Lakeside on Lanier January 2024 by Lakeside on Lanier

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January 2024

3292 Thompson Bridge Road #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 Phone: (770) 287-1444 E-mail lakesidenews@mindspring.com

Vol. 30 Issue 1

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Water wars are over – almost In a news release from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s office last month, he announced that he and Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey had reached an agreement to present a plan to the Corps of Engineers for management of the ACF. Page 29

Brent Danneman knows Lanier Brent Danneman knows Lake Lanier. Growing up in Decatur, he can recall when his family would come to Holiday Marina even as the lake was in its final stages of filling. Page 16

Bahamian paradise Though many varieties of shells are in the Turks and Caicos Islands, several species of conch shells are the most dominant. In fact, conch has always been an important part of life and survival in this tropical paradise. Page 33 Also inside: Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 26 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 47 Dining guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 47 Fishing news . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10 Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Lanier map . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 34 Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page 44 Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page 31 Recreation guide . . . . . . . . . .Page 44 Safety guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 35 Shore Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16 Columns: The Careful Captain . . . . . . . .Page 20 Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 38 Design & Remodel . . . . . . . . . .Page 43 Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 O’Neill Outside . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12 Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page 33

PHOTO BY CITY OF GAINESVILLE

A new year brings a new era to Lake Lanier with the opening of The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in a few weeks. The multi million dollar facility replaces the nearly 30-year-old structure that was built to host the 1996 canoe, kayak and rowing Olympic competitions. The first event is set for March 9 with an official grand opening in the spring.

2 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Lanier’s Corps office first in U.S. to form partnerships to operate parks

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, Bianca Bryant, 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.

By Pamela A. Keene The Corps of Engineers at Lake Lanier is the first in the nation to develop ways to help keep parks and campgrounds around Lake Lanier open. Under Partner Operations Plans with both Hall County and Dawson County, six parks will now have shared management and operational costs. “Several years ago Congress approved the mechanism to partner with local jurisdictions under (Challenge Cost-Sharing) Cooperative Management Agreements to divert operational costs by partnering with local jurisdictions and to help keep revenues generated by the parks local,” said Tim Rainey, operations project manager of the Lanier Project Management Office. “Our new partnerships with Hall County Parks and Leisure Services and Dawson County Parks and Recreation are the first such agreements in the country.” The Challenge Cost-Sharing Cooperative Management Agreements allow non-federal public entities the opportunity to take over certain aspects of park and

campground management and operation, including each campgrounds’ reservation system, handling grounds maintenance, gate staffing and trash removal. “In return, the Corps will continue with facility maintenance, park ranger patrols, provide and pay for utilities, such as electricity and water, and enforce regulations and safety issues,” Rainey said. The key, Rainey said, is that all fees at these campgrounds and parks will now be collected by the specific local jurisdiction partner. “For years, all fees the Corps collected at the parks have gone into the U.S. Treasury general fund, instead of being included as part of each project’s annual budget,” he said. “Now the jurisdictional partners will be able to collect the fees to use for equipment, supplies, park staffing, and when there’s a surplus, for capital improvements to the parks and campgrounds, keeping the monies collected local.” The partnerships involve a two-part process: first the jurisdiction enters into a Challenge Cost-Sharing Cooperative Man-

PHOTO: RECREATION.GOV

Hall County Parks and Leisure Services will co-manage Old Federal Campground.

agement Agreement, requiring signoff by the Corps’ District Office, in this case, the Commander of the Mobile District. Once the District Commander has executed the agreement, the local Corps of Engineers’ leadership – Lanier Project Management Office – and the local jurisdiction meet to work out terms of Partner Operations Plans. “Dawson County is very excited to be in this unique partnership with the Corps of Engineers. This co-operative agreement allows Dawson County and the Corps to both have a hand in keeping these beautiful parks op-

erational and maintained,” said Matt Payne, director of Dawson County Parks and Recreation. “Dawson County will also retain all fees brought in for the boat launches and such. All this is made possible by this co-op agreement and comes at very little tax needs from the Dawson County citizens.” Dawson County and the Corps have agreed to work together for Toto Creek Multipurpose Park, plus Thompson Creek and Nix Bridge Day-Use parks. Hall County Parks and Leisure Services will co-manage three campSee Parks, page 16

January 2024

LAKESIDE 3

We Sell Lifestyles - Not Just Homes

LAKE LANIER SPECIALISTS TERESA SMITH 770-654-4173 • teresasmith@kw.com

MICHELE KAPLAN 678-677-5653 • michelekaplan@kw.com

LivingOnLakeLanier.com

MACKENZIE SCOTT

The American Dream is a national TV show that focuses on lifestyle, culture & real estate. Our team is proud to be the newest hosts of Selling Atlanta. We will be featuring local businesses and attractions with a splash of real estate showcasing why we love where we live so much!

678-925-2652 • mackenziescott@kw.com

6031 Shadburn Ferry Road, Buford

4204 Bayridge Drive, Gainesville

3621 Lake Ridge Court, Gainesville

471 Sams Road, Dawsonville

BEAUTIFUL gated luxury home on the south end of the lake. Three beautifully finished levels completely updated with a fabulous wine cellar. The home has 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. There is an amazing outdoor living area with a full kitchen, pizza oven and fireplace. In-ground, gunite saltwater pool and hot tub with waterfall. Dock with deep water. $2,950,000 (Hall)

BRAND NEW high-end AMAZING construction! Don’t miss this 2.5 level home with vaulted ceilings and a gourmet kitchen to die for! 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. This beautiful home has an elevator, a whole house generator, an inlaw suite and beautiful, massive covered decks. It comes with a slip in the community dock. Close to The Olympic Rowing Venue, Don Carter State Park, NEGA Medical Center and the new and THRIVING downtown Gainesville with all of the new shops, restaurants, breweries and entertainment complexes. $1,740,000 (Hall)

RENOVATED top-of-theline home in the prestigious Harbour Point Yacht Club. 6 BR/6.5 BA. Owner's suite on the main, powder room on main, 3 BRs w/ensuites on the upper level. 1 BR/bath suite above the heated and cooled 3-car garage and on the terrace level. 10’ plus ceilings throughout. 3-Story home with everything an entertainer could desire! Including: 2 kitchens, theater with 86” smart TV and surround sound, gym, cardio room, heated swimming pool with spillover spa/hot tub, putting green, privacy “cabana style” curtains and more. Boat slip option available! REDUCED $1,590,000 (Hall)

NEW CONSTRUCTION 3BR/4.5 BA home on the quiet waters of the north end of Lake Lanier. The heart of this home is a chef's dream, featuring GE Café appliances. 2 master BRs, 12-ft ceilings on the lower level, 10-ft ceilings on the main. You will love the outdoor shower, path lights and rear super oversized fireplace. Custom landscape, large boulders and a fire pit, provide a serene backdrop for relaxation. A permitted deepwater dock with a party deck and new decking awaits you, easily accessible via the pathway across the street. REDUCED $1,375,900 (Dawson)

9270 Bayhill Drive, Gainesville

6310 Cortland Walk, Alpharetta

4243 Perry Drive, Gainesville

5741 Rocky Ridge Run, Gainesville

COMING SOON - Beautiful Lake Lanier home that has been meticulously maintained! Soaring ceilings in the great room, master on the main level, and massive vaulted ceiling screened porch overlooking the lake. This amazing home with 3 finished levels is private and the Corps line is only feet from the water. Single slip dock with party deck. 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths. (Forsyth) $1,325,000

END UNIT 3 BR/3.5 BA townhome in Halcyon! Amenities include pool, clubhouse, firepit, and access to the Big Creek Greenway. 2-car garage, open dining, kitchen, living room and covered balcony. Kitchen includes SS appliances, quartz ctops, and a gas range. Oversized owner's suite is located on the 3rd level. Minutes from GA-400, you enjoy easy access to downtown Alpharetta, Avalon, the new Cumming City Center, Lake Lanier, and more! It doesn't get much better than this low maintenance lifestyle! REDUCED $670,000 (Forsyth)

2/1 CABIN with 720 sq. ft. and large crawl space. Possible fixer upper. Easy walk to single slip dock with fixed pier on Wahoo Creek. REDUCED $550,000 (Hall)

WHY PAY LAKE HOME PRICES when you can be just minutes from Lake Lanier! This adorable 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home is just waiting for you to call it your own! This home has a large, private 1.67 acre lot that is fenced in ready for your furry friend. An extra parking pad has been added for your convenience. There is a large unfinished basement just waiting for you to make your dream media room or workout room! Quiet street, with No HOA! REDUCED $375,000 (Hall)

6433 Waterscape Ridge, #39-40, Gainesville

! D ! L D ! O L S SOLD SO 6288 Lanier Harbor Ldg Buford $398,900

3482 Marina Crest Dr Gainesville $650,000

! ! D D L L O O S S

Castleberry Bridge Road Dawsonville $1,927,500

4257 Tall Hickory Gainesville $1,800,00

230 Lake Circle Dawsonville $2,250,000

Featured Testimonial

! SOLD D ! L D O L S SO 23 Sundown Way Dawsonville $600,000

6507 Paradise Pt Rd Flowery Branch $810,000

8455 Jensen Gainesville $957,000

“Michele is a rockstar. She helped us look for our dream house for nearly two years. We looked at roughly 15 different houses throughout the entire process and she was there every time. Once the house we dreamed about was finally available, Michele was there negotiating with the sellers every step of the way. If you are looking for your dream home I highly recommend you use Michele to help you with the process. If anybody I know is looking for a lake house I can guarantee they will be using Michele” - Remington H.

AMAZING 1.86 AC PRIMO LOT in Waterside on Lake Lanier subdivision with covenants, no HOA and individual docks. The minimum heated sq ft requirement is 3000 sq ft. This lovely lot has a single slip dock in a great cove for swimming and relaxing. Close to Athens Boat Club and easy access to Gainesville and Dawsonville and SO close to the North Georgia Mountains with hiking, tubing and kayaking within 30 minutes. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. $284,900 (Hall)

6442 Waterscape Ridge, #27, Gainesville DON'T MISS OUT on this beautiful lot on Lake Lanier with a cleared path and DEEP water at the double slip dock. Waterside is a lovely subdivision with VERY NICE homes and NO HOA. Septic tank permit for a 3 BR home of 3000 sq ft+ and an architectural review board for new house plans. Seasonal lake view from the building site where you can see the lake for miles. Build your new home when you're ready and enjoy the lake and your boat dock in the meantime! REDUCED $275,000 (Hall)

Lake Lanier Experience Isn't Expensive, It's Priceless! We are on social media! Give us a follow @LivingOnLakeLanier

We can help turn your dream into a reality, call us today!

4 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Bev Knight 678-86 860-0 0-099 990

Lake Lanier Specialist

770-503-7070

*** Featured Home *** Incredible value on Lake Lanier Gorgeous lakefront property on 1.05 acres, quiet cul-de-sac, great location. The single slip dock is in a calm cove but close to the channel where the Chattahoochee and Chestatee rivers converge. Extremely private, no HOA. If you are looking for an affordable lake lot where you can build your dream home, this is the one. $249,900

New build, easy path

Checks all boxes - lake/pool/views NEW L

! ISTING

Dawsonville $975,000

Gainesville $TBD Lakefront, no dock G SOO COMIN

Forsyth County renovation

N! G SOO COMIN

Ranch-style home near Lanier NEW L

Gainesville $TBD in the 600s

Gainesville $699,000 Acreage in Clermont

! ISTING

Gainesville $390,000

Many thanks to Erica Williams, Angie Smart & Angie Trotman, Keller Williams Lanier Partners

www.HousesOnLanier.net

Clermont $373,000

January 2024

LAKESIDE 5

…when you’re ready for the good life! 770-503-7070

Congratulations to our local charities “You have not lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” – John Bunyan

Donated in the name of Dr. Philip A., Jr.

Donated in the names of Jan & Mike B.

Donated in the name of Todd & Fatimah W.

Client testimonial “Bev Knight was very professional, knowledgeable, and

thoughtful to work with when we purchased our new home! She also has the experience that simplifies the process of buying a home! Would highly recommend her! Thank You Bev!”

- Jan & Mike B., Cumming

www.GoodLifeGroupRE.com

6 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 sdavis@gonorton.com 770.536.1250

#1 Agent on Lanier since 2012

Lake Lanier’s #1 Realtors and Trusted Advisors Since 2001 R BUFO

LE ESVIL GAIN

$3,395,000 • 8 ACRE LAKE LANIER ESTATE IN BUFORD! RARE opportunity to find acreage on south Lake Lanier! Many recent updates! Gated long drive, magnificent property offers acreage, trees, privacy and tranquility. Circular driveway leading to a beautiful, traditional, and updated 8,538 sq ft all-brick home with fully finished terrace level. Features: 2-car garage + a 2-car drive around garage at the terrace level with storage and a workshop, a heated gunite salt-water pool, and a large barn/workshop to store all your toys! Quiet cove on south lake, with 350' of shoreline, single slip party dock. No HOA! FMLS#7232570 5040 Blackberry Lane Sheila 770-235-6907

ING CUMM

$3,355,000 • A “SOON TO BE BUILT HOME” IN THE NEW GATED NORTHRIDGE ESTATES ON LAKE LANIER DEVELOPMENT, plan by AR Homes “Palmetto” plan on lot 3, where water views, gentle topography and grass to water set this lot apart. 5,148 square feet of finished space plus 1287 sf of covered outdoor living space with two outdoor fireplaces. This plan is all about lake living and entertaining! Incredible lake views from almost every room. FMLS#7216157 4632-A Shirley Road Sheila 770-235-6907 or Stephanie 770-654-4161

ING CUMM

ES GAIN

$3,289,000 • SPECTACULAR SOUTH LAKE LANIER ESTATE! 3.64 acres (3 gated tracts). Huge privacy! Enjoy stunning year-round lake views of big water with deep water twin slip private dock, 300+/- ft of rip rap shoreline, and mowing permit. Incredible gentle topo with an easy gentle path to the dock. Room for a future pool. Almost 8000+/- sf with 6BR's, 5FB's and 3 1/2 Baths with room for all! FMLS#7310317 3080 Dove Trail Sheila 770-235-6907

VILLE

$2,350,000 • THE LAKE LANIER HOME YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR! 1st time on the market, this well maintained and updated property is move-in ready. Deepwater lot, one-year new 32x32 top of the line aluminum dock with party deck, cable railing and a boat hoist. FMLS#7241493 5845 Charleston Lane Stephanie 770-654-4161

$1,695,000 • FORSYTH COUNTY. Immaculate custom-built all-brick residence. Deepwater single slip party dock. Move in ready. FMLS#7294727 9305 Raldon Road Sheila 770-235-6907

R ERY B FLOW

LLE ONVI DAWS

ES GAIN

$1,275,000 • 4BR| 2.5BA LAKE VIEW HOME WITH ADDITIONAL PROPERTY PURCHASE OPTIONS! Single slip 32x32 Martin party dock. FMLS#7298521 270 Mary Saphire Road Linda 770-313-5446

$1,095,000 • GORGEOUS EUROPEAN 4BR| 4BA HOME IN CCC AREA. Major rennovations to home and landscaping, three finished levels, lake views and access. 221 NW Overlook Drive Vicki 770-329-7602

$1,649,000 • 5 BEDROOM, 4 BATH RENOVATED RANCH over finished terrace level w/ lake views. 171 feet of water frontage on Lanier. Grandfathered road to 32x32 twin slip dock in protected deep cove. FMLS #7277024 5995 Warpath Road Stephanie 770-654-4161

ES GAIN

VILLE

$1,297,000 • BEAUTIFUL NEW HOME UNDER CONSTRUCTION w/ deeded BOAT SLIP in gated, upscal Dockside Cove, a LAKE LANIER development on the quiet, north end of the lake with community dock, street lights, sidewalks, fire pit area and walking trails. Scheduled to be completed in April 2024, buy now to select your own finishes! The modern farmhouse plan has an inviting exterior with a covered front porch, friend's entry and 3 car garage. FMLS#7306361 6005 Moonlight Place Stephanie 770-654-4161

LakeLaniersFinest.com

VILLE

January 2024

LAKESIDE 7

Stephanie Gillespie 770-654-4161

Michelle Sparks 404-379-5798

Nicole Columbo 678-858-0265

Vicki Holland 770-329-7602

Linda Thompson 770-313-5446

Melinda Lloyd Office Manager

Marketing & Agent

770-235-6907

LAKELANIERSFINEST.COM

Let Our Experience Help You Navigate Today’s Market! Thank you to our clients and customers and the friends we’ve made in 2023! It’s been another great year servicing the Lake Lanier Market! The Sheila Davis Group was honored to give back to the following charities and non-profits in 2023: Lake Lanier Association, Toys for Tots, Go Red-American Heart Association and United Way of Hall County.

2023 RESULTS

Sales - $82 Million • Transactions - 76 • Sellers Closed - 45 • Buyers Closed - 31 ING CUMM

ES GAIN

VILLE

LAKE LOTS FOR SALE FMLS#7298531 • $450,000 • Lot 30 Mary Saphire Rd Dawsonville • Linda 770-313-5446 $325,000 • 1715 Country Way Gainesville • Linda 770-313-5446 FMLS#7295928 • $155,000 • 5766 Ridgewood Cir, #35 Gainesville • Michelle 404-379-5798 FMLS#7295938 • $150,000 • 7790 Kings Point Dr, Lot 1 Cumming • Michelle 404-379-5798

$850,000 • GREAT 3/3.5 LAKE HOME with year round filtered view in amazing south lake location. Dbl slip dock on big water with fantastic 180 degrees views. 9390 Lisa Circle Michelle 404-379-5798

$850,000 • 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 2 car garage on over half acre lot. Single slip dock, great water and sought after South lake location. 7790 Kings Point Drive Michelle 404-379-5798

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

FMLS#7262472 • $129,900 • 6825 Lookout Point, #24 Dawsonville • Michelle 404-379-5798 FMLS#7304173 • $125,000 • 7045 Lake Vista Dr, #16 Dawsonville • Michelle 770-654-4161 FMLS#7298561• $110,000 • 7145 Crestline Drive, #14 Dawsonville • Michelle 770-654-4161 • Under Contract FMLS#7293707 • $80,000 • 7005 Lake Vista Drive Dawsonville • Stephanie 770-654-4161

D Water views from every homesite D Each lot permitted for a private 32x32 twin slip dock D Private road, protective covenants & underground utilities

SHIRLEY ROAD

D Priced from $950,000-$1,400,000 D No time limit to build

PEND SOLD

SOLD SOLD

ING

LOT 1

LOT 6 LOT 7 LOT 8 LOT 9 LOT 14

LOT 13

LAKE LANIER

LOT 12

LOT 11

LOT 10

Docks

LOT 2 LOT 3

Docks

LOT 15

Docks

LOT 4

11 14

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.

LOT 5

www.northridgeonlakelanier.com Marketed exclusively by The Sheila Davis Group at the Norton Agency Contact Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 or Stephanie Gillespie 770-654-4161 for more information.

LakeLaniersFinest.com

8 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Lake Lanier Association refocuses on volunteers, critical projects in 2024 By Pamela A. Keene Victoria Clevenger has been named executive director of the Lake Lanier Association. The appointment was effective in early November. She replaces Amy Clevenger McGuire, who served the non-profit as executive director for 18 months. “Under Amy’s leadership we have made great strides to further the association in the community and we sincerely thank her,” said LLA President Todd Baxter. “The past 18 months have seen us undergo many changes from an operational standpoint, including upgrading our technology and moving into dedicated office space in Gainesville. “At this point, we’re well-positioned to further our programs and volunteer involvement, the bread and butter of our mission,” Baxter said. “We looked to our staff to determine the most versatile leader to make this happen. Victoria’s experience, the social

media presence she has helped us establish, her project management skills, and her passion for working with volunteers made her the most appropriate choice at this time in our evolution.” Baxter said the group will be reevaluating and redirecting its financial resources in the coming months. “We have several new board members and we’ve taken a look at where we are philosophically and financially,” he said. “The board wants to redouble our attention toward work directly related to the lake, including our Abandoned Docks and Derelict Vessels program, the Solar Lights initiative, our Life Jacket Loaner Stations and our Rip-Rap projects to address shoreline erosion.” He said that the organization will be pursuing more personal and business memberships as well as grants for funding to expand existing programs. Clevenger earned her MBA and undergraduate degrees from Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. After graduation she worked for more than five years

for a higher education non-profit organization in Tennessee in sales and marketing. She joined the association staff in February 2021 as membership and communications coordinator. Most recently, she was marketing and communications coordinator. In the past three years, she has spearheaded internal communications to members through the quarterly newsletter, email marketing and website updates. She has interfaced with volunteers working on the group’s keynote activities – the annual Member Celebration and Shore Sweep annual lake clean-up – as well as handling marketing for other initiatives. Clevenger has expanded the association’s social media presence across multiple platforms, and she has been representing the organization in partnerships with other local entities. “Victoria’s project management expertise, her communications skills, her positive and professional approach to solving complex problems and her ability to effectively interface with our

“Clark’s Bridge, 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

PHOTOS: LLA

Victoria Clevenger, right, with LLA board member Beverly Nicholls.

board, members and volunteers will help us further promote a Clean, Full and Safe Lake Lanier,” Baxter said. For information about the organization, to volunteer or join, visit lakelanier.org or call 770 744-4547.

Clevenger and LLA board member Dan Osman at one of the association’s Life Jacket Loaner Stations.

January 2024

LAKESIDE 9

THE CLOSEST MARINA TO ATLANTA!

SHIP STORE GAS DOCK 600 DRY STACKS (UP TO 28’) BRADLEY'S SPEED & MARINE SHOP LOCATED ONSITE

2200 Habersham Marina Road Cumming, GA

770 887-5432 www.habershammarina.com

10 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

A sampling of fishing information and tips from area experts Lake level: Down about 8 feet Temperature: 50s Clarity: Mostly clear but stained in creeks due to rainfall Bass fishing Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good. The key word has been deep for recent days. They are still shallow fish to be caught on the rocky points early in the morning and on the deeper docks, but the fish have made their move deep. The water temperature is still not cold enough to have them locked down, but they are in the deep water with the shad. The ditches and deep flats have been the steadiest producers with the key areas being in 35 feet or deeper water. For recent days the Spotchoker underspin with a three-inch trailer, a Georgia Blade half ounce spoon, a dropshot or a Damiki rig have been the steadiest producers. The high pressure that has been here since mid-December’s front has slowed the bite but not stopped it. It’s important to find the bait right now and you will know the fish are around. It seems that in some areas they were just glued to the bottom but if you could get one fish to commit to the bait the others would follow.

You would go from a blank screen to a spaghetti screen in a heartbeat. I have been stopping the boat in at least 50 feet of water and dropping the Pan Optics to scan the areas as I work my way into them since the bass are not in a consistent depth right now. Once you find the school you can sit over them for quite a while catching fish, but it may take a while to find the right spot. While I’ve mainly focused deep the worm and jig will still produce some good fish in the 25- to 40-foot range primarily around rock. It’s cold on the water right now and even more important to have your life jacket on all the time so go out, be safe and Go Catch ’Em. This bass report is by Phil Johnson: pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845. Striper fishing Stripers are always on the move and they currently are moving north of Browns Bridge, but you might be lucky to find them on the south side as well. The birds are very active over the loons and that’ll give you a starting point. Water temperature is mid 50s and the bait is thick so you can troll umbrella rigs and mini Mac’s thru the bait or the down lines and flat lines are catching some nice stripers using a variety of bait.

Consignments

WANTED

Trout, gizzards and blue backs are the best options. Flat lines should be rigged with a small split shot to get them down put one at 100 feet and one out 80 feet and have different baits to determine which ones are best. Remember to wear your life jacket. This striper report is by Buck Cannon 404 510-1778. Crappie fishing The majority of our catch has been coming from suspended fish at 10-15 foot deep on open water brush and docks. I am using

a small minnows straight down with a split shot 8 to 10 feet deep. I have also been doing well the blue grass jigs. While the lake is low be searching for and marking new brush piles and blow downs. The gear I recommend for crappie fishing is Acc crappie stix 1 piece rod and reel with a 6 pound test K9 line, along with Garmin Live Scope and Power Pole. This crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton, www.crappieonlanier.com, 770 530-6493.

THE MAGICAL SWIRLEYBIRD SPINNER by Bill Vanderford

www.georgiafishing.com Happy New Year Friends!

We Will Sell

YOUR BOAT “the connection between boat buyers and sellers”

www.boatsplusga.com The best choice if you want to sell or trade your boat

Proud to be Lake Lanier’s AUTHORIZED

1993 73' Houseboat Twin Mercruisers/Execellent Condition Price $229,900

1995 Sea Ray 400EC Loaded 40' Great Condition Price $74,900

2007 Sea Ray 260 Sundeck Huge Cockpit/Party on the Water Price $39,900

2018 Bennington G22 25' with Yamaha 115hp & Trailer Price $27,500

1997 Century Walkaround 21' w/ 150 Yamaha and Trailer Price $13,900

Boston Whaler Montauk 17 17' Center Console 90hp & Trailer Price $12,900

Other listings on our website: www.boatsplusga.com Consignment Program • Boat Locator Service Financing Available • Trades Considered

Phone: 770-965-4215 • Fax: 770-967-4561 • Email: jim@boatsplusga.com 6470 Lanier Islands Parkway • Buford, GA 30518

Dealer

Days are getting longer Spring is on its way! It’s time to schedule your upgrades and repairs! • Gauges & Controls • Electronics/GPS & Navigation • LED Lights (including Underwater Lighting) • Performance Upgrades, Exhaust & External Steering • And all your Engine and Drive needs

770-932-6694 • MerlinMarine.net

January 2024

LAKESIDE 11

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12 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Recalling the flow and ebb of the growth of The Clam Shack Up north, in the little town where I grew up, there was a marina with a small restaurant/bar that was built right on the river’s edge. The Clam Shack had a limited menu and cheap prices and was a great place to have a bucket of clams and a few beers while looking out over the water. This was especially enjoyable in the off season after the tourists had gone home. Business was slow during the months of January and February, so they closed down to reopen in the spring. The side of the restaurant facing the water had a deck about 10 feet wide covered by a canvas awning with roll down plastic curtains in case of strong winds. The owner decided he would do more business if he could expand the deck out over the water. Now it was almost impossible to build a structure like that because you had to get permits from the township, and also the state and the federal governments! He decided to bypass the permits and during the months he was closed, he

Vinnie Mendes On the Water

quietly “jetted” in some pilings about 10 feet out from the existing deck, (jetting is an easy way to install pilings with a high-pressure hose and a long pipe that doesn’t require a bunch of heavy equipment), framed them out and built a new deck. Meanwhile, he enclosed the old deck, replacing the canvas awning with a plywood roof and moving the entire front wall including the windows and door out 10 feet. The whole process was casually done with complete disregard for any building codes. Once the construction was completed, the casual observer would not notice the difference, except that the inside of the restaurant seemed a bit larger. This turned out to be a great

success, with a noticeable increase in business (and profits), so the following year he repeated the process, with the same results. He did this two more times, adding a total of 40 extra feet to the Clam Shack’s dining area. This worked out very well for the next several years until one winter we had a wild nor’easter. Now a nor’easter is different from most other storms in that the wind blows from the same direction for several days without letup. Because the town is located at the upper end of a “V” shaped bay opening to the northeast, the water level goes up when the tide comes in. When the tide goes out the wind holds most of the water in until the next high tide, then it goes even higher. This has a devastating effect on the lower town, most of which is only about six feet above the high tide level. The storm lasted several days and about halfway through, the “new” roof blew off the Clam Shack and landed in the winter storage boatyard next door, taking out several 55-foot yachts. It flew

into them sideways, collapsing their supports and causing them all to fall over, one against the other in a “domino effect,” if you will. By the time the mess was sorted out it was discovered that the fuel tank in one of the boats had ruptured, spilling about 400 gallons of diesel fuel onto the ground! Almost immediately the area was crawling with inspectors from every three-letter agency in the state and federal government, followed by a posse of lawyers, rubbing their hands with dollar signs in their eyes! Soon people clad in Hazmat suits dug up a

swimming pool size hole in the boat yard, and shipped the sand off to where it could be “safely” buried in a toxic landfill. I’m not sure what the final settlement was, but after the dust had settled, the Clam Shack humbly went back to its original dimensions, and it was still a good place to get a bucket of clams and a few beers and look out over the water. 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.”

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January 2024

LAKESIDE 13

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14 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Heading south, way, way south for a fisherman’s dream trip O’Neill has taken a break this month. Enjoy a column from our archives. Not too long ago we decided we would head South. Way South. To Costa Rica. To Crocodile Bay Lodge/Resort. Look it up. Maybe the best overall fishing in the world for a combination of saltwater biggame species. We routinely catch and release 10 to 12 Sails a day in the 100-pound category. My largest was 130-plus pounder and took at least 90 minutes to boat. Roosters, the fish with the racing stripes that is, up to 40 pounds or so, my very first Rooster weighed in at 75 pounds and nearly broke my back. Red Snapper, Bonita, Sierra Mackerel and the like. The food is excellent, accommodations lush, clean and safe. Pretty nice place. You gotta want to go there. It’ll take a Delta flight from Atlanta to San Jose, Costa Rica, limos everywhere for a stay overnight near the airport, and a 40minute charter to the lodge. Don’t worry, these guys are ex-

O’Neill Williams O’Neill Outside

n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com

perts at executing the arrangements, travel, rooming, etc. without a single hitch. O’Neill has visited a dozen or so times. So how much does it cost? I’ll tell you in a minute, but first, the equipment. Thirty-three to thirty-eight foot Strikes, Whaler Outrages, dozens of other sea worthy craft, staffed with friendly, efficient, English speaking captains and mates, all take your anticipated mystery out of the day. I truly believe that Crocodile Bay Resort is the best equipped location in Central America. Turns out it’s a fisher-

man’s dream trip. You really don’t have to take anything. Computers are in the lobby with high speed internet connections, ample and appropriate clothing available in the local shop should you be purchasing very special shirts with Crocodile Bay Resort logos, toiletries and what not. Did I mention the food? Oh, my goodness. Chefs roam the kitchens preparing a feast three times daily. It’s a treat. Often a portion of your day’s catch is your centerpiece for the evening meal. You will have to purchase or bring a bathing suit for the pool with swim up bar, and the hot tub atop a raised platform to view the sunset. Did I mention also the ecotours, waterfalls, horseback riding, and zip-lining? The fishing can wear you out but there’s plenty to do otherwise in making this trip one of a kind. Then too, there’s a world class spa only 20 steps away available for evening massages and facials. Back to the fishing. Travis and

Starting the day at Crocodile Bay Resort.

I traveled there a few years ago and during one of the days offshore, we raised 34 sails and caught 17. What a day. Inshore the next day, Roosters to 30 pounds and Red Snapper in the upper teens. What a day. I said that already, didn’t I? Anyway, how much does it cost? About $2,000 for three days I suppose. Should you go and when? Yes, late December, January, February,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY O’NEILL WILLIAMS

March and even April while the turkey season is in full bloom and the truly great bass fishing across the South has kicked in. Just go to www.crocodilebay. com and find out all the particulars. 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 repertoire.

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January 2024

LAKESIDE 15

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Wow!!! Are you ready for Ultimate Lake Living? This home has the most amazing Sunset & Gentle Breezes every night, you may never want to go inside. But when you do go inside, you will love this New Custom Construction Home with 5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, located on the North End of Lake Lanier on 1.5 acres with a 3-car garage. Easy access to 32’x32’ Double Slip Martin Aluminum dock using the concrete golf cart path. Too Many Special Features to List. This is a real must see! Sophisticated, Open Concept Design with easy entertaining on a large scale and for everyday living. Impressive Gourmet Kitchen with Custom Wood Cabinets to Ceiling, Quartz Countertops, 48” gas stainless steel gas range, Beautiful Metal Vent Hood, 11’ wide center island, coffee station, built in microwave and large walk-in pantry. Great Outdoor Living, starting at Front Porch with Eastern Pine Columns, Vaulted Covered Back Porch, Back Deck with Trex Deck Flooring + Terrace Level Cover Patio. Effortless flow from Indoor to Outdoor Spaces with Multiple 8’ Sliding Glass Doors. One of the Special Features is 2 Primary Bedrooms, 1 on Main level and 1 on Terrace level. Luxurious Main Level Primary Bathroom with free-standing soaking tub, steam shower, body sprayers, heated floors, Makeup station and VIP suite, LED vanity mirrors. Spacious Storage Closet with Washer and Dryer hookups + Custom Closet design, floor to ceiling closet system. All 5 bedrooms have their own ensuite and view of the lake. The Terrace level was built for entertainment with a 12' ceiling, Custom Wine Cellar, 2nd Kitchen & Bar, Designer Lighting, Large Gathering Room with fireplace, game room & extra unfinished storage. 2nd primary suite with large bedroom and large bathroom. 5th bedroom is extra special with access to the bunk room from this room. Great when having extra family or friends visit. This property offers tremendous flexibility, both outdoors and inside, for the maximum enjoyment of just about any activity or hobby. It is one of the most extraordinary properties for entertaining friends and family at the lake. All bathrooms have showers designer tile to ceiling, all glass frameless shower enclosures, handheld sprayers, and modern matte black fixtures throughout. Smart technology designed with 1-gig high-speed internet, state-of-the-art interior and exterior. This home is also equipped with an EV charging outlet and is pre-wired for a whole-home generator, pool and security cameras. Spray insulation, batts and ceiling insulation between floor systems for noise reduction. Plenty of parking with 16ft driveway and extra 2 parking pads. There is No HOA. $3,290,000 Contact Brian Canty for details. The Brian Canty TEAM • Realty Professionals 678-614-9197 • rprobc@aol.com www.briancanty.com • www.lakefront-bargains.com

16 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Brent Danneman: Looking backwards and forwards at Lake Lanier 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 Brent Danneman knows Lake Lanier. Growing up in Decatur, he can recall when his family would come to Holiday Marina even as the lake was in its final stages of filling. “Our boat was right next to (then Holiday Marina owner) Jack Beachem’s,” said Danneman, now senior consultant for Traina Enterprises, which owns Park Marine. “I can remember Jack and my dad taking a dinghy out in front of the marina to trim off the tops of the trees as the lake was being filled. Jack didn’t want any of his customers to get into trouble.” He remembers when Beachem rented jon boats with outboards in the early days. “People would get them for the weekend, then just abandon them on the shore on Sundays. “We had to go out and pick them up and bring them back to the marina.” Danneman and Beachem’s son Doug often boated together, usually leaving the dock around 9 a.m., coming in for lunch, then going back out for the rest of the day. “That’s just the way it was; the lake wasn’t crowded. In fact, in the ’60s and early ’70s, there were very few boats on the lake. We’d ski and go tubing all day.” For Danneman and other families back then, the lake was a respite, a place to come for fun. “At first we spent time at Allatoona, but after a while, Lake Lanier was it for us,” he said. “My parents decided in the late ’50s and early ’60s to start coming to Lanier and from then on Lanier was where we spent our time.” Danneman joined the US Army before he finished high school, spending eight years during the Vietnam era in the 81st Infantry. Like other soldiers returning home, he experienced

jeering, being spit on and ridiculed. “The people hated us then and they weren’t afraid to let us know how they felt,” he said. “Now when I wear the veteran’s hat that my daughter Jill gave me, I hear, ‘Thanks for your service,’ ‘I appreciate your sacrifice’ and other compliments. These are different times. People have a lot more respect these days.” When Danneman returned home, he worked for his father’s retail clothing business, traveling across Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Then his family purchased Browns Bridge Marine in 1978. “Dad told me I’d better give up selling women’s clothes and run the marine business. I really didn’t know what I was doing, but it was a good decision. When we had Yamaha, we were one of the largest Yamaha dealers in the US.” Danneman settled into the boat business as though he was born into it, eventually owning Browns Bridge Marine. He sold the business in the early 1980s to Larry Cooper, and Danneman stayed on as the main salesperson. He left Browns Bridge in the late ’90s, and his friend Larry Dobson connected Danneman with Doug Traina who had owned Park Marina since 1978. Traina reached out to Danneman in the late ’90s to join his team, running the retail store on Dawsonville Highway. “I told him I’d give it a year or two, but I ended up staying for 23 years as general manager,” he said. Danneman and his wife Phyllis have been married 61 years. They have two adult children, son Russ, who’s married to Tanny; they have three adult children. His daughter Jill lives across the street from where Danneman

www.lakesidenews.com

grew up in Decatur. She works in sales and marketing in Atlanta. He said he’s working toward retirement. In fact, he has been mentoring a replacement – Kevin Allen, who has recently been named director of sales for Park Marine. “Kevin started out at our Kennesaw location as a boat washer and he’s worked his way up the ladder with us,” Danneman said. “I’m so proud of all he’s done and he’s doing a great job.” Admittedly, he’s finding it a challenge to fully retire. “I’ve cut back my hours, but so many people keep asking for me when they’re looking for a boat, need their boat fixed, or have just about any kind of question related to boats and Lake Lanier.” He’s given his semi-retirement a name. “I call it hanging out, what I’m doing now, but all along it’s been the best career I could ask for,” he said with a smile. “You know, we’re in the business of selling fun, and not many people can say that honestly. “When I see a man, his wife and kids come in to look at a boat, they’re so excited,” he said. “They’re chasing their dream and we’re all here to help them realize that dream. After all, these days, more and more people are choosing to spend their vacation and recreation time close to home and Lake Lanier’s the perfect place. “You can go on a vacation somewhere else, but all you’ve got is some photos and a few memories,” he said. “When you own a boat, you can vacation every day, and you’ve got an asset for the long term.” He sees a bright future for boating and Lake Lanier. “With all the growth in Atlanta and North Georgia, and so many people wanting to spend their leisure and recreational time close to home, Lake Lanier will continue to grow. I can remember when no one wanted to boat north of Browns Bridge, but now you see boats everywhere.” Danneman looks back on his

Lakeside on Lanier

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Brent Danneman, at Park Marine’s Dawsonville Highway showroom, has been on and around Lake Lanier since it was created.

career and sees a pattern. “The Lord has blessed me in so many ways, from my surviving a war, starting a business, having

an amazing family and having the best career,” he said. “As long as my health is good, I’m going to keep on doing what I’m doing.”

• Parks

Continued from Page 2 grounds: Bolding Mill, Duckett Mill and Old Federal Campground. “This agreement is an opportunity for Hall County Parks and Leisure to provide excellent local government services to citizens by helping to maintain parks that are already used and frequented by Hall County residents,” Hall County Parks and Leisure Director Brent Holloway said. “It’s a chance for us to step in and manage the day-to-day operations of these campgrounds and continue to provide services to our residents and visitors.” A third agreement is in pro-

cess between the Corps of Engineers and Forsyth County. All three are expected to be rolled out in advance of the 2024 park and campground opening schedule this spring. The Corps of Engineers will retain ownership of all six facilities. “As budgets have continued to remain flat it has become more difficult for the Corps to maintain our historic levels of service for all the recreation areas we operate,” Rainey said. “This is a win-win for the public, residents and visitors, these local jurisdictions and the Corps of Engineers.”

January 2024

LAKESIDE 17

Lake Lanier Association Ready to jump in?

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Removing over 90 tons of trash annually at Shore Sweep Light-up 289 hazard markers with Solar Lights Stock and maintain 10 life jacket loaner stations 2 miles and counting of shoreline protected with Rip Rap Monthly Water Quality Testing, all 12 months of the year Remove Abandoned and Derelict Docks & Vessels (ADDV) from the waters of Lanier

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LLA is made up of boaters, fisherman, property owners, drinking water users, area businesses and anyone passionate about Lake Lanier. As a non-profit, we are 80% funded by memberships and tax deductible donations. Our on-lake initiatives are not possible without memberships like yours!

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Through education and advocacy, we work to keep you informed about important matters. LLA works closely with local authorities to protect Lanier.

18 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Possible parade of winter storms this month I hope you all had wonderful Christmas. December turned out to be a rather benign month weather-wise with the continuation of above average temperatures and below average rainfall. This month however, we are likely going to see a whole new ball game, with a long-lasting winter shift across the east and southeast United States. There could be come “interesting” times ahead. Earlier winter forecasts were calling for an area of low pressure to develop over the east and southeast, bringing cold and snow to parts of the country. The new long-range models are showing this too. If you look at the accompanying graphic, you can see a lot of blue across the East. That’s the cold air being pulled down. The January upper pressure forecast (see graphic to right) is extremely impressive, with a broad area of low pressure across the central and eastern parts of the country. Temperatures will remain cold for the month. However, we need to remember this

is a MONTHLY forecast and does not necessarily mean a low pressure will Glenn remain stationary for the Burns entire month. It’s likely we will be a parade of winter Lanier storm systems a few times Outlook during the month. Now let’s address the elephant in the room. Will this mean snow for the Southeast? We do believe the cold air will be in place. I believe the moisture will be in place too! The final graphic shows the track of the sub-tropical See Burns, page 20

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GLENN BURNS

Temperatures are predicted to remain cold for January.

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

1 1071.05 2 1070.99 3 1070.93 4 1070.85 5 1070.79 6 1070.77 7 1070.74 8 1070.72 9 1070.47 10 1070.30 11 1070.13 12 1070.02 13 1069.98 14 1069.96 15 1069.88 16 1069.81 17 1069.74 18 1069.66 19 1069.59 20 1069.63 21 1069.64 22 1069.47 23 1069.41 24 1069.34 25 1069.28 26 1069.20 27 1069.19 28 1069.12 29 1069.09 30 1069.05 31 1068.95 AV 1069.93 MAX 1071.05 MI 1068.95

1068.87 1068.81 1068.77 1068.77 1068.68 1068.64 1068.55 1068.47 1068.42 1068.39 1068.51 1068.61 1068.61 1068.63 1068.67 1068.71 1068.71 1068.70 1068.91 1069.05 1069.10 1069.16 1069.19 1069.22 1069.30 1069.35 1069.38 1069.37 1069.36 1069.38

1069.39 1069.46 1069.42 1069.44 1069.46 1069.44 1069.44 1069.43 1069.42 1069.43 1069.43 1069.40 1069.39 1069.38 1069.35 1069.32 1069.27 1069.18 1069.13 1069.13 1069.19 1069.20 1069.17 1069.14 1069.10 1069.08 1069.05 1069.00 1068.96 1068.96 1068.88 1068.88 1069.26 1069.38 1069.46 1068.39 1068.88

1068.80 1068.68 1068.70 1068.63 1068.60 1068.59 1068.57 1068.52 1068.39 1068.34 1068.34 1068.34 1068.30 1068.21 1068.18 1068.15 1068.09 1068.04 1068.01 1067.96 1067.87 1067.82 1067.75 1067.67 1067.61 1067.58 1067.52 1067.52 1067.67 1067.71 1067.64 1068.12 1068.80 1067.52

1067.56 1067.51 1067.46 1067.35 1067.21 1067.02 1066.85 1066.68 1066.67 1066.66 1066.56 1066.48 1066.40 1066.32 1066.18 1066.15 1066.21 1066.14 1066.08 1066.04 1065.98 1065.91 1065.65 1065.81 1065.76 1065.72 1065.67 1065.59 1065.52 1065.49

OCT

1065.42 1065.37 1065.31 1065.24 1065.18 1065.11 1065.05 1065.00 1064.92 1064.86 1064.86 1064.88 1064.83 1064.76 1064.73 1064.65 1064.61 1064.56 1064.51 1064.48 1064.43 1064.42 1064.36 1064.32 1064.27 1064.22 1064.16 1064.12 1064.08 1064.02 1063.94 1066.36 1064.67 1067.56 1065.42 1065.49 1063.94

NOV

DEC

1063.85 1063.77 1063.68 1063.59 1063.53 1063.46 1063.40 1063.34 1063.28 1063.29 1063.26 1063.19 1063.14 1063.11 1063.05 1063.01 1062.96 1062.93 1062.89 1062.86 1062.93 1062.91 1062.88 1062.85 1062.83 1062.77 1062.70 1062.64 1062.58 1062.56

1062.53 1062.54 1062.56 1062.53 1062.52 1062.48 1062.44 1062.42 1062.57 1062.95 1063.03 1063.04 1063.03 1063.02 1062.99 1063.02 1062.97 1062.95 1062.92 1062.69 1062.88 1062.85 1062.84 1063.83 1062.13 1064.07

1063.11 1063.85 1062.56

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

January 2024

LAKESIDE 19

20 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Make some New Year’s resolutions to be a safer boater It is hard to believe but it is that holiday time of year again. Time really flies, doesn’t it? Have you gotten your New Year’s resolutions picked out yet? I’m not going to talk about whether you kept last year’s resolutions or not, but I do have a few suggestions for this year. Why not choose a few resolutions to be a safer boater? If you are wondering what changes you can make this year, you have come to the right place. Here are some things that you can do to become a safer boater: • Check boat safety equipment monthly – Safety equipment sometimes gets ignored on our boats. It is probably because we rarely use it (except for life jackets and VHF radio of course). This makes it easy to forget they are there. The moment that you need a piece of safety equipment is the wrong time to find out that it does not work. A monthly check will ensure that this does not

Frank Taylor The Careful Captain happen. • Take a boating safety course – You never know how much you don’t know until you learn it. A boating safety course is a great way to learn how to be a safe and confident boater. Both Atlanta’s Boating Club and your local Coast Guard Auxiliary both offer high quality boating safety classes taught by certified instructors. Search for both groups online. • Maintain a sober boating policy – Getting stopped and charged with boating under the influence can really ruin a day out on the water. And it can hit your finances as well. Having an accident is even worse. Be sober when oper-

ating a vessel. • Learn basic first aid – It is always recommended that you have a first aid kit on board your vessel. Do you know what to do with it? Do you know how to deal with someone that has a head injury or a broken limb? Do you know CPR? Basic first aid can save a life. Maybe even the life of someone you love. • Regularly check navigation lights – Imagine leaving the dock or the boat ramp during the day and all is well. It is such a beautiful day, that you stay out on the water well past dark. When it is time to head back, you start the engine and flip the switch for your nav lights and nothing happens. Your nav lights don’t work. It has happened to me. Running a check of your nav lights prior to heading out could have prevented this mishap. • Learn your boat’s systems – You may not be mechanically inclined but it’s not that hard to do simple tasks like checking engine

oil or battery connections. The ability to do these things will allow you to ensure that your boat is ready to go. This can prevent breakdowns on the water which can put you, your family and your vessel in potential danger. It can also save you some money. You don’t have to be a mechanic. Just be smart. Remember, prioritizing safety

enhances the enjoyment of your boating experience. We are all out there to have some fun. Let’s not ruin it by forgetting about safety. Happy New Year and have a happy, safe boating year. Frank is past commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta and is currently a content creator at the YouTube channel “The Ships Logg.”

• Burns

Continued from Page 18 jet stream with El Nino. This pattern is a mega-moisture transport system and precipitation is expected to be above normal. So, cold air, abundant moisture, and away we go! There is also another issue we need to be aware of. This particular jet stream pattern

www.lakesidenews.com

creates strong wind shear. Preceding our southern cold fronts will be storms, some severe, very likely producing small tornadoes. Lets all be weather aware this month. Happy New Year to you all. Glenn Burns is chief meteorologist emeritus for WSB-TV in Atlanta.

Lakeside on Lanier

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January 2024

LAKESIDE 23

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Lakeside Calendar January 2024 ♫ denotes musical event On & Around the Lake o Thru Jan. 7 – Old Fashioned Christmas in historic Downtown Dahlonega. o Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Trivia Night at NoFo Brew Co., Gainesville. Info: topher@nofobrew.co. ♫ Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25, Feb. 1 – Music Bingo at NoFo Brew Co. Gainesville. Info: topher@nofobrew.co. Boot Barn Hall ♫ Jan. 5 – Dueling Pianos ♫ Jan. 6 – T. Graham Brown ♫ Jan. 12 – Dancing Dream - ABBA Tribute Band ♫ Jan. 13 – Thompson Square - Unplugged ♫ Jan. 19 – The Band Loula ft. Peytan Porter ♫ Jan. 20 – The Band Loula ♫ Jan. 26 – String Quartet: Music of Coldplay ♫ Jan. 27 – Fly Betty ♫ Feb. 2 – The Oak Ridge Boys ♫ Feb. 3 – Atlanta Rhythm Section Info: bootbarnhallga.com (Times are 7:30-10:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.) Brenau University o Jan. 11 – Mar. 19 – Melissa Huang exhibition o Jan. 18-Mar. 14 – Paul Paiment exhibition ♫ Feb. 2, 3 – Brenau Dance Faculty Concert: De/Cipher Info: 770-538-4764; brenau.edu Buford Community Center ♫ Jan. 13 – Street Choir ♫ Jan. 27 – Rumours ATL

♫ Feb. 3 – Always ABBA ♫ Feb. 24 – Dr. Daylight’s Jazz Company ♫ Mar. 8 – The Lettermen ♫ Mar. 23 – The Troubadour Project ♫ Apr. 12 – Tapestry, the Carole King Songbook ♫ Apr. 16 – The Rupert’s Orchestra Info: bufordcommunitycenter.com Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater ♫ Jan. 6 – AR38, Tribute to 38 Special and Atlanta Rhythm Section ♫ Jan. 13 – Sail On, The Beach Boys Tribute Info: 706-530-5162; hollytheater.com Gainesville Theatre Alliance o Feb. 16-24 – The Crucible Info: 678-717-3624; gainesvilletheatrealliance.org Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds ♫ Jan. 27 – Chris Janson Info: 706-896-4191; georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Interactive Neighborhood Kids o Jan. 1-7 – Igloo Craft Week o Jan. 8-14 – Penguin Craft Week o Jan. 15-21 – Martin Luther King Craft Week o Jan. 22-28 – Snowman Craft Week o Jan. 29-Feb. 4 – Snowflake Craft Week Info: 770-536-1900; inkfun.org Lake Lanier Islands Resort o Thru Jan. 3 – Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular o Thru Feb. 25 – License to Chill Snow Island Info: 770-945-8787; lanierislands.com

Piedmont University o Jan. 11 – Art Reception/Regional African American Museum of NEGA o Jan. 18 – Fine Arts College Experience o Jan. 27 – Art Reception/Austin Wieland o Jan. 28 – Jeri-Mae G. Astolfi Info: 800-277-7020; piedmont.edu Quinlan Arts Center o Thru Feb. 29 – Winter Exhibition Info: 770-536-2575; quinlanartscenter.org School Street Playhouse (formerly Cumming Playhouse) ♫ Jan. 20 – GlowBand-Eagles and Friends ♫ Jan.27 – Chi-Town Transit Authority Tribute to Chicago Info: 770-781-9178; schoolstreetplayhouse.com Tannery Row Artist Colony o Thru Jan. 6 – TRAC Holiday Show o Jan. 13-Mar. 1 – Winner’s Circle Info: 470-326-6656; tanneryrowartistcolony.net The Arts Council ♫ Jan. 19, 20 – The Lionel Cole Quintet ♫ Feb. 16, 17 – The Nicole Zuraitis Quartet ♫ Mar. 15, 16 – Lori Williams Quintet ♫ Apr. 19, 20 – The Roman Street Quartet ♫ May 18 – The Black Gold Orchestra Info: Julie Garner, julie@theartscouncil.net; 770-534-2787. 37 Rock Cafe ♫ Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 – Metalsome Live Band Karaoke ♫ Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25 – The Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos ♫ Jan. 6 – Jeremy’s Ten – A Pearl Jam Tribute

♫ Jan. 12 – Take 3 – Rock & Pop Hits ♫ Jan. 13 – Dock Rock Radio ♫ Jan. 14 – The Music of Dokken ♫ Jan. 19 – Aunt Betty – 80s Hair Rock Hits ♫ Jan. 20 – Boogilicious - Pop, Rock & Funk ♫ Jan. 26 – RadioStar (Classic Rock/Party) ♫ Jan. 27 – Spirit of Rush - Rush Tribute Info: 678-288-2030; buford.37main.com The Well ♫ Jan. 5 – Radio ‘80s ♫ Jan. 6 – Clapton ♫ Jan. 12 – G Cliff ♫ Jan. 13 – Audio Vault ♫ Jan. 19 – Fire Lake - Bob Seger Tribute ♫ Jan. 20 – Jimmy Cav ♫ Jan. 26 – Rockforce ‘90s ♫ Jan. 27 – Chillbillyz ♫ Feb. 2 – Excitable - Def Leppard Tribute ♫ Feb. 3 – Head Games - Foreigner Tribute ♫ Feb. 9 – Jason Gardner Band ♫ Feb. 10 – Slippery When Wet, Bon Jovi Tribute ♫ Feb. 16 – These Crowded Streets, Dave Matthews Tribute ♫ Feb. 17 – Kanstyx - Kansas, Styx Tribute ♫ Feb. 23 – Sunset Strip ‘80s ♫ Feb. 24 – Double Take ‘80s Info: 404-271-3178; gigs@thewellga.com Voices of North Georgia ♫ Mar. 2 – Gala: Beatles and Bacharach ♫ Apr. 26, 28 – Give My Regards to Broadway Info: voicesofnorthgeorgia.com

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January 2024

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After three decades tri-state water wars are over – almost By Pamela A. Keene From the early 1990s, Georgia, Florida and Alabama have gone nose to nose over water and who has rights to it. “It” starts in the headwaters of Lake Lanier, from the Chestatee and Chattahoochee rivers, dammed in the late 1940s and to provide hydroelectricity, navigation and flood control downstream. Several years later, two other purposes were added – to supply drinking water to Atlanta and to provide recreation. It took a decision by the US

Supreme Court to settle a lawsuit brought by Florida against Georgia in 2013, finding in Georgia’s favor. However, the controversy between Georgia and Alabama over the water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin continued until mid-December. Alabama had filed a separate lawsuit against the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2017. In a news release from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s office on December 12, he announced that he and Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey had

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reached an agreement to present a plan to the Corps of Engineers for management of the ACF. The proposal includes asking the Corps to set minimal flow levels in the mid- and lower Chattahoochee River Basin during droughts. The proposal asks to the Corps to consider operating dams and reservoirs in this area of the basin. “Under the agreement, the Corps of Engineers will begin formally considering a first-of-itskind proposal to operate its dams and reservoirs to achieve minimum water-flow objectives at Columbus, Georgia, and Columbia, Alabama, on the Chattahoochee River along the states’ border,” the news release stated. “The proposal also provides that the Corps would continue to maintain the necessary minimum elevation at Lake Seminole, located in southwest Georgia, approximately twenty miles southwest of Bainbridge.” The news release further reports that the Corps’ process of acceptance of the proposal will be

subject to several other steps before it goes into effect. “The Corps’ consideration of the proposal will be subject to a public-comment period and environmental review that could last several months,” the news release read. “If the Corps adopts the proposal, Alabama will dismiss its appeal in this matter following a one-year review period, and the litigation will end. If the Corps does not adopt the proposal, Alabama’s lawsuit will resume.” An email to constituents of the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper included a statement. Here are excerpts: “Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is cautiously optimistic about the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint Agreement recently announced by the Governors of Alabama and Georgia and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is optimistic because the proposal establishes clear expectations the two states have agreed upon after decades of conflict over how to

share water. Since the 1990s, one of the initial strategies to resolve the “water wars” was an agreement on how much water was enough to sustain the states’ and Chattahoochee River’s future. This agreement does just that. “Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is cautious because we are still learning about the details of the agreement. We have not evaluated the full implications or possible impacts of the proposed “flow objectives” on Columbus (GA), Columbia (AL), and other parts of the Apalachicola-ChattahoocheeFlint River Basin. “Additionally, we want to ensure any changes to the Corps’ Water Control Manual do not result in changes to existing flow requirements, including a minimum flow requirement of 750 cubic feet per second (cfs) at Peachtree Creek. Chattahoochee Riverkeeper has historically advocated for a more protective minimum flow requirement at this location to ensure water quality standards are met downstream.”

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January 2024

Find art in the community, brighten your day, visit a gallery By Jane Harrison Imagine a cold dreary January Friday in Gainesville. You drag yourself out of bed for that obligatory walk or jog you resolved to do five times a week. TGIF, you think. A chilly wind blows a tattered holiday ribbon from the sidewalk. Your gaze follows it to the base of a statue on the historic Brenau University campus. What’s that? Leaning against the bronze is a small, colorful whimsical painting. A closer look reveals the original creation is yours, free to keep. You continue with a spring in your step. That’s the general idea behind Free Art Fridays, a Brenau movement to share art in the community. Brenau students and local artists create and donate original paintings, pottery, and other small works to plant along campus and downtown Gainesville walkways for people to discover. Gena Brodie Robbins, Brenau director of galleries, debuted the free art movement in October and plans to continue it the last Friday of the month through April, when it may expand. Artists tucked more than 30 pieces of art in easy-to-spot nooks outdoors each Friday in October. Robbins reported creators, art finders and the university galleries reaped rewards. “It’s been great,” she said. Artists label their work with their

name, website, and a congratulatory note that asks finders to send a message to Brenau galleries to receive a cup of hot cocoa, tea, or coffee, plus a gallery tour. Robbins said the artwork has inspired numerous townsfolk, students, and visitors to tag the galleries’ Instagram site and learn more about the university’s five exhibition spaces that are free and open to the public. “It not just that it brightens peoples’ day, it gets them to start thinking about art,” Robbins said. She added that some finders remarked they had never owned a “real piece of art before.” At the galleries, students, local residents and Gainesville visitors stepped into mind-opening artistic realms that transported them out of the humdrum through permanent collections and special exhibitions. Students who had never taken an art class gathered on Wednesdays to daub paint on 12-inch canvases to “hide” around campus early Friday mornings. Many melted away exam stress in December brushstroke-by-brushstroke. Finders in last month’s planned Free Art Friday may cherish pieces that soothed a student-artist’s exam-weary brain. Pedestrians have found students’ original work and creations by local artists, including Jill

Haack, who teaches brush techniques at the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Gainesville Garden. Submitted works include wood carvings, ceramic bowls and teacups, landscape paintings, plastic masks, and whimsical renderings of dinosaurs and unicorns. Don’t be surprised to take home a free original painting by Lake Lanier artist Anne Brodie Hill, who told Lakeside she “probably will” stash a Lanier plein air work on a future Friday, perhaps near her galPHOTO BY JANE HARRISON Gena Robbins, Brenau University Director of Galleries, shows some of the small pieces lery on the square. “It’s a of art submitted for Free Art Fridays. good idea to get Free Art Fridays & Gallery Information your name out there and get What is Free Art Friday? people interested Pedestrians and passersby find artwork to keep throughout in original art,” downtown and along walkways of Brenau University campuses; she said. get free coffee, hot cocoa, pastry and tour exhibits at galleries, Robbins said Jan. 26 and last Fridays through April. Hill she first encounwww.galleries.brenau.edu/ 770-534-6181. tered the free art movement at an Brenau Galleries artists’ retreat in the United KingBrenau University presents five exhibition spaces and galdom. She witnessed a pedestrian’s leries that are free and open to the public. All but Renaissance excitement upon finding a tagged and Manhattan are closed for holidays and summer months. original piece. She decided to exHere’s a brief description of each: port the movement to Gainesville. • Sellars Gallery: Located on the first floor of the Simmons See Art, page 31 Visual Art Center, 200 Blvd. Look for the entrance on the far right between two sculptures off the main lawn. Open 10-4 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. The university’s largest exhibition space features rotating exhibits plus a permanent collection. See Paul Paiment’s Nexus paintings of synthetic elements blended with the natural world Jan. 18-March 14. • Presidents Gallery: Located on second floor of Simmons Visual Arts Center, above Pearce Auditorium, 200 Blvd. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Works include rotating exhibits plus a permanent collection. The bizarre surrealistic exhibit by local artist Chris Boyko is expected to continue through mid-January. • Leo Castelli Gallery: Located on the first floor of the John S. Burd Performing Arts Center, 429 Academy St. Open 10 a.m.5 p.m. Mon.-Thur. Rotating exhibits. See Melissa Huang’s glitch-inspired paintings that study desire and dissonance Jan. 11-March 29. • Renaissance Gallery: Located in the Renaissance Building, 600 Spring St., downtown Gainesville. Open by appointment only. Contains a permanent collection, plus a Leggett Collection of realistic water color, oil and pastel paintings. • Manhattan Gallery: Located in Downtown Center Campus in the Ivester College of Health and Sciences Building, downtown Gainesville. Corner of Main St./Jesse Jewell Pkwy. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Thur. Houses permanent collection, includPHOTO COURTESY BRENAU GALLERIES ing works of New York artists Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns.

Brenau students paint a creations for Free Art Fridays to "hide" on campus or near the Downtown Gainesville Square.

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Outdoor Calendar January 2024 o Five Star 5K/10K/Half Marathon Championships, Cumming. 8:30 a.m. Jan. 7, North Forsyth Middle School, 3535 Coal Mountain Dr. $45-$55. www.fivestarntp.com. o Rocks & Geology Lessons, Gainesville. Explore characteristics of rocks and minerals, hike to explore your new knowledge, 10 a.m.-noon Jan. 11, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. For ages 16 and older. $10, members free. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Second Saturday Hike, Helen. Guided hike on .5-mile Chunannee Falls Trail, 10-11:30 a.m. Jan. 13, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706878-3087. o Chilly Willy 5K/10K/Half Marathon, Sugar Hill. 8:30 a.m. Jan. 13, Sugar Hill Distillery, 1166 Church St. $40-$75. www.fivestarntp.com. o No School Nature Day, Gainesville. Children ages 3 and older explore natural exhibits and Starlab Planetarium, plus crafts and activities related to space and astronomy, 10 a.m.noon Jan. 15, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. www.elachee.org, 770535-1976. o Home School Nature Day, Gainesville. Children ages 5-12 learn about constellations and astronomy in Starlab Planetarium, 9-10:30 a.m. Jan. 18, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $15 per student, members free. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-5351976. o Adventure After Dark Guided Hike, Gainesville. Guided hike along 4.26-mile Chicopee Backcountry Trail for ages 16 and older; expect difficult terrain and creek crossings; bring trekking poles, flashlight, 6-10 p.m. Jan. 20, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Ela-

chee Dr. Free. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Cookies & Cocoa 5K, Buford. 9 a.m. Jan. 20, Buford High School, 2455 Buford Hwy. $30. www.runnersfit.com. o 45th Annual 17K Hogpen Hill Climb/5K Piglet Run, Helen. 17K run known as one if Georgia’s toughest races, 11 a.m./Piglet 5K 9:30 a.m. Jan. 20, Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse. $30-$85. www.active.com. o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 6:15-7:45 p.m. Jan. 25, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706754-7981. o Java Jog 5K/10K, Dawsonville. 8/8:30 a.m. Jan. 27, Rock Creek Park. 445 Martin Rd. $45/$70. www.fivestarntpcom.

On-Going o Free Art Friday, Gainesville. Find artwork to keep throughout downtown and along walkways of Brenau University campuses; get free coffee, hot cocoa, pastry and tour exhibits at galleries, Jan. 26 and last Fridays through April. www.exploregainesville.org, 770-534-6181. o License to Chill Snow Island/Lakeside Lights Spectacular, Buford. Snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides, s’more making, plus walk-through holiday light extravaganza with festive music; Snow Island 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Feb. 25; Lights Spectacular 5-9 p.m. through Jan. 15, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Various prices. www.margaritavilleresorts.com. o Discovery Saturday, Gainesville. Wild animal showcase, exhibits, crafts and hike, 10 a.m.3 p.m. Jan. 6, 13, 20, & 27, Elachee Nature

Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 ages 3 and older, free to children younger than 3 and Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Group Run Riverside, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 7:30 a.m. Jan. 6, 20, & Feb. 3; 8:30 a.m. Jan. 13 & 27, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. See website/Facebook page for updates. www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Group Run NoFo, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6-7 p.m. Thursdays, NoFo Brewing Company, 434 High St. SE. See website/Facebook page for updates. www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Group Run LNB, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays, Liquid Nation Brewery, 2100 Atlanta Hwy. See website/Facebook page for updates. www.lanierrunningclub.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 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 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. – compiled by Jane Harrison

• Art

Continued from Page 30 “What a great way to connect the community outside Brenau – the external community – with the students, staff and local artists,” she said. To submit a piece, artists can bring their small artwork (under 12 inches) to the Brenau Sellars Gallery between 1-4 p.m. Monday through Fridays. The Sellars Gallery is located on the first floor of the Simmons Visual Arts Center in the same facility as the Pearce Auditorium. The entry is between two bronze sculptures at 200 Boulevard. Brenau Communications Department Editor Alyson Shields describes Free Art Fridays as pop-up joy. The movement has introduced people to the “awesome college galleries” and put a

smile on their faces. “I like seeing people enjoy what we have here. And who doesn’t like a little treat,” she said.

Small wood creations are among the artwork hidden for Free Art Fridays. A Brenau student puts finishing touches on her contribution, near right. Free Art Fridays put a smile on finders' faces, far right. PHOTOS COURTESY BRENAU GALLERIES

View the online edition at www.lakesidenews.com

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January 2024

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Ah, the Atlantic paradise at the far end of the Bahamas As the morning sun caresses the windblown sand along a deserted beach, its warming rays are refracted by hundreds of white objects that become more visible with each degree of the sun’s angle. For expert shell seekers, this expanding spectacle would be like a treasure hunter finding an ancient Spanish galleon overflowing with gold! Though many varieties of shells are in the Turks and Caicos Islands (turksandcaicostourism. com), several species of conch shells are the most dominant. In fact, conch has always been an important part of life and survival in this tropical paradise. These huge sea snails are used as an ingredient in hundreds of delectable food dishes that are served in these islands. In modern times, however, conch has become important in jewelry-making, art work and as an exported food. For those who might not understand the geography, the Turks and Caicos Islands are located at the far southeast corner of the Bahamas archipelago. These gems of the Atlantic Ocean are approximately 575 miles from Miami and are comprised of over 40 islands and uninhabited cays, including eight major islands: Grand Turk, Salt Cay, West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos and South Caicos. To the south, the Caicos Bank is a shallow, pale, turquoise sea that is partly composed of swamp and tidal flats that are filled with an abundant resource of conch, lobster and numerous species of fish. In this area, Sapodilla Bay is a popular

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

mooring for yachts traveling through the Turks and Caicos Islands. The most inhabited of all the islands and certainly the most visited is Providenciales, also known as “Provo.” It’s a wonderfully friendly place to visit and also home to conch farming. These mollusks with their beautiful pink shells take five years to grow to adult size. Restaurant service and lodging throughout the islands is done on ‘Island Time’… which is somewhat slower and certainly more laid back than what most visitors expect. Nevertheless, the food, atmosphere and presentation seems to always be surprisingly unique in Provo. Provo is also known as one of the premier destinations in the Caribbean for snorkeling, scuba diving, eco kayaking and fantastic bonefishing! Another interesting and educational trip is a stop at Little Water Cay, which is known to locals as “Iguana Island.” This small, unpopulated, arid spit of sand and vegetation is the home

to more than 3,000 rare and endangered rock iguanas that are exclusive to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The trip should include an exploration of nearby Mangrove Cay and Big Water Cay as well. From Provo, the full breadth of the Turks and Caicos Islands is open to enjoy and explore, including dozens of small uninhabited cays and sister islands, many of which are tropical wilderness land. Also known for its favorable year-round climate, the average Provo temperature is a balmy, breezy 78 degrees. Therefore, regardless of the season, these islands that dangle at the tip of the Bahamas chain like a shiny gold and turquoise pendant in the sun, are a joy to behold! 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.

Bird rookery near Provo.

Conch shells on the beach.

Rearing pens at a conch farm.

Shelling on a Provo beach.

Beach at Provo.

Rare Rock Iguana.

Old abandoned sailboat on Provo.

Dog watching the conchs grow.

Travel writer, Chris McBeath with a Bonefish.

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EXIT 14

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

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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: Classes will resume in 2024 • 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: Classes will resume in 2024 • 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.

KEEP SAFE ON THE LAKE - WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET!

36 LAKESIDE

January 2024

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Seeing Sicily and Southern Italy like never before In November, Lakeside’s Senior Reporter Pam Keene journeyed to Sicily and Southern Italy. Having visited Italy more than a dozen times, she said she never tires of the people, the culture, the art and the food. But this was a different trip, away from the standard itineraries of Rome, Florence and Venice. Here’s part one of her trek to unearth the charms of eastern Sicily, the Aeolian Islands and Southern Italy. By Pamela A. Keene Early in my travel life, Italy was one of the first countries I visited in the 1990s. A travel agent booked the standard itinerary of Rome, Florence and Venice that simply served to whet my appetite for everything Italian. Over the years, I’ve wanted to delve into the Southern part of this amazing peninsula that dips its toes into the Mediterranean sea and looks like it’s kicking Sicily to the curb. Another immersive itinerary by Overseas Adventure Travel, this three-week journey took me to places unfamiliar, historic and not often visited by Americans. If you haven’t been to Southern Italy, you’re missing an incredible experience beyond the travels your neighbors are doing. We arrived in Taormina a day ahead of the 13 other travelers who would be joining us, just enough time to get to know the

old city and discover a few tasty wines and the most amazing Caprese salad of the entire three weeks. Ripe tomatoes, arugula, fresh buffalo mozzarella and prosciutto, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It was so good, we went back a few days later. Our trip leader Henna Garrison took excellent care of us. An American who has lived in Italy and Sicily for the past nine years, she helped us understand many of the subtle details about Sicilian and Italian cultures. From teaching us the importance of “talking with your hands” like Italians do to sharing the challenges of getting an Italian driver’s license as an American resident, she knew to share back stories that were insightful and often humorous. She often stayed with us long after the day’s itinerary was complete, showing us a favorite restaurant or café, explaining the differences between espresso and latte and helping us avoid gaffes that were dead giveaways that we were from another country. For instance, cappuccino is a breakfast drink. Absolutely no cappuccinos in the afternoon and don’t drink cappuccino after a meal. Espresso IS Italian coffee; it’s extraordinarily strong and comes in a little cup. If you want something akin to the coffee you’re used to, order caffe Americano. Ordering anything saying latte, such as latte macchiato, is

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Taormina’s old city sits atop a mountain on the east coast of Sicily overlooking the Ionian Sea; the buildings appear to rise from the rocky cliffs.

warm milk with a shot of coffee. Caffe corretto is espresso, corrected with a shot of liquor, usually grappa. Needless to say, we were in her hands for all things “proper” and she often helped us adapt to the Italian life. As our first city, Taormina’s old town, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, offers street artists, wall-to-wall music each evening

at the many patio restaurants, charming shops and historic sites including a Greco-Roman amphitheater that’s the focal point of the town’s annual international music festival. The wines and cuisine were excellent. It was our home base for several side trips, including a visit to Savoca, the town where in “The Godfather” the wedding of Michael and Apollonia was filmed. See Italy, pages 37, 39

Antonio, artist in Pizzo.

Taormina artist. One of the Aeolian Islands off the west coast of Italy, Lipari is the largest and most populated.

Taormina archway.

January 2024

LAKESIDE 37

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Above the city of Taormina, the closely packed homes seem to climb up the mountainside. The centuries-old symbol of Sicily, shown here on a wall in Taormina, is knowns as Trinacria because of its three pointed legs that represent the threesided shape of Sicily.

The entrance to the ancient theatre built by the Greeks and modified by the Romans during their Inside the “Godfather” wedding occupation of Taormina. church in Savoca.

Guiseppe played his min-accordian accompanied by one of his students as Henna watched.

Modern art in Reggio Calabria. PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Seaside in Scilla. In Scilla colorful planters adorned walls.

Head of a full-sized bronze in Reggio Calabria.

In Reggio Calabria, wood-fired pizza was a treat at a local restaurant on a side street.

Local woman in Scilla.

The “Godfather” wedding church in the distance in Savona.

Vincenza, Savoca’s unofficial mayor, who portrayed Apollonia’s mother in the “Godfather.”

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January 2024

Lessons learned: Prepare for the worst, hope for the best Last year’s deep-freeze caught most of us off guard. When the temperatures dropped below freezing, many of us were enjoying our holidays, rather oblivious to what turned out to be a 4-day stretch from December 21-26. Caused by a historic extratropical cyclone that plunged much of the nation into a deep freeze with blizzards, high winds and snow, this weather system seriously affected North Georgia. Dubbed by the media as a once-in-a-generation winter event, the freeze wreaked much damage to plants and landscapes. For those who elected to wait out the damage, resisting the urge to radically prune – or worse yet, remove – damaged plants, the rewards were obvious by early summer. Some freeze damage killed limbs of shrubs, such as tea olives, and negatively affected flowering plants, such as mophead hydrangeas, which didn’t bloom much in late summer if at all. However, by mid-summer, most of the shrubs had recovered. In November and December,

Pamela A. Keene Curb Appeal

n MORE INFO: Email: pam@pamelakeene.com several snap freezes and heavy frosts have browned up our warm-season lawns and nipped tender plants that would have dropped their leaves anyway. Cool-season vegetables, such as Brussel sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli will hold up well through the winter, giving good crops in late spring. Winter chores and cautions Now’s the time to plant trees and shrubs because they’re dormant and their roots will have time to grow to help make the transition to spring and summer. Just remember to water any newly installed trees and shrubs deeply

at least once a week. You can also do selective pruning of dead limbs and branches on trees and non-blooming shrubs. When the leaves are off, it’s easier to see the structure of the plants to improve their shape and reduce their size if necessary. If they’re close to your home, remove any limbs that are within a foot or two of your house or roof. This will prevent easy access by rodents who are trying to come inside for the warmth. Continue to add to and turn your compost, mixing in shredded paper and non-meat kitchen scraps. As they decompose, you may see steam rising from the piles; this is perfectly natural. It means that the materials are breaking down into good rich organic matter to be added to your garden plots and applied to shrubs in the spring. Keep your bird feeders filled, and go ahead and clean out your bluebird houses. DO NOT PRUNE springflowering shrubs, including for-

sythia/yellow bells, native and single-season blooming azaleas, weigelia, mophead hydrangeas, oak leaf hydrangeas and viburnum. If you prune in the fall and winter, you greatly reduce the number of blossoms. DO NOT PRUNE crape myrtles. DO NOT CLEAN UP your perennial beds, even though they look messy. They provide seeds and shelter for birds and small wildlife. If predictions are to be believed The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s forecast for winter 2024 in the South is “warmer and wetter than normal.” It has predicted that late January to mid-February provide the best chances for snow. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also predicts a milder and wetter winter for the first couple of months of 2024. A word to the wise You know what they say about meteorologists? They’re the only people who can do their job, be wrong at least 50 percent of the

PHOTO BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Brussel sprouts will hold up well through winter.

time and still get paid. So the best advice is to be prepared to cover tender plants and respond to the short-term weather forecasts this winter. Let’s all hope for an early spring so that we can start our vegetable gardening early. Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener. She writes for more than a dozen publications across the country, covering features, travel and gardening.

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January 2024

LAKESIDE 39

• Italy

Continued from Page 36 We chatted with Vincenza, a lifelong resident and the town’s unofficial mayor, who portrayed Apollonia’s mother. Visiting two of the seven Aeolian Islands by ferry, we stayed two nights on Lipari, one of the main islands. Tourists typically don’t include this UNESCO site that comprises all seven islands. Ferry rides can be rough when the wind and seas are high; and they were. Although the weather was warm, storms interfered with travel throughout the Mediterranean; several friends on larger cruise ships were diverted from Rome and Naple ports because of the seas and winds. The weather calmed enough to allow our journey to the Italian mainland where we settled in Reggio in the region of Calabria for a three-night stay. From our hotel, the iconic Mount Etna on Sicily showed its snow-covered peaks; quite a treat because the weather was so clear. The mid-sized town is a treasure, with a broad pedestrian street

that’s the center of social life for residents, museums and nearby medieval castles and towns. At Reggio Calabria’s National Archeological Museum, the Bronzes of Riace were on display, two 5thcentury larger-than-life statues of Greek warriors that weren’t discovered until 1971 on the sea floor. They’re considered the bestpreserved Greek bronzes in the world. The ancient mountain-top village of Pentedattilo was a special treat. With ancient statues, medieval churches and a very small population today, it was founded in 640 BC. We were treated to a home-hosted dinner on a patio overlooking the sea at sunset. Rosella, one of the life-long residents, prepared an amazing dinner from her fresh-grown vegetables plus typical antipasto meats. As we continued our journey, we enjoyed impromptu music by a mini-accordion player with lively traditional tunes. We also stopped at a small village called

Pizzo to learn the secrets of a very special dessert – Tartufo. Fashioned after an oversized truffle the size of a softball, it’s a hand-made gelato sphere filled with molten

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Roving musicians frequently performed in the streets and in restaurants; these men are taking a break.

The “Godfather” wedding church in the town of Savona.

dark chocolate. Created in Pizzo we went to the shop said to be the originator of this amazing dessert. Many of us took copious notes so that we could replicate it when we got back home. Pizzo also held other surprises, including a ceramicist who quit his career as an IT specialist to become an artist. Antonio makes terracotta figures representing various residents of Pizzo, but he

also paints and creates 3-D figures including the heads of swordfish, at one time the staple of this fishing village. Many of his works come with stories, such as the painting I purchased that pictures a swordfisherman and his sweetheart. Our visit in Pizzo was too short, but it was time to make our way to Sila National Park and a few days in a ski lodge.

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January 2024

LAKESIDE 41

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42 LAKESIDE

January 2024

Holiday Boat Light Parade foils rain; still accepting donations By Pamela A. Keene The weather outside looked frightful, but that didn’t stop the 19 boaters who participated in the Holiday Boat Light Parade on Lake Lanier in early December. Throughout the day, organizer Richard Pickering kept boat captains informed and, by marshaling time, the rain had stopped. “Nineteen boats showed up out of the 26 who registered, and we had an incredible time,” Pickering said. “The fog and mist set in but everyone had on their running lights so we had a very safe parade. And the boats all looked spectacular.” The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 29 at Lake Lanier provided marshaling for the parade. Parade participants gathered in front of Port Royale, then traveled past Aqualand, down Big Creek to University Yacht Club, past Holiday Lazy Days and Holiday Marina before heading back to Port Royale where decorated boats docked. The post-parade awards party was held at Pelican Pete’s. Here are the winners: John

Scenes from the 2023 Holiday Boat Parade. PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AMY LOOBY

Grobe, grand prize; Amy Sue Looby, most festive; Anthony Bosley, best theme; AJ Smith, most decorated; Nicole Tierney, best crew; Jenny Decelles, best pontoon; Taylor Grimsley, best classic boat; Ken Eggers, best yacht; CY Smith, best cruiser; Tom Stepnowski, grand sponsor award. The event raised funds for The Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Donations are being accepted at www.GeorgiaSheriffsYouthHomes.org.

January 2024

LAKESIDE 43

Crafting the perfect beverage hub at home: wet bars and coffee stations unveiled The emergence of personalized wet bars and coffee stations mark a pivotal shift in how we envision and experience domestic spaces. Gone are the days of generic kitchen setups; homeowners now seek more elaborate entertaining hubs with larger islands and more functional and clutter free storage. Let’s explore the allure of dedicated beverage stations from the basics to extravagantly elaborate. The allure of beverage stations As entertaining dynamics evolve, the concept of a dedicated beverage station has gained popularity. No longer confined to the realm of upscale homes, these personalized spaces are becoming a staple in households where the art of hospitality is cherished. From casual get-togethers to more formal gatherings, having a designated area for beverages adds a touch of sophistication. It’s more than just a functional necessity; it’s a statement about the homeowner’s commitment to creating an inviting and enjoyable space for themselves, family, and friends. Wet bars: beyond the basics

Bianca Bryant Design & Remodel

nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com A wet bar, once a mere convenience, has undergone a remarkable transformation. No longer confined to cookie-cutter designs, today’s wet bars are a testament to the fusion of functionality and style. The essentials remain: a sink for easy cleanup, a countertop for preparing drinks, and storage for bottles and glassware. The wet bar has become a canvas for self-expression, reflecting the unique personality of the homeowner, and customization is key. Should it blend with the rest of the room or be a focal point with pizazz all its own? Perhaps

there is a 1920s prohibition basement bar theme with vintage mirror backsplash, and dark moody colors complete with Victrola to play your vinyl collection or a custom cabinetry wall with quartz tops and backsplash in the dining room that functions as beverage hub as well as buffet for larger family gatherings. Coffee stations: A morning ritual redefined Moving from evening to morning, we transition seamlessly into the realm of coffee stations. Necessity meets the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a morning ritual in a cozy corner that sets the tone for the day. The components of a coffee station can go beyond the old plug-in coffee maker. Espresso machines – with milk steamer of course, a selection of coffee beans, and storage for various mugs and accessories contribute to creating a holistic coffee experience. Décor can take center stage marking the space uniquely yours from rustic to sleek and everything in between.

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

Wet bars have become more than just a mere convenience.

Size matters: From compact to extravagant One of the beautiful aspects of wet bars and coffee stations is their adaptability to spaces of all sizes. Whether you’re working with a compact kitchen or have the luxury of ample square footage, there’s a solution for everyone. Extravagant Designs: For those with a penchant for luxury, extravagant wet bars and coffee stations are limited only by

imagination. Imagine a wet bar with a custom-built wine cellar and indoor/outdoor stone-topped island that overlooks the lake for mixing drinks and mingling. Mid-sized Marvels: Mid-sized wet bars strike a balance between functionality and style. Homeowners can consider features such as built-in wine racks, a dedicated wine or beverage fridge, icemaker, or a stylish backsplash from wallpaper to rustic wood to See Design, page 46

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January 2024

LAKE LANIER MARINAS INFORMATION BALD RIDGE MARINA Hours: Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F, marina: 24/7 access. Info: 770-887-5309 • baldridgemarina.com Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered. Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $4.59; $4.29 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.5 p.m., Thurs.-Mon. Closed Tues./Wed.) On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ GAINESVILLE MARINA Hours: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info:770-536-2171 • 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 of 12/15/23) $5.39 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) On-site eatery: Skogies HABERSHAM MARINA Hours:Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays Info: 770-887-5432 • habershammarina.com Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: 600 slips for dry storage up to 28’ Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $4.99 HARBOR LANDING Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford Types of slips: Houseboats only. 18x60, 22x80 Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $5.89 non-ethanol; $5.99 diesel (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.) On-site eatery: Various restaurants.

HOLIDAY MARINA Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Info:770-945-7201 • 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 totaling 1,238 slips Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23): $6.49 premium; $5.99 unleaded; $5.79 diesel (5 percent discount with Suntex advantage membership) On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier) Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., WednesdayMonday. Closed Tuesday. Info: 770-945-1991• lazydaysonlakelanier.com Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford Types of slips available: 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 w/ ValvTect; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $6 regular PORT OF INDECISION MARINA Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., daily Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford Types of slips available: 14x32, 14x36, (254 units, up to 40’), cov. Types of fuel: non ethanol. Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $5.89 non-ethanol On-site eatery: Various restaurants. PORT ROYALE MARINA Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; Service, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., M-F.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., S. Closed Sundays. Info:770-887-5715 • bestinboating.com/port_royale Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106' totaling 815 slips & dry stack storage (521) for up to 39'.

Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $4.99 regular (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.) On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., M-S. Closed Sat./Sun. Info: 770-967-6811 • shmarinas.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 Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $5.99, non-members; $4.37, members (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) On-site eatery: Pig Tales SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Info: 770-967-5500 • shmarinas.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 of 12/15/23) $4.95, non-members; $3.81, members On-site eatery: Fish Tales SUNRISE COVE MARINA Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon, Closed Tuesdays. Info: 770-536-8599 • sunrisecovermarina.com Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville 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). Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/15/23) $5.89 unleaded Ethanol free

Lakeside’s Recreation Guide 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. Bolding Mill, Duckett Mill and Old Federal Campgrounds are managed by Hall County Parks and Leisure Services. Toto Creek Multipurpose Park, plus Thompson Creek and Nix Bridge Day-Use parks are managed by Dawson County. Camping enthusiasts may enjoy the luxuries of fully developed areas with water and electrical hookups or “rough it” at designated primitive areas. Camping in undesignated areas such as on the lake’s shoreline and islands is prohibited. All campgrounds have beach areas, boat ramps and restrooms. Most of our campgrounds also have showers, playgrounds, accessible sites and manned entry stations. To make reservations, download maps, check out campsite photos and see site availability visit Recreation.Gov.

All Army Corps campgrounds on Lake Sidney Lanier recognize the America The Beautiful (ATB) and Golden Passport cards. The ATB Annual and Lifetime Senior Pass, Access Pass, Golden Age and Golden Access passes will grant 50% off all campsite reservation fees.

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 Commercial vehicle Pedestrian/bicycle Annual pass

$5 $20 $2 $40

State and County Parks Lake Lanier has 18 state and county parks that are available for use. 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/CivilWorks/Recreation/Lake-SidneyLanier/Schedules. For more camping info you can also visit: lakesidenews.com/explore-lake-lanier/camping.

Practice Safe Boating Use life jackets, stay sober and monitor the weather to try and prevent boating accidents!

n MORE INFO: Water release schedules 770 945-1466 Lake information - 770 945-1467 Corps of Engineers - 770 945-9531 www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil -Works/Recreation/Lake-Sidney-Lanier

January 2024

LAKESIDE 45

46 LAKESIDE

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2024 Atlanta Boat Show set for January 11-14 at the Georgia World Congress Center The four-day Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show kicks off the new year Jan. 11-14 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Everything water adventure related – from power boats and pontoons to personal watercraft, marine electronics and accessories – will be on display. • When: Thursday-Sunday, Jan. 11-14 • Times: Thursday-Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.;

Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Where: Georgia World Congress Center, Hall C, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 • Tickets: $15 for adults via online purchase; children 12 and under, free • Info: Check out www.AtlantaBoatShow.com

• Design

Continued from Page 43 stone slabs. Likewise, mid-sized coffee stations may incorporate more advanced coffee-making equipment and additional storage for an extended range of coffee varieties. Compact Solutions: For smaller spaces, the challenge lies in maximizing functionality without compromising style. Spacesaving wet bars and coffee stations can be seamlessly integrated into existing kitchen setups or smaller standalones. Compact wet bars might feature a cleverly designed sink, a modest countertop, and smart storage solutions. Incorporating open shelving can provide a modern and airy feel while being more budget-friendly than closed cabinets. Go even smaller with no sink and turn a bar cart or upcycled furniture into a

unique piece. Similarly, coffee stations for smaller kitchens emphasize efficiency. Hide-itaway “appliance garages” are a great solution for easy access as well as elegance streamlined into kitchen cabinets. The beauty of these beverage stations lies in their versatility, ensuring that every homeowner, regardless of space constraints or budget considerations, can indulge in the luxury of a personalized beverage bar or a special coffee spot. The key to achieving a unique beverage station lies in prioritizing the elements that matter most to you and being creative with a large space or with cost-effective alternatives. Bianca Bryant is a designer for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.

Show features & highlights • Boats! Hundreds of the latest boats and personal watercraft all under one roof. • Lake Life Lounge – Launched last year, this new gathering spot is the place to dive into the boat life, complete with live music, specialty food and beverages, and nautical activities for all ages, including: • Surfing Simulator – Ride the waves like you own them or ‘Hang 10’ like a pro. Take a ride on the new virtual reality Surfing Simulator and experience what it’s like to catch a wave. Ages 13-plus. • Kids’ Zone: Featuring a new ball pit for kids to dive into and face painting as well. • ‘$5 After 5’ – Admission is only $5 after 5

p.m. on Jan. 11. • Education & Seminars – From fly fishing, boating, sailing, charters, and sonar technology to celestial navigation, check out the wide range of educational offerings from pros, open to all experience levels. • Let’s Go Fishing – It’s back! A 5,000-gallon tank filled with bass where pro anglers show off their fishing and casting skills and share insights. • Family Day – Grab the kids and head to the show on Sunday, Jan. 14, for Family Day! Family Day Pass ($28) is good for two adults and two children and is only available for purchase online.

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Martin Docks, Inc. Serving Lanier ‘In the Spirit of Excellence’ Since 1956

770-475-3252 Free Estimates • Grading • Hauling • Landscape installation • Lot clearing • Concrete removal • Timber or allan block retaining walls • Pathway clearing & maintenance • Commercial and residential demolition • Mulching (red, brown, cypress) • Fill dirt, topsoil, screened topsoil • Licensed & Insured • References Available

Grading • Hauling • Landscaping

Boat Lift, PWC Lift, Custom Lift Designs for Watercraft of All Kinds Dealer for

Sales Office: 1740 Dawsonville Hwy Gainesville, GA 30501

www.martindocks.com 770 536-0189 Fax: 770 536-4444

• Year-Round Maintenance & Repair Service • Dockwatch - Year Long Maintenance Plan • Repairs, Re-decks, Adjustments, Refloats, Additions • Electrical Packages Available • Custom Built Boat Docks Aluminum & Steel • Residential, Commercial & Community Docks • Cellofoam & Formex Floats • Ramps, Gangways & Shoreline Steps • Rip Rap • Dredging • Dock Accessories • Used Docks, Consignments & Trade-Ins Welcome • Serving Lanier, Allatoona, Hartwell & Surrounding Lakes

January 2024

LAKESIDE 47

Advertise in Lakeside

Your complete news, information and recreation guide to Lake Lanier

Print edition available at nearly 300 locations around the lake

lakesidenews.com/advertise 770-287-1444

Lakeside Dining Guide 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. 770-9458787. 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. 770-967-3775, www.fishtaleslakelanier.com Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatched-roof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. 70-887-5715 ext 5., www.pelicanpetes.com 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. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. 678828-7676, 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. 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. 678 450-1310; www.skogieslakefrontrestaurant. us. 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. 770 910-4961. 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 year round. www.thetwistedoar.com, 678 7147572.

Classifieds CONCRETE/MASONRY Driveways, walkways replaced or repaired, concrete, masonry, grading, foundations repaired, waterproofing, and retaining walls. Joe Sullivan, 770 616-0576.

14 Must-Know Questions That “Make Sure” You Get a Boat Cover That is Built Right. Do you know what questions to ask marine fabricators? Our free checklist helps you gather information that will get you quality results!

For your free “Make Sure” report, visit www.tiny.one/Must-Know

Cover Girl Marine Canvas & Upholstery Built for durability, strength and style, with an unparallel craftsmanship guarantee!

Tammy Hampton - Owner - Master Craftsperson 3607 Shoreland Dr. • Buford, GA 30518

770-271-9093 Email: covergirlcanvas@gmail.com

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective 12/11/23. CDs offered by Edward Jones are bank-issued and FDIC-insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category. Please visit www.fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest and do not allow interest to compound. CDs offered through Edward Jones are issued by banks and thrifts nationwide. All CDs sold by Edward Jones are registered with the Depository Trust Corp. (DTC).

48 LAKESIDE

January 2024

TRACY TESMER Design • Remodeling SINCE 1999

NORTHEAST GEORGIA'S PREMIER DESIGN/BUILD FIRM Custom designs and professional remodeling services including: Kitchens & Bathrooms | Home Additions | Basements | Age in Place Remodeling & Design

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION! 678-450-1700 | tracytesmerremodeling.com Voted “Best of Hall” 2016-2022