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THE PETERS REALTY GROUP
LakeLanierLakeHouses.com 678-663-6522 15 Years Experience Buying and Selling Lake Lanier Property
Your complete news, information and recreation guide to Lake Lanier
Please recycle
December 2021
3292 Thompson Bridge Road #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 Phone: (770) 287-1444 Fax: (770) 287-1445 E-mail lakesidenews@mindspring.com
Vol. 27 Issue 12
HAPPY HOLIDAY GREETINGS FROM LAKESIDE!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Atlanta Boat Show canceled The January Atlanta Boat Show, traditionally held at the Georgia World Congress Center in mid-January, has been canceled for 2022, with the possibility of some type of boat shows at Lake Lanier in the spring. Page 2
Victorian Christmas The aromas of warm mulled wine and apple cider greet holiday travelers anticipating a trip back to a Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site. Page 30
Nearby Suches, Ga. Suches is an unincorporated area in Union County with a height above sea level approaching 3,000 feet,. It is famous for its scenic views and abundant outdoor activities. Page 42 Also inside: Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Dining guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Fishing news . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lanier map . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page Safety guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page
45 47 26 32 10 20 44 38 31 18
Columns: Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Design & Remodel . . . . . . . . . .Page Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page O’Neill Outside . . . . . . . . . . .Page On the water . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page
34 41 20 12 16 42
PHOTO COURTESY MARGARITAVILLE
Visitors take in the lights at Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville. The holiday tradition is just one of the many options to celebrate the holidays this year. Story, page 8.
2 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Atlanta Boat Show canceled; Lanier show event to come this spring
is published by Lanier Publishing, Inc., 3292 Thompson Bridge Rd. #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 287-1444 Publisher/Editor Alan Hope Production Susan Nish Susan Daniel Creative, Inc. Senior Writer Pamela A. Keene Contributing writers Jane Harrison, Millie Adcox Columnists Glenn Burns, Vinnie Mendes, Sara Bagwell, O’Neill Williams 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 January Atlanta Boat Show, traditionally held at the Georgia World Congress Center in mid-January, has been canceled for 2022, with the possibility of some type of boat shows at Lake Lanier in the spring. The Atlanta Boat Show is one of five that have been canceled for 2022, according to a news release from the National Marine Trade Association, that produces many of the boat shows in the United States. The issue, according to the news release, is supply chain. With the strong interest in boating since the pandemic, more people than ever are purchasing boats. The demand, plus the issues of manufacturers’ inability to get parts, employees and transportation, has caused longer than usual deliveries across the country. “Unprecedented market conditions are forcing event producers around the world to be more nimble than ever, all while providing an opportunity to connect with attendees in new, more relevant ways and NMMA is no exception,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president. “These announcements come at a time
A scene from a previous Atlanta Boat Show. The show won’t be taking place this January.
when we’re experiencing extraordinary levels of consumer interest in boating and our shows amid product scarcity.” In addition, four other major boat shows have been canceled for 2022: Baltimore, Chicago, Nashville and St. Louis. Most of them had been scheduled for the
first quarter of 2022. The Atlanta Boat Show’s Facebook page has been updated to reflect the cancelation, citing “current market conditions and needs in Atlanta.” As of November 22, the NMMA.org website still showed active dates for the Atlanta Boat
FILE PHOTO
Show. However, the site (www.atlantaboatshow.com) reported that the next show would be in January 2023 but no specific dates were listed. NMMA will be producing events in nine cities next year, including St. Petersburg, New York, Miami and Atlantic City.
Lakeside wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
December 2021
LAKESIDE 3
We Sell Lifestyles - Not Just Homes
TERESA SMITH
Lake Lanier Specialist 770-654-4173 • teresasmith@kw.com
MICHELE KAPLAN
678-677-5653 • michelekaplan@kw.com
MACKENZIE SCOTT
678-925-2652 • mackenziescott@kw.com
LISA MITCHELL
LivingOnLakeLanier.com
513-383-8926
COMING SOON - Cumming
COMING SOON - Dawsonville
6212 Old Stringer Road, Flowery Br COMING SOON! Fantastic lake home w/ 3/2 open concept and grass to the water. Totally updated home has the casual lakey feel with tongue and groove vaulted ceilings, 2 fireplaces, a wonderful master suite, hardwood floors throughout and a detached 2 car garage with tons of walk up storage above. Double slip dock in gorgeous water! $875,000 (Hall)
4 LEVEL LAKE LANIER HOME! CORP LINE is in the water and the VIEWS fantastic! 8 BR/8BA. May qualify for short term rentals. Main level kitchen and great room are HUGE. The master suite is on the upper level and has his and hers bathrooms and closets galore. The lower 2 levels have bedrooms, bath rooms, rec rooms and a large wine cellar. $1,150,000 (Dawson)
UPDATED lake front home on Lanier. Located only 5 miles off GA 400 at exit 16. GORGEOUS lake views! 3BR/ 3BA, full finished basement. Great room has a stacked stone FP and is open to the kitchen. Deck and patio overlook the lake. SS dock with a party deck has gorgeous views of the fireworks at Lake Lanier Islands. CORP LINE is in the water! (Forsyth)
2752 Wynelle Drive, Gainesville
5440 Larch Lane, Gainesville
Watermark Cove
FANTASTIC DEEP WATER DOUBLE LOT! 1.32 acres with gorgeous lake and mountain views. Gentle slope with corps line close to the water. The path is already built with a short walk to the water. Electrical and water in place. Graded, partially gravel driveway and an 88 foot long concrete pad. Double slip covered dock. Always deep water, quiet dead-end street close to downtown Gainesville. REDUCED $449K (Hall)
BEAUTIFUL .60 ACRE LOT on Lake Lanier with single slip boat dock in Forsyth County. Great schools and great location on the lake. Build your dream home. Located within 10 minutes from Gainesville Marina and Port Royale Marina. Survey and Soils have been completed. $325,000 (Forsyth)
FREE DEEDED SLIP in 24 Slip dock. 1.30-2.63 acres lots. Gated S/D. Interior and lakefront lots. $120K - $175K Gainesville (Hall)
Featured Testimonial of the Month
! D L O S
! D L O S 6500 Wildwood Trail, Fl Br $1,700,000
6410 Chestnut Hill Rd, Fl Br $1,200,000
! D L O S 2277 Sidney Drive, Gainesville $1,200,000
181 Woodland Cir, Dawsonville $625,000
- Alan & Cheryl S. Oakwood, GA
! D L O S
! D L O S
49 Dogwood Ct, Dawsonville $1,199,000
3913 Harbour Vw Ct, Gainesville $729K house, $230K lot
! D L O S
! D L O S
"Teresa's many years of experience and knowledge as a realtor made selling our house a smooth experience. From the beginning when we asked for her opinion and recommendations for getting the house ready for market, to suggesting tradesmen for repairs, to negotiating price with the buyer's agent, to amendments, and closing, she represented us very well. You never know what you will get with realtors and we've had our share of sub par over the years. Teresa is the real deal and you will be glad she is on your side!"
4589 Sea Side Lane, Oakwood $519,000
! D L O S 34 Lakeland Dr, Dawsonville $465,000
! D L O S 6186 Lakeside Drive, Fl Br $825,000
! D L O S 5217 Driftwood Pt, Gainesville $389,000
Lake Life 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!
! D L O S 4715 Virginia Street, Oakwood $725,000
! D L O S 5998 Watermark Cove, Gainesville $132,500
4 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Since 2012, #1 Agent on Lake Lanier
Bev Knight 770-503-7070
(cummulative sales)
Lead Agent 770-536-4416
*** Featured Lake Home *** CT! ONTRA C R E UND NEW -
Privacy, pines, and views Bask in the privacy of this Lake Lanier retreat. The rocking chair front porch greets you as you enter this updated 4 BR/ 3BA Gainesville gem with all the comforts you’re looking for. Amenities include 2 acres of serene lakefront property, 12 x 12 swim platform dock, private rock-climbing wall under the deck, a private nature trail, and two private viewing decks to watch those amazing sunsets. Other features include an open floor plan, owner’s suite on the main with soaking tub, updated kitchen with granite counters and stone backsplash, gorgeous pine hardwood floors with architectural exposed beams, a wood-burning stove, an expansive wrap-around deck, finished terrace level with full media room, and an additional detached 2-car garage. $550k
One-of-a-kind
Opulant luxury, gated
Stunning estate SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!
Gainesville $3.45m
Renovated Flat Creek NEW L
! ISTING
Gainesville $799k
Cumming $1.75m
Gainesville $1.9m
Move-in ready ONTRA DER C N U NEW
Gainesville $799k
CT !
Close to Lanier A CONTR UNDER
CT
Gainesville $500k
New construction NEW L
! ISTING
Cumming $TBD
Mundy Mill ranch ONTRA DER C N U NEW
CT !
Gainesville $290k
w w w. H o u s e s O n L a n i e r. n e t
December 2021
LAKESIDE 5
Darlene Plavcan Senior Agent
Angie Smart Senior Agent
Cynthia Runions Operations Manager
Taylor Lange Marketing
678-300-1275
404-368-8880
865-973-8832
770-712-5587
Lux finishes, rd to lake SOLD! SOLD! ! D L O S
Million-dollar views
770-503-7070
Featured Team Member
OLD! OLD! S S ! D L SO
Cynthia Runions Operations Manager & Licensed Realtor® Cumming $1.2m
Move-in ready OLD! OLD! S S ! D L SO
Gainesville $699k
Gainesville $799k
Over 6 acres, DS dock OLD! OLD! S S ! D L SO
Gainesville $549k
Testimonial from Phil C., Alpharetta “Bev, Thanks so much for helping me with the sale of my mother-in-
Cynthia is an experienced marketing consultant, communicator and content creator with a background in higher education, brand marketing and real estate. She has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Linguistics from University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication from University of Memphis. She has worked on Peabody award-winning civil rights documentaries as a line producer, as well as a media buyer of such advertisers as Boston Whaler, Panera, and SuperPetz. Cynthia was born in Kentucky, but had toured the US, Mexico, Canada, and Asia as a competitive and professional figure skater by the time she was twenty-one. She loves gardening and vintage cars. She considers herself an audiophile, so she enjoys discussing the catalogs of her favorite musical groups. She truly has a passion for detail and art but has found her calling in real estate. We are excited to welcome this talented individual to the Good Life Group!
law's house. Finding the buyer is important, but it is just the beginning. Not only did we beat our asking price, but your team got us to closing on time with a minimum of bumps in that road. For me, there is nobody better than the Good Life Group when it comes to getting a difficult buyer to closing.”
Regards, Phil
…when you’re ready for the good life!
6 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 sdavis@gonorton.com 770.536.1250
#1 in Lake Lanier Sales! Your Trusted Lake Advisors
Celebrating Our 20 Year Anniversary Selling Lake Lanier! ESV GAIN
ILLE
$3,500,000 • CAPE COD ON LANIER! EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOM-BUILT 5 BEDROOM, 5.5 BATH HOME ON A PRIVATE 1.56-ACRE POINT LOT W/ 478 FEET OF LAKE FRONTAGE! Twin slip party dock with two boat hoists and 6 jet ski hoists. This home was designed for Lake living & entertaining. Numerous covered decks and balconies and a covered pavilion for enjoying the views and sunsets. Virtual tour: https://tinyturls.com/141281 FMLS# 6937407 7180 Lawson Drive Sheila 770-235-6907
ESV GAIN
ILLE
$1,740,000 • BAY POINTE - NEW CONSTRUCTION waterfront home with covered dock slip, 3 car garage and partially finished terrace level, flat lot with COE frontage and walkable to water w/ great views! Frank Betz Havenridge plan. FMLS# 6886930 5431 Mayflower Court Stephanie 770-654-4161
LE ESVIL GAIN
LE ESVIL GAIN
$1,560,000 • SOON TO BE BUILT WATERFRONT HOME IN BAY POINTE SUBDIVISION on a level lakefront lot with 113 ft of shoreline and long-range views, includes a covered boat slip A-6. Modern craftsman style plan w/terrace level and 3 car garage. Buy now and choose your finishes! FMLS# 6893976 5407 Yachtsman Lane Jennifer 770-356-2629
$1,295,000 • STATELY CITY HOME established in 1915 with luxurious amenities including pool & spa. Ideal location with rich history as previously owned by Gainesville's Jesse Jewell. This home boasts historical character and timeless updates that create the most inviting space. FMLS# 6969385 965 Green Street Circle Agent Nicole 678-585-0265
SVILLE GAINE
SVILLE E N I A G
E NVILL O S W A D
$1,190,000 • NEAR THE LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC PARK WITH AMAZING YEAR-ROUND LAKE VIEWS, DEEP WATER and easy access to your PRIVATE 32'x32' DOCK with oversized boat slip and party deck all on a 1+ acre lot! 5BR, 3BA. FMLS# 6969418 3187 Venue Drive Sheila 770-235-6907
$799,000 • DESIGNED AND BUILT BY THE ORIGINAL OWNERS FOR LAKE LIVING this 4BR/ 4BA in the Little River area of Lanier, great views, plenty of room for family & friends, SS dock with party deck in deep water. FMLS# 6960993 3058 Scenic Drive Sheila 770-235-6907
SVILLE GAINE
$699,000 • HIGHLY DESIRABLE FLAT & BUILDABLE LAKE LANIER LOT w/32x32 dock in place! location of other fine estate properties and desirable North Hall schools, Soils, survey and dock permit in hand. FMLS# 6964065 4783 Destitute Way Stephanie 770-654-4161
LakeLaniersFinest.com
SVILLE GAINE
$549,000 • ADORABLE 3BR | 1.5BA Cottage w/swim dock, features beamed & wood ceilings throughout and lovely screened porch. Level lot, wide path with easy walk to the swim dock. FMLS# 6894532 4864 Newton Drive Linda 770-313-5446
$775,000 • RESERVE CLUB & MARINA - New Construction - 4BR | 3.5 BA w/basement, Reserve Club & Marina. Still time to choose your finishes! FMLS# 6884481 6525 Crestline Drive Michelle 404-379-5798
SVILLE GAINE
$415,000 • NEW CONSTRUCTION 3 bedroom/3 bath home in established Lake Lanier neighborhood. Open floorplan. FMLS# 6969261 3466 Crown Drive Linda 770-313-5446
L o c a l • G l o b a l • We l l C o n n e c t e d • P r o v e n R e s u l t s
December 2021
Nicole Columbo 678-858-0265
LAKESIDE 7
Stephanie Gillespie 770-654-4161
Michelle Sparks 404-379-5798
Linda Thompson 770-313-5446
Jennifer Anderson 770-356-2629
Vicki Holland Marketing
770-235-6907 LAKELANIERSFINEST.COM
Still #1 in Lake Lanier Sales 2021, and cumulatively since 2001!
4845 Chestatee Heights Road $1,450,000 • Linda
2309 Crystal Court $1,100,000 • Sheila
3188 Venue Drive $1,050,000 • Nicole
7445 Crestline Drive $940,000 • Stephanie
7560 Crestline Drive $900,000 • Nicole & Michelle
5525 Williams Shores Drive $870,000 • Sheila
! SOON G N I COM
2429 North Banks Cove $799,000 • Jennifer Represented Buyer
2743 High Vista Point $730,000 • Jennifer Represented Buyer
684 River Overlook Road $650,000 • Michelle Represented Buyer
$545,000 • BEAUTIFUL SECLUDED LAKE HOME w/ SS dock on 1.25 acres, quiet North Lake Lanier. Great location. North Hall School District! 3342 Barry Lane, Gainesville Michelle 404-379-5798
Build your Dream home on one of these AVAILABLE LOTS
FMLS# 6609607 • $389,000 SOLD Sidney on Lanier 2273 Sidney Drive, Gainesville Sheila 770-235-6907
FMLS# 6918173 • $193,000 UNDER CONTRACT The Reserve Club & Marina 6330 Crestline Drive, Dawsonville Stephanie 770-654-4161
FMLS# 6960495 • $165,000 Marina Bay 6727 Hedge Row Lane, Gainesville Jennifer 770-356-2629
FMLS# 6857866 • $138,000 Surfside Club Estates 4005 Skyline Drive, Gainesville Jennifer 770-356-2629
FMLS# 6854835 • $115,000 Dockside Cove 6008 Tradewinds Cove, Gainesville Jennifer 770-356-2629
FMLS# 6927145 • $99,900 The Reserve Club & Marina 6825 Lookout Point, Dawsonville Michelle 404-379-5798
FMLS# 6936998 • $57,900 Marina Bay 7106 Nightfall Lane, Gainesville Michelle 404-379-5798
FMLS#6785781 • $35,000 Silver Circle 2180 Silver Circle, Gainesville Linda 770-313-5446
Call us to discuss how our Expertise & Marketing can best serve you!
8 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Holidays filled with family fun at Lanier Islands Margaritaville By Pamela A. Keene Lakeside Lights Spectacular returns to Margaritaville for stroll-through family fun through February 27. It features traditional light displays, high-tech images and Margaritaville-themed scenes as guests walk along Paradise Beach.
“Lakeside Light Spectacular has really grown this year,” said Bucky Perry, vice president of operations at Margaritaville. “We added more lights and really ramped up the experience for our guests of all ages.” Additionally, Margaritaville’s License to Chill Snow Island features snow tubing on the 575-
PHOTOS: COURTESY MARGARITAVILLE
Guests can enjoy a newly enhanced Lakeside Lights Spectacular inside Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.
foot-long 8-story-high Blizzard Mountain, Snowball Alley and skating at Frosty’s Ice Rink for all ages. Carnival rides fill the area with more brightly colored lights, a carousel, Ferris wheel and bumper cars. Food at Landshark Bar & Grill Margaritaville at Lanier Islands will feature tubing down Blizzard Mountain at License to Chill Snow Island. is complemented by seasonal
"Gainesville Downtown Square, circa 1950's" by Anne Brodie Hill
Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS Lake Lanier Artist
www.annebrodiehill.com • 770-886-6126 Lake Sidney Lanier & Gainesville prints, Postcards, Notecards Original Oil, Acrylic, and Watercolor Paintings Lanier Lanier Holiday Cards
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, Fran Hazel, Jane Hemmer, Paula Hoffman, 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
treats at Jack Frost’s Shark Shack, Santa’s Tiki Bar and Glacier Café and Bakeshop. S’mores kits will be available at Rudolph’s Landing near giant fire pits. License to Chill and Lakeside Lights Spectacular will be open daily through January 5. Starting January 8, they will be open Sat-
urdays and Sundays, plus Monday, January 17, and Monday, February 21. It will close on February 27. Individual tickets are on sale online. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.margaritavilleresorts.com or call 470-323-3440.
December 2021
LAKESIDE 9
The Chambers Team
Experience isn't expensive, it's priceless!
631 Dawsonville Hwy • Gainesville, GA 30501
Office 770-503-7070
THE LAKE HOME YOU'VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF MAY NOW BE AFFORDABLE ... CALL US! WISHING YOU HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE CHAMBERS TEAM! $1,995,000
42 SLIP COMMUNITY DOCK $14,000,000
Custom designed home situated in gated community on 4 private acres. Chefs kitchen overlooks cozy keeping room with built-ins. Breakfast room opens up to one of the 2 outdoor grilling areas. Terrace level is complete w/gym, billiards area and 2nd kitchen. Heated pool and spa, volleyball court, poolside kitchen. Private well for irrigation and pool, whole house generator. REDUCED PRICE!
$1,100,000
LAKEFRONT ACREAGE - approximately 40 acres in Gainesville with 42 slip boat dock permit approved by USACE. Adjacent to Cresswinds community. 19 acre tract zoned PUD- proposed 540 condo units approved by city (case
Sally Kirchner Lead Agent 770-538-5626
89-23) in 1989. 23 individual lots included. One of a kind point Lake Lanier Lot. Bay Pointe Subdivision with beautiful views from 3 sides. Remarkable setting, ready for your dream home to be built. 12x28 boat slip in Community dock deeded with property.
UNDER T AC R T N O C
$725,000
D L O S
$1,247,000
$1,375000
Hardy Rd Tract 2 11.98 acres with 3 docks.
UNDER T AC CONTR Elegant log style home w/ DS dock.
D L O S 5BR/4.5BA Lake Lanier home in Chattahoochee Country Club with dock.
UNDER T AC R T N O C Hardy Rd Tract 1 11.65 acres with 3 docks.
$1,457,500
$1,450,000
Lake front home in North Hall! Cozy ranch with full finished basement. 2 master suites, eat in kitchen and beautiful sun room overlooking Lake Lanier. Finished basement. Easy walk to SS boat dock w/ party deck. Deep, big water, rip rap on shoreline.
$1,200,000
D L O S 5BR/4BA Lake Lanier estate with boat dock.
WE LIVE AND PLAY ON LAKE LANIER Patti Chambers c 770.287.4879 • Bobby Chambers c 770.654.0533 • Office 770.538.4010 • Sally Chambers Kirchner 770.538.5626 Patsy Mercer 770.540.6507 • Renae Ackerman 678.316.8596 • Laurie Weber 678.617.8357 • LeAnne Richardson 770.561.1446
10 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Lake Lanier Fishing Report
A sampling of fishing information and tips from area experts Lake level: Full Clarity: Clear in main lake, creeks stained Temperature: 60s
very slowly through these areas. I’ve been using either a pearl white Fluke Junior or Super Fluke on this setup. I have been really impressed with the number of fish Bass fishing I can catch before I have to Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is change Flukes on the Spot good. The early winter movement Choker. The key to catching the deeper fish is to utilize your elecof the bass is on right now. The tronics to find the shad and target turnover is starting to finish up the fish. The shad are not grouped and water temperature is dropeverywhere right now so you will ping. This combination has the have to do some searching as they fish moving in both directions, tend to move around. making multiple baits work. We have also caught some There is a shallow bite on rocky points and banks, especially dur- good stripers with the spoon in ing the first two hours of the day. the deeper water. Right now you can catch fish as deep as 50 feet. A Rapala DT6 crankbait banged through the rocks will draw these The drop shot in the deeper brush has also produced fish. The Blue shallow bites. Also a worm on a Lily, Prism Shad and Morning three sixteenths Spotsticker will Dawn have been the most consiswork well in the same areas. tent colors. I do recommend Shallow docks are also a prime spot now for the worm or jig bite. going to at least a quarter ounce As the sun gets higher it is time to to three eights ounce weight to get to these deep fish. It can be check the deeper water areas. important to get the bait down Standing timber and ditches are beginning to hold fish so a Geor- quickly on the fish you see and it helps during windy conditions. As gia Blade half ounce spoon is a you can see there are fish from great way to target the fish you the dirt to 50 feet currently so be see in these areas. The other key flexible to using different patterns bait we have been using is the and depths to find what is workSpot Choker underspin worked
ing best each day. They are biting so go catch ‘em! Striper fishing Striper fishing is up and down. The fish are scattered lake wide and can be found from the Dam to Clarks Bridge and from the main lake channel to the back of the creeks. There is a considerable amount of bait hanging out at the 40- to 50-foot level on the south end of the lake. Check the areas with the greatest concentration of bait and deploy the down rods. There are a good number of schooling fish moving on the north end of the lake which can be found primarily from the lake channel to mid way back into the creeks. These fish are moving so spend time with the Lowrance finding them. Pull umbrella rigs and set them at 120 feet back and pull at 2.8 to 3.0 mph. Focus on a depth of 30 to 60 feet. This report is by Lake Lanier fishing guide Phil Johnson, pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845. Crappie fishing Crappie fishing is excellent! The jigs I had success with recently are the transparent white
Consignments
WANTED 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
1987 Sea Ray 410 Aft Cabin 44' Boat in Great Condition Price $69,900
1989 Jefferson 450 38' Aft Cabin w/ Diesel Price $69,900
2017 Regal 2000 ESX 20' Bowrider V-6 Like New Price $42,900
1993 Chris Craft 282 Crowne 29' Cruiser w/ Air & Trailer Price $34,900
2004 Moomba Outback 21' with New Interior Price $22,900
1998 Caravelle Interceptor 23' Cuddy w/ 400+ HP Price $14,900
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
and orange and a green hair jig. Crappie can still be found on deep water brush. We have found large crappie at 20-25 feet deep on brush and we are getting large numbers but smaller fish on docks holding in 10 to 15 feet of water. Use your electronics to locate structure or bush piles. Crap-
pie love the shade so cast into the shadows. When dock shooting the biggest fish are usually the first to bite. Let your jig sink and give it time to get down to the fish and retrieve your jig slowly. This report is from Captain Josh Thornton, 770 530-6493.
KEEP SAFE ON THE LAKE - WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET!
December 2021
LAKESIDE 11
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
12 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Heading south, way, way south for a fisherman’s dream trip 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 40-minute charter to the lodge. Don’t worry, these guys are experts 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
O’Neill Williams O’Neill Outside
n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com
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 fisherman’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 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, March and even April while the
Starting the day at Crocodile Bay Resort.
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.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY O’NEILL WILLIAMS
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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December 2021
LAKESIDE 13
14 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Ghost houseboat vanishes – at last – from Lanier By Pamela A. Keene The ghost has been exorcized from Lake Lanier after nearly 20 years. One of the first abandoned boats identified in the Lake Lanier Association’s Abandoned Boats and Derelict Docks initiatives, the steel-hulled vessel, known as the Chestatee Ghost Houseboat, had slowly deteriorated in the Chestatee part of the lake in Lumpkin County. “This boat had become a highly personal issue for me,” said John Barker, president of the Lake Lanier Association, which has removed more than a dozen abandoned vessels and derelict docks from the lake since the program’s inception six years ago. “It was one of the most difficult projects for us because of its size and location, and we have continued to search for the owner or anyone who knew about its history.” This abandoned houseboat was one of the motivators for Barker joining the association. “The boat was an eyesore, but even more importantly, it was a huge threat to the lake, both from a safety standpoint and environmentally,” he said. “When a vessel is abandoned, it still contains oil, fuel
and other health and environmental hazards that can pollute the lake and harm wildlife. All those years it sat there and indeed was a major factor in our initiating this program.” Barker joined the association around 2015 and helped initiate the group’s successful Abandoned Boats and Derelict Docks program. “Over the years, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with the Corps of Engineers, the Department of Natural Resources, law enforcement and the Hall and Forsyth County Solicitors to create procedures and processes to locate the owners of these vessels and put some teeth into seeking reparations and legal actions to get them to pay the costs of removing them. Over the years, community and commercial partnerships have figured significantly in the program’s success. Companies like Marine Specialties Inc., Cato Marine, RPM and TowBoatUS brought their expertise to the projects, as well as their equipment and manpower to ensure that the boats were removed safely. The Chestatee Ghost’s location made it difficult to remove. The
shallow muddy water in a narrow section of the lake hindered access and maneuverability. As time went on, the steel hull continued to sink into the water and mud. As it did, the structure fell apart. “The exorcism of the Ghost Boat was a feat of engineering,” said Jennifer Flowers, executive director of the association. “Marine Specialties, led by owner Tom Childs, used procedures not normally seen during boat removals, bringing in heavy equipment, a barge and dock floats. It was quite an operation.” The steel hull and a large area of scattered debris were removed in stages. The deteriorated top shell of the boat was dragged into the barge for disposal and the hull was placed on dock floats to be pushed down the narrow channel to a nearby boat ramp. All the components and debris were lifted onto a truck and taken to a landfill. From there it was placed on a truck and taken to its final resting place, in the landfill. “For years it has been rumored that Lake Lanier was haunted,” Flowers said. “Most people who regularly visit the lake know this
Authorities continue to try and locate the owner of the abandoned houseboat.
is just urban legend. But now that the Chestatee Ghost Boat is in the landfill, people can rest easy that the last remnants of any haunting have been removed.” Lumpkin County assisted with the landfill disposal. This was the 11th houseboat removed from the lake as part of the Lake Lanier Association’s Abandoned and Derelict Docks and Boats program. This vessel was removed
PHOTOS: LLA
Debris from abandoned boats is ugly but also damaging to the health of the lake.
using funds allocated to remove abandoned and derelict vessels from Lake Lanier by the Department of Natural Resources and through partnerships with the Army Corps of Engineers.
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December 2021
LAKESIDE 15
615F Oak St, #200 • Gainesville, GA 30501 • 770-503-7757 • LakeLanier.org
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
From Lake Lanier Association! Gifts galore, meals to prep, last minute shopping too! What if you could support LLA with all that holiday shopping? Well, good news - you can! The Lake Lanier Association can be supported with your every day shopping on Amazon and at Kroger. With a few simple steps you can shop as usual and LLA will receive a charitable donation at no additional cost to you!
1. Sign into your Kroger account using the mobile app 2. Under the menu options select “Rewards” 3. Then select “Community Rewards” 4. Search “Lake Lanier Association” and LLA should appear as an option 5. Click “enroll” - that’s it!
1. Sign into your Amazon account using the mobile app 2. Under the menu options select “Gifting & Charity” 3. Then select “Amazon Smile” 4. Search “Lake Lanier Association” and LLA should appear as an option 5. Click “turn on Amazon Smile” - that’s it!
When considering your end of year donations to your favorite non-profits this year we hope you will consider giving to The Lake Lanier Association. Your donation goes to LLA’s programs that promote a CLEAN, FULL AND SAFE LAKE!
THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBERS AND BUSINESS MEMBERS!
16 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Northern winters ... another reason why I love Georgia My mother was always very opinionated and had little use for people who didn’t agree with her (me included). One of her pet peeves was the snowbirds who left the pleasures of a dismal winter on the Jersey Shore for the sunny climes of the South. She derisively referred to Florida as the “Elephant’s Graveyard” after the legendary place in the old Tarzan movies where all the old elephants go to die. All this stopped when she and my father bought a condo in Miami Beach, then each October, the pachyderms would head south! This left my brother to run the marina/bar/restaurant, which was no problem because all the boats had been hauled out and safely put up for the winter and the frenetic pace of summer on the shore had slowed to a crawl. All the tourists had gone home, and the wind howled down the boardwalk. We could now enjoy six months of relaxation until the first warm weekend in spring when everyone demanded their boat be put back in the water. The one notable exception was the December storm of 1992. This was when a snowstorm in the Great Lakes headed east while a
so they all sank! Fortunately, most of them sank Vinnie in the parking lot so we could Mendes pick them up and put them back where they belonged until we On the could do the saltwater salvage Water routine on the engines. However, eight boats had floated out into the river in all different directions. When an event nor’easter out of Nova Scotia like this happens, it affects all the moved down the coast. Meanmarinas, not just ours, so all the while another storm that had marine salvage companies in the begun as dust blowing out to sea area were totally backlogged. off the Sahara Desert moved Consequently, we had to get the north westward until they all col- boats back ourselves. lided off the coast of New Jersey. Since I was the only one who The marina is on a narrow had a wet suit that fit me, I took peninsula between the Shrewstwo weeks’ vacation from my real bury River and the Atlantic job, and my brother and I, asOcean. Consequently, every time sisted by a couple of “yard monthere is a nor’easter, the water keys” got down to work. We had comes in at high tide, and the our tow boat still in the water and pressure of the wind keeps it from a huge pump like you would see going out. Then the next high tide on a fire truck, plus all kinds of comes adding more water. Add to lines, cables, winches, comethat a full moon and a snowstorm alongs etc. and you get a bona fide weather I lived across the river and phenomenon. each morning I would park at the The water rose up to five feet bridge, and as the town was under deep in the parking lot where the martial law, I would show my ID boats were stored and about 25 of to the National Guardsman at the them floated off their chocks. bridge and explain what I was up Since they had all been winterto. He’d allow me entrance and ized, the plugs were out of them, since the road was still flooded,
PHOTO COURTESY VINNIE MENDES
Lightning strikes as surf splashes 50 feet into the air as a wave hits the seawall in Sea Bright, NJ during the December Storm of 1992. The telephone pole in the center of the photo was 50 feet high.
I’d slosh through the calf deep water the half mile or so to the marina and off we’d go out on the river to find our missing boats. We got the first seven back with a moderate amount of trouble, but the last one gave us fits. It was a 28-foot cabin cruiser that had drifted about 500 yards in on an island. We rigged lines and block and tackles and pulled from every direction. We finally jacked it up and removed the rudder, propeller and shaft to make it easier to pull but still to no avail. We also lost a day’s work when someone came along during the night and stole all our ropes and
tackle, but that’s another story. This was the coldest I can remember being. The air temperature was near freezing, and the wind was constantly blowing at about 15 knots. When I got out of the water, ice would instantly freeze on the outside of my wet suit. The only way to get warm was to jump back into the water! We finally had to charter the 85-foot research vessel from the NOAH Marine Lab on Sandy Hook. They had an enormous winch with miles of cable for taking samples from the deep ocean. We rigged a harness around the See Mendes, page 17
December 2021
LAKESIDE 17
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Holiday Boat Light Parade benefits Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes kids By Pamela A. Keene This year’s Holiday Boat Light Parade benefits the children of Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Set for Saturday, December 11, the event will have two muster locations: one near Buford Dam and the official start at Port Royale Marina. Various viewing spots from the shorelines along the route will provide views of the lighted parade after the sun sets. “Our goal is to raise at least $10,000 for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes this year,” said Richard Pickering, event organizer. “We’re asking captains to decorate their boats and register online, but we’re also accepting sponsorships and donations. Please be generous. “This year, it’s all about the youngsters at the Georgia Sher-
iffs’ Youth Homes,” he said. “In addition to being able to provide them with Christmas gifts, we are working to help provide funding for some of the day-to-day expenses for them, from counseling, medical costs and operating costs. Every penny we collect from registrations and donations/sponsorships will be donated 100 percent to this worthwhile organization.” The Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes serves more than 180 young people in five campuses across the state. Boats coming from the south end of the lake will gather in front of Buford Dam at 5 p.m. to travel as a group to the main parade start at Port Royale. Boats from the north end will gather at Port Royale between 5:30 and 5:45, before both groups line up to make our way down the lake. The parade, with marshaling
A scene from a recent parade that ended at Margaritaville.
assistance from Hall County Sheriffs’ Office, will begin at 6:15 from Port Royale. It will pass by Old Federal Park DayUse area at approximately 6:30, before heading past Aqualand Marina at 6:45. “The route will then take us across the lake to Tidwell Park as another viewing site,” Pickering said. “We will be docking at Margaritaville around 7:45 or 8 p.m. where you can view the boats up close. Come by car or boat to enjoy the festivities.” This is the fourth year that Pickering in conjunction with Lanier Partners and a host of volunteers have organized the annual lighted boat parade. To register, make a donation or for more information about the event, visit the group’s Facebook page at 2021 Holiday Boat Light Parade.
PHOTO BY RUSSELL REEL
• Mendes
ENJOY SAFE BOATING ON THE LAKE!
Continued from Page 16 stranded boat and as the winch on the research vessel started to crank the boat started to move with a jerk, then faster and faster than we could even run until with a mighty splash, she hit water and floated! We got her safely back to the marina and addressed the final problem. A 20-foot sailboat had floated up over a piling and became impaled! We had discussed several solutions including pulling the piling out and cutting up the boat where she lay. The fellows on the research vessel had another idea. They swung their big crane over top of the impaled boat, put a sling around her and lifted her
straight up and off the piling, then deposited her on shore! Problem solved. There’s nothing as satisfying as working with professionals! One sad casualty of the storm was discovered a couple of weeks after most of the other things had been cleaned up. My brother’s Honda Gold Wing motorcycle had been sitting in the garage. We didn’t even think about it during the mad rush to solve the obvious problems. When we went to move it, rusty salt water poured out of the exhaust pipes. It was beyond hope of salvage. He eventually replaced it but we all miss that machine.
By the time our parents returned from Florida in the spring, the marina was back together, and it didn’t appear like it had been anything but a normal winter. My father made a comment that “I thought you had a big storm up here. It couldn’t have been that bad. Why were you complaining?” (My mother wasn’t the only one in the family that was opinionated.) 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.”
18 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Lake Lanier Association celebrates year of accomplishments By Pamela A. Keene Coming off a year filled with uncertainty because of COVID19, the Lake Lanier Association is not only heaving a sigh of relief, it is recognizing the work of its members, volunteers and community as 2021 draws to a close. “This time last year, we were thrilled to see the end of 2020, and we were dreaming of what 2021 would bring,” said Jennifer Flowers, executive director of the organization. “In 2021, we have been thrilled with the great amount of community and business support we’ve received as we’ve expanded our organization.”
From removing several abandoned vessels, including “The Ghost” houseboat (see story, page 14), to setting a new record for Shore Sweep by the voluntary collection of more than 85 tons of trash and debris from the lake and its shorelines, the group is building an even larger presence in North Georgia and metro Atlanta area. “Our volunteer engagement has expanded, as well as the number and amounts of donations and sponsorships,” she said. “Our online workshops and partner Zoom meetings have also helped us keep our constituents, partners and members even more in-
formed.” To join the Lake Lanier Association or to learn more about the organization, visit lakelanier.org. Holiday houseboat cruises The LLA has partnered with Lanier Boat Charter, headquartered at Aqualand Marina, for a members-only Holly Jolly Tour of Lakeside Lights Spectacular display at Margaritaville on December 8. It sold out in less than three hours. Lanier Boat Charter will be offering 3-hour Holiday Cheer Sunset Cruises for the public throughout the holidays. For more PHOTO COURTESY LLA information, visit lanierboatchar- Lanier Boat Charter will be offering 3-hour Holiday Cheer Sunset ter.com or call 678 882-8062. Cruises for the public throughout the holidays.
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 2022 • Cost: $25 per student; plus optional course textbook • 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 2022 • Where: U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 29, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch • Cost: Individuals $34.95 • Private lessons also available for groups or organizations outside normal schedule by calling Flotilla Commander Chuck Kelemen, 770-714-0888. • Information/registration: Harry Lasher, hlasher@bellsouth.net, 404-861-4216; http://wow.uscgaux.info/peclass.php?unit=070-02-09
On-Line Courses • www.boat-ed.com and http://www.boaterexam.com/usa/georgia include study guide and Georgia Certification Exam with unlimited exam attempts; cost is $29.50 payable upon exam passage. Temporary certificate printed upon passage; permanent card mailed. • http://www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/Georgia.asp offers free course, exam and print your own certificate; mailed certificate $5. • Other certification courses offered at www.boatcourse.com, www.boatingbasicsonline.com, and www.pwcsafetyschool.com.
Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included) • Professional Tutoring: Captain’s Training, on-line or in person tutoring designed to prepare individuals for exams required for certification and licensure for maritime jobs by instructor Steve Johnson, retired US Coast Guard, experienced ship navigator, deck officer, and USCG license instructor for Sea School. www.navteach.com, stevejohnson@navteach.com, 770-3120989. • Advanced Boating Classes in piloting, marine communications, and other boating skills offered periodically by the Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron. www.atlantasboatingclub.com. NOTE: Please contact Lakeside on Lanier News to list additionalboating and water safety classes. lakesidenews@mindspring.com.
Vessel Safety Checks • Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron offers vessel safety check-ups by appointment. http://atlantasboatingclub.com/vessel-safety-check/vessel-safety-check-signup. • 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 as well as marine meteorology offered by Windsong Sailing Academy through the DeKalb County Parks and Recreation Service. 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/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. • Splash Aquatic Club: Competitive swimming groups for Rookie (age 4) through Masters (age 18 and older to improve fitness, develop better technique, or train for competition. 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 semiprivate lessons available. Fees and schedules vary. Competitive swimming and diving programs, Masters Swim Team also available. Lifeguard certification offered. Brenau University • Location: Brenau Fitness Center, 500 Washington St., SE, Gainesville • Information/registration: www.brenautigers.com, Blaire Bachman, (770) 534-6279, bbachman@brenau.edu. • Lessons: Custom private swim lessons for all ages and abilities. Brenau Masters Swim Team offers practice and competitive program for swimmers of all levels, high school age and older. University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus • Location: 3820 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood • Information/registration: https://ce.ung.edu/wconnect/ace/, (678) 717-2377 • Swim lessons: For ages 3 (must be potty trained) and older range from introduction to water skills to swimming and skill proficiency. Check website for dates. Georgia Mountain YMCA • Location: 2455 Howard Rd., Gainesville • Information/registration: http://www.hallcountyymca.org/jawalters/programs/youth-swimming-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.
December 2021
LAKESIDE 19
20 LAKESIDE
December 2021
Remembering the white Christmas of 2010 It’s really difficult to believe we are coming to the end of another year. 2021 as we all know had its set of challenges. The one constant thing for me is that despite all the quarantines and having to wear masks, we could still enjoy out favorite lake. The fall color was absolutely spectacular this autumn. A boat ride on the lake with the backdrop of a deep blue sky was just breathtaking. Temperatures for the most were pretty typical for north Georgia this time of year. We would have a freeze warning and then 24 hours later, we would be basking in the 70s. Yes, it’s always challenging forecasting this time of the year. The one thing we have not seen this fall? Severe storms and tornadoes. Believe it or not we ARE in our second severe storm season. Our major severe storm season, of course, is spring. However, November and December are our second storm season months. The weather in December is one of those months that brings anything. Remember all the flooding in 2015? In 2012 we saw several tornadoes. Let’s not forget December of 2010! That was an epic year! A powerful storm system moved across the Southeast on Christmas Day. The pre-
cipitation began on Christmas Eve and quickly changed from Glenn rain to snow across the Burns mountains. However, on Christmas Day, colder air Lanier began pouring in and the Outlook rain began changing over to snow. The highest accumulations were in the mountains, where 6-8 inches fell. Around the metro we saw 1-3 inches of snow. It was historic! It was the first measurable snowfall on Christmas Day since 1881! All of this was followed by subfreezing temperatures the next day, causing massive road problems. Winds were 20-25 mph, causing so many ice-covered trees to go down. Yes, forecasting the weather for north Georgia IS a challenge. This December, of course, we are dealing with the La Nina weather phenomenon. The Climate Prediction Center outlook continues to show warmer than average temperatures and near average to below average precipitation. If I were a betting man, I would not be betting on a white Christmas this year. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season. Glenn Burns is chief meteorologist for WSB-TV in Atlanta.
LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS APR 1 1071.75 2 1071.66 3 1071.65 4 1071.63 5 1071.52 6 1071.41 7 1071.30 8 1071.24 9 1071.16 10 1071.32 11 1071.40 12 1071.35 13 1071.33 14 1071.27 15 1071.27 16 1071.26 17 1071.28 18 1071.30 19 1071.28 20 1071.21 21 1071.10 22 1071.00 23 1070.98 24 1071.33 25 1071.49 26 1071.45 27 1071.39 28 1071.34 29 1071.28 30 1071.24 31 AV 1071.34 MAX 1071.75 MI 1070.98
MAY
JUN
1071.27 1071.30 1071.49 1071.79 1072.00 1072.05 1071.87 1071.86 1071.88 1071.97 1072.01 1071.97 1072.01 1071.65 1071.42 1071.27 1071.15 1071.09 1071.03 1070.96 1070.87 1070.89 1070.82 1070.62 1070.56 1070.50 1070.38 1070.34 1070.28 1070.23 1070.17 1071.25 1072.05 1070.17
1069.94 1069.96 1069.89 1069.63 1069.59 1069.52 1069.45 1069.43 1069.38 1069.41 1069.42 1069.43 1069.44 1069.41 1069.34 1069.31 1069.26 1069.25 1069.46 1069.59 1069.71 1069.77 1069.79 1069.78 1069.76 1069.75 1069.79 1069.79 1069.80 1069.80
JUL
1069.80 1069.83 1069.87 1069.85 1069.85 1069.81 1069.85 1069.83 1069.87 1069.92 1069.98 1070.00 1070.02 1070.04 1070.05 1070.06 1070.09 1070.16 1070.37 1071.34 1071.46 1071.38 1071.27 1071.24 1071.22 1071.17 1071.13 1071.05 1070.97 1070.95 1070.93 1069.59 1070.43 1069.96 1071.46 1069.25 1069.80
AUG
SEP
1070.95 1070.92 1070.94 1070.94 1071.00 1070.97 1070.97 1070.89 1070.87 1070.82 1070.79 1070.72 1070.65 1070.64 1070.63 1070.65 1071.77 1072.29 1072.44 1072.51 1072.51 1072.59 1072.50 1072.34 1072.15 1071.95 1071.76 1071.63 1071.49 1071.35 1071.56 1071.43 1072.59 1070.63
1071.80 1071.73 1071.77 1071.81 1071.83 1071.81 1071.76 1071.85 1071.80 1071.70 1071.71 1071.72 1071.65 1071.56 1071.54 1071.53 1071.46 1071.47 1071.48 1071.61 1071.79 1071.77 1071.75 1071.67 1071.65 1071.64 1071.53 1071.44 1071.38 1071.33
OCT
1071.28 1071.22 1071.21 1071.26 1071.46 1071.76 1072.20 1072.43 1072.53 1072.58 1072.58 1072.43 1072.24 1072.04 1071.82 1071.72 1071.65 1071.48 1071.38 1071.27 1071.17 1071.08 1071.04 1070.99 1070.90 1070.86 1070.81 1070.79 1070.75 1070.76 1070.77 1071.65 1071.50 1071.85 1072.58 1071.33 1070.75
View the new online edition at www.lakesidenews.com
NOV 1070.71 1070.65 1070.61 1070.54 1070.52 1070.47 1070.44 1070.39 1070.32 1070.28 1070.32 1070.31 1070.24 1070.22 1070.18 1070.15 1070.12 1070.08 1070.09 1070.05 1070.02 1070.01
December 2021
LAKESIDE 21
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22 LAKESIDE
December 2021
And Now ...
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December 2021
LAKESIDE 23
Lazy Days at Holiday New Additions to Enhance Your Experience
choice of: a t e g l il w nt al agreeme u n n and wax a n h a s a g w in e n e ig r f s Ra mers el credit O New Custo u f 0 5 2 $ , age h free stor s apply t n o m e Restriction n O
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December 2021
Lakeside Calendar December 2021 o Dec. 4 – Holiday Calligra-Fair held 1:304:30 p.m. in the Gainesville Branch Meeting Room at Gainesville Branch Library, 127 Main St., Gainesville. Check out all things Calligraphy when members of the local guild Friends of the Alphabet demonstrate their craft. Visitors may try their hand at personalizing cards and labels in time for the holiday season. Info: 770-532-3311, X4011. o Dec. 4 – Double Book Signing, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. at Next Chapter Book Store, 118 Main St. (inside Main St. Bldg.), presents Authors Laurie Hyatt, PhD. Educational Psychologist, and Judy Welden, singer/songwriter/publisher/inventor. Hyatt’s book, “Think Your Way to Happiness: Strategies for an Enjoyable, Meaningful Life,” is a step-by-step guide for living a happier life. Welden’s book, “An Unstoppable Survivor,” is a starkly honest memoir that will grip your emotions as Welden relates a story of struggle, challenges and ultimate success. o Dec. 7 – Virtual Science Night, 7-8 p.m., at Elachee Nature Science Center, Gainesville. Free. Georgia’s Spiders. Pre-registration required to receive the online meeting login credentials. Virtual Event. www.elachee.org. Info: 770-535-1976. o Dec. 10 – The Winery Comedy Tour at Paradise Hills, Winery Resort & Spa, 366 Paradise Rd., Blairsville. 8-9:30 p.m. Arrive by 7 p.m. to order wine/beer and food before show. Grab a seat #laughteristhebestmedicine. Tickets: $20. Info: 706-745-7483; www.paradisehillsga.com.
lads and surprises. Tickets: $35-$45. o Dec. 18 – John Driskell Hopkins Christmas features Hopkins performing favorite Christmas songs with a holiday orchestra in Sylvia Beard Theatre. Hopkins is a founding member, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter of the Grammy Award-winning Zac Brown Band. Tickets: $35-$45. Info: www.bufordcommunitycenter.com. Clarkesville’s Historic Habersham Community Theater o Dec. 2-5, 9-12 – A Christmas Carol presented by HCT is a fresh approach to the classic tale. On Christmas Eve in 1843, friends and family gathered at Dickens’ home ask him to tell a story, but he refuses to work on Christmas Eve. Instead, each must take a part in its telling, so as the story unfolds the cast of 10 plays more than 40 parts. Info: 706-839-1315; www.habershamtheater.org Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater o Dec. 3-5, 9-12, 16-19 – Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut to quickly discover life isn’t the same without a bit of song and dance. Together with his friend Linda they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with performances to celebrate each holiday. Times: 8 p.m., Thurs./Fri./Sat.; 2 p.m., Sun.; 1 p.m., Dec. 19. Tickets: $25, adults; $15, students and military. Info: 706-530-5162; www.hollytheater.com. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Buford Community Center o Thru Dec. 23 – Mountain Country Christo Dec. 3 – Mike Farris Sings! The Soul of mas in Lights features a holiday light show, Christmas presented at 8 p.m. in Sylvia Beard special Christmas show provided by local Theatre. Farris, along with his world-class 13churches, art & craft vendors, holiday food and piece band, delivers everything wanted in a pictures with Santa. Show runs every Thursday, Christmas show—high energy soul, classic bal- Friday and Saturday. Closed Christmas Eve and
Christmas Day. Tickets: $6; children 12 and under, free. o Dec. 18 – Sawyer Brown & Exile perform at 7 p.m. Tickets: $45+handling. o Dec. 31 – New Year Fireworks start at 8:45 p.m. Free. Blairsville Cruisers will be on the Fairgrounds from 5-7 p.m. for a car show. Hot chocolate, BBQ, firepits and hotdogs will be available for sale beginning at 5:30 p.m. Info: 706-896-4191; www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. Interactive Neighborhood Kids o Dec. 1-5 – Christmas Card Craft Week o Dec. 6-12 – Christmas Wreath Craft Week o Dec. 13-19 – Snowman Craft Week o Dec. 20-26 – Christmas Tree Craft Week o Dec. 24, 25 – INK will be closed. o Dec. 27-Jan. 2 – New Year’s Craft Week Times are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Info: $1 with paid admission to museum; 770536-1900; www.inkfun.org. Lake Lanier Islands Resort o Thru Feb.27 – Snow Island. Snow tubings, ice skating, carnival rides and warm-ups with s’mores and hot cocoa and shop in Santa’s workshops. Times vary. Winter season pass on sale buy tickets online. o Thru Feb. 27 – Lakeside Lights Spectacular on Snow Island offers a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive music. o Dec. 1-25 – Reindeer Dash Scavenger Hunt, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Cruise the Islands on a four- or six-seater resort cart to complete this festive scavenger hunt. Fee applies & reservations required. o Dec. 4-12 – Holiday Crafts held noon-5 p.m. features holiday crafts for kids. Fee applies & reservations required.
o Dec. 4-18 – Gingerbread House Building, noon-5 p.m., held at Legacy Lodge. Little ones will be excited this year to build and decorate their very own Gingerbread House. Includes all supplies and help from Santa’s Elves. Fee applies & reservations required. Info: 770-945-8787; www.lanierislands.com. Quinlan Arts Center o Thru Dec. 4 – 74th Annual Members Exhibition showcases the work of member-artists from Gainesville and surrounding North Georgia communities of Atlanta and the Southeast. The exhibition is an array of art in all media including landscapes, abstracts, still live compositions, portraits, ceramics, wood turnings, etc. o Dec. 9-Feb. 19 – Contrapunto, Latin American Artist Collective exhibition. Info: 770-536-2575; www.quinlanartscenter.org School Street Playhouse (formerly Cumming Playhouse) o Dec. 2-31 – A Christmas Carol is presented. Times: 8 p.m., Thurs./Fri.; 3 p.m., Sun. o Dec. 31 – Banks and Shane rock New Year’s Eve, 8-9:30 p.m. Info: 770-781-9178; schoolstreetplayhouse.com University of North Georgia o Dec. 2 – Sinfonietta Concert, 7:30-8:30 p.m. The UNG Dahlonega orchestra presents its fall concert in the Gloria Shott Auditorium. o Dec. 6 – UNG Band’s Winter Concert #1 features “Pain and Joy,” a joint Winter Concert with the Lumpkin County High School Band. The concert will be held at 7-8 p.m. at the Lumpkin County High School, 2001 Indian Dr., Dahlonega. o Dec. 7 – UNG Band’s Winter Concert #2 features “Contrasts,” a joint Winter Concert with the Dawson County High School Band held at 6:30-8 p.m. at the Dawson County PerSee Calendar, page 46
December 2021
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28 LAKESIDE
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Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm a treat for the senses By Jane Harrison The aromas of warm mulled wine and apple cider greet holiday travelers anticipating a trip back to a Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site. A horse-drawn wagon awaits outside the visitor’s center to carry guests along a lanturn-lit path to the green-shuttered country mansion. Inside, boughs of holly, magnolia leaves, red ribbons and handmade ornaments adorn Christmas trees in each room. Impersonators of the home’s original inhabitants from the 1870s bustle about, retelling tales from holidays long past in the Sautee Nacoochee Valley. A harp, banjo or vintage piano serenade the tourists. Across the breezeway in the kitchen behind the house, sorghum cookies bake in a wood stove. Now in its fifth year, the Victorian Christmas at the historic farm has attracted thousands of
holiday celebrants seeking an evening steeped in 19th century traditions. The historic Mansion at West End, near Lake Lanier’s headwaters on the Chattahoochee River, sits across Ga. Hwy. 17 from the gazebo-topped Indian mound in White County just south of Helen. Event coordinator Sarah Summers described the holiday festivities, held Friday and Saturday evenings Dec. 4-18, as an annual highlight for those who staff and volunteer at the historic site. She said staff members and Friends of Hardman Farm work for months on “carefully chosen well thought-out period attire.” They research what each original household member might do and say as Christmas approached. Docents will portray Captain James Nichols, his wife Kate, and daughter Anna Ruby, namesake of the national forest waterfall near Helen. Nichols, a business-
Hardman Farm State Historic Site staff and Friends spend months researching what to wear and how to represent the farm's original inhabitants in the Victorian Christmas.
man and Governor’s House Guard during the Civil War, retired from work in Gainesville and bought up land in the Nacoochee Valley. In 1870 he built the Victorian mansion, an exact replica of his home in Milledgeville, to overlook the gazebo he constructed on the Indian mound. He called it “West End” for its location near the western edge of his 2,600 acres. The home is still furnished with Nichols family possessions. The second owners, the Honeycutt family, retreated there in summers from 1893 to around 1903, when Dr. Lamaratine Hardman bought it. Hardman, one of the wealthiest men in north Geor-
Santa and Mrs. Claus interact with children at a previous Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site.
PHOTOS COURTESY GEORGIA STATE PARKS
Docents in Victorian period attire meet visitors at Hardman Farm. Christmas trees decorated by community groups as they might have been in the 1870s adorn every room, above. Harpist Hailey Smith plucks holiday tunes at a previous Victorian Christmas, left.
gia due to his success in medicine and agriculture, served two terms as governor. The Hardman family donated the property to the state in 1999. The Victorian Christmas is “a beautiful thing to see,” said Scarlett Fuller, historic site assistant manager. The event engages all the senses with the sights, sounds, tastes and scents emanating from some of the home’s original fixtures. The ivory keys of Hardman’s piano will chime with carols. The 1940s era wood stove will warm the kitchen with the sweet scent of sorghum cookies, made from sorghum grown on the farm and baked by a cook in period clothing. “They’re like a ginger snap, so delicious!” Fuller said. Expect to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, likely hearing requests for electronic gizmos not wooden rocking horses or porcelain-faced dolls. The organizers urge guests to purchase tickets in advance on-
line for 30-minute intervals from 4-7 p.m. Attendees can stay as long as they want until closing time. Before or after visiting the mansion, visitors can make s’mores at a bonfire outside the visitor’s center and sip hot chocolate, cider or mulled estate wine from Creekstone Winery on the Hardman property. Those arriving before dark might enjoy a two-mile round-trip stroll along the Chattahoochee River on the paved Helen to Hardman trail. Parking for the event will be in the upper paved parking lot along Hardman Farm Road off Ga. Hwy 17. Charter buses must call the site to register and reserve special parking. Tickets: Adults $12, youth (6-17) $7, children 5 and under free, family rate (2 adults + their children) $40. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-1077. Other North Georgia holiday events offer a variety of festivities, from parades to fireworks. See page 31.
A horse-drawn wagon carries guests from the Hardman Farm Visitors Center to the historic West End mansion. In the background is the gazebo-topped Indian mound across Ga. Hwy. 17 from the mansion.
December 2021
LAKESIDE 31
Outdoor Holiday Celebrations and Activities o Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular, Buford. Stroll through lakeside holiday light show with traditional displays to high tech images, includes stops for s’more supplies and hot cocoa, plus Margaritaville-themed bars, Santa’s Tiki Bar and Tipsy Elf, 5 p.m. through Feb. 27. $9.99-$14.00. www.margaritavilleresorts.com. o License to Chill Snow Island, Buford. Snow tubing, ice-skating, snow play, carnival rides, fire pits and more, various hours through Feb. 27, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7650 Lanier Islands. $39.99-$159.99 family of four; season passes available. $20 gate fee per vehicle. www.margaritavilleresorts.com. o Holiday Tree Trail, Gainesville. Holiday display of 6-foot Fraser firs decorated in nature themes by local businesses, families and organizations, Dec. 1-Jan. 2, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bar Dr. Garden admission. www.atlantabg.org, 404888-4760. o Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm, Sautee Nacoochee. See historic farm mansion by candlelight in Victorian holiday décor, hear about traditions with docents dressed in 1870s garb, plus live music, Christmas tree contest, 47 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Dec. 3- Dec. 18, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy 17. Adults: $12, youth (6-17): $7, children 5 and under: Free. Family rate (2 adults + their children) $40. www.gastateparks.org, 706-8781077. o Christkindlmarket, Helen. Annual outdoor market of unique gifts, decorations, food, drinks and candied treats, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 5, Marketplatz, Downtown Helen. www.helenga.org. o Christmas at the Gorge, Tallulah Falls. See
Lula, Gainesville, Dahlonega and Cumming all offer Christmas activities (clockwise, from top left). Santa, make crafts, enjoy snacks, 1-4 p.m. Dec. Christmas parade on Tribble Gap Road from Forsyth Central High School to Cumming Fair4, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt grounds, 5 p.m.: fairgrounds holiday festivities Yarn Dr. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 4 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 10 & 706-754-7981. 11, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. o Christmas in the Mountains Holiday Parade, Cleveland. Tree lighting, holiday market, www.cummingfair.squarespace.com. o Christmas on Green Street, Gainesville. storefront decorating contest, lighted parade, Annual parade, open house, holiday festivities, Courthouse Square, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 4, intersec4-7 p.m. Dec. 5, Historic Green Street. tion Hw. 129/115. www.gainesville.org. www.whitecountychamber.org. o Holiday Lights Trolly Tours, Braselton. 1½ o Christmas in Lula Parade. Floats, bands, hour tour of holiday light displays in enclosed choral groups and Santa parade down Main Street to Cobb Street, 6 p.m. Dec. 4. www.city- trolly, beginning 6 and 8 p.m. Dec. 7, 10, 14, & 17, Mulberry Walk, 6322 Grand Hickory Dr. oflula.com. $11.50. www.visitbraselton.com. o City of Cumming Christmas Festival.
o Christmas Parade, Helen. Downtown parade with costumed characters, floats and Santa, 2-3 p.m. Dec. 11. www.helenga.org. o Holiday Jamboree on the Mountain, Mountain City. Live music, holiday crafts, Santa visits, hayrides, gingerbread house contest, 4-6 p.m. Dec. 11, Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-7462141. o Holiday Boat Parade, Lake Lanier. Annual holiday lights parade of boats, Dec. 11. Land viewing at Pig Tales, 6800 Lights Ferry Road, via charter houseboat and from various Lanier parks and shorelines. Parade entry fees $75$230. www.lanierpartners.org. o Old Fashioned Christmas, Dahlonega. Historic mountain town holiday festivities include with Santa visits, carriage rides, live music, festival of trees and more through December. Christmas parade Dec. 11, Historic Downtown Dahlonega, www.dahlonegachristmas.com. o Sunset Candy Cane Hunt, Tallulah Falls. Hunt candy canes at sunset, enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate and holiday movie, 5-7 p.m. Dec. 11, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5 parking. Limited space. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7081. o Christmas Market, Flowery Branch. Block party with Santa, farmers market vendors, artisans, fireworks, 2-8 p.m. Dec. 18, Downtown Flowery Branch. www.flowerybranchfarmersmarket.com. o First Night Dahlonega. New Year’s Eve celebration with indoor and outdoor live entertainment, car show, children’s activities and Golden Nugget Drop at 11:59 p.m.; early children’s Nugget Drop 8:45 p.m., celebration be-
See Outdoors, page 43
Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.
Lakeside Lighrt!s Spectacula
For more details visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com
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Lakeside’s Dining Guide Lakeview Dining Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily. This Southern Gastro Pub features reimagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B3, 770-945-8787. Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Hideaway Bay Marina. C-3, 770-967-3775. Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatchedroof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. B-2, 770-887-5715 ext 5. Pig Tales - Casual lakeside dining featuring BBQ, burgers, wings and more. Great customer service, full service bar with draft beer, wine & mixed drinks, live music on weekends. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. C3,678-828-7676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier. com. Sidney’s Restaurant (formerly Windows) – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Appetizers, entrees, and desserts using the finest ingredients from local and family owned farms from around the South. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787, www.lanierislands.com. Skogies – Made from scratch seafood, BBQ and American fare with a great view served in a laid back pet friendly environment. A full Sunday breakfast menu includes eggs benedict served five ways, Omelettes, shrimp & grits, cathead biscuits & gravy, breakfast sandwiches & more. Call from your boat & they will pick you up. Gainesville Marina. C1 678 450-1310; www.skogies.net. 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. www.facebook.com/twistedoar, C-3, 678 714-7572 American Antebellum – Southern contemporary cuisine including fried catfish with pimento dumplings, grilled wild salmon, thyme roasted pork chop, ribeye with buttermilk mashed potatoes and more. Weekend brunch features biscuits and gravy, ham steak and eggs, buttermilk pancakes, shrimp and grits, and more. 5510 Church Street, Flowery Branch, C-3, 770-965-8100. www.antebellumrestaurant.com. Branch House Tavern - The ultimate sports restaurant in Hall County offers a selection of hamburgers, wings, hearty salads, southwestern grill fare, and a huge selection of appetizers and desserts. Big screen sports action on 50 HD TVs, and live entertainment. Also featuring a full bar and dancing all night long. Take out available. 5466 McEver Rd., Flowery Branch, C-3, 678-828-8345.
Coastal Breeze Seafood Grill – Offering seafood, steaks, ribs, oysters on the half shell, salads, burgers and more. Lunch and dinner, full bar. Sun.-Thur 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight. 5390 Lanier Islands Parkway. C-3, www.coastalbreezega.com, 770-945-9181. Collegiate – Old-fashioned hamburgers, hot dogs and milk shakes served in 1940s setting. 220 Main Street SW, Gainesville. C-2, 678-989-2280. Foster House – Restaurant and special events facility. Breakfast Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-10 a.m.; Lunch Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2, Sun. lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dinner Country buffet and music, Fri. 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. 305 West Main St., Cumming. A-3, 770-887-9905. Two Dog Café – Classic small town diner with an emphasis on fresh food and fast service for lunch and dinner. 317 Spring St. Gainesville. C-2, 770-287-8384. Wild Wing Café – Offers casual dining, live music, special Monday Trivia Night and 2 Fer Tuesday nights (buy a dozen, get a dozen wings free). 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Gainesville. C-2, 770-536-9177. Yahoola Creek Grill – Features Southerninspired, made-from-scratch cooking from our outdoor deck, cozy dining room and loft. Full beer and wine list. Open for lunch and dinner, Wed.-Sat. Open for brunch and supper on Sunday. Closed Mon./Tues. 1810 S. Chestatee St., Dahlonega. 706-482-2200; www.yahoolacreekgrill.com. Continental/Fine Dining Aqua Terra Bistro – European fusion cuisine served daily. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; noon-2:30 p.m., Sat.; Dinner 5-10 p.m., Mon.-Sun. 55 East Main St., Buford. No reservations. B-3, 770-271-3000. Blue Bicycle – Chef owned and operated bistro. Open Tue.-Sat.; Lunch 11 a.m-4 p.m.; Dinner 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Reservations are suggested. Located on 30 Industrial Park Rd, Dawsonville, B-1, 706-265-2153. Luna’s – Continental cuisine, romantic atmosphere. 200 Main St., Gainesville. C-2, 770-531-0848. Poor Richard’s – Specializing in Prime Rib, steaks, ribs and fresh seafood. Casual dining, dinner only. Full-service bar. 1702 Park Hill Dr., Gainesville. C-1, 770-532-0499. Scott’s Downtown – Upscale casual ambience with specialty sandwiches for lunch and gourmet entrees for dinner. 131 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville. C-2. 770-536-1111. Sperata - Continental fine dining in its 11th year. Private dining available. Lunch Mon.Sun. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner 4:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat., Sun. 2:30-9 p.m. Buford. B-4. 678 765-7911, www.speratarestaurant.com. Barbecue/Country/Home Cooking Johnny’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ pork, chicken & ribs. Brunswick stew. Minutes from Clark’s Bridge rowing venue. 1710 Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. Casual. D-1, 770-536-2100. Smokey Q BBQ - Pulled Pork and Chicken Sandwiches, Philly Cheesesteaks, Pork and
Chicken Tacos and more! Sun., Tues.-Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Closed Mon. Bald Ridge Marina, 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Cumming. A-3, 770 910-4961. Deli Whole Being Cafe @ Common Grounds – Light breakfast, lunch and dinner and desserts followed by fresh roasted coffee. 5510 Main St., Flowery Branch. C-3, 770967-4080. Italian 5 Brothers Pizza & Pasta - Family owned with mom and her five sons! Delivery available. Offering award-winning alfredo sauce, seven layer lasagna, homemade meatballs, pizza, calzones, and more. Also available: our famous rice balls -and homemade tiramisu and cannoli. Open 7 days a week with beer & wine. Sun-Thur 11am to 9pm; Fri and Sat 11am to 10pm. Downtown historic Buford. 39 East Main St. Buford. B3 678-765-8151; www.5brotherspizzapasta.com Dominick’s Italian Restaurant – Features cuisine from the north of Italy, with veal, chicken and seafood dishes. Favorites include chicken saltimbocca and garlic bread appetizer. Half-price bottles of wine on Mon. nights, half-price appetizers from 5-7 p.m. on Tues. and endless pasta on Weds. Dominick’s is open Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch; Dinner : Sun.-Thur. 5-9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5-10 p.m. Located at the corner of Buford Hwy.
and Hamilton Mill Rd in the Buford Village Shopping Center., Buford. B-3, 770-6140019. Vinny’s New York Pizza & Grill – New York-style pizzeria known for generous portions and reasonable pricing. Specialties include Philly Chicken and Cheese sub, New York Pizza, Chicken Caesar Salad, Sausage & Pepper plate, baked pasta and Lasagna. Desserts include Cannoli, Tiramisu, Italian Funnel Cakes or cheesecake. Wine and beer available. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun, 5-10 p.m. Located at 4977 Lanier Island Pkwy, Buford. C-4, 678-482-9966. Mexican La Cazuela – An Atlanta area landmark with two locations around Lanier. Features fajitas, selection of combination platters and more. 4965 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford, B-4 770-614-6871. Oriental Kenzo Sushi – Sushi & Japanese Steak, Teriyaki & Fried Rice. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat. 12-3 p.m. Dinner Sun.-Thur. 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri. 4:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat. 3-10:30 p.m. 4977 Lanier Islands Pkwy, #108, Buford. B-4, 678-288-9050. Little Tokyo – Japanese dining - hibachi grill, sushi. Dine in, take out. Open Tues.Fri., 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon10 p.m.; Closed Mon. 2096 Buford Dam Rd., Buford. B-4, 770-945-3350.
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December 2021
LAKESIDE 33
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December 2021
Bursting with blooms: Choose amaryllis or paperwhites for winter cheer When it’s gloomy and gray outdoors, bring some fragrance and colorful blossoms into your home by growing amaryllis and paperwhite narcissus. Both are grown from bulbs and the blossoms can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month or more. Forcing them into bloom indoors during the winter is really quite natural for these tropical bulbs. The key is to purchase firm bulbs as large as you can get them. I always order both from Longfield Gardens, an internet company that offers bulbs for all seasons. Paperwhite bulbs, should be at least the size of a baseball or tennis ball. Amaryllis are measured in centimeters and the best – from Longfield, of course – usually range from 32 to 36 centimeters, which translates to the size of a softball. Both types of bulbs can be planted in potting soil or placed in containers atop 2 to 3 inches of washed pebbles or river rock. Flea markets, garage sales and charity stores offer affordable resources for containers that can range from wide 3- or 4-inch deep open bowls to tall cylindrical glass flower vases.
the pebbles. Keep the soil-planted ones evenly moist. Make sure the Pamela A. water level stays right at the rootKeene base of the ones in pebbles. From time to time, turn the containers Curb to prevent the foliage or bloom Appeal stalks from growing toward the light. If you’ve chosen good quality paperwhites, every bulb may produce three to four separate n MORE INFO: Email: bunches of leaves with multiple pam@pamelakeene.com bloom stalks each, which will appear after three to four weeks. If Fill the container with 2 to 3 the plants become top-heavy, add inches of potting soil or pebbles. a decorative element, such as Place the bulbs flat side down on some twiggy branches or even a the soil or pebbles, then carefully tall plastic candy cane, tie a ribadd a bit more planting medium bon around the leaves and secure to keep the bulb stable. Fill to with a pretty bow. If you’ve used cover only the bottom third top a cylindrical vase, the problem of half of the bulb. Moisten the soil floppy leaves is solved. or add water to the pebbles just to For amaryllis, the bloom stalks reach the roots. will appear first, edging their way Add a bit of aquarium charcoal out of the massive bulbs as flower when planting in water with river buds with multiple blossoms on pebbles. This will help deter roteach thick stem. ting and keep the growing Your paperwhites may bloom medium fresh smelling. for several weeks, carrying your Place the pots away from winter cheer from Christmas into drafts but near a sunny window. January. Cut early blossoms for Within a couple of days, green bud vases or bouquets; as flowers shoots will start to peek out from fade remove the entire stalk from the bulbs and the white roots will the plant. Let the bulbs complete begin to fill the container between their bloom cycle. Sometimes
Amaryllis: the holiday bulb that keeps on giving.
you’ll be surprised by a late growing flower stalk, so don’t give up too early. After all the paperwhite bulbs have blossomed and the foliage begins to fade, discard them. There’s no reason to save them for next year; the stress of forcing them wears them out and they can’t be regrown. Keep the container and the pebbles to use next year. Amaryllis, on the other hand, are the holiday bulb that keeps on giving. Each year, I allow the foliage to grow until it begins to turn brown. Then I take them from their pots, allow them to dry
CREDIT: PIXABAY
out a bit and – when it’s past all chance of frost – plant them outdoors. They make a really showy flower bed and after a season or two will revert to putting out blooms in the late spring and early summer. They make great flowers to cut and bring indoors; they have a long vase life. Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener. She also writes for more than a dozen publications across the country, covering features, travel and gardening.
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December 2021
Lake Lanier Marinas Info
n BALD RIDGE MARINA Hours of operation: Office, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., marina has 24/7 access. Phone: 770-887-5309 Website: www.baldridgemarina.com Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered. On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ Store hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat./Sun. Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.39; $3.74 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs.-Mon. Closed Tues./Wed.) Security: 24/7 security, gated Additional amenities: Full-service department, parts department, boat body work and yacht repair.Boating supplies/commissary/dry goods/retail clothing.
n HOLIDAY MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Phone: 770-945-7201 Website: www.holidaylakelanier.com Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100' Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totalling 1238 Slips Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies. Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.99 premium; $4.79 unleaded; $4.29 diesel (5 percent discount with Westrec advantage membership) On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar Menu: Fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak Phone: 678 714-7572 Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Boat rentals, repair service, pumpout station, boat sales, TowBoat US
LAZY DAYS n GAINESVILLE MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Phone: 770-536-2171 Website: www.gainesvillemarina.com Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville Types of slips available: 600 slips, dry stack covered up to 25', wet covered & uncovered up to 80'. Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.39 (Pay at pump until dark.) On-site eatery: Skogies Menu: BBQ, seafood and American fare. Phone: 678-450-1310 Security: 7 days a week Additional amenities: Parts department, land service shop, climate-controlled bath houses, pump-out stations, security 7 days a week/video surveillance. Sales of new, used and brokerage boats.
n HABERSHAM MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Closed on Sunday. Phone: 770-887-5432 Website: www.habershammarina.com Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: 600 slips for dry storage up to 28’ Store: Yes Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.44 Security: Yes Additional amenities: Repair services, detailing and bottom cleaning. Also bathroom and shower facilities are available.
n HARBOR LANDING Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.-Sun. Phone: 470 323-3465 Website: www.margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Types of slips: Houseboats only. 18x60, 22x80 Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) N/A non-ethanol; N/A diesel (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.) On-site eatery: Various restaurants including Landshark, Cantina, Tiki Bar Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Margaritaville, daily pontoon boat rentals (no overnights). Luxury houseboat program. Call for details.
at Holiday on Lake Lanier
n LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier) Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Phone: 770-945-1991 Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford Types of slips available: Concrete Wet Slips from 50 - 125 foot covered & 100 foot open slips; 554 covered dry stack spaces up to 36 feet Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol marine fuel treated with ValvTect; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.99 regular; $3.69 diesel Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring Full Service Department: Barefoot Boating, 770-820-5949 Boat Club: Carefree Boat Club, 678-725-0730 Additional Amenities: Bath house facility with individual private units. Trailer storage, dock carts, ice available, boat detailing service, free pump out for customers; Dry Stack-Boat Cloud smartphone app to control launch/retrieval of boat. Pre-Fueling service, wash racks; Wet Slips-gated/private parking, golf cart valet service, in-slip pump out,
n PORT OF INDECISION MARINA Hours of operation: Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Phone: 470 323-3465 Website: www.margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Store: Yes; only open on weekends. Types of slips available: 14x32, 14x36, (254 units, up to 40’), all covered Types of fuel: non ethanol. Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.79 non-ethanol (Dock open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.-Sun.; Closed Mon.-Thurs.) On-site eatery: Various restaurants including Landshark, Cantina, Tiki Bar Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Margaritaville
n PORT ROYALE MARINA Hours of operation: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Phone: 770-887-5715 Website: www.bestinboating.com/port_royale Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106' totaling 815 slips & dry stack storage (521) for up to 39'.
Store: Service Store (Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. Closed Sun. Ship Store (Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.39 regular (Dock 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 Menu: Burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings and more Security: Gated, 24/7 Additional amenities: Climate controlled bath house with showers, 24/7 self-service pump out, rental boats, courtesy dock for dry stack, two ship stores, full-service center, largest floating gas dock in Ga., 16 gas pumps, houseboat rentals.
n SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Closed Sun. Phone: 770-967-6811 Website: www.aqualandmarina.com Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Houseboats, covered cruisers, & all types of open slips plus covered & open dry slips, totaling 1,725 wet docks and 460 dry docks Store: Yes Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.69, members; $5.09 non-members (Dock/store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) On-site eatery: Pig Tales Menu: BBQ, burgers, wings and more Security: 24/7, gated Additional amenities: Self service work yard with deep draft well & marine travel lift, houseboat launching ramp, pump-out station, bathhouses with showers, laundry facilities, wet slips with private gated parking.
n SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock - 8:30-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Phone: 770-967-5500 Website: www.hideawaybaymarina.com Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Wet (510) Dry (150) Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $5.09 On-site eatery: Fish Tales Lakeside Grille Menu: Grouper fingers, sandwiches, salads and more Security: 24/7 manned security Showroom: Atlanta Marine Additional amenities: Full Maintenance, Repair and Service on site: Harbor Marine & Associates. Bathhouse w/ locked showers and AC, laundry, pump out, trailer storage.
n SUNRISE COVE MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon. Closed Tuesday. Phone: 770-536-8599 Website: www.sunrisecovermarina.com Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered-20-70'; Covered-24-50'; to include an exclusive 44' Sailboat Breakwater Dock. Total Wet Slips 688 and nine (9) Dry Storage Spaces (boats on trailer). Store: Yes (Sandwiches and wraps only available in summer) Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 11/17/21) $4.79 with 5 percent off with Westrec Advantage Membership Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Club House, bath house, laundry facility and pump-out open 24/7.
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Agency seeks help in reporting monarch sightings
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Last winter, volunteers from across the Southeast and Gulf states provided more than 5,800 observations of monarch butterflies. This winter, the partnership of universities, agencies and other organizations called Monarchs Overwintering in Southeastern States is requesting the public’s continued involvement in reporting sightings. Sonia Altizer, a University of Georgia ecology professor and director of Project Monarch Health, said the information can help scientists determine if these iconic but declining butterflies “can overwinter as non-breeding adults in the southern U.S. and how this might affect future population numbers.” The monitoring will also help document how winterbreeding activity might be affecting the annual migration to Mexico. Understanding migration and overwintering behavior is crucial to conserving monarchs, a candidate for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Thousands of monarchs stream across the South each fall on their way to wintering grounds in central Mexico. In the spring, this eastern population of the butterfly returns to the U.S.
Monarch butterfly.
and Canada to breed. But not all monarchs migrate to Mexico. Volunteer observations over the past two decades have helped scientists better understand how and why some monarchs breed throughout the winter in the southern U.S. Scattered reports also suggest that some monarchs can overwinter in coastal regions in a non-breeding state, similar to their wintering behavior in Mexico. The goal this winter is to collect more data for a growing partnership that has expanded to include organizations such as Florida Natural Areas Inventory and the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Gabriela Garrison of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission said the monarch is a species of greatest conservation need in North Carolina’s Wildlife Action Plan, as in the action plans of many other states. “So monitoring overwintering populations and learning more about their behavior is critical.” The public is encouraged to report monarch sightings from Dec. 1-March 1 in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Observations are entered in Journey North’s online data portal, where they are transformed into real-time mapping visualizations of monarch migration and breeding. Journey North is an organization designed to engage people across North America in tracking wildlife migration and seasonal change. Program coordinator Nancy Sheehan said the public has a long history of being a part of scientific discoveries. “Journey North is excited to provide a platform for engaging citizen scientists in this targeted monitoring effort.” Susan Meyers, cochair of Monarchs Across Georgia agreed. “Volunteers are vital to this effort. See Monarchs, page 46
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December 2021
ABCA hosts regional conference By Pamela A. Keene When America’s Boating Club Atlanta hosted the national group’s district meeting in November in North Georgia, they had a very special guest. Chief Commander Mary Paige Abbott, the national group’s first female commander, attended. “It was quite an honor for Chief Commander Abbott to attend our meeting,” said Margaret Sherrod, commander of the Atlanta group. “One of our members was at a meeting with her earlier this year and invited her to our conference and she accepted. It is not common for chief commanders to attend district meetings. “She came to also recognize the 50th anniversary of the Memphis Squadron,” Sherrod said. “We were thrilled to have her at our meeting and for our members to have a chance to meet her face to face.” The two-day conference in Hiawassee
Mary Paige Abbott, right, chief commander of America’s Boating Club national, chats with representatives from the Beaufort, SC, squadron at a social event.
Past Commander Dave Fuller shows boating flares at the safety presentation.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVE FULLER
Lisa Herndon Wilson demonstrates the group’s Boat Simulator.
drew representation from nearly a halfdozen groups across the district. Squadrons from Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, Huntsville, Beaufort and Atlanta attended, bring the total to more than 40 people. Sessions included a review of instructor standards, a demonstration of
See ABCA, page 46
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Designing for entertaining during the holiday season and beyond The holidays are officially here and that means it’s hosting and entertaining season. This is the time of year when you really get to see how your home’s layout works and what might need to be changed. When thinking about entertaining in your home, the two most important things to think about are space and function. Do you have enough space to host guests and is that space functional? For those that have overnight guests, you of course must think about sleeping arrangements. But, for everyone, the most important areas to think about are the kitchen and living/entertaining spaces. These are the areas where you and your guests will spend most of your time. When thinking about your space and a possible redesign or remodel, the first question to think about is: what is your entertaining style? Some people have large gatherings of friends and family, while others prefer more intimate groups. Will your guests stay inside, or do you want to use exterior entertaining space, as well? This, of course, also depends on the weather. Do you like to host formal dinner parties for the holidays or are your gather-
island or peninsula is a great area to put out food and drinks or Sara place additional seating. This Bagwell style opens up the seating options for guests. Everyone doesn’t have to feel crammed into one Design & space and you likely won’t need Remodel to bring in many additional chairs, if any, if you have seating in your dining room, kitchen and living room available. One thing nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com to keep in mind with an open floor plan is that you will want the lighting style to flow throughings more informal? Will your out the space, as well as the wall guests be bringing food for a potluck meal or will you be cook- color and flooring. If you have too many styles or colors in an ing or having the meal catered? These are all important questions open space, that visually breaks to ask yourself. The best space for up the space and can make it feel smaller. entertaining is a space that For those who like smaller, matches your style of entertainmore formal gatherings, like dining. ner parties, an open concept For those who like to host might not be the best plan for large, informal gatherings, an you. When hosting a formal gathopen concept plan would make ering or dinner party, you likely the most sense. An open concept will want a formal dining area. plan is one that has a large, open Having a separate dining area living space that is open to the from the kitchen keeps the cookkitchen and dining area. This space allows guests more room to ing mess out of guests’ sight or allows you to bring in a caterer or freely move around and mingle private chef, and the dining room but also makes sure the host(s) stays clean and quiet where still feel like they are part of the guests can talk. While the open party. This type of plan tends to concept plan is certainly very also lend itself to a kitchen with popular right now, it’s not for an island or large peninsula. An
PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING
An open kitchen and surrounding area can be perfect for large holiday gatherings.
everyone. Some people still prefer formal, defined spaces and don’t want everyone to see into their kitchen. And just because your kitchen is not open to the other areas of your home doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful, updated kitchen. You may want to consider updating cabinets, lighting, work surfaces, and storage so that you have a functional space. In the South, we’re fortunate enough to be able to be outside a lot of the year. Having a covered deck or screened porch adds to your entertaining square footage and allows guests to utilize space outside. However, if you want a space that truly is for any season or all-weather, then a sunroom is
a great option. Adding a sunroom or converting a deck or porch into a sunroom will give you additional space to host guests. Plus, it will give you a space to enjoy and entertain in all year long. If this holiday season leaves you feeling cramped and wishing for more space, consider a floor plan or kitchen remodel or even an addition. That way, you’ll be prepared to host a bigger, and even more spectacular party next year. Merry Christmas and happy entertaining! This is a reprint of Sara’s column from three years ago. Sara Bagwell is a designer for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.
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December 2021
Nearby Suches is a beautiful valley above the clouds My first pre-teen trips to the area around Suches, Ga. were with my father and my Uncle Bob to pursue the abundant and spectacular trout that inhabited the picturesque bubbling brooks. Later, as a budding race car driver, I honed my driver skills at high speeds on the intricate curves of each road leading to Suches. This education of every imaginable corner would pay off for me many times when racing the best drivers in the world on the eclectic race tracks throughout Europe from 1960 to 1970. Even today, the Walter Mitty dreams of motorcycle riders and car racing enthusiasts draw thousands to test their skills on the plethora of cornering opportunities leading to the Valley Above the Clouds! Because of the inherent dangers, many destroy their cars or motorcycles. Or worse, be injured or killed. Suches is an unincorporated area in Union County with a height above sea level approaching 3,000 feet, and is one of the most elevated places in the state. The climate, land and way of life in this charming farming neighborhood are laid back. It is the birth place of Arthur Woody, a forest ranger who was a prominent personality in the early history of Chattahoochee National Forest. Suches is located about a mile from the Appalachian Trail as it goes through Woody Gap. For those who come for the stunning beauty of this mountain area, it is famous for its scenic views and abundant outdoor activities. If you enjoy camping, canoeing, picnicking, hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding or just breathing the clean mountain air, Suches is your kind of place! Within a few miles of the
Bill Vanderford Travel Editor
n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD
your car, it takes a half mile hike to arrive at the bridge that really does swing over the rushing waters of the Toccoa River. Where to have a good meal is always the concern of people traveling to remote mountain areas, but in Suches I have two great recommendations – especially if you like hamburgers! The first one is located less than a mile from Lake Winfield Scott and is known as Bootleggers Grille (706-747-1007). The other one is on the way to the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge and it is known as Wildcat BBQ and General Store (706-747-3855). Suches provides the perfect nearby getaway for a vacation or long weekend and its close proximity to so many places of interest keep tourists occupied and away from the buzzing sound of cities. This beautiful valley above the clouds is a heaven for numerous outdoor pleasures that for ages has lured people to return many times! 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.
Linda Lee on the open section of Lake Winfield Scott.
center, you can visit the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge, the historic Woody Gap School, Lake Winfield Scott, Preacher’s Rock, Deep Hole Recreation Area, Sosebee Cove, Dockery Lake and thousands of acres of the stunning Chattahoochee National Forest. A visit to the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge is visionally rewarding, but be patient and take it slow on the last three very bumpy miles of a dirt road. After parking
Landing a trout in a stream near Suches.
A stream near Suches, top. View of Mt. Yonah rrom the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. middle. People enjoying the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge, bottom.
Wildcat BBQ and General Store, above. Bootleggers Grille, right.
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• Outdoors Continued from Page 31 gins 6 p.m. Dec. 31, Historic Downtown Dahlonega. $10. www.dahlonegafirstnight.org. o Dropping of the Edelweiss, Helen. Music, food, party hats, dancing, champagne toast and more, 8 p.m. Dec. 31-12 a.m. Jan. 1, Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss St. $20 per person, $35 couples, half price children 6-12, free to children younger than 6. www.helenga.org. o Falls to Farm First Day Hike, Sautee Nacoochee. 11-mile one way hike from Anna Ruby Falls to Hardman Farm Historic Site spans estate of Hardman Farm’s founding family, includes shuttle from farm to start of hike at falls, support stops, post-hike meal, farm tour and commemorative t-shirt, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 1, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy. 17. $40. www.gastateparks.org., 706-868-1077. o New Year’s Hike in Chicopee Woods, Gainesville. Guided hike with nature center naturalist, 8-10 a.m. Jan. 1, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. See website for registration information. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o New Year’s Day 5K, Cumming. 9 a.m. Jan. 1, North Forsyth Middle School, 3545 Coal Mountain Rd. $21-$25. www.fivestarntp.com. o First Day Hike on Back Country Trail, Tallulah Falls. 3-mile moderate hike, 9-11 a.m. Jan. 1, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5 parking. Call to register. No pets. For ages 8 and older.
o Paddle & Plunge Polar Bear Swim, Gainesville. Two New Year’s Day options: a guided 2-mile canoe/kayak paddle around island at Limestone Cove at 11 a.m. and noon Polar Bear Plunge on the beach, Jan. 1, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd. $20-$40. www.lakelanierolympicvenue.org. o First Day Hike to Duke’s Creek Falls, Helen. 1.3-mile hike to pit stop at primitive cabin continues 1.2 miles to falls, 1-3 p.m. Jan. 1, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.
6:30/7 p.m. Dec. 10, Habersham Recreation Center, 120 Paul Franklin Rd. $20. www.active.com. o Second Saturday Hike, Helen. Hike 1.6 mile Laurel Ridge Trail with new park naturalist, 10-11:30 a.m. Dec. 11, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o Street Trucks Show-Off Series, Gainesville. Custom truck show with prizes, live music, food trucks, vendors, chain saw carving, and more, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 11, Auto Metal Direct, 3348 Gateway Center Pkwy. www.showoffseries.com. o Reindeer Run 5K/10K, Buford. 8:30 a.m. Dec. 11, 396 E. Main St. NE. $27-$40. www.fivestarntp.com. o Discovery Saturday, Gainesville. Meet resident wildlife in live animal exhibit guided by naturalist, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 11, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Register in advance.$5 adults, $3 children ages 2-12, free to Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
General Outdoor Activities See Don Carter State Park Facebook page for park activities. o Dash Away 5K, Dahlonega. 4:30 p.m. Dec. 4, Yahoola Creek Park, 11266 Captain McDonald Rd. $25-$30. www.fivestarntp.com. o Run Santa Run 5K/Fun Run, Cumming. Benefits Toys for Tots, bring an unwrapped toy with a value of $20-$25 for free registration, 8:30/9 a.m. Dec. 4, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. www.active.com. o Dirty Spokes Cannonball Run, Winder. 3.1/8.75-mile trail runs, 8 a.m. Dec. 4, Fort Yargo State Park, Entrance B, 210 S. Broad St. $40-$50. www.dirtyspokes.com. o Virtual Science Night. Learn about Georgia spiders from Nancy Hinkle, University of Georgia specialist, Zoom program by Elachee Nature Science Center, 7-8 p.m. Dec. 7. Register at www.elachee.org. o Jingle Jog/2-Mile Elf Jog, Clarkesville.
o Stars Over Elachee, Gainesville. Learn how to use a telescope, view the first quarter moon, stars and constellations, 5:15-7:15 Dec. 11, Chicopee Woods Aquatic Studies Center at Chicopee Lake, 2100 Calvary Church Rd. For adults and children age 8 and older. Bring flashlight and pencil. Telescope fee $30 for up to 5 family members or friend group. Free to Elachee members. Register in advance. 770535-1976, www.elachee.org. o White Elephant 5K, Sugar Hill. 6 p.m. Dec. 12, 650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. $15-$25. www.fivestarntp.com. o Beginner Archery, Tallulah Falls. Learn to shoot an arrow or improve your skills, 1-2:30 p.m. Dec. 18, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981. o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 5:15-7 p.m. Dec. 18, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981. o Winter Farmers Market, Flowery Branch. 3:30-6:30 p.m. first and third Thursdays through April, City Hall Lawn, 5410 W. Pine St. www.flowerybranchfarmersmarket.com. o 5K/10K Championships, Cumming. Top finishers in Five Star races and other races compete, 8:30 a.m. Jan. 2, North Forsyth Middle School, 3635 Coal Mountain Dr. $25-$40. www.fivestarntp.com. – compiled by Jane Harrison
Serving the Community for Over 57 Years Family Owned and Operated
Boat Dock Inspections & Electrical/Lighting Landscape/Pathway Electrical & Lighting GFCI Compliance Certification & Repairs Generator Installations Licensed & Insured 57th
196 4
1 202
dukeelecofga@gmail.com
44 LAKESIDE
December 2021
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. 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.Hideaway Bay ...........................770 967-5500 10.Sunrise Cove ............................770 536-8599 11.Sunset Cove .............................678 304-3157
December 2021
LAKESIDE 45
The Arts Council Announces . . .
Diego Figueiredo Friday, Feb 18 Saturday, Feb 19
Annie Sellick Quartet Friday, Jan 21 Saturday, Jan 22
2022
Alexis Cole Trio Friday, Mar 18 Saturday, Mar 19
The Arts Council 2022 Evenings of Intimate Jazz Series Table for 6: $1,080 Series Tickets: $180 (Series Tickets must pick all Friday or all Saturday performances) Gloria Reuben Trio Friday, April 15 Saturday, April 16
Halie Loren Trio Friday, May 20 Saturday, May 21
The Arts Council, Inc. 2022 Evenings of Intimate Jazz 331 Spring Street SW | Gainesville, GA 770-534-27878 | www.TheArtsCouncil.net | info@theartscouncil.net
FORSYTH COUNTY
Jill Baugus Associate Broker, Realtor
678-776-0746 jill@LakeHomes.com
CAPTIVATING BIG WATER VIEWS THAT ARE ONLY MATCHED BY THIS MAGNIFICENT ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOME TO BE BUILT BY LEE WAGNER! Exclusive gated community of $million+ lakefront homes. This highly sought-after location features the largest allowable private double slip dock located in the clearest of deep waters with miles of spectacular long-range, open water views.
CAPTIVATING VIEWS!
FORSYTH COUNTY LAKE LOT
LAKE LOT WITH DOCK
NEW LISTING
20+ Years of Representing Buyers and Sellers, and a Lifetime of Experience on Lake Lanier
Experience Matters.
Captivating Big Water Views That Will Absolutely Take Your Breath Away! 1st time on market. Build your dream home in this exclusive gated community overlooking Chestatee Bay. Large private DS dock located in the clearest of deep waters. $949,000 Forsyth
Prime Forsyth County lake lot in gated community of Lyonesse. Short, easy walk to deeded oversized boat slip in drought-proof, crystal deep south-lake sailing waters! Views across the main body of the lake! Highly sought-after location by land or by water! Brand new East Forsyth High School. Enjoy now-build later! $525,000
FORSYTH COUNTY LAKE LOT
1 + ACRE LAKEFRONT LOT
SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!
SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!
Nice Forsyth County lake lot with a Corps line close to the water to capture great water views! Gentle walk to existing Private Dock and Permit for a 28' x 30' single slip deep water dock. Great area of the lake off Chestatee Bay and nice area of homes.
1+ acre lakefront lot in a nice Gainesville lake neighborhood of upscale homes on larger sized lot. Private single slip dock and permit. No association dues.
LakeLanierLiving.com
1-866-LAKEHOMES
Beautiful cul-de-sac lot in established upscale Hall County swim/tennis/lake neighborhood with a private 32'x 32' double slip dock in drought-proof water! $269,000
December 2021
46 LAKESIDE
• ABCA Continued from Page 40 boating safety techniques and business meetings. Planners also arranged for a preconference dinner off-site as well as a band on Friday evening and a DJ for Saturday night’s entertainment. America’s Boating Club Atlanta offers social events, boating education classes
and a chance for boaters to meet others interested in boating. It hosts raft-ups and on-land meetings. Additionally, the group plans out-of-town boating-related trips for members. For more information about ABCA visit AmericasBoatingClubAtlanta.org.
• Monarchs
A A Dock Supply Wholesale Retail Dealer for Wave Armor PWC Ports and Drive-on Boat Lifts
Continued from Page 39 If you enjoy being outdoors and exploring your local ecosystem, this is an easy activity that can be done alone or with your family.” Wildlife biologist Anna Yellin of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources said project partners are grateful to all who reported sightings last winter. “When we come together as a community as we have with this effort, we stand a better chance
of protecting the monarch butterfly for future generations.” How to participate Step 1: Create a free account at journeynorth.org/reg. Step 2: Learn how to report monarch sightings at journeynorth.org/monarchs. Step 3: From Dec. 1-March 1, submit monarch observations at journeynorth.org/sightings.
Eagle Dock Floats
• Calendar Continued from Page 26
by HENDREN PLASTICS INC.
forming Arts Center, 1665 Perimeter Rd., Dawsonville. o Dec. 8 – UNG Jazz Band performs its Fall 2021 concert featuring classic and contemporary compositions. The concert will be held 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the Gloria Shott Auditorium, Dahlonega campus. o Dec. 10 – 2021 Holiday Choral Festival featuring the UNG Chorale, UNG Singers, Le
Belle Voci, Patriot Choir and students from the UNG chamber and instrumental ensembles held 7:30-9 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville. Info: 678-717-3438; www.ung.edu. Voices of North Georgia o Dec. 3, 4 – Sing a Song of Christmas performance at 7:30 p.m.; St. Paul UMC sanctuary. Info: www.voicesofnorthgeorgia.com.
Cumming , GA
678-807-7777 • 770-403-4899
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
5303 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30503
www.martindocksinc.com 770 536-0189 Fax: 770 536-4444 Toll-Free: 1-888-536-0189
• 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 and Gangways • Shoreline Steps • Rip Rap • Dredging • Dock Accessories • Used Docks, Consignments & Trade-Ins Welcome • Serving Lanier, Allatoona, Hartwell & Surrounding Lakes
LAKESIDE 47
December 2021
CLASSIFIEDS
Lanier Landscaping and Bobcat Service Serving North Georgia For 20 Years
FOR SALE
STORAGE
Business for sale: Popstop, bed and breakfast. Fishcamp/bait store & convenience store. 770-967-9379.
Storage near Old Federal boat ramp Popstop. $60 per month, uncovered. 770-9679379.
EVENTS
Thanks for using Lakeside classifieds!
Hendrix Dock Service. New & used PWC ports. Dealer for Wave Armor PWC & Boat Ports. 678-807-7777 or 770-4034899.
LIST YOUR CLASSIFIED IN LAKESIDE ON LANIER:
Only $15 per Month! Up to 20 words, then only 25 cents per word after that! Call 770-287-1444 or online at www.lakesidenews.com. Let the best take care of your yard. Deal straight with the owner. Get exceptional service that you can count on. Call today!
470-449-1360
Recreation Guide for Lake Lanier 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. Info: www.lakesidenews.com/camping.
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/LakeSidneyLanier.aspx
Vesper’s Marine Service “Quality and Service You Can Depend On”
Marine Repair at Your Location! • Expert Marine Repair • Over 25 Years Experience • Factory Trained Service on: Mercruiser, Mercury, OMC and Volvo Penta • Service on Most Makes and Models Vesper’s Marine Service 548 Station Trail Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: 678-557-4468 Fax: 770-887-4468
The Market for Classic Antiques & Collectibles, Unique Home & Garden Decor, Art & Jewelry Including Nautical & Lake Decor
2022 Schedule
December 3, 4, 5*
January 14, 15, 16 February 18, 19, 20 March 18, 19, 20 April 15, 16, 17 May 20, 21, 22 June 17, 18, 19 July 15, 16, 17 August 19, 20, 21 September 16, 17, 18 October 14, 15, 16 November 18, 19, 20 December 2, 3, 4*
Antiques and Christmas Gift Market
*Held the 1st weekend of December not the 3rd.
www.lakewoodantiques.com
* Held the 1st weekend of December not the 3rd.
December 3, 4, 5
Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-6 • Sun 10-5 Tickets: $3.00 • Good All Weekend Children Under 12 Free Lakewood 400 Antiques Market
1321 Atlanta Highway • Cumming, GA 30040
770-889-3400
48 LAKESIDE
December 2021
TRACY TESMER
Design • Remodeling
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, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, & 2021