service center, largest floating gas dock in Ga., 16 gas pumps, houseboat rentals.

SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND MARINA

Hours of operation:Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Closed Sat./Sun.; Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat.

Phone: 770-967-6811

Website: www.aqualandmarina.com

Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch

Types of slips available: Houseboats, covered cruisers, & all types of open slips plus covered & open dry slips, totaling 1,725 wet docks and 460 dry docks

Store: Yes

Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.18, non-members; $3.99, members (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

On-site eatery: Pig Tales

Menu: BBQ, burgers, wings and more

Security: 24/7, gated

Additional amenities: Self service work yard with deep draft well & marine travel lift, houseboat launching ramp, pump-out station, bathhouses with showers, laundry facilities, wet slips with private gated parking.

SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock - 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Phone: 770-967-5500

Website: www.hideawaybaymarina.com

Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch

Types of slips available: Wet (510) Dry (150)

Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.49, non-members; $3.59, members

On-site eatery: Fish Tales Lakeside Grille

Menu: Grouper fingers, sandwiches, salads and more

Security: 24/7 manned security

Showroom: Atlanta Marine

Additional amenities: Full Maintenance, Repair and Service on site: Harbor Marine & Associates. Bathhouse w/ locked showers and AC, laundry, pump out, trailer storage.

HARBOR LANDING

Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week

Phone: 470 323-3465

Website: www.margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy.

Types of slips: Houseboats only. 18x60, 22x80

Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $6.49 non-ethanol (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.)

On-site eatery: Various restaurants including Landshark, Cantina, Tiki Bar

Security: 24/7

Additional amenities: Margaritaville, daily pontoon boat rentals (no overnights). Luxury houseboat program. Call for details.

Additional amenities: Margaritaville

SUNRISE COVE MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon.

Closed Tuesday.

Phone: 770-536-8599

Website: www.sunrisecovermarina.com

Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville

PORT ROYALE MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Leasing/Dock & Ship Store, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; Service, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. Closed on Sundays

Phone: 770-887-5715

Website: www.bestinboating.com/port_royale

Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville

Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106'

Types of slips available: Uncovered-20-70'; Covered-24-50'; to include an exclusive 44' Sailboat Breakwater Dock. Total Wet Slips 688 and nine (9) Dry Storage Spaces (boats on trailer).

Store: Yes (Sandwiches and wraps only available in summer)

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of3/16/23) $5.59 unleaded Ethanol free.

Security: 24/7

Additional amenities: Club House, bath house, laundry facility. Pump out open only during office hours.

• Calendar

Continued from Page 30

son Center for Performing Arts & Communications, 365 College Dr., Demorest, tells of love and redemption set in the American South in the 1920s and 40s. Times: 2-4 p.m., Apr. 2. Tickets: $10, adults; $5 seniors/students/faculty; free staff/students.

o Apr. 22 – Great Composers Concert held 7:30-9 p.m. in the Chapel, 992 Central Ave., Demorest. The Piedmont Chorale, Cherokee Bluff Middle School Chorus, Orchestra and soloists perform Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, considered 20th century masterpiece. Tickets: $10; free for Piedmont Univ. faculty, staff and students.

o Apr. 28 – Piedmont Conservatory Strings perform 7:30-9 p.m. in the Chapel. The Strings, in its second year under direction of Heather Strachan, combines players from the community and the university.

Info: 800-277-7020; www.piedmont.edu

School Street Playhouse (formerly Cumming Playhouse)

o Apr. 28-May 21 – Funny Money, a farce by Ray Cooney, directed by Lisa Sherouse Riley, tells the story of Henry A. Perkins, a mild-mannered CPA who accidentally picks up the wrong briefcase … one full of money. Times: 7:30 p.m., Fri./Sat.; 2:30 p.m., Sun. Info: 770-781-9178; schoolstreetplayhouse.com

Tannery Row Artist Colony

o Apr. 15-June 2 – Spring Juried Art Exhibition 2023 held at 554 West Main St., Buford with opening reception from 5-8 p.m., Apr. 15. Info: 470-326-6656; tanneryrowartistcolony.net

University of North Georgia

o Apr. 3 – A Little Night(hawk) Music Concert, 7:30-8:30 p.m., wraps up the 2022-2023 concert season with a performance by the Lick Log Old Time String Band in UNG’s Performing Arts Center, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood. Info: 706-864-1423.

o Apr. 11 – Patriot Choir Spring Concert presented 7:30-8:30 p.m. in Nix Fine Arts Center, Gloria Shott Auditorium, Dahlonega Campus.

o Apr. 16 – UNG 5th Annual Pops Concert presented 7:30-8:45 p.m. in Memorial Hall, 130 Georgia Circle, Dahlonega Campus. The program will feature the combined ensembles from both the UNG Dahlonega and Gainesville Campuses performing familiar works from yesterday and today.

o Apr. 25 – Chamber Orchestra Spring Concert, 7:30-8:30 p.m., in UNG’s Performing Arts Lobby at Gainesville Campus.

o Apr. 26 – Michael Brown Faculty Recital presented 7-8:30 p.m. in Nix Fine Arts Center, 238 Georgia Center, Dahlonega. Brown is Professor of Trumpet at UNG.

o Apr. 26 – UNG Jazz Band Concert, 7:308:30 p.m., will be held in Hoag Student Center, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. Info: 678-717-3930; www.ung.edu.

Voices of North Georgia

o Apr. 28, 30 – This is My Country concert held at First Presbyterian Church of Gainesville. Times: 7:30 p.m., Apr. 28; 2 p.m., Apr. 30. Info: www.voicesofnorthgeorgia.com.

Benefits of raised beds for food and flower gardening

What will you be growing in your garden this year?

Georgia’s red clay can be a challenge for gardeners. That’s why so many experts sing the praises of raised beds. You have more control over where you site your gardens; you can fill the beds with good soil instead of relying on what’s already present in your landscape; it’s a good way to keep weeds at bay; and raised beds are easier to reach with less bending down.

First, pick your location. It’s OK to disrupt a stretch of lawn if that’s where you have at least 6 hours of sun. We actually removed about 40 percent of our zoysia lawn to create more vegetable beds and now have ample room for tomatoes, okra, peppers hot and mild, plus one bed that’s dedicated to strawberries.

Use either 2-by-12 or two 2by-8 pressure treated lumber to build rectangular beds no more than 3 feet wide. That way you can reach both sides for planting and harvesting. Fill the beds with packaged garden soil, amended

with mushroom compost, black cow and organic material. To improve drainage, add about 15 percent vermiculite or perlite, available at garden centers in bulk bags.

If you’ve composted and kept the piles turned over the winter, you’ll have discovered gold: black gold. Add it to your garden beds. You can also use it to topdress shrubs and perennials in your yard, where it will provide a good boost of nutrients.

Once you’ve added the soil to the beds, water it in well to allow it to settle and eliminate air pockets that can harbor diseases

and insects.

Ready to plant

You may have started your tomato or pepper seeds indoors, but you can also purchase seedlings –vegetables to herbs to flowers – at local nurseries or box retailers. Perhaps you have a gardening friend who started seeds in January and February and now has an abundance of seedlings to share.

Seeds, such as squash, cucumber and beans, can be direct sowed into the garden when the soil temperature is 60 degrees or above. If you’re going to direct sow, remember that you’ll most likely need to thin the plants after they have sprouted at least two sets of true leaves. This allows room for the remaining plants to mature and bear.

Plant tomatoes as well, putting up your cages when you transplant your small seedlings. We use horse gate fencing to build sturdy cages, bending a piece into right angles length-wise, then cable-tying to 90-degree sections together to support the plants. Ours are at least six feet tall; the

larger holes allow for picking inside the supports.

Remember to regularly water your raised beds. Stick your index finger into the soil and if it feels dry down to your first knuckle, it’s time to water.

Feed your plants regularly too; they are busy using energy to produce your vegetables. To avoid burning the roots, use a slow-release type, such as Osmocote. If you’re using a granular fertilizer, apply every four to six weeks, being careful to apply at least 3-4

A word of caution

In our area, April 15 is generally the date of the last frost. But don’t trust Mother Nature. With the extraordinarily warm winter, we may be in for one last freeze.

If you’re worried about your tender crops, purchase some frost cloth from a box retailer or onSee Curb, page 54

Raised beds in Pam’s yard. PHOTO

PAMELA A KEENE

Lakeside’s Recreation Guide

CORPS OF ENGINEERS

Provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Corps of Engineers welcomes you to beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier. Located just 35 miles northeast of Atlanta, the lake offers some of the finest camping opportunities in the South. The Corps operates 7 campgrounds at Lake Lanier. Camping enthusiasts may enjoy the luxuries of fully developed areas with water and electrical hookups or “rough it” at designated primitive areas. Most campgrounds have park attendants on duty to assist visitors. Camping in undesignated areas such as on the lake’s shoreline and islands is prohibited.

Day Use Parks

The Corps operates 35 day use parks at Lake Lanier. Facilities range from parks with boat ramps to those with designated swimming areas, picnic tables, shelters and playgrounds. All day use parks close daily at 10 p.m. Boat launching is allowed at all hours unless otherwise posted. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all parks.

Picnic Shelters

Picnic shelters are available at several Corps’ parks around the lake. They can be reserved for a fee. Call the Lake Lanier Management Office at 770-945-9531.

Day Use Fees

Day use fees are charged at some park areas which have boat ramps or beach areas. Fees (per day):

Boat launching $5

Vehicles $5

Commercial vehicle $20

Pedestrian/bicycle $2

Annual pass $40

STATE, COUNTY & CITY PARKS

Rules, Regulations and More

Guidelines are not intended as restraints to the enjoyment of park visitors, but as aids for orderly operation, visitor safety and for the protection of the environment and public property. Complete rules and regulations are posted at the entrances to all campgrounds and copies are available at entry stations. To view annual opening and closing dates and rates for campgrounds and picnic shelters, visit www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/Lake-Sidney-Lanier/Schedules.

n MORE INFO: Water release schedules - 770 945-1466

Lake information - 770 945-1467

Trout stocking trucks are rolling into north Georgia

The last week of March hitting the calendar meant trout stocking trucks began to hit the road, headed to your favorite North Georgia waterways.

Trout fishing opportunities will be abundant as the Georgia Trout Program returns to stocking over one million trout in 2023. Thanks to the long-standing partnership between the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Wildlife Resource Division (WRD) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), anglers can look forward to another great year of trout fishing.

“The trout stocking program has not seen this many fish hitting the water in over three years,” said Georgia WRD Trout Stocking Coordinator, John Lee Thomson. “If you have enjoyed trout fishing in Georgia before, this year is sure to be a treat. And, if you have never trout fished in Georgia, this is your year to give that great opportunity a try.”

Popular waterbodies that receive regular trout stockings include Rock Creek in Fannin County and Dicks Creek in Lumpkin County on the Chestatee Wildlife Management Area. Additionally, Holly Creek in

Murray County, Johns Creek in Floyd County and the Tallulah River in Rabun County are all great trout streams to visit.

The daily limit is eight trout on general regulation trout waters. Anglers are reminded to respect private property rights along streams flowing through private lands, and to obtain permission before fishing on private property.

Information on trout fishing and stocking is available online. You can sign up for a weekly trout stocking email at georgiawildlife.com/fishing/trout.

Trout stocking has begun across N. Georgia.

PHOTO: GEORGIA DNR

Kitchen countertop materials and maintenance tips

At the end of remodel projects, I am frequently asked about material upkeep and maintenance. Having the best hard surfaces in your home requires special care to maintain and preserve them. Based on your specific countertop material, it is important to use the right cleaning agents and procedures. These tips can be used whether you’ve remodeled recently or just want to keep your home looking fresh. But first, let’s look at the most common countertop materials.

Quartz is an engineered, or man-made material, that requires less maintenance than the other stone surfaces due to its non-porous, sealed surface. In recent years, quartz has surpassed granite as the number one countertop material because of its low maintenance and durability. It also now comes in a large variety of colors and patterns that mimic other materials, like granite, marble, and concrete.

Because quartz is engineered, there is no reason to reseal it like you would a natural stone. To

Sara Bagwell Design

clean, simply use a damp cloth with a mild dish soap and warm water or a cleaner made for quartz, then dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Granite is a natural stone that comes in tons of colors and patterns. It has been a popular choice for kitchens for decades now. But because it is a natural stone, it requires a little more care than quartz. It’s important to avoid leaving spills for a prolonged period on granite, as this may cause stains or discolor the counter due to its porous nature. To clean, use a damp cloth with a

mild dish soap and warm water or a cleaner made for granite regularly, then dry with a clean microfiber cloth. It is recommended to re-seal granite once or twice per year to protect against water spots and stains.

Marble is another natural stone that is very popular for kitchen and bathroom countertops right now, especially in higher-end homes. In fact, as mentioned a couple of months ago, statement marble is a trend for this year. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns created by mineral deposits from the area in which it was extracted.

Marble is heat resistant, as well as resistant to chipping or cracking; however, it is very susceptible to stains and scratches. Like granite, it’s important to reseal marble at least once or twice per year. If you love the look of marble but do a lot of cooking or baking, or enjoy coffee or red wine, I typically recommend going with a marble-looking quartz for the same look, but less risk of damaging or staining your

countertops.

Butcher Block is a natural wood countertop material that is made from a hard wood, like maple, walnut, teak, or ash. Butcher block has been used for a long time as a countertop material in kitchens. Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals as these may cause damage to the coloring or

finish of the wood. To clean, reach for a mild dish soap and damp cloth. You can also use a cleaner specifically for butcher block.

Additionally, if not oiled regularly, the wood will dry and split over time. Just make sure you use food safe mineral oil or a butcher

See Design, page 54

Proper care of your countertop will help prevent stains.

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Destination: Antarctica, land of penguins, seals, glaciers and eternal daylight or dark

By Pamela A. Keene

In January, Lakeside Senior reporter Pam Keene and her husband Rick Fulgham journeyed to the bottom of the planet for a twoweek adventure to Antarctica. It started with three days in Buenos Aires, then a 3-hour flight to the world’s southernmost city before they boarded a ship for an adventure of a lifetime.

Dateline: Buenos Aires. It’s hot here! After all, it’s summer in the southern hemisphere. Temperatures reached the high 80s and low 90s, making packing a challenge considering we would be headed to Antarctica in just a few days.

Buenos Aires was still basking in the glow of Argentina earning the FIFA World Cup. Giant photos, T-shirts emblazoned with Messi across them and Argentina blue-and-white flags flying everywhere reminded us that though we were near the bottom of the globe Argentinians were on top of the world – the sports world.

Our hotel was well-located near an active pedestrian area

with shopping and restaurants. It was easy to walk or hail a cab to venture out. After a trip to the city’s famed Paseo Ed Rosedal Garden with more than 18,000 roses planted near a network of several lakes, we joined some of our new best friends – other travelers with similar interests – for dinner at an Italian restaurant three blocks from the hotel. The owner took good care of us – in fact such good care that we ate dinner there again.

The next day about 10 of us toured Teatro Colon, one of the most spectacular opera houses in the world. Again, it was within walking distance of our hotel and allowed us a leisurely walk and plenty of exploring on the way back. Our trip leader, Nelson, guided us to our Welcome Dinner and a chance to experience steak the way the Argentinians eat it –juicy and rare, complimented by Argentinian wines. An afterdinner walk along the Rio de la Plata where nightly festivities include music, dancing, people in costumes, including Spiderman, and vendors hawking their wares.

For our final day, the life and lore of Eva Peron took center stage. An actress who married Argentinian President Juan Domingo Peron. As a political activist, first lady and philanthropist from 1946-1952, she’s still a revered figure and her images grace buildings, stand as sculptures in parks and provide an example for the country. Although she died in 1952 at age 33, her legend and life are very much alive.

Too soon, it was time to head to the southernmost city in the world: Ushuaia, at the very tip of South America. It’s a charming port town, crowded with giant cruise ships, trekkers and people like us headed to the Shetland Islands and Antarctica. The elegant 300-foot Hebridean Sky, our home for the next 10 days, cut an impressive image against the harbor. It was one of the smaller vessels headed to Antarctica, with a capacity of around 90 passengers.

The journey begins

Leaving port we traveled the Beagle Channel, passing a colony of penguins and being followed by several marine birds, including albatross, petrels and terns. After several hours at sea, we entered the Drake Passage. Known as the world’s most treacherous waters, at first it was relatively calm. As our journey progressed, we’d find

out if it would be the Drake Lake or give us a serious Drake Shake.

However, looks can be deceiving. In the dining room, the tables and chairs were chained to the floor. It was a preview of what was to come as some of us took our first doses of Dramamine or Bonine to prepare for rough seas. My gingersnaps and oyster crackers took their place on the bedside table.

What began as gentle rollers through the night turned into a mild Drake Shake as we headed toward the Shetland Islands, an archipelago near the continent and our first landfall. Then the winds built to as strong as 45 knots and

the waves started reaching 35-40 feet as we made our 48-hour passage.

We met our expedition team, seven scientifically trained experts that would lead us on Zodiac excursions and land explorations to see the marvels of the continent. Each had a special area of expertise: whales, birds, geology, ecology, botany, weather and so forth. Throughout the trip, we’d have talks to compliment what we’d see that day.

The weather varied from bright, clear and sunny with minimal winds to snowy and gray or raining with strong winds. Temperatures ranged from 28 degrees

See Antarctica, page 49

The cruising marina in Ushuaia is filled with ships on embarkment day.

Tierra del Fuego National Park is a short ride from Ushuaia with breathtaking views of the mountains.

View from a zodiac: Against a snow-covered mountainous backdrop, the 300-foot long Hebridean Sky looks regal.

The two colorful huts at Damoy Point, a former airstrip used by researchers, are now a restored museum with exhibits showing the Antarctic lifestyle from the mid-20th century.

The most popular photo spot in the town, this Ushuaia sign was decorated for Christmas when we were there in early January, the Southern hemisphere's summer.

Our shipmate travelers, in red, follow a path up a hill to explore during a shore landing. The person in yellow is one of the expedition team.

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A KEENE

to 38; the water temperature was a steady 28 degrees.

Icebergs floated on the ocean in interesting shapes created by the winds and waves. Tall snowand ice-covered mountains were bright white, sometimes with black rock showing. There is no soil in Antarctica, so any plants –mostly mosses – grew on the rocky surfaces. Occasionally, a loud crashing sound followed by a huge splash could be heard as an icy cliff would break off into the sea. That’s called calving, and it creates many of the ice formations and patches of ice on the sea’s surface.

Shore excursions and wildlife

Our landings were determined by the weather and assessments by the team to ensure safety. Then we loaded into the zodiacs and headed ashore, where we were greeted by hundreds and hundreds of penguins who waddled or slid on their bellies to go from place to place. They’d stay on the snow and rocks, and sometimes take a swim that would turn their muddy bellies to pure white.

Our most memorable shore excursion took us to Port Lockroy, a still-active research station oper-

ated by the British. We met the newest volunteers, four women who would be living there for four months of the Antarctic summer. One of their jobs is managing the only post office on the continent, where about 70,000 postcards and other mail is sent by 18,000 visitors each year over the cruise season. It has a gift shop and a museum that represents how researchers in the 1940s and 1950s lived, including their kitchen, a darkroom and bunks.

Port Lockroy’s highlight was the very busy penguin rookery where many of the gentoo penguins guarded their nests as they waited for their eggs to hatch. Penguins mate for life and both the male and female share brooding duties. They “feather their nests” with small rocks, building up the sides to allow the penguin to sit atop the mound with the egg nestled between its legs.

We also visited Damoy Point, known as the world’s southernmost waiting room because it’s a small airfield where a red biplane fitted with skis lands and takes off carrying researchers, scientists and restoration crews to study the

weather patterns, wind speeds and wildlife at other bases on the continent.

From humpback whales feeding to seals lounging on the snow, the wildlife in Antarctica is incredible. Dozens of species of birds: gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins; several species of albatross, terns, skuas, sheathbills, gulls, cormorants and shearwaters took to the skies and nested on cliffs.

Sightings of leopard seals, elephant seals and Weddle seals were complemented by other mammals: three types of dolphins and an abundance of humpback whales that were usually almost too far away to photograph more than a glimpse of their backs or a flip of their flukes as they surfaced for a breath of air.

No one dared asked when we’d see polar bears because they’re native only to the Artic. Penguins rule in Antarctica. We didn’t want to show our ignorance!

Never-ending exploration

Since returning home, I’ve dived into books about the early Antarctic explorers, including Adrien de Gerlache who with his crew in 1897-99 was the first to

winter on the continent; Robert Falcon Scott who explored the farthest south and also was the first to fly a balloon over the Antarctica; and Ernest Shackleton who bested Scott’s southernmost point and is best known for the 1907-09 exploration on “Endurance.”

Somehow, I can’t stop thinking about this trip, much more so than other recent journeys. As we move into spring and summer in the Northern Hemisphere, I think about what’s to come for Antarctica –gradually the nights grow longer as winter in the Southern Hemisphere approaches. The temperatures will drop to far below freezing and there will be many successive nights with no sun.

Although I can now say I’ve been there, it’s just the tip of the iceberg – pun intended – of what those early explorers experienced. Would I go again? What do you think?

PHOTO BY RICK FULGHAM

This Gentoo penguin demonstrates his "little jump" as he hops down from a rock.

Chinstrap penguin.

Curious Gentoo penguin. A pair of Gentoo penguins traverse a "penguin highway," where the birds create paths across the snow.

This Weddle seal took time out from a snooze on the snow to check out the humans.

The continent's wildlife is very nonchalant about humans; we were urged to give them plenty of room.

A Gentoo penguin rookery had several hundred birds.

Explorers stood on rock-covered shores to wait for their zodiac ride back to the ship.

Lakeview Dining

Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily. This Southern Gastro Pub features reimagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B3, 770-945-8787.

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Hideaway Bay Marina. Mon. - Sun.. 11 am - 9 pm. C-3, 770-967-3775.

Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatchedroof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. Thurs. - Sun. B-2, 770-887-5715 ext 5.

Pig Tales - Casual lakeside dining featuring BBQ, burgers, wings and more. Great customer service, full service bar with draft beer, wine & mixed drinks, live music on weekends. Mon. - Sun.. 11 am - 9 pm. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. C-3,678-8287676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier. com.

Sidney’s Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Only serving breakfast. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787, www.lanierislands.com.

Skogies – Made from scratch seafood, BBQ and American fare with a great view served in a laid back pet friendly environment. A full Sunday breakfast menu includes eggs benedict served five ways, Omelettes, shrimp & grits, cathead biscuits & gravy, breakfast sandwiches & more. Call from your boat & they will pick you up. Gainesville Marina. Fri. - Sun. C-1 678 450-1310; www.skogieslakefrontrestaurant.us.

The Twisted Oar - Holiday Marina. Offering fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak; casual dining. Full bar service, tropical and frozen drinks. Live entertainment, trivia, indoor/outdoor flat screen TVs. Open yearround. www.facebook.com/twistedoar, C-3, 678 714-7572

American Antebellum – Contemporary, farm-to-table takes on classic Southern fare are served in an elegant 1890s home. Open for dinner Tues. - Sat. 5510 Church Street, Flowery Branch, C-3, 770-965-8100. www.antebellumrestaurant.com.

Branch House Tavern - The ultimate sports restaurant in Hall County offers a selection of hamburgers, wings, hearty salads, southwestern grill fare, and a huge selection of appetizers and desserts. Big screen sports action on 50 HD TVs, and live entertainment. Also featuring a full bar and dancing all night long. Take out available. 5466 McEver Rd., Flow-

Lakeside’s Dining Guide

ery Branch, C-3, 678-828-8345.

Coastal Breeze Seafood Grill – Offering seafood, steaks, ribs, oysters on the half shell, salads, burgers and more. Lunch and dinner, full bar. Sun.-Sat, 11 a.m.-9:00 p.m. 5390 Lanier Islands Parkway. C-3, www.coastalbreezega.com, 770-945-9181.

Collegiate – Old-fashioned hamburgers, hot dogs and milk shakes served in 1940s setting. 220 Main Street SW, Gainesville. C-2, 678-989-2280.

Foster House – Restaurant and special events facility. Breakfast Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-10 a.m.; Lunch Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2, Sun. lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; DinnerCountry buffet and music, Fri. 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. 305 West Main St., Cumming. A-3, 770-887-9905.

Two Dog Café – Classic small town diner with an emphasis on fresh food and fast service for lunch. 317 Spring St. Gainesville. C2, 770-287-8384.

Wild Wing Café – Offers casual dining, live music, special Monday Trivia Night and 2 Fer Tuesday nights (buy a dozen, get a dozen wings free). 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Gainesville. C-2, 770-536-9177.

Yahoola Creek Grill – Features Southerninspired, made-from-scratch cooking from our outdoor deck, cozy dining room and loft. Full beer and wine list. Open for lunch and dinner, Wed.-Sat. Open for brunch and supper on Sunday. Closed Mon./Tues. 1810 S. Chestatee St., Dahlonega. 706-482-2200; www.yahoolacreekgrill.com.

Continental/Fine Dining

Aqua Terra Bistro – European fusion cuisine served daily. Open 11a.m.-9 p.m., Sun.Thurs; 11 a.m-10 p.m, Fri.-Sat. 55 East Main St., Buford. No reservations. B-3, 770-2713000.

Blue Bicycle – Chef owned and operated bistro. Open Tue.-Sat. Reservations are suggested. Located on 30 Industrial Park Rd, Dawsonville, B-1, 706-265-2153.

Luna’s – Continental cuisine, romantic atmosphere. 200 Main St., Gainesville. C-2, 770-531-0848.

Poor Richard’s – Specializing in Prime Rib, steaks, ribs and fresh seafood. Casual dining, dinner only. Full-service bar. 1702 Park Hill Dr., Gainesville. C-1, 770-532-0499.

Scott’s Downtown – Upscale casual ambience with specialty sandwiches for lunch and gourmet entrees for dinner. 131 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville. C-2. 770-536-1111.

Sperata - a fusion of fine American and European dining. Open Thurs.-Sun. for dinner. Buford. B-4. 678 765-7911, www.speratarestaurant.com.

Barbecue/Country/Home Cooking

Johnny’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ pork, chicken & ribs. Brunswick stew. Minutes

from Clark’s Bridge rowing venue. 1710 Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. Casual. D-1, 770-536-2100.

Smokey Q BBQ - Pulled Pork and Chicken Sandwiches, Philly Cheesesteaks, Pork and Chicken Tacos and more! Seasonal. Bald Ridge Marina, 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Cumming. A-3, 770 910-4961.

Deli

Whole Being Cafe @ Common Grounds

– Light breakfast, lunch and dinner and desserts followed by fresh roasted coffee. 5510 Main St., Flowery Branch. C-3, 770-9674080.

Italian

5 Brothers Pizza & Pasta - Family owned with mom and her five sons! Delivery available. Offering award-winning alfredo sauce, seven layer lasagna, homemade meatballs, pizza, calzones, and more. Also available: our famous rice balls -and homemade tiramisu and cannoli. Open Wed.-Sun. Downtown historic Buford. 1944 Braselton Hwy, Buford. B3 470-299-3309; www.5brotherspizzapasta.com

Dominick’s Italian Restaurant – Features cuisine from the north of Italy, with veal, chicken and seafood dishes. Favorites include chicken saltimbocca and garlic bread appetizer. Dominick’s is open Mon.-Fri. for

lunch; Sun.-Sat. for dinner. Located at the corner of Buford Hwy. and Hamilton Mill Rd in the Buford Village Shopping Center., Buford. B-3, 770-614-0019.

Vinny’s New York Pizza & Grill – New York-style pizzeria known for generous portions and reasonable pricing. Specialties include Philly Chicken and Cheese sub, New York Pizza, Chicken Caesar Salad, Sausage & Pepper plate, baked pasta and Lasagna. Desserts include Cannoli, Tiramisu, Italian Funnel Cakes or cheesecake. Wine and beer available. Closed Sun. Located at 4977 Lanier Island Pkwy, Buford. C-4, 678-4829966.

Mexican

La Cazuela – An Atlanta area landmark with two locations around Lanier. Features fajitas, selection of combination platters and more. 4965 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford, B-4 770-614-6871.

Oriental

Kenzo Sushi – Sushi & Japanese Steak, Teriyaki & Fried Rice. Open for lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat.; closed Sunday.4977 Lanier Islands Pkwy, #108, Buford. B-4, 678288-9050.

Little Tokyo – Japanese dining - hibachi grill, sushi. Dine in, take out. Open for dinner 3 p.m.-10 p.m.; Closed Sun. 2096 Bu-

Community service, volunteerism, education:

By Pamela A. Keene

With a storied 100-year history, the Buford Lanier Woman’s Club continues to empower women to make a difference. Coming out of the pandemic, the 55-member organization offers a full schedule of activities and community support for its 100th anniversary.

To commemorate its the anniversary, members are planning a major celebration this fall. In the meantime, it has expanded its programming and events to pre-pandemic levels.

When Bobbie Biggerstaff, secretary, began recounting activities of the past 12 months and detailing plans for the next 12, she had to pause to catch her breath.

“There are so many ways that we support the community in Gwinnett and Hall counties –from raising money for scholarships to creating tutus and heroes capes for children at Egleston Hospital – that membership can appeal to a broad base of women,” said Biggerstaff. “In addition to our community service,

we have an active schedule of social activities, including monthly meetings and our fund-raising events. And best of all, we have fun and have made long-lasting friendships.”

Even through the pandemic, the club stayed active, but now that social events and getting together have returned to normal, members are once again busy with events and reaching out for new members.

The club’s next major event,

Saturday, April 15, is Game Day for Gateway, a center in Gainesville that supports women victims of domestic violence. For a $25 donation, participants can play BINGO and have lunch. To be held at George Pierce Park in Buford, the event takes place from noon to 3 p.m. Additional BINGO cards are available. It is the club’s major fundraiser for 2023.

“The women at Gateway Domestic Violence Center are working to rebuild their lives and some of them are single moms as well,” she said. “Our goal is to help them gain the skills to get a decent job and we provide scholarships for single moms who want to attend a tech or trade school. It’s just one of our many community partners.”

The Buford Lanier Woman’s Club participates in the bi-annual April and November Belk Charity Day Sales.

“Our fund-raising programs showcase our community support, but we do much more than fundraise,” Biggerstaff said. “We focus our mission on four areas:

celebrates 100

arts, conservation, education and community outreach.”

The organization supports the Buford Seniors Center, the Buford Community Girls’ Chorus that performs at the club’s holiday luncheon, art programs at Flowery Branch High School by providing art supplies, Lake Lanier Association’s Shore Sweep, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Quilts of Valor and other groups.

Its members also staff the Buford Museum of History, located

in the Buford Community Center.

General membership meetings typically take place on the second Wednesday of each month. In addition to club business a guest speaker presents a program.

Then there’s the club’s book club, bridge gatherings, wine tastings and other socials.

“Many of our events are open to women interested in affiliation with us, and we welcome them to attend our programs to check us See Buford, page 54

Members of the Buford Woman's Club enjoy Christmas lunch at a local restaurant to celebrate the holidays.

The Buford Woman's Club book club meets at a book store to discuss the latest books they're reading.

PHOTOS: BUFORD WOMAN'S CLU

General U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 770 945-9531

Water Release Schedules 770 945-1466

Recreation/Water level Info 770 945-1467

DNR, Law Enforcement Division 800 241-4113 Lake Lanier Association Inc. 770 503-7757

Boating Safety Courses US Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla 29 770 891-6362

Atlanta Sail & Power Squadron 770 734-6412

Marinas

1. Safe Harbor Aqualand 770 967-6811

2. Bald Ridge 770 887-5309

3. Gainesville 770 536-2171

4. Habersham 770 887-5432

5. Holiday 770 945-7201

6. Port Royale 770 887-5715

7. Lanier Harbor CLOSED AS OF 2/4/14

8. Lazy Days at Holiday 770-945-1991

9. Safe Harbor Hideaway Bay 770 967-5500

10. Sunrise Cove 770 536-8599

11. Sunset Cove 678 304-3157

• Burns

Continued from Page 20

For the Southeast, El Nino generally brings a reduction in Atlantic hurricanes. Good news after Ian. Additional good news for the Southeast is we can expect fewer severe thunderstorm outbreaks. Typically, we will also see much less rain this summer. With this column there is a graphic showing the average position of the northern and southern jet

• Curb

Continued from Page 42 line. Cover your young plants in the late afternoon if temperatures are predicted in the low to mid30s. Remember to remove the cloth first thing the next morning; otherwise you’ll create a minigreenhouse and your tender seedlings will get too warm.

Great garden resources: joegardener.com – national gardening expert whose Growing a Greener World is broadcast on

• Buford

Continued from Page 51

•Design

Continued from Page 47

streams. Above average rainfall likely from California into Florida. Florida will be grateful, as they have been experiencing dry conditions. Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how it all evolves. Hope you have a great April and Happy Easter!

Glenn Burns is chief meteorologist emeritus for WSB-TV in Atlanta.

out,” Biggerstaff said. “Everything is listed on our website and they can also email us for information. We’re a welcoming group who loves to meet new people, give back to the community and stay involved.”

For more information, visit the organization’s website, www.bufordlanierwomansclub.org or its Facebook page.

block specific oil/conditioner. Do not use vegetable oils such as olive or sunflower because it will eventually go rancid and not be safe for food surfaces. If the counter becomes irredeemably stained or unevenly worn, you can always sand, refinish and reseal it.

general tips for any countertop material:

1. Always use coasters for drinks to prevent water stains and use trivets or potholders for hot pans to prevent drastic changes in temperature.

2. Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches.

Georgia Public Television. A resident of North Georgia, he offers garden tips, interviews with garden experts across the country, podcasts and several online courses through his Online Gardening Academy at organicgardeningacademy.com.

University of Georgia Extension – Reach your local UGA Extension office at 1-800-ASK-UGA1 to connect

with county extension offices staffed with Master Gardeners, or visit extension.uga.edu/publications.html and search for your gardening topic.

Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener. She also writes for more than a dozen publications across the country, covering features, travel and gardening.

Laminate and solid surface countertops have been declining in popularity over the past couple decades because other materials, like granite, have become more budget friendly. Laminate is still the cheapest countertop option though and popular with DIYers. Laminate and solid surfaces are resistant to stains, mold and mildew; however, they cannot stand up to heat and scratch easily. Cleaning is easy with mild dish soap and water or a non-abrasive multi-surface cleaner. Because both options are man-made, they don’t require any sealing.

Here are some important

3. Don’t use abrasive chemical cleaners, solvents, or brushes as this will weaken the sealant and your counter will become more susceptible to stains and damage.

4. After you’ve cleaned your counter, dry it off with a fresh, dry microfiber cloth to help prevent water stains. Keeping your countertops clean and protected is not only easy, but also very important in preserving the longevity of your surfaces, no matter the material.

Sara Bagwell is a designer for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.