Lakeside On Lanier January 2023

LLA looks to 2023

New committees and projects, a call for new board members and a new location are on the docket for 2023 with the Lake Lanier Association. Page 47

LLOP updates

With an eye toward the continuing growth and expansion of Lake Lanier Olympic Park, the Lake Lanier Olympic Park Foundation has announced a capital campaign and the new boathouse expansion continues. Page 54

Visiting Tybee Island

mous

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE Customers enter one of the newest restaurants to open on the Gainesville square, Taqueria Tsunami. A flurry of new restaurants have opened within a block or two of the downtown square featuring an international array of choices to suit any palate. Story, photos

is published by Lanier Publishing, Inc., 3292 Thompson Bridge Rd. #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 287-1444

Publisher/Editor

Alan Hope Production Susan Nish

Susan Daniel Creative, Inc.

Senior Writer Pamela A. Keene

Contributing writers Jane Harrison, Millie Adcox Columnists

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

Travel Editor Bill Vanderford

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

Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is back for 2023

Georgia’s longest-running and biggest boating event returns this January after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

The 2023 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive Insurance, opens at the Georgia World Congress Center January 12-15, providing a one-stop shop and winter boating oasis to discover the joys of being on the water.

As always, the show will feature hundreds of new boats and marine products for sale, plus a variety of boating activities and education, there’s nautical fun for all ages and experience levels.

Some of this year’s features include:

• Boats & Brews – $5 after 5. Thursday only, $5 admission after 5 p.m. Head to the show and celebrate on opening day. Stop by after 5 p.m. and enjoy $5 drink specials, too. (Discount tickets available online and onsite after 5 p.m. on January 12 only.)

• Sailing seminars: Learn from experts. Sailing sessions are for sailors of all skill levels. Visit the show website for schedule.

• Bass tub fishing demos, seminars: Watch pro anglers demonstrate fishing and casting skills at this 5,000-gallon aquarium. See how fish react to different fishing techniques, baits, and lures.

Boating industry officials say more than 800,000 first-time boat buyers have taken to the water in the past two years and demand for boating has never been stronger.

Hours: Thursday through Fri-

day, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Georgia World Congress Center, Hall C, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta, Ga.

Tickets: $17 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Buy tickets at www.atlantaboatshow.com.

More info: www.atlantaboatshow.com.

North Georgia boat shows come to Lake Lanier

By Pamela A. Keene

Two hyper-local in-the-water boat shows in February and March give residents of North Georgia opportunities to see the latest 2023 boats on Lake Lanier close to home.

February 10-12 Gainesville Marina’s 3rd Annual North Georgia Boat and RV Extravaganza, brings together top dealers and brands in boat and camping recreation. The three-day show will include all types of boats, trailers, recreational vehicles and marine-

related vendors.

Less than three weeks later –the weekend of March 3-5 – the Lake Lanier Boat Show returns to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Sponsored by the Marine Trade Association of Metro Atlanta, it is expected to draw more than a dozen local boat dealers offering their latest models.

“Each February we’re pleased to give people an early look at the new season’s recreational offerings that will increase their enjoyment of the lake, the mountains

and recreation,” said Philip Burton, managing partner of Gainesville Marina. “In addition to our own lines, other manufacturers from the area will be joining us, as well as marine-related companies, such as dock builders.”

First held last fall, the Lake Lanier Boat Show is designed for boaters in the area. It will showcase the 2023 models.

“Last fall’s show at Margaritaville was very successful, and our dealers and vendors have been See Boat Shows, page 12

Previous Atlanta Boat Show.

“After our home in Cartersville sold quickly, we began the search for our retirement home near our children. A friend and realtor connected us with the Living on Lake Lanier Team and from the start we knew we were paired with an incredible person. She listened to our wishes and hopes and began researching potential homes. She was patient and understanding as we viewed many homes that were nice but didn’t quite feel like “our” home. She never grew impatient. Each day we were available to go see homes, she juggled her schedule and met us. When we finally came across the home that clicked with us, she was outstanding in representing us. She was professional in presenting the offer and walking us through the due diligence period. She advocated for us in negotiating. She was an excellent communicator as she thoroughly led us through all the details before closing. She took our purchase as seriously as if it were her own and shared in our joy after we signed the papers. We would highly recommend Living on Lake Lanier Team to anyone looking for an excellent realtor who knows their biz and loves their clients.”

- Michael and Vicki T.

Featured Testimonial of the Month

Craftsman charmer on Lake Lanier

Professionally landscaped oasis including an in-ground gunite pool, hot tub, and grill deck. 5 BR/4.5 BA Gainesville home has modern touches and careful attention to detail in the numerous renovations and updates. New carpet, paint, roof, siding, and water heater! 2-story foyer, office w/ rustic wood accent wall. The kitchen renovations include refaced cabinets, new tile backsplash, new granite countertops, under-mount stainless steel sink, and new light fixtures. Upstairs you will enjoy an updated primary suite with relaxing modern stone shower and large secondary bedrooms. On the terrace level a huge, finished basement can be used as a teen apartment or in-law suite! And there’s a separate outbuilding for your pool supplies or extra storage. Tons of space with the 3 car garage as well. Close to shopping, restaurants, I-985, UNG Gainesville Campus and Lake Lanier. $695K

Extraordinary home in Suwanee

Extraordinary home, beautifully updated with the latest finishes, in the sought-after Lambert High School district. Recent updates include a magazine-quality kitchen remodel, finished terrace level including kitchenette, roof, HVAC, secret theater room (also a safe room), new fixtures, luxury master shower w/ 5 water features, reclaimed wood from a local historic farm used in structures in the terrace redo, gym, rec room, playroom w/ barn doors & so much more! Back yard w/ a 3-story tree house, zip line, Miracle Garden system, raised planting beds, high-fencing and fire pit. REAL hardwood floors, a 2-story garage that could accommodate car lifts for extra storage, large loft/playroom with built-in bunks and so much more. It sleeps an army (almost) and is located in the richest county in GA that has low taxes and every possible amenity. $748K

Holiday

By Pamela A. Keene

More than 30 festive boats cut an impressive path along the calm waters of Lake Lanier shortly after dusk the second Saturday in December. The Holiday Boat Light Parade was deemed a huge success by organizers.

“Just about every boat in the parade was over the top with decorations and holiday spirit,” said Richard Pickering, organizer of the annual event that raised funds for the Georgia Sheriff’s Youth Homes. “The weather was perfect, timing worked like a charm and spectators turned out to support

the event.”

still accepted

Pickering said that so far (as of mid-December), entry fees, sponsor contributions and donations have exceeded $5,000.

“We are still accepting donations through our Facebook page – Holiday Boat Light Parade – so that we can further increase our support of the Georgia Sheriff’s Youth Homes,” he said.

“We didn’t do the silent auction this year, but we plan to bring it back in 2023 to help us raise even more for this worthwhile cause that helps the Georgia Sheriff’s Youth See Parade, page 10

A scene from the annual Holiday Lights Boat Parade on Lake Lanier

PHOTO BY BETSY JORGENSEN

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

A sampling of fishing information and tips from area experts

Lake level: Down 2.3 feet

Temperature: 50s

Clarity: Stained to muddy

Bass fishing

Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good. The bass are still scattered throughout the water column so a variety of techniques are working. There are a lot of fish on the rocky points and bluff walls. A green pumpkin trick worm on a shakey head or a jig have been producing good quality fish in less than 15 feet of water. You may have to work to get numbers but the quality of the fish has been very good.

Fish are also moving to deeper structures in the creeks and ditches where the Spotchoker, spoon or jig have also been producing solid fish. I have been throwing a three eights Spotchoker with a Kietech trailer worked on 12-pound fluorocarbon to reach the deep fish. Work this bait very slowly and don’t set the hook hard, just sweep your rod and keep reeling. The baitfish are showing up in the ditches on my

Panotic’s and for them I am using the half ounce Georgia Blade spoon on the same fluorocarbon line. Being able to stay on top of the schools is critical for this technique. I use a short hop with the spoon only lifting my rod tip about a foot and letting the spoon freefall. You won’t always feel the bite as the fish will catch it on the fall and you feel in on your next lift. Its fun to watch the spoon fall and see the fish react to the bait. I actually got to see a Loon go through a school of shad this week and it looked like a torpedo going through.

The key thing will be to fish whichever bait you choose very slowly as the fish move slower as the water temperature drops. It a great time to fish and they are biting so Go Catch ‘Em!

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

Crappie fishing

Crappie can be found from 10 to 40 feet deep. The fish are still

in deep brush. Fish docks with structure and the fish will be suspended near the top. Deep blow downs, and brush piles are still holding crappie.

If you are using jigs we just had a big rain and the water color is mud stained so I would start with a darker color combination. Recently, the crappie have been hitting both jigs and minnows. We use ATX lure company’s jigs on a lip thrashing lure jig heads. I use 5 pound test high visibility yellow K9 braid for my line unless I am using a bobber. Then it’s the K9 6 pound high vis line (www.k9fishing.com) and a Acc crappie Stix. I use Garmin Live Scope and the Navionics Boating app.

This crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton, 770 5306493, www.crappieonlanier.com. Meet captains, guides at the Atlanta Boat Show

Receive fishing tips and tricks from leading Lake Lanier guides at the 2023 Atlanta Boat Show at the Georgia World Congress Center, Building C, January 12-

15. Guides include Ken Sturdivant, Captain Cefus McRae, Captain Josh Thornton, Captain Mark Smith, Erica DeLana, Greg Showmake, Rene Hesse, and Rick

Burns. They will be featured at the show’s “Let’s Go Fishing” center.

For more information visit www.atlantaboatshow.com.

• Parade

Continued from Page 8

Homes provide a real home life for the children and youth who live there.”

Winners included:

• Best Yacht: Splash, owned by Gary Austin

• Most Decorated: Shooting Star, owned by Kenneth Eggers

• Best Cruiser: Wish You Were Here, owned by Krista DeMarinis

• Best Houseboat: Silent Part ner, owned by Jeffery Denaga

• Best Crew: Santa’s Got a Brand New Sleigh, owned by Amy Looby

• Best Theme: Chiki Tiki, owned by Lorri Sands

• Best Pontoon, owned by Brandon Taylor

• Best Sailboat: Indie J, owned by Doug Neal

• Grand Prize: Compromise Cabin, owned by Joe Connolly. Thomas Stepnowski was awarded the Sponsor Grand Prize.

The winners were awarded snowflake-shaped plaques.

Next year’s Holiday Boat Light Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 9. For updates, visit the group’s Facebook Page at Holiday Boat Light Parade, where you can also make donations.

difference from the moment you step on the dock (boats are fueled and pre-packed) to your return, everything is taken care of so you can enjoy more valuable time with friends and family. •

a

impeccable

experience led by a professional and knowledgeable dock crew. • Cast off from the best marinas with tidy docks and an amazing fleet of boats to access any time.

Freshwater fishing target I’ll bet you’ve never tried

In major reservoirs in Northern Alabama, Tennessee, the Carolinas and Georgia, February gives fishermen a new opportunity for the best tasting freshwater gamefish I certainly have ever cooked. What it is? Walleye. Yes, I know the walleye is in most of the freshwater mountain lakes in the Appalachian chain, but he lives so deep and because he is caught at night most of the year, he’s usually not easily on your target list. Here’s your chance. During the full moon in February, go up the main rivers that feed the lake and use night crawlers or live bait and you can catch a limit easily. We’re talking about bigguns, up to 25 inches. I must admit that I’ve only done this on the Chestatee as it feeds Lanier but if it works there, it’ll work in whatever lake that has walleyes.

Here’s the pattern: Go late in the afternoon up the river far enough that you’ll be bouncing on the rocks, super shallow, work the outside bends in the current until dark. The walleye are up the river in the cold water of February to

O’Neill Outside

dark at 25 degrees. You really must be dedicated to want to do that. So, what do you think, late afternoon for a couple of hours, or suffer during the middle of a winter night? Either way, first the live well, then the cooler, then the refrigerator, then the grill will have the best tasting freshwater fish in North America, and you can brag about it like I just did.

spawn, will bite just about anything “meaty,” put up a good fight and when you’re done, filet them out and have a great fish dinner.

He’s a ‘toothy’ guy so you might use a light wire leader. Otherwise, he’s easy. If you really are punishing, you can fish on February nights at the mouths of the rivers entering the lakes using small crankbaits on the outside bends of the submerged river channel or simply tie on dropshot rigs. Artificial deepwater jigs will work but you’ll catch more if you hook on a little meat.

Gotta tell you though, it’s a real challenge at 2 a.m. in the

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.

• Boat Shows

Continued from Page 2

working over the past few months to prepare for the spring show,” said Tabor Reins, president of the Marine Trade Association of Metro Atlanta. “We are excited to be able to serve our local community with these twice-a-year events.”

O’Neill Williams

n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com

Walleye are found throughout major reservoirs in the South.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY O’NEILL WILLIAMS

A scene from last year’s Lake Lanier Boat Show at Margaritaville.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

Sailing 101: Knowledge of Lake Lanier vs. the salty sea

A long time ago, I heard an interview with Ted Turner. One of the things that stuck with me was his response to the question: “What makes you such a good sailor.” His answer was “I learned to sail on Lake Lanier, and if you can sail there, you can sail anywhere.” At the time I was living up north and had no idea where that lake was. Then I moved down here and quickly I learned what he was talking about! Up there, in the open ocean, I was considered a “kick ass” racer, with a wall full of trophies. Down here I found myself following the rest of the fleet around the course! Knowing that local knowledge was everything, I picked out the most consistent winner and followed him, learning about the wind shifts and shadows and the famous “sucker puffs,” that fool you into thinking that a consistent wind was filling in, but then just disappear! (Now the lake is surrounded by the acres of asphalt: the big mall down in Buford, the one over in Cumming and the one up in Gainesville.) On a bright sunny day with no cloud cover, the as-

phalt in those parking lots heats up and the hot air rises. The cooler air on the water rushes in to take its place, and you can have winds blowing in three directions, all around the lake and “Death Valley” out in the middle with not a breath of air! The lake is also surrounded by tall trees, and their “wind shadow” blocks the wind for about seven times their height. It took me a couple of years to relearn how to sail!

Conversely, on the large bays and open ocean, the winds are usually consistent but the closer you get to shore the more you must take the currents into consideration. The night before a race when everyone else is partying at the yacht club, I’m at home studying the tide and current charts. I

do my partying after the race.

For any port on the East Coast there are tide and current charts going back over a hundred years. If you have a 0.6 knot current on your nose, vs a 1.2 knot current on your stern a half mile away it makes quite a difference! A lot of lake sailors don’t take this into consideration when sailing on salt water.

Now the NOOD (National Offshore One Design) Race down in St Petersburg is held in February every year and it attracts racers from as far away as Lake Michigan, some of them towing 36-foot Tartan Tens all the way down. (Now I’ve seen Lake Michigan in February and if I sailed there, I’d tow my boat 2,000 miles just to go sailing in the sunshine too!) Add to that the fact that St Pete is one of the more POSH clubs on the East Coast and they throw great parties for the skippers meeting, Saturday night after racing, as well as Sunday for the trophy presentation.

Each year my wife and I volunteer for the Race Committee with our old Olympic crew from

1996 in Savannah. Some years there are up to 10 to 12 different classes competing, so you can imagine the organizational skills it takes to have that many orderly starts. One year I was on a mark boat at the leeward end of the start line. I remember a J-24 start when we had very light airs and it was slack water just before the tide (and current) changed. A boat from LLSC, which was a consistent winner when sailing up here on the lake, crossed the start line three times, then was pushed back by the current each time, which was getting stronger and stronger by the minute! They finally got across about the time the rest of the fleet was halfway to the wind-

ward mark! It was amusing sitting on the sidelines as the crew scrambled around trying to get the sails set perfectly, then as they would finally inch across the line, watching themselves going backward each time. Meanwhile the race committee would enter their sail number as having started, only to have to scratch it out each time and enter it again!

That night, the party happened to coincide with the first race of the America’s Cup in New Zealand. This was before big flat screen TVs were available to the general public, and one of the major electronics manufacturers had completely covered one wall of the meeting room with flat screens all wired together so that they showed a picture as if it was one giant movie screen.

There were about 100 sailors crowded into a room designed for 50, and as the rum flowed freely the camaraderie and tension were high. Now this was the first year that New Zealand was defending the cup on their home territory. The New Zealand government in

Vinnie Mendes

Boating safety: It’s not just for when you are on the water

It’s cold out there. I don’t like that. I am a boater. I like warm weather. So it is this time of the year that I start thinking about hooking the trailer up to my truck and heading south for a little R&R with my favorite watercraft in a warmer climate. The thought of cruising around in warm blue waters, bright sunshine and enjoying 80-plus degree days surely causes some excitement. Here are a just few towing tips to help you get to your mid-winter destination safely:

• Tow vehicles should be in good condition – Towing puts extra stress on your vehicle. The drive train, brakes and cooling system all get a good workout. Issues caused by lack of maintenance could become big problems leading to you, your vehicle and your boat being disabled on the side of the highway. Make sure you maintain your vehicle well and if you are not mechanically inclined, have a certified mechanic check it out before your trip.

• Trailers should be in good condition – Some of us only use our

Frank Taylor The Careful Captain

trailers when we go on vacation and want to take our toys with us.

This means that these trailers sit for weeks or even months between uses. During this time, corrosion sets in, tires dry rot and brakes and lights mysteriously stop working. Treat your trailer the same way as your tow vehicle. Have it checked out before your trip.

• Adhere to tow vehicle specifications – Vehicle manufacturers publish maximum towing capacities for a reason. Exceeding these capacities is not a good idea. Doing so can put you and your family in peril. It also can cause damage to the tow vehicle itself. When calculating the weight that your vehicle is pulling, be sure to include the weight of the trailer,

the boat, and anything that is in the boat. This includes fuel, water, fishing gear, etc.

• Take it easy – I’ll admit it. I am a really spirited driver, but not when I am towing. I have driven a considerable number of miles towing a boat heavier than my tow vehicle. You just cannot drive the same way as when you are not towing. Everything must be done at a slower pace to maintain a level of safety. Turns take longer. Stops take longer. You must always keep a watchful eye out for other drivers as well. It is amazing how many people do not seem to realize that the extra 8,000 pounds you have means you can’t stop as quickly as they can stop.

• Get some rest – You never want to drive when you are tired, but especially when towing. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and sometimes miss things altogether. This is not a good combination when you are already encumbered by a heavy load.

• Do final checks – Once you are all hooked up and ready to go, perform your final departure

checks. Make sure trailer lights are working. Adjust mirrors, check all tie downs, check air in tires, etc.

If you keep these tips in mind you should be spending your day on the water instead of spending

• Mendes

Continued from Page 14

its infinite stupidity (thank goodness we don’t get all the government we pay for!) decreed that their boat and all its equipment had to be manufactured in New Zealand. Meanwhile, all the challengers collected the best of everything from all over the world while the Kiwis had to make do with their own! Needless to say, as soon as they got across the start line things began to go wrong. First the end broke off the carbon fiber boom and as they scrambled to repair that, water began to pour over the leeward rail into the cockpit! As they continued to sail, more and more little things continued to go wrong such as fittings pulling loose from the mast

your day on the side of the road. Happy and safe boating!

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

or deck, each one costing them more speed. Every time something went wrong, the entire crowd would moan in unison so the whole room reverberated with OOHs! and UGHs! As I remember, they crossed the finish line with one crew member still bailing out the cockpit with a plastic trash can!

It was the perfect distraction to top off a hard day of racing with very little wind and the strong currents of Tampa Bay!

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.

2022 ACCOMPLISHMENTS PROGRAMS & IMPACT

Thanks to our member support and community partners, LLA made a big splash in 2022 to keep Lake Lanier Clean, Full and Safe.

LIFE JACKET LOANER STATIONS

Installed 4 additional Life Jacket Loaner Stations. Volunteers helped maintain a total of 8 stations this season.

LLA AROUND LANIER

LLA attended 3 boat shows and many special events, LLA was present around Lake Lanier all year long.

13 day-of sites around Lanier, advance sites and over 1,400 volunteers. Together we collected a record of 90 tons of trash at Shore Sweep 2022.

MINI SHORE SWEEPS

Pre-Shore Sweep Mini Cleanup took place on Three Sisters Islands with a group of volunteers from LLA Business Sponsor, Johnson Outdoors.

SOLAR LIGHTS

100 New, 50 Replaced and 289 maintained Solar Lights across Lanier for safer night-time boating.

ANNUAL MEMBER CELEBRATION

Enjoyed record breaking attendace at the Annual Member Celebration with over 700 LLA Members and Business Sponsors.

CHANNEL MARKER PILOT PROGRAM

In partnership with the Corps, 12 Channel Markers (6 Red, 6 Green) were replaced along the Chestatee.

Amy McGuire joined the LLA team as the new Executive Director in June. She is leading LLA to new heights with her big ideas, community engagement and deep love for Lanier.

EDUCATING IN-PERSON AND ONLINE

LLA hosted an "Ask the Corps" webinar and spoke to many groups throughout the year, including UNG students and the "Crappie Club."

ABANDONED BOAT REMOVAL

Removed "The Shadow" Houseboat and 5 abandoned sailboats during Shore Sweep.

In late May, Todd Baxter was appointed the President of LLA upon the retirement of John Barker. Todd has been on the Board since 2020 and has led the Solar Light program.

LLA purchased a boat - named the Miss. Jackie - in honor of LLA founder, Jackie Joseph. Having a dedicated vessel allows LLA to bring new plans to fruition, as well as expand on existing programs and on-lake initiatives.

LLA has big plans for 2023

We invite you to continue supporting our work towards a Clean, Full and Safe Lake Lanier in the new year. There are lots of ways to get involved with the Lake Lanier Association. Whether that be with your membership and donations or by finding a committee to volunteer on. However you choose to support LLA, it all makes a direct impact on Lake Lanier.

Don't miss a thing from the Lake Lanier Association! Stay up to date on all things LLA by following the Lake Lanier Association on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or by joining our email list at www.lakelanier.org.

Ready to jump in? Use the QR code below to join or renew your LLA Membership today!

WATER QUALITY TESTING

Varied cuisine, new eateries make downtown Gainesville ‘The Place to Be’

Shore Lines

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

By Pamela A. Keene

If you’re looking for diverse dining experiences, trending gastronomic delights and a broad spectrum of settings, head to downtown Gainesville. A flurry of new restaurants have opened within a block or two of the downtown square featuring an international array of choices to suit any palate.

“From Latin-Asian fusion to Southern barbecue, authentic Mexican to American fare, downtown Gainesville’s dining scene is bringing people in from around the region,” said Gainesville City Manager Bryan Lackey. “Some are locally owned new concepts and others are expansion locations of tried-and-true favorites. Without a doubt, people have discovered that Gainesville is the cool place to be.”

With much of the multi-use 60,000-square-foot Gainesville Renaissance Building on the east side of the square complete, Brenau University’s School of Psychology occupies the second floor. There will be six third-floor residential units. Ground-floor retail space is being leased; its first restaurant has become a local favorite.

Taqueria Tsunami opened in Renaissance last fall at the corner of Main and Spring streets. Serving lunch and dinner, it offers Latin-Asian fusion blending tastes of the Far East and South of

the Border. It’s one of the restaurant group’s newest locations, with others in Athens, Marietta and Atlanta. (www.taqueriatsunami.com, 678 310-1149.)

Consuelo’s on Bradford, 112 Bradford Street. Lunch and dinner high-end cocktails and authentic Mexican food. (www.consuelogainesville.com, 470 703-0300.)

Hop Scotch, 107 Bradford St NW. Owned by the same folks who own Avocados next door, Hopscotch is an upscale/casual evening dining experience featuring dozens of tapas choices. A large selection of brews, plus an extensive cocktail menu. (www.hopscotchrestaurant.com, 770 532-0001.)

Kelley’s Tavern and Grill, 628 E.E. Butler Parkway. Highend sports bar, lunch and dinner, dine-in and outdoor seating. (www.kellystavern.com, 678 6965233.)

Peyton’s Pie Company, inside Main Street Market on the square, wood-fired pizzas for take-out or online ordering, shares the common dining space with Sweet Magnolias and CorkIt wine bar. (www.peytonspie. com.)

Standard Service Restaurant & Taproom, 400 Jesse Jewell Parkway at the corner of Bradford and Academy was – over the past several decades – a gas station, then an attorney’s office before

opening last summer for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks. Outdoor dining, large garage doors, and self-serve beer with dozens of brews on tap. (www.standardservicega.com, 678 971-1025.)

Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito, 115 Washington Street. Franchise concept serving ramen, burritos, poke bowls and tacos. (www.zenramensushiburrito.com, 678 6965739.)

Familiar downtown favorites Atlas Pizza, 104 Washington Street. Hand-made New-York style pizzas, sandwiches, salads; lunch and dinner. (www.atlaspizza.org, 770 531-1144.)

Avocados, 109 Bradford St SE. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch, sidewalk café. (www.avocadoseats.com, 770 532-0001.)

Chop Block Chop House, 110 Main St SW. Lunch and dinner, open late, plus Skybox Music Venue and Bar upstairs. (www.chophouseandclub.com, 470 252-5016.)

Cork It, Main Street Market. Wine bar, charcuterie and wine shop. (www.corkitgainesville. com.)

Inman Perk Coffee, 102 Washington St NW. Specialty hot and cold beverages, breakfast foods, sandwiches, desserts and pastries. (www.inmanperkcoffee. com, 678 971-8091.)

Luna’s, 200 Main St. SW. Fine dining for lunch and dinner, piano lounge, long-time Gainesville favorite. (www.lunas.com, 770 531-0848.)

Recess Gastropub, 118 Bradford St NE. Southern American cuisine with a twist for lunch and dinner. (www.recesspub.com, 678 450-0444.

Scott’s Downtown, 131 Bradford St NW. Dinner, fine dining plus bar and bistro menu. Recently celebrated 15 years in business. (www.scottsdowntown.com, 770 536-1111.)

Tap It Growlers, 110 Maple St. Rooftop bar, growlers, wine and beer sales. (www.tapitgrowler.square.site.)

Two Dog Restaurant, 317 Spring Street. Lunch, Sunday brunch, family dinner pickup. (www.2dogrestaurant.com, 770287-8384.)

The newest Georgia location of Taco Mac in the New Holland

area near I-985 and Jesse Jewell Parkway SE, opened last fall and has become a driver to bring other eateries to the northeast side of Gainesville. Known for its neighborhood atmosphere and its wide selection of beers, it quickly established itself with locals. (www.tacomac.com, 678 9713627.)

“Taco Mac has been doing a brisk business and its popularity is attracting other restaurants to the New Holland area at Exit 24,” Lackey said.

On the horizon

A number of other restaurants have committed to making Gainesville home. Here’s a sampling of what to expect in the next six months.

Bourbon Brothers Restaurant and Music Hall, Academy Street and Jesse Jewell, next to the Smithgall Arts Center on Spring Street. Rooftop bar, concert hall and restaurant.

Buzzed Bull Creamery, 130 Bradford St NE. Regular and alcohol-infused ice creams, milk shakes.

Cotto, Spring and Bradford, Renaissance Building. Italian cuisine and pizza.

Kilwin’s Fudge and Ice Cream, 106 Spring Street SE, Suite 120. Fudge, chocolates, ice cream, confections.

North Georgia Barbecue, near Green Street and Washington Avenue.

Ohana, New Holland area. Polynesian-inspired cuisine.

Roll On In, Bradford Street. Asian fusion billed as fast casual with sushi burritos, bowls, nachos.

Soco Southern Coast, 1701 Browns Bridge Road, from the owners of Gainesville Seafood Market located in the former Denny’s. (www.socoseafood.com.)

“These are just a few of the restaurants that will be calling Gainesville home in the coming months,” Lynch said. “It’s an exciting time for Gainesville. As the hub for Northeast Georgia, we see even more growth in the coming years.”

Sweet Magnolia’s Cafe & Bakery also shares dining tables with Cork It and Peyton’s Pie Company.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Peyton’s Pie Company, with its imported-from-Italy wood-fired oven, recently opened on Gainesville’s square. Peyton’s original location in Flowery Branch remains open.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

A customer enters Tap It Pints & Growlers.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

December’s weather offered plenty of surprises

Happy New Year everyone. Hope you all had a good holiday season. Our December certainly had some interesting weather. Record heat with temperatures in the upper 70s followed by cloudy and rainy weather for the latter half of the month.

The current weather patterns favor cold and wet conditions. We’ve seen wedge after wedge for the past several weeks so I thought this might be a good opportunity to explain what a wedge is.

Wedge is a term used by meteorologists when a high pressure system is over the Appalachian Mountains up to southeast Canada. As a high pressure system slides to the east it run into the Appalachian Mountains. As a result, thick, dense cold air piles up on the eastern side of the range (think of

Glenn Burns Lanier Outlook

cold dense air as syrup).

As the high pressure system’s winds rotate in a clockwise motion, it draws this shallow cold air from the north down to the south, where the mountains funnel it down into north Georgia.

The scientific term for this is “cold air damming,” because the mountains act like a dam. Hall County is the bullseye for the strongest part of the wedge. How many times have we seen temps in Atlanta – outside the wedge in the mid 60s – while temperatures around Lake Lanier are in the low 50s.

What worries me most this time of year is when a weather disturbance to our west draws warm gulf air northward. Remember when I said to think of the cold dense air as syrup. You can think of warm air as feathers. When warm air from the south tries to move north and push the wedge out, it just can’t. It’s trying to move syrup with a feather.

As a result, the warm air glides up and over the top of the wedge of cold air. Then the problems can begin. Sometimes rain will fall into the shallow layer of dry cold air, where evaporation will occur, making the wedge stronger and colder. There are

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS

MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

1 1071.10 1071.14 1069.98 1069.14 1068.36 1067.60 1066.45 1066.67

2 1071.07 1071.03 1069.96 1069.11 1068.39 1067.56 1066.42 1066.71

3 1071.03 1070.97 1070.04 1069.09 1068.50 1067.51 1066.39 1066.72

4 1071.03 1070.92 1070.06 1069.06 1068.60 1067.46 1066.36 1066.73

5 1071.03 1070.86 1069.97 1069.04 1068.88 1067.41 1066.31 1066.96

6 1071.05 1070.84 1069.90 1069.03 1068.88 1067.37 1066.31 1067.60

7 1071.05 1070.80 1069.92 1069.00 1068.74 1067.32 1066.28 1067.74

8 1071.05 1070.74 1069.92 1068.98 1068.68 1067.27 1066.24 1067.81

9 1071.05 1070.79 1070.08 1068.97 1068.66 1067.25 1066.20 1067.90

10 1071.00 1070.79 1070.13 1069.00 1068.66 1067.22 1066.19 1067.91

11 1070.98 1070.79 1070.10 1068.99 1068.64 1067.17 1066.31 1067.95

12 1070.95 1070.78 1070.04 1068.97 1068.53 1067.12 1066.33 1067.90

13 1070.92 1070.76 1070.08 1068.89 1068.45 1067.10 1066.35 1067.86

14 1070.90 1070.76 1070.01 1068.86 1068.44 1067.07 1066.34 1068.01

15 1070.90 1070.70 1069.96 1068.80 1068.40 1067.02 1066.34 1068.47

16 1070.86 1070.69 1069.90 1068.77 1068.34 1066.98 1066.33 1068.58

17 1070.81 1070.65 1069.87 1068.72 1068.32 1066.93 1066.29 1068.65

18 1070.75 1070.66 1069.80 1068.73 1068.29 1066.86 1066.26 1068.69

19 1070.66 1070.61 1069.79 1068.69 1068.26 1066.80 1066.21 1068.74

20 1070.60 1070.58 1069.76 1068.71 1068.24 1066.76 1066.20 1068.74

21 1070.59 1070.52 1069.74 1068.73 1068.20 1066.71 1066.16 1068.75

22 1070.59 1070.47 1069.67 1068.70 1068.14 1066.69 1066.13 1068.73

23 1070.77 1070.42 1069.63 1068.68 1068.06 1066.64 1066.12 1068.61

24 1070.84 1070.35 1069.62 1068.67 1068.00 1066.60 1066.09 1068.48

25 1070.85 1070.33 1069.53 1068.68 1067.92 1066.56 1066.07 1068.37

26 1071.16 1070.31 1069.45 1068.67 1067.87 1066.54 1066.06 1068.33

27 1071.38 1070.30 1069.36 1068.64 1067.81 1066.53 1066.09

28 1071.39 1070.21 1069.25 1068.61 1067.78 1066.48 1066.07

29 1071.37 1070.13 1069.17 1068.56 1067.73 1066.44 1066.10

30 1071.34 1070.04 1069.17 1068.45 1067.64 1066.46 1066.56

31 1071.27 1069.17 1068.42 1066.46

AV 1070.98 1070.63 1069.78 1068.82 1068.31 1066.96 1066.25

MAX 1071.39 1071.14 1070.13 1069.14 1068.88 1067.60 1066.56

MI 1070.59 1070.04 1069.17 1068.42 1067.64 1066.44 1066.06

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

‘Tacky’ Tybee is a place with a multitude of memories

In the vernacular of the famous wordsmith, Jimmy Buffett, “I want to go back to the island, where the shrimp boats tie up to the pilin’. Give me oysters and beer for dinner every day of the year, and I’ll feel fine!” That scenario is rooted deep inside me when summer ends and I want to be alone with my thoughts while visiting an old friend … Tacky Tybee.

My first memories of visiting Savannah Beach more than 60 years ago included a long ride over several bridges and through miles of marshland. Though it couldn’t have been more than 20 miles from Savannah via U.S. Highway 80 to Tybee Island, the trip down the palm-lined, twolane road in the old ’48 Nash coupe seemed to take forever. Nevertheless, I was less than 10 years old then, and the excitement of seeing a real beach for the first time had my heart pumping wildly!

Tybee Island was a magical fairyland for a youngster, and as I grew older, I often found it to be a very amorous place to enjoy with fascinating ladies that caught my eye. Despite hurricanes, progress and the changing tides, Tybee is still an unforgettable place to enjoy a romantic rendezvous with that special someone.

Though much smaller, Tybee is almost as unique and diverse as Key West. The six miles of beaches are great for walking and shelling, and the one thing that makes Tybee so different from other islands and beach resorts is that many of the people actually live there throughout the year.

In the language of the early Georgia Indians, Tybee is the

word for salt, but we always called the island “Tacky Tybee” … which locals hoped would keep the resort crowd out. Actually, the storefronts, streets and island cottages haven’t changed much from Tybee’s glory years as a popular resort in the 1920s and 30s. It’s that calm feeling of time standing still that is so relaxing.

During the summer season, those looking for adventure will find Tybee has deep-sea fishing, dolphin tours, kayaking and cycling. The island is part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail, and its acres of salt marshes attract a variety of birds … some of which are endangered. For even more excitement, take a side trip to Little Tybee Island. This small island, just south of Tybee, is only accessible by water. Camping is allowed and the opportunities to view wildlife are endless.

Tybee, however, has one dangerous side known as Pelican Island just off the main beach. This phantom strip of sand appears and then disappears with each tide, and because of swirling waters that pass around it when exposed, this big sandbar has a history of

being nasty. The swiftness of the incoming tide forms fast currents that cut in behind those who stay too long shelling or fishing, which has earned it a reputation as a killer.

Tybee is much more than a beach. Its history includes two and a half centuries of settlement, and has been home to pirates, fishermen, beachcombers and soldiers. It was a battleground of the Revolutionary War and a site of the War Between the States. It is the home of Tybee Lighthouse, built in 1736 on the South Atlantic shore, and another famous

lighthouse that was constructed on tiny Cockspur Island at the mouth of the Savannah River.

Despite being called “tacky” at times, Tybee Island has lots to offer, and some real class in its people, history and interesting opportunities. For me personally, it is a place with a multitude of memories and a haven for intense contemplation of the coming year.

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.

Bill Vanderford

Travel

PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

A sunset near Tybee.

Tybee Lighthouse.

Cockspur Light.

A pair of White Ibis.

The colorful birds of the wetlands near Tybee.

Abandoned boat, top, and a shrimp boat, botttom, near Tybee.

Lakeside Calendar January 2023

o Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 4 – Greeting Card Workshop, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m., held at the Hall County Library System, Gainesville Branch, 127 Main St. NW, Gainesville. Craft greeting cards with Patricia Anderson, who will provide inspiration, expertise, tools and materials. Free.

Info: 770-532-3311, ext. 4011.

o Jan. 20 – Introduction to Computers, 2-4 p.m., presented at Gainesville Branch of Hall County Library System in the Meeting Room. Students will become familiar with basic parts of a computer as well as learn the parts of the Windows operating environment. Free. Info: 770-532-3311.

o Jan. 27 – Tea with Jane Austen – A Reading Group, 3-4 p.m., will be held at Gainesville Branch of Hall County Library System in its Conference Room. This group will spend a year reading all novels and some Juvenilia by Jane Austen. The group will meet every fourth Friday of the month from 3-4 p.m. A different tea will be served every time along with a discussion of all of Jane Austen’s novels in the sequence they were published. The last session will be in November when a celebratory Tea Party will be held. Free. Adults 18 and up.

Info: Register at 770-532-3311, ext. 4011 or gkoecher@hallcountylibrary.com.

Buford Community Center

o Jan. 21 – Ray On My Mind will be presented in the Sylvia Beard Theatre at 8 p.m. This concert/theater work brings the music and the story of the great Ray Charles to vivid life. Portraying Ray, master pianist/vocalist, Kenny Brawner leads his 11-piece orchestra and three

sultry vocalists (a la the Raelettees) performing this American legend’s most popular hits.

Tickets: $35-$45.

o Jan. 27 – The Ultimate Ronna Summer Tribute starring Rainere Martin, will be presented in the Sylvia Beard Theatre at 8 p.m. Martin portrays all that was magical and musical of Donna Summer’s legendary career.

Tickets: $30-$40.

o Feb. 4 – Hank & My Honky Tonk Heroes will be presented at 8 p.m. in the Sylvia Beard Theatre. Jason Petty, performer/musician, brings the authentic story of Hank Williams Sr. to life.

Tickets: $30-$40. Info: www.bufordcommunitycenter.com.

Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater

o Jan. 6-8 – Ordinary Days, a story of four young New Yorkers whose lives intersect as they search for fulfillment, happiness, love and cabs, will be presented. Times: 8 p.m., Thurs./Fri./Sat.; 2 p.m., Sun. Tickets: $30, adults; $15, students/children. Military/group discounts available.

Info: 706-530-5162; www.hollytheater.com Gainesville Theatre Alliance

o Jan. 31 – Pygmalion free stage tour at Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre, 429 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Hear from the designers and director of the play. Shaw’s Nobel Prizewinning dramatization of a Cockney flower girl’s metamorphosis into a lady is both a fantasy and a platform for his views on social class, money and women’s independence. The play inspired the music My Fair Lady.

Info: 678-717-3624; www.gainesvilletheatreal-

liance.org

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

o Jan. 28 – Corey Smith and Travis Denning perform at 7 p.m. Gate opens at 6 p.m. Tickets: $40.

Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. Interactive Neighborhood Kids

o Jan. 2-8 – Bird Craft Week, create a beautiful bird this week.

o Jan. 9-15 – Police Craft Week, create a craft and learn about these important community helpers.

o Jan. 16-22 – Penguin Craft Week, make a cute penguin this week.

o Jan. 23-29 – Snowflake Craft Week, create a beautiful snowflake craft.

o Jan. 30-Feb. 5 – Puzzle Craft Week, design a puzzle this week.

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

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

Lake Lanier Islands Resort

o Thru Feb. 26 – License to Chill Snow Island. Winter Chill Season Passes start at $79.99. Pass includes unlimited Snow Tubing, Amusement Rides, Ice Skating, Gate Fee Access and more. Times: 5-10 p.m. Daily admissions: $54.99 reg.; $39.99, child (age 3-7), military, seniors and groups.

Info: 770-945-8787; www.lanierislands.com.

Piedmont University

o Jan. 12 – Miles Cleveland Goodwin art reception held 5-7 p.m. at Mason-Scharfenstein

Museum of Art, 567 Georgia St., Demorest. Georgia-based painter and sculptor Goodwin works in an expressive, dreamlike style rooted in his interest in nature and the everyday.

o Jan. 29 – Piedmont Camerata, 4-5:30 p.m., the university’s professional piano quintet, will perform a variety of works from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries in the Chapel at 992 Central Avenue, Demorest.

o Feb. 4 – Lux Treble Choir, an advanced treble choir born out of a need for beautiful treble music to bring light into this difficult and sometimes dark world. Emily Allison and Ashley Conway, conductors. Performance held 7:30-9 p.m. in the Chapel.

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

Quinlan Arts Center

o Thru Feb. 11, 2023 – Winter Exhibition featuring artists Ferdinand Rosa, Karen Sturm, Frances Byrd and Jennifer Herrera and Blackberry Creek artists.

o Jan. 14 – Artist Talk welcomes artist Ferdinand Rosa. Engage by learning the methods behind the artist’s specific style and creative process. Q&A follows along with muffins and mimosas for attendees. RSVP required.

o Jan. 19 – An Authors Evening at 5: 30 p.m. presents authors Larry Freeland and Rebecca Ross. Tickets: $10.

Info: 770-536-2575; www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Voices of North Georgia

o Mar. 11 – Gala: America’s Top Ten Hits concert held in the Banquet Hall of the First Baptist Church of Gainesville. Time: 6 p.m. Info: www.VoicesofNorthGeorgia.com.

WINTER’S HERE!

Cheers to a Blessed New Year

There is one thing we can always cherish this time of year: the magic of being home for the holidays. Wishing you a home full of love and good cheer! May you experience the peace and joy of this holiday season and in the new year. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a blessed celebration! Happy holidays and cheers to the new year!

Lanier Running Club at the starting line to meet 2023 goals

By Jane Harrison

Need a supportive group to tackle your 2023 resolution to lose weight and get fit? Looking for a hobby to get you outside and active? What about that goal to make new friends and social connections? One local organization checks all the boxes: The Lanier Running Club.

The re-energized running group with roots in the 1990s (or before) made a comeback last year and is building a diverse membership. New runners, run/walkers, long time competitors, dog walkers, stroller pushers and jog along fun-seekers show up for two or three weekly jaunts in Gainesville with the club that promotes fitness and camaraderie. All ages, from late teen to post-retirement, mingle prior to taking off at whatever pace they choose. At the finish, everyone gets a congratulatory “well done!”

“It’s a great way to make friends and hold yourself accountable,” said club president April Hargis. A runner since 2008, Hargis moved into the Lake Lanier area during the pandemic shut down and struggled to make friends. “I had a new baby and was feeling out of shape and I found the Lanier Running Club Facebook page,” she said. “But there was no real activity.”

After a series of posts and meeting with long-time club officers, she discovered that the organization’s marathoners were looking for fresh torchbearers. Hargis took the opportunity and ran with it.

Now between 10-20 participants lace up for group runs at local parks, greenways and Gainesville’s pedestrian-favorite street, Riverside Drive. Routes range from three miles on park and greenway trails during the week to about six miles on Riverside or the Midland Greenway/Gainesville parks trails on Saturday mornings. “But you can choose your distance,” Hargis said, adding no one feels pressured to do more than they set out to do.

On a regular Tuesday evening outing from Liquid Nation Brewing onto the Highlands to Islands greenway last month a dedicated group strode out for exercise in

the fog. Before donning headlamps and taking off into the mist, runners talked about what brought them out on such a gloomy night.

“It’s the friendships. It’s something I look forward to every week,” said Matt Douglas. The 40-year-old long time solo runner had never set foot in a running group. In the club, he found “others who understand this crazy thing I do. It was magical.”

His son, Mason Douglas, 19, joined to “follow my father’s footsteps.” The novice runner shows up with a broad grin and turns over some fast feet on the trail. He proudly announced he has worked his mileage up to more than six miles … and shed more than 30 pounds.

Johnny Garner, 59, a competitive runner for more than 30 years, recalls the original Gainesville Road Runners of the early 1990s. Formed decades before social media, the club met monthly at local restaurants, mailed out a print newsletter, organized races, competed regularly, communitycoached at local schools, ran speedwork sessions and group runs. The club pivoted directions more than a decade ago to focus on youth runners in the U.S. Junior Olympics. Many of the early members still run. Some have coached champion high school runners. Others have crossed the finish line.

Garner likes the club’s new iteration, especially its accessibility on social media. “They post weekly runs, it’s easy to access and find out where” they are running, he said. The veteran runner inhales fresh motivation from new runners. “I feed off their excitement. I love seeing new runners.”

“I’ve always run. It’s part of what I am,” said Ginger Paul, 51, a runner for 30-plus years. But running alone had become monotonous. “I was getting bored, in a rut,” she said. After finding LRC on social media, she broke new ground. She gets a mental and physical boost just getting outside and running with other people.

David Reed, 49, had long wanted to combine running with something else he liked, beer. “I was trying to get a club started at the (Liquid Nation) brewery,” he said. But Hargis beat him to it.

Regular fellowship with runners keeps him consistent. “It’s motivating just knowing others will be here” for the Tuesday night runs at the brewery, he said. “And I like beer.” Occasionally runners cool down with a round of local craft brews.

Carmen Reed joined the club’s “Jingle Jog” casual in-town holiday trek in early December. “I’m not really into running,” like her husband is, she admitted. Yoga fits her better. But, her run/walk in 5-minute intervals combines aerobic exercise and conversation with others more her pace, like Elena Barberis. “I’m in it for fun,” Barberis said on the Gainesville square in her red tutu and headband strewn with holiday lights.

More serious runners like Hargis, who followed up her Gainesville jingle jog with a sub-1-hour, 40-minute half marathon in Jacksonville, credits the running club for speeding up her pace. “I improve my times when I have someone to push me,” she said.

Long time Lanier Running Club president and distance running coach Wes Wessely, 75, indicated he felt ready to hand the baton to Hargis. The multipletime national champion, finisher of more than 60 marathons, community coach of two Chestatee High School cross country state championship teams and mentor to numerous individual athletes piloted the club’s partnership with the Junior Olympics. He commended Hargis for establishing a strong social media footprint that’s pulling more adults into the club tent. He continues his run as Junior Olympics coordinator/ad-

visor.

Goal setting is what got Hargis’s feet moving in the first place. “During college I needed a healthy habit. I had stopped doing all things physical. I decided to

jump back in and do a marathon.” She trained for and completed the Disney Marathon. The group of runners she now leads waits at the starting line to help others chase their goals this year.

Get Moving With Lanier Running Club

How to join: The club opens its official membership this month through website/Facebook page: www.lanierrunningclub.org. $35 membership fee includes club singlet, workshops, and special race entries. In-person registration is available at running club events.

Group Runs: Open to runners and walkers.

• Tuesdays: 5:30 p.m. at Liquid Nation Brewing, 2100 Atlanta Highway. Run on Highlands to Islands greenway to pedestrian tunnel. Approximately 3 miles round-trip. Headlamp or flashlight and reflective clothing recommended. Possible time change to 6 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time.

• Saturdays: 8:30 a.m. alternating between Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr., Wild Wings Café, 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., and Wilshire Trails, 849 Wilshire Rd. Approximately 6 miles; shorter routes possible.

See website/Facebook page for updated information and additional group runs.

January Race: Braselton Lifepath 8K/5K Run/Walk. 9 a.m. Jan. 7, Northeast Georgia Medical Center-Braselton, 1400 River Place. $38-$43. www.runnersfit.com. Fundraiser for Lanier Junior Olympics.

The Lanier Running Club can help folks meet their fitness goals and make new friendships.

Lanier Running Club members gather on the Gainesville Square before their jingle jog last month.

PHOTO BY LANIER RUNNING CLUB

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

o Virtual Science Night. Environmental science discussion on Zoom, 7-8 p.m. Jan. 3 organized by Elachee Nature Science Center. Free. See www.elachee.org.

o Mommy & Me Nature Program, Gainesville. Parents and children 18 months to 4 years walk on Geiger Storybook Trail and plant winter vegetables, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Jan. 4, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10. Limited to 20 children. www.elachee.org, 770535-1976.

o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 5:30-7 p.m. Jan. 6, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Braselton Lifepath 8K/5K Run/Walk. 9 a.m. Jan. 7, Northeast Georgia Medical CenterBraselton, 1400 River Place. $38-$43. www.runnersfit.com.

o Five Star 5K/10K Championships, Cumming. For top runners in Five Star NTP 2022 races, 8:30 a.m. Jan. 8, North Forsyth Middle School, 3635 Coal Mountain Rd. $45/$50. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Winter Master Naturalist Session, Gainesville. Explore natural habitats and ecosystems in 12-session class, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays Jan. 11-March 29, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. 25 participant limit, ages 16 and older. $325, $300 Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Chilly Willy 5K/10/K/Half Marathon, Sugar Hill. 8:30 a.m. Jan. 14, Sugar Hill City

Hall, 5039 W. Broad St. $35-$65. www.fivestarntp.com.

o 44th Annual 18K Hog Pen Hill Climb & 5K Piglet Run, Helen. 18K known as toughest run in Georgia up Hog Pen Gap, shorter Piglet runs loop around Unicoi Lake. Piglet 9:30 a.m., Hog Pen 11 a.m. Jan. 14, Unicoi State Park, 1788 Hwy. 356. $25-$85, plus $5 parking. www.active.com.

o Beginner Archery, Tallulah Falls. Learn to shoot an arrow or improve your skills, 1-2:30 p.m. Jan. 21, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Must be strong enough to pull 30- pound bow. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Java Jog 10K/5K, Dawsonville. 8/8:30 a.m. Jan. 28, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $40$70. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Run Road Atlanta 5K/10K/1K Fun Run,

Braselton. Runs on motorcar raceway, 5K/10K 10:30 a.m., 1K 11:30 a.m. Jan. 29, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Hwy. $15$50. www.runnersfit.com.

o Surf & Sun 5K, Cumming. 8:30 a.m. Feb. 4, West Bank Park, 3400 Buford Dam Rd. $35.$37.50. www.active.com

On-Going

o Saturday Explorations, Gainesville. Explore live animal showcase and other exhibits at Elachee Nature Science Center, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays in January, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 ages 2 and older, free to Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o License to Chill Snow Island/Lakeside Lights Spectacular, Buford. Snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides, s’more making, plus walk-through light extravaganza with festive

music; Snow Island 11 a.m.-10 p.m. through Feb. 26, Lights Spectacular 5-9 p.m. through Jan. 16, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Various prices. www.margaritavilleresorts.com.

o Group Runs, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Liquid Nation Brewing, 2100 Atlanta Hwy. Check website/Facebook page for updates and other weekly runs. www.lanierrunningclub.org.

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

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

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

o Farmers Market, Braselton 4-6 p.m. November, January, and February; 4-7 p.m. 3rd Fridays October, March and May, patio next to Town Green on Davis Street. www.braselton.net.

– compiled by Jane Harrison

BALD RIDGE MARINA

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

Phone: 770-887-5309

Website: www.baldridgemarina.com

Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming

Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered.

On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ

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

Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $4.79; $4.79 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.

GAINESVILLE MARINA

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

Phone: 770-536-2171

Website: www.gainesvillemarina.com

Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville

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

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $5.59 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Ship Store Seasonal: Open May-September

On-site eatery: Skogies

Menu: BBQ, seafood and American fare. Phone: 678-450-1310

Security: 7 days a week

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

HABERSHAM MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Dock/Store, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Closed on Sundays

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 12/16/22) $4.69

Security: Yes

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

HARBOR LANDING

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

Phone: 470 323-3465

Website: www.margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy.

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

Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) 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.

Lake Lanier Marinas Info

HOLIDAY MARINA

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

Phone: 770-945-7201

Website: www.holidaylakelanier.com

Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford

Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100' Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totalling 1238 Slips Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies.

Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $6.49 premium; $6.59 unleaded; $6.99 diesel

On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar Menu: Fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak

Phone: 678 714-7572

Security: 24/7

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

LAZY DAYS

LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier)

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

Closed on Tuesdays..

Phone: 770-945-1991

Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford

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

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

Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $6.49 regular Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring Full Service Department: Barefoot Boating, 770-820-5949 Boat Club: Carefree Boat Club, 678-725-0730

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

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

Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $5.49 regular (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)

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

Menu: Burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings and more Security: Gated, 24/7

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

SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND MARINA

Hours of operation:Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Closed Sat./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 12/16/22) $6.49, non-members; $5.99, members (Dock/Ship Store open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 7 days a week.)

On-site eatery: Pig Tales

Menu: BBQ, burgers, wings and more Security: 24/7, gated

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

SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY MARINA

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

Phone: 770-967-5500

Website: www.hideawaybaymarina.com

Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch

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

Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 12/16/22) $6.49, non-members; $5.99, members

On-site eatery: Fish Tales Lakeside Grille

PORT OF INDECISION MARINA

Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week (Call 470-323-3490 prior to arrival)

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 12/16/22) N/A non-ethanol

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

Security: 24/7

Additional amenities: Margaritaville

PORT ROYALE MARINA

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

Phone: 770-887-5715

Website: www.bestinboating.com/port_royale

Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville

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

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.

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 12/16/22) $6.59 with 5 percent off with Advantage Membership. Security: 24/7

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

at Holiday on Lake Lanier

Nurseryman offers sure-fire tips to maximize gardening success

When the Hall County Master Gardeners presented its Fall Symposium, the group included local nurseryman Nathan Wilson on the program. Wilson, operator of Lanier Nursery and Gardens, knows north Georgia gardening.

Although January and February bring temperatures that discourage working in the landscape, these months of “deep winter” offer many opportunities to start and/or improve your gardens for 2023. When shrubs and trees are dormant, that’s the best time to install them in the landscape.

First, they can better develop their root system when the foliage isn’t competing for energy.

Second, water needs are reduced; yes, you still need to water, but the colder temperatures cut down on evaporation so you can water less frequently.

Third, plants will have a chance to settle in before they face the higher temperatures of summer.

“These are all good reasons to take advantage of winter plantings,” Wilson said. “Bundle up when you first get outdoors, but

you’ll soon find that you’ll generate enough heat to peel off some of those layers. And it’s a good way to get off the couch and get moving.” Wilson has boiled down home gardening success into three simple steps: design, proper planting and maintenance. Here are his suggestions: Design involves several aspects, including plant selection, location and light. “Choose plants that are native to our area, looking for a combination of colors of foliage and blossoms, where appropriate, that appeals to you,” he said. “Contrasting colors give a big bang for your buck, but also consider plants of different sizes,

shapes and textures.”

Placement. Make sure you’re locating the plants in the best places for future growth. “A beautiful, native Serviceberry tree you bring home from the nursery is going to grow, so select a location that will allow it to do so. Don’t crowd these additions to your landscape. Read plant labels and research them on the internet to learn more about them.”

Light is crucial. Make sure you’re providing the optimal light conditions, particularly in the summer. Again the plant labels yield good information.

When you’re planting, digging the proper sized hole is key. Dig the hole 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball or pot’s diameter. The depth should be about the height of the root ball or the soil level in the pot.

“Planting too deep can be harmful, covering up the vital feeder roots at the surface,” Wil-

son said. “Once the hole is dug, put some soft soil back on the bottom so that the plant’s soil level will be a half-inch to one inch above the ground. This allows for settling and helps the plant better access nutrients and water as it grows.

Break up any clods before backfilling the hole. “When planting trees and shrubs, soft soil from the hole is better than adding amendments, so that the roots will be reencouraged to grow out from the root ball into the surrounding ground,” he said.

Maintenance. It will keep your trees and shrubs happy and healthy. “Once the shrub is established, usually within the first six to nine months of planting, water smartly,” he said. “Check the soil moisture before randomly watering. And when you water, water deeply but infrequently. Shallow frequent watering will discourage deep root growth.”

Pruning should be done when the plant is actively growing to allow the cuts to heal properly. “Also, use selective pruning rather than hedging, making random cuts at different levels inside the plant. Hedging results in poor plant health because it hinders air circulation and can stress the shrub or tree. A good guideline is to never prune more than onefourth of the growth in a season.”

Mulch can be your friend. “A 2-inch layer of mulch, kept at least 2 inches away from the trunk, can help hold in moisture, prevent weeds and build organic matter in the soil.”

For more about native plants and proper gardening techniques, visit Lanier Nursery and Gardens at 4195 Schubert Rd. in Flowery Branch, visit the website at www.laniernurserygardens.com or call 470 290-5405.

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.

Keene

Nathan Wilson at work.

PHOTO BY PAMELA A KEENE

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. Seasonal. 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. Seasonal. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. C-3,678-828-7676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier. com.

Sidney’s Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Only serving breakfast. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. 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. Seasonal. C-1 678 450-1310; www.skogieslakefrontrestaurant.us.

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

American

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

Branch House Tavern - The ultimate sports restaurant in Hall County offers a selection of hamburgers, wings, hearty salads, southwestern grill fare, and a huge selection of appetizers and desserts. Big screen sports action on 50 HD TVs, and live entertainment. Also featuring a full bar and dancing all night long. Take out available. 5466 McEver Rd., Flowery Branch, C-3, 678-828-8345.

Lakeside’s Dining Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continental/Fine Dining

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

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

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

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

Scott’s Downtown – Upscale casual ambience with specialty sandwiches for lunch and gourmet entrees for dinner. 131 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville. C-2. 770-536-1111. Sperata - a fusion of fine American and European dining. Open Thurs.-Sun. for dinner. Buford. B-4. 678 765-7911, www.speratarestaurant.com.

Barbecue/Country/Home Cooking

Johnny’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ pork, chicken & ribs. Brunswick stew. Minutes from Clark’s Bridge rowing venue. 1710 Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. Casual. D-1,

770-536-2100.

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

Deli

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

Italian

5 Brothers Pizza & Pasta - Family owned with mom and her five sons! Delivery available. Offering award-winning alfredo sauce, seven layer lasagna, homemade meatballs, pizza, calzones, and more. Also available: our famous rice balls -and homemade tiramisu and cannoli. Open Wed.-Sun. Downtown historic Buford. 1944 Braselton Hwy, Buford. B3 470-299-3309; www.5brotherspizzapasta.com Dominick’s Italian Restaurant – Features cuisine from the north of Italy, with veal, chicken and seafood dishes. Favorites include chicken saltimbocca and garlic bread appetizer. Dominick’s is open Mon.-Fri. for lunch; Sun.-Sat. for dinner. Located at the corner of Buford Hwy. and Hamilton Mill

Rd in the Buford Village Shopping Center., Buford. B-3, 770-614-0019.

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

Mexican

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

Oriental

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

Little Tokyo – Japanese dining - hibachi grill, sushi. Dine in, take out. Open for dinner 3 p.m.-10 p.m.; Closed Sun. 2096 Buford Dam Rd., Buford. B-4, 770-945-3350.

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 resume in 2023

• Cost: $25 per student; plus optional course textbook $28

• 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 resume in 2023

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

• Cost: Individuals $35

• Private lessons also available for groups or organizations outside normal schedule by calling Flotilla Commander Chuck Kelemen, 770-714-0888.

• Information/registration: Perry Hidalgo, uscgaux29@gmail.com, 470-310-3336; 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)

• Advanced Boating Classes in piloting, marine communications, and other boating skills offered periodically by the Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron. americasboatingclubatlanta.org.

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 semi-private 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.

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

TREASURES OF BUFORD HISTORY

A plethora of surprises await at the Museum of Buford

By Pamela A. Keene

A Baseball World Series trophy, early signs from historic Buford, and artifacts from the Bona Allen tannery that made saddles for the horses of film stars Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, rare photographs of historic events and detailed information about the creation and construction of Lake Lanier: It’s all at the Museum of Buford.

Begun in 1986 in the corner of a historic building in downtown Buford by Randy Wood and Sandra Sumner, the Museum of Buford holds the keys to the treasures of Buford. Now housed in 2,500 square feet on the ground floor of the Buford Community Center, the museum is filled with numerous treasures that tell the famous and not-so-famous stories of this north Gwinnett County town.

Curator and fifth-generation Buford native Lynn Bowman eagerly shares his passion about all things Buford with visitors to the museum. Bowman has carefully kept the history of the town alive. Yet he’s always seeking more: more photographs, more letters, more memorabilia and more stories to bring the history of this Atlanta suburb to life.

“My great great grandfather John Bowman settled here in 1818 before there was even a Buford,” Bowman said. “And I’m the youngest of 125 great great grandchildren who descended from John Bowman.”

Bowman can cite chapter and verse of the success of the Shoemakers semi-pro baseball team that won the World Series in their division in 1938; they also won the prestigious Denver Post baseball tournament championship in 1940. Trophies, photographs, telegrams and newspaper clippings tell the tale of a team from the Bona Allen Tannery and Shoe Factory that were runners up for the 1936 and 1937 championship before its 1938 title.

The Bona Allen Tannery, which opened in 1873, was for years the heart of Buford as the area’s largest employer. As the country’s largest producer of horse collars, hand-tooled sad-

dles, shoes, bridles and postal bags, it eventually made materials for Spalding to manufacture baseballs and baseball gloves.

“Buford even attracted the attention of Hollywood when both Roy Rogers and Gene Autry had custom-made saddles by Bona Allen,” Bowman said. “Over the years other cowboys, rodeo stars, and even members of the cast of ‘Bonanza’ and ‘Gunsmoke,’ all proudly rode saddles made in Buford.”

The museum’s archives include thousands of photographs, letters, business ledgers, news clippings, school yearbooks, report cards, church bulletins and an ever-growing library available for research, both historical and genealogical. “We have good records of many of the businesses here from way back,” Bowman said.

“You’d be surprised about the amazing information these documents hold about the lifestyle, culture and history of Buford. We call it ephemera – the bits of everyday life that many people simply toss out: letters, birthday cards, receipts – that have their own stories to tell.”

Much of the museum’s collections are in storage because even the move into the Buford Community Center’s ground-floor space isn’t enough to allow everything to be displayed.

During the pandemic, as with many organizations, the museum was closed. Bowman is working to re-open it three days a week for three or four hours – Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The City of Buford currently opens the museum for many evening shows and events scheduled inside the Buford Community Center and Theatre.

Now there’s another younger generation of descendants of those early residents, plus many more long-time families who have shared their treasures, letters, photographs and family histories with the museum. Bowman encouraged members of the community to share their family histories and documents with him as a way to continue to build the history and legacy of Buford.

“Everyone’s history is important and that’s what our museum is about,” he said. “Years from now, our descendants will be looking though copies of our emails, printed-out photos taken digitally and family records and imagine what life was like ‘back

then.’” The museum’s mission statement is simply, “Preserving all things Buford.”

The museum is staffed primarily by volunteers from the Buford Lanier Woman’s Club, but Bowman is desperate to “grow our population of persons willing

to share their talents and time in the common effort to preserve and pass along our community’s rich history.”

For more information, to share items for possible inclusion at the museum or to volunteer, visit www.museumofbuford.com.

Museum of Buford

Where: Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Suite 108, Buford, Ga.

Hours: Thursdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, Saturday: noon-3 p.m.; and by appointment Info: 770-945-4559, www.museumofbuford.com

PHOTOS CREDIT: MUSEUM OF BUFORD

Randy Wood restores building on Buford's Main Street, circa 1985.

A rendering of the Old Academy and Masonic Lodge in Buford, 1874.

Pitcher Boots Poffenberger of the Bona Allen Shoemakers baseball team.

Boxcars being unloaded at Bona Allen.

Lazy Days Houseboat in a race during the early days of Lake Lanier.

Lake Lanier Association looks to 2023, board additions, new programs

By Pamela A. Keene

New committees

projects, a

board members

a new location are on the docket for 2023 with the Lake Lanier Association.

“The association had a very successful year in 2022 and that has positioned us for even more growth and progress toward our clean, full and safe lake initiatives,” said Amy McGuire, executive director. “We will be focusing our projects and programs to enlist even more

• Burns

Continued from Page 20

those times, especially this time of year, when it can get cold enough for ice to form on roads and trees.

There are other times the wedge can be a lifesaver. When we see severe storms along a cold front, the kind of which brought those deadly tornadoes to the south last month, they will move into the wedge and fall apart be-

member engagement for the coming year and hope to really up our game with volunteer opportunities and involvement.”

Perhaps the biggest news is that the organization will be moving into a store-front location during the first quarter of 2023. For the past 25 years, it had been headquartered in the North Georgia Community Foundation Building on Oak Street.

“This new location for our offices will help us even better serve our members as well as

raise our visibility within the community and Northeast Georgia,” McGuire said. “As we approach our move-in date, we will begin planning an open house and other activities to showcase our new offices.”

The association has put out a call for new board members. Interested parties should send their resumes and a statement describing their skills and experience, as well as their value to the board.

cause of the cold, dense, dry air.

There will likely be many more cold air wedges in the weeks ahead so I thought you might like to know the dynamics involved and why it usually gets so miserable at times around the lake.

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

“We’re looking for people who have the passion, expertise, ability and time to serve Lake Lanier and our mission,” she said. The board is made up of 15 members who will either serve as committee chairs, committee members or as project leaders to help us further involve our membership.”

New committees broaden services

Several committees have been established, led by board members, to expand the group’s programming. They are: - Social Committee: plan and manage special events, including the April Member Celebration,

and pop-up events to encourage members to get to know each other.

- Erosion & Sedimentation Committee: formed six years ago to more closely monitor stormwater runoff, erosion and sedimentation.

- Business Sponsor Committee: Support current business sponsor involvement and further attract and recruit business sponsors.

- Adopt-a-Lake Water Quality Testing: Collect samples once a month to help monitor water quality; training provided for this 22-

year-old program.

- Channel Marker Refresh: In partnership with the Corps of Engineers, help pinpoint locations of the red and green markers around the lake and implement a refurbishment plan.

“Of course in the coming year we will continue to grow our membership,” she said. “After all, it’s our members and supporters who make it possible to advocate for Lake Lanier.”

For more information or to respond to these opportunities visit www.lakelanier.org.

The annual 2022 Lake Lanier Association celebration.

It’s the start of a new year, and that means it’s time to look at some new design ideas for your home. Some of the 2023 trends are new and some are just an evolution of trends from the past year or two.

First, color is in. The last couple of years have seen the resurgence of earth tones, as opposed to the grays and cool colors that dominated the 2010s. Now, design experts are predicting more desert tones, specifically. Think colors like browns, tans, and muted reds, pinks, and oranges. This is definitely evident in Sherwin Williams 2023 Color of the Year, called Redend Point, a dusty muted pink with brown undertones. The other color trend that you’ll see a lot in design magazines are jewel tones. These are rich aquas, greens, purples, and blues. When you anchor the rest of the room with neutral colors, these tones work great as an accent, such as on a sofa, a backsplash, drapes, or bed linens, etc. Or for those with more bold taste, you can also incorporate these on your wall to create a moody space.

The overarching theme of these predicted color trends is a move away from grays and whites to bring in more warmth and vitality.

The next trend you’ll see in design magazines and stores this year is texture. There are so many ways to add texture to your home which will help bring in more depth and interest. In a kitchen or bathroom, tile is a great way to introduce texture. There are so many tile options out there, with finishes that mimic concrete, stone, marble, even fabrics and wallpaper. For bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes alike, zellige tile has been growing rapidly in popularity. It is created to look

like ancient tile with a handformed appearance and beautiful color variation. It adds depth and interest to a space without being overwhelming. Another great way to bring in texture is through upholstery, with materials like velvet, leather, boucle, or tweed. It can be done in simple ways; for instance, if you already have a leather sofa that you love, add a textured throw blanket and velvet throw pillows over a wool rug for a layered look.

In both home construction and furniture design, curves are in. Curved staircases, arched doorways or arched accents have become very popular again. These can be done in both a traditional and modern way, and help break up the sharp lines and angles of most homes. In furniture, you’ll see more curved chairs and sofas, not just in the overall shape, but also in details like the arms and legs.

One peek at design pages on Instagram and you’ll see that statement kitchens are in right now. That doesn’t mean bright red cabinets, but rather warm,

rich wood tones, jewel tone islands, natural marble or wood countertops. Things that are still classic but a move away from the allwhite, sometimes sterile, look. Don’t get me wrong, I love a classic white kitchen, but mix it up a little by adding a beautiful natural stone top, wood island or accent, or as mentioned above, an interesting tile backsplash. These touches will help your space feel more personalized.

Mixed materials are also in, as they have been for a little while now. I know I’ve mentioned mixed metals in the past, which still work great when done the right way. But this also means mixing and matching furniture, bringing together old and new. This really will help your home feel like a carefully curated space. Light and dark are a great mix, as well. Dark furniture against light walls, or vice versa, works great

in a living room, dining room, or bedroom. It’s really all about balance. Mixing and matching also goes along with the texture trend mentioned above. In the end, you don’t want your home to look like everything came from the same showroom floor. You want it to look carefully selected and tailored.

As I always mention, trends come and go, so it’s important not to overdo it. Pick the ones that make sense for your style and lifestyle and incorporate them in different ways throughout your home. It could be something as

Sara Bagwell Design & Remodel

nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com

Pillows with rich colors and patterns can spice up a room.

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

Back to ancient times: Visiting mysterious Egypt

By Pamela A. Keene

Camels, pyramids, ancient pharaohs, timeworn monuments, mosques and whirling dervishes. Crowded markets, 24/7 security and police protection, the world’s oldest stone structure, stray cats, temples in the daylight and at night.

My third trip to Egypt was by far the most amazing and immersive of my visits. For three weeks, Rick and I were exposed to multiple means of transportation – including a camel ride and a pre-dawn flight in a hot air balloon, among others – new discoveries and experiences filled with surprises.

Traveling with Overseas Adventure Travel, we spent time in Cairo before boarding the private river ship Nefertiti for a 7-day cruise up the Nile headed south, back to Cairo for more ancient and modern wonders, and ending with four days in Alexandria on the Mediterranean.

Immersive doesn’t begin to describe the itinerary, taking us from one end of the Nile to the other with new adventures and discoveries every day.

My regular Facebook posts drew multiple claims by friending saying Egypt was on their bucket list. My question – why not go? The country is enjoying a resurgence of tourism; the Egyptian government wants to keep it that way. Aside from oil, tourism is Egypt’s second-highest economic driver.

We traveled in a group of 22 Americans, one of three groups

on this journey. Each group had its own trip leader. All three, Marwa, Dominque and Amr, are Egyptologists; Marwa also has a degree in archeology. This was not a sightseeing trip. It was a chance the learn the stories behind the stories, the myths and the legends.

Ancient Cairo

The traffic in Cairo makes Atlanta traffic look like a picnic. Twenty-one million people live there; most have cars, taxis, vans, motorcycles, tut-tuts, buggies, commercial trucks, bicycles. It seemed as though every time we left the hotel in our motorcoaches – always with a police car escort front and back and an armed plain-clothes security guard in the front seat – the whole city was on the highways, streets and alleys.

Arriving a day early, we had a private driver, who turned out to be the head of ground movement and security for Overseas Adventure Travels in Cairo. As we made our way to an out-of-the-way neighborhood, he explained that the lines on the roads were just for decoration. I can believe it.

Left turns from the far right lanes, small cars nudging their way in from of delivery trucks and buses, and motorcycles speeding between rows of vehicles, but we never saw an accident.

Five times a day the Muslim call to prayer rang out from broadcast towers and minarets, often in multiple musical keys from every direction. After a while, we didn’t even notice it over the droning of traffic and the blaring car horns beeping inces-

santly.

Our first outing took us to Sakkara in Memphis, an active archeological excavation site with several temples and the 4,400year-old Step Pyramid, thought to be one of the world’s first stone buildings. Unearthed in 2014 about eight miles from the Great Giza Pyramids, it continues to draw world attention from historians.

From one of my Facebook posts while still in Cairo: “Sakkara and the Step Pyramid today. The most amazing thing. Crews of archeologists doing digs in this very rich part in the Sahara Desert where more royal tombs are being unearthed.”

We didn’t go inside the Step Pyramid but visited the interior of a temple and several tombs nearby, with Marwa explaining the hieroglyphs and drawings carved into the walls more than 40 centuries ago.

The Egyptian Museum holds many of the treasures from the tomb of the Boy King, Tutankhamen, along with other monuments, sarcophagi and artifacts. Many items have been moved to the soon-to-open Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza near the Great Pyramids, but the special display of King Tut artifacts includes the Gold Death Mask, one of the gold coffins and relics from the burial chamber.

Not that Ali

Our time in Cairo included a visit to the palace of Muhammad

Ali, the prince that never became king. No! Not the boxer! The opulent palace and gardens featured a display of taxidermized animals, including the heads of three ferocious lions.

Time to head to Luxor via a 75-minute flight where we went first to the Temple of Karnak, to view the complex that was built in 19th century BC and expanded multiple times over the next 1,300 years. The Hall of Pillars contains 134 giant columns deeply carved with hieroglyphs and figures telling the story of the dynasties and their rulers. The tallest obelisk in

Egypt, created by Queen Hatshepsut in honor of the god Amum, stands 97 feet tall beyond the Hall of Pillars and weighs more than 320 tons.

Our ship awaits Docked near the Winter Palace, our 75-passenger Nefertiti would be our home for the next seven days, taking us up the Nile toward Aswan into Upper Egypt. But first, we cruised north toward Qena and the Dendera Temple. Built with influence from both the Romans and the Greeks, the exterior wall features a relief of Cleopatra VII and her son by Julius Caesar, Caesarion. Inside the main entry, the Hypostyle Hall is filled with massive carved columns that soar to a colorful painted ceiling.

Back in Luxor, our evening’s visit to the Luxor Temple was impressive with up lights showcasing carved columns with ornate lotus-blossom shaped capitals. It’s a popular activity in Luxor, where one end of the recently restored Avenue of the Ram-headed Sphinxes leads back to the Karnak Temple as the site of ceremonies and parades.

The oldest stone building in the world, the Step Pyramid in Saqqara.

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A KEENE

Luxor Temple in the daytime.

A statue of Ramses II was discovered in Memphis in this position.

The Golden Mask of King Tutankhamen in the Old Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Many of us rose at 4 a.m. for a hot-air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the monument of one of Egypt’s greatest rulers, and one of its only female pharaohs. As the sun rose over the Nile, more than 30 balloons rose into the cloud-streaked sky for amazing views and a wealth of stunning photos.

King Tut’s tomb

Later that morning, we journeyed to the Valley of the Kings, the ancient tombs of pharaohs and priests. Best known as the site of King Tut’s tomb, discovered in 1922 by British archeologist Howard Carter, it features nearly two dozen tombs built into the mountainsides, open on a staggered schedule. They are just a few of the many tombs yet to be excavated, although most fell victim to grave robbers thousands of years ago who stole the rich artifacts buried with their owners to assure their lifestyle in the afterlife.

From another of my Facebook posts: “Friday somewhere on the Nile river south of Luxor. Headed by ship to Upper Egypt. Minarets have come to life as the sun starts to set on another amazing day. Predawn hot-air balloon ride with 30 to 40 other aeronauts floating high over the Valley of the Kings

against a blood-orange sky.

Then back across the Nile for breakfast on the Nefertiti before returning to the Valley of the Kings to explore six tombs of kings, including King Tut.

Stunning colors within rock walls deep inside the stone-covered mountains reminded us 21stcentury travelers of the powerful kings and pharaohs who ruled this mighty land.”

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Rick and I were eager to compare our experience with our visit four years ago, just days before King Tut’s tomb was officially opened following a 20-year restoration. Very different. Instead of walking past various niches and chambers from our previous visit, the walk took us down a long single colorful hallway to the burial chamber where on one side a wood sarcophagus lay surrounded by the scenes of monkeys and other ancient symbols painted on the walls. On the other side, Tut’s mummy lay encased in plexiglass. The gold inner coffin was gone, most likely moved to the New Egyptian Museum.

To be continued next month ... we traveled up the Nile toward Aswan and the mysteries of Abu Simbel. Then back to Cairo before ending our Egyptian adventure in the modern city of Alexandria.

Nighttime view of Luxor Temple on the edge of the Nile River, above.

Contrast of cultures: in Cairo, many men and women wear gallabiyahs, but Western attire is also common, top right.

Craftsmen create works of art along the busy streets, right.

Colorful balloons float above the mountains that flank the Valley of the Kings.

A friendly Egyptian worman.

Protected for centuries from the elements, the colors of the carved and painted illustrations still remain visible in this tomb at Saqqara.

The 1.7-mile long Avenue of the Ram Sphinxes in Luxor connects Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple.

The Valley of the Kings.

The entrance to Luxor Temple at night.

A mall of confusion: Merchants hawk their wares.

Lanier Partners announces donations, new board, and 2023 Poker Run date

By Pamela A. Keene

The 2022 Pirates of Lanier Poker Run made Christmas bright for the holidays. During December, the group distributed checks to its four children’s charities.

“Each of our charities received their donations right before the holidays,” said Sheridan Renfroe Bazemore, incoming president of Lanier Partners. “We were so pleased to be able to make these donations to these children’s charities and look forward to continuing the Poker Run tradition.”

Checks were presented to: Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, $25,000; Camp Twin Lakes, $20,000; Camp Sunshine, $25,000; and Edmondson Telford Child Advocacy Center, $5,000.

The group has named new officers and board members for the coming year.

Bazemore is the president and Dan Jape will serve as vice president. Board members for 2023 include Rob Davidson, Dan Gordon, Ronnie Gordon, Bruce Longmore, Brenda Musone and Bucky Perry.

The group is moving its dates for this year’s Poker Run to the fall. They have set

the weekend of September 8-10 for the event, which will be headquartered at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

For more information, visit www.lanierpartners.org.

Sheridan Renfroe Bazemore, center, presents a $25,000 check to Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier’s Joyce Wilson (left), chief development officer, and Brenda Bohn, development director.

Search: Lakeside on Lanier www.lakesidenews.com

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Lake Lanier Olympic Park Foundation begins capital campaign

By Pamela A. Keene

With an eye toward the continuing growth and expansion of Lake Lanier Olympic Park, the Lake Lanier Olympic Park Foundation has announced a capital campaign. By creating the Olympic Legacy Club, early supporters will be acknowledged through a variety of physical recognitions for their investments in the park.

“We’ve created three club member levels so that our supporters can continue to be recognized through the years,” said Robyn Lynch, director of Tourism for the city of Gainesville. “As we carry on the legacy of the 1996 Summer Games, we celebrate the community for its support in helping the Olympic Park remain an active and viable legacy for future generations.”

Gold Founding Members, who make a donation of $2,500, will have their name on a plaque in the Legacy Room at the Boathouse as well as a nameplate on the original 1996 Olympic park bench, limited to 17.

Silver Supporting Members,

who make a donation of $1,000, will have their name on a plaque in the Legacy Room at the Boathouse as well as a 12-by-12 Commemorative Brick with the inscription of their choice.

Bronze Patron Members, who make a donation of $500, will have their name on a plaque in the Legacy Room at the Boathouse and a Commemorative Brick with the inscription of their choice.

“Custom giving levels are also available,” Lynch said. “This campaign is designed to support

the next phase of improvements and to allow the community to make their own mark at Lake Lanier Olympic Park.”

The new capital campaign will help fund walking paths along the water that will connect the boat ramp to the round-about, plus additional enhancements to the 80by-40 pavilion, including lights, fans and seating. Lakeside benches will also be installed.

Boathouse construction continues

Scheduled to open in 2024, the

boathouse has been designed to blend in to the residential and natural environment of the site. It will have space for both clubs, a covered entrance for visitor drop off and pick-up, amenities for visiting teams and athletes, plus locker rooms and restrooms.

As an event facility, it will also have a catering kitchen, a ballroom that can seat 400, a service entrance for catering, bands and other vendors, a catering kitchen, indoor gathering area with a fire-

•Design

Continued from Page 49

simple as bringing in color in the form of new bed linens or curtains or maybe your home feels tired and ready for a major overhaul. Whatever the case, do what makes sense for you and

place, brides/meeting room, an executive board room and Legacy Hall. The outdoor covered terrace with a fireplace can seat 137 and the patio can seat 72.

The building has been raised four feet to eliminate flooding concerns.

A paved parking lot will add 92 more spaces.

For more information or to become a member of the Olympic Legacy Club, visit www.Lakelanierolympicvenue.org.

what you will enjoy. And here’s to a happy and healthy 2023!

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

Lake Lanier Olympic Park’s new boathouse is coming out of the ground.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

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