Lakeside on Lanier March 2023

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Your complete news, information and recreation guide to Lake Lanier

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

LLA gets new office space

After more than 25 years, the Lake Lanier Association has its own office space: 1,600 square feet in the Village Shoppes of Gainesville at 821 Dawsonville Highway, Suite 110. Page 2

Holiday’s Laidlaw retires

When it comes to local knowledge, the pool of those with longterm familiarity of Lake Lanier and the marina business just got smaller when Alex Laidlaw retired from Suntex Marinas. Page 33

king

Growing and eating crawfish in and around Lake Charles, La. has always been the ultimate experience for local residents. Growing of these “Cajun Mudbugs” has become a huge industry in recent years. Page 29

Also inside:

Calendar Page 26

Classifieds Page 46

Dining guide Page 46

Fishing news Page 10

Lake levels Page 20

Lanier map Page 44

Marinas information

.Page 34

Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page 30

Columns:

The Careful Captain .

Page 18

Curb Appeal Page 36

Design & Remodel Page 41

Glenn Burns Page 20

O’Neill Outside Page 12

On the Water

Vanderford’s travel

.Page 14

.Page 29

“Cajun Mudbugs” are

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Workers continue to hang steel at Lake Lanier Olympic Venue’s new boathouse. As construction continues much of the boathouse side of the park is off limits due to the work area being walled off. However, the tower side of the park is open and the parking lot is open for events and boat launches. Construction of the boathouse is expected to be complete this fall.

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.

New home, annual meeting date for the Lake Lanier Association

By Pamela A. Keene

After more than 25 years, the Lake Lanier Association has its own office space: 1,600 square feet in the Village Shoppes of Gainesville at 821 Dawsonville Highway, Suite 110. The organization is currently building out the space; staff is working remotely.

“We are so thrilled to have this new space to better serve our constituents and members,” said Amy McGuire, executive director of the 3,200-member lake advocacy organization. “Designed to meet our ever-broadening mission and services, the space gives us a place for furthering member relationships, community partnerships and environmental programs.”

The office’s modular design allows for a dedicated lab dop-off area to support the Adopt-a-Lake monthly testing, a meeting area that can seat up to 50, a kitchen and offices for staff.

“We recently received a $3,000 grant from the recently disbanded Georgia Lakes Society, and it will be used to build out our water-

testing drop-off station,” she said. “It will certainly be put to good use.”

The space, being built out now, will include a podcast and webinar studio.

“As we further improve our communications and programming, our new podcast and webinar studio will allow us to offer more outreach and to maximize technology,” she said. “It will also enhance our community outreach.”

Last summer, the association purchased a 24-foot tritoon boat, renaming it “Miss Jackie” in honor of the group’s 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,” McGuire said. “It will be on display at our member celebration in April and in the past eight months, it has helped us further promote our missions to the community.”

Preview of April 22 Membership Celebration

The group’s annual Member

Celebration will take place on Saturday, April 22, at Lanier Islands’ Peachtree Pointe. It will include vendor booths with marine and lake-related items.

“We will be sending details about the event to our members soon, and we’re requesting advanced reservations,” McGuire said. “Admission will be free, but it’s only going to be open to members, so if you want to at-

tend, I encourage you to join or renew by going online to lakelanier.org.”

Individual membership at $50 per person includes one ticket to the celebration; a family level membership at $100 includes two tickets. The Admiral ($500) and Flagship ($1,000) levels each include four tickets.

For more information, visit www.lakelanier.org.

Lake Lanier Association’s Executive Director Amy McGuire points to the group’s new location in Gainesville.

PHOTO BY LLA

We Sell Lifestyles - Not Just Homes

TERESA SMITH

Lake Lanier Specialist

770-654-4173 • teresasmith@kw.com

MICHELE KAPLAN

678-677-5653 • michelekaplan@kw.com

MACKENZIE SCOTT

678-925-2652 • mackenziescott@kw.com

LISA MITCHELL

513-383-8926

6 Admirals Point Circle, Dawsonville

MOVE IN READY - 3 bedroom, 2 bath IMPECCABLE, TOTALLY REMODELED GEM of a lake home! You are going to LOVE spending time at your newer, all aluminum Wahoo single slip party dock in DEEP water, tucked away from the big water making it perfect for swimming, floating, and paddle boarding. Enjoy your million dollar views from the dock and peek-a-boo views during the summer months. During the fall and winter, you will have wide open views! Most of the furniture is negotiable. The dock is SO close to your home and an EASY walk to the dock. $799,000 (Dawson)

Watermark Cove, Gainesville

“Unbelievable lake knowledge! Teresa helped us to sell

Acreage, private lake with fishing pier and workshop

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

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

- Angela H., Dawsonville

The Good Life Group is delighted to announce the addition of Senior Agent David Scoynes to our group. David is from Gwinnett County and spent his weekends on Lake Lanier on his parents’ boat. Over the last 20 years, David has lived in Tennessee and in Central Florida. Recently David and his wife relocated to Gainesville to raise their five children. He started working in real estate in 2003 where he was a Regional Director for a real estate marketing company. In 2009 David moved to Lakeland, Florida where he purchased a couple of real estate magazines and started a publishing and marketing company. After several successful years he sold his company and became a licensed realtor. He built a large regional real estate team under Keller Williams with offices in Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando and has helped over 500 families buy or sell over the last 8 years. His expertise is in luxury real estate, and he’s excited to continue his success around the lake. Welcome David!

$2,100,000 • SOUTH LAKE LOCATION, BREATHTAKING LAKE VIEWS, 5BR| 5BA, SOLD COMPLETELY FURNISHED FOR TURNKEY ENJOYMENT! The new 32 x 32 Martin aluminum twin slip dock provides plenty of housing for your boats and toys! Enjoy year-round outdoor living and views! Easy walk to the twin slip dock with party deck for sunning and entertaining! FMLS #7169689 4175 Merritt Drive Sheila Davis 770-235-6907

GAINESVILLE

GAINESVILLE

$1,897,000 • BEAUTIFUL JUST COMPLETED CONSTRUCTION WITH WATER VIEWS ON THE SOUTH END OF THE LAKE IN THE SOUGHTAFTER BAY POINTE ON LAKE LANIER SUBDIVISION! Ready for move in before the holidays! Level lakefront lot with 88 ft of shoreline including a covered boat slip. The 4 BR| 4.5BA modern farmhouse plan has an inviting exterior with a covered front porch and 3 car garage. Fish or put in the kayaks and paddleboard from your own backyard that has room for a pool. Covered slip A-10 at the Bay Pointe community dock is included. Quality construction with lots of upgrades. FMLS#7003531 5431 Mayflower Court Stephanie 770-654-4161

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

$865,000 • FALL IN LOVE WITH THIS BEAUTIFULLY CUSTOMIZED SPRUCE FLOOR PLAN HOME IN CRESSWIND AT LAKE LANIER. The newer one owner property has been upgraded and improved inside and out. As soon as you enter you will be wowed by the attention to detail that sets this home apart from the rest! This house is so special you may never want to leave except for the incredible amenities that this gated neighborhood offers: tennis, pickleball, clubhouse with fitness center and pools, walking trails, lakeside marina, garden space and much more.

3986 Great Pine Drive Stephanie 770-654-4161

The Cottages of Lake

GAINESVILLE

GAINESVILLE

$799,900 • COTTAGES OF LAKE LANIER. Covered DOCK SLIP INCLUDED! 4BR/3BA Welford plan. FMLS# 7163754 3491 Big View Rd. Jennifer 770-356-2629

$779,900 • COTTAGES OF LAKE LANIER. New Price + Covered DOCK SLIP is INCLUDED! 4BR|3BA Iris-Hazon plan w/finished terrace level, 2.5 car garage. FMLS# 7163738 3487 Big View Road Jennifer 770-356-2629

MURRAYVILLE

$859,000 • ENJOY THE DRIVE THROUGH BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY SIDE PAST ESTATES AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS THEN ARRIVE AT THIS GREAT LAKE LANIER HOME! Area of nice houses with water views all around. The property features a highly desired FLAT LOT AND PRIVATE DOCK ON DEEP WATER! 5 BR 3 BA home with an open concept main level featuring spacious living areas with a vaulted tongue and groove ceiling and large windows to enjoy the amazing water views. Short, level walk to the dock that overlooks a private wide cove on the Chestatee river side at the northern end of Lake Lanier. This home offers options for an Air B&B, full time or 2nd home as there's no HOA or restrictions. Excellent location with easy access to GA 400, Dawsonville and Gainesville for shopping and healthcare facilities. A quick drive to the North Georgia mountains, hiking trails, fishing rivers and wineries. Start living your dream LAKE LIFE. FMLS#7129960 8094 Beachwood Drive Stephanie 770-654-4161

GAINESVILLE

GAINESVILLE

$650,000 • PICTURESQUE SETTING WITH TRANQUIL LAKE VIEW AND DEEP-WATER BOAT DOCK! Wide lot offers options for your dream home. Approximately an acre of gentle topography and a low corps line. 119+/- feet of water frontage.

Lanier Partners announces 2023 Poker Run date, new officers, board members

By Pamela A. Keene

Mark your calendars for the weekend of September 8-10. That’s the 2023 date for the Pirates of Lanier Poker Run on Lake Lanier.

Organized by Lanier Partners, the event is moving to September. It will still be headquartered at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

“This year we’re revamping the event and changing it up a bit,” said Sheridan Renfroe Bazemore, the group’s new president. “It’s our hope to host the Poker Run every year on the weekend closest to 9-11, like we originally did 14 years ago, and to add more excitement for the weekend.”

The organization is updating its website – lanierpartners.org –and plans to open registration by mid-March.

The schedule of events and other information will be posted on the website.

New board and officers

President Sheridan Renfroe Bazemore, an Atlanta native, has lived on Lake Lanier for nearly a decade. She and her husband

Augie started a transport shipping container business five years ago. They enjoy powerboating and have attended poker runs across the country. She does extensive volunteer work in Buford and in Atlanta. She’s been in real estate sales for the past 22 years.

Vice President Dan Jape, former owner/CEO of Reliable Heating and Air is a former president and board member of Lanier Partners. For several years, Reliable Heating and Air was the presenting sponsor of the Pirates of Lanier Poker Run. He and his wife Kim live on Lanier and travel frequently to the Bahamas and around the world. Jape has been involved in many children’s charities.

Treasurer Dan Gordon is a founding board member of Lanier Partners when it was founded 14 years ago. He owns Gordon Security Systems in Buford and is active with the Shriners’ Yaarab Temple in Atlanta.

Secretary Brenda Musone joined the board in 2017 as Chief Financial Officer. A successful

marketing events manager and community volunteer she handles event registration for the poker run and manages the event’s volunteers. She lives on the lake in Buford.

Ronnie Gordon has been involved in Lanier Partners since its inception. From designing apps, volunteering and videographer/photographer, he is a Camp Sunshine alumnus and continues to volunteer with that organization, one of the recipient organizations of donations raised by the poker run each year.

Freddy Fonzo was one of the original participants in the poker run; he also provided food for the inaugural events. He is cofounder and managing partner of Southern Realm; he also spent several years in restaurant operations with Zoes Kitchen and Macaroni Grill. He lives on the lake as well.

Rob Davidson has been a long-time volunteer with the poker run. He has used his 35plus years as a manufacturer’s rep in the sporting goods industry,

most recently as a principal with Blaze Sales Group, to build a strong foundation for Lanier Partners. He lives in Pendergrass.

Bruce Longmore joined the board in 2012. He and his wife Donna own Lenny’s Grill & Subs in Cumming. His community work includes serving on the board of the Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Lanier and Leadership Forsyth. He lives on the lake as well.

“Bucky” Perry, vice president of operations for Margaritaville at Lake Lanier, is new to the Lanier Partners’ board in 2023. Ever since the poker run’s beginnings, he has worked closely with the board during the 3-day event. At Margaritaville, he overseas all operations, including restaurants and bars, seasonal activities, Port of Indecision Marina and Camp Margaritaville RV Resort. For more information, visit www.lanierpartners.org.

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

Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS

Lake Lanier Artist

www.annebrodiehill.com

• 770-718-7586

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

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

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

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

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

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

2023 board for Lanier Partners, (l-r, front row) Rob Davidson, Dan Jape, Bruce Longmeyer, Ronnie Gordon; (l-r second row) Freddy Fonzo, Bucky Perry, Dan Gordon; (l-r third row), Sheridan Bazemore, Brenda Musone.

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

Lake level: .28 feet below full pool

Temperature: 50s

Clarity: Stained in most of lake

Bass fishing

Bass fishing on Lake Lanier has been good. Then again, perhaps the key word for the lake is slow, regardless of the bait you are throwing the bass seem to want a slow presentation. The steadiest bait recently has been a trick worm on a three sixteenths head worked on rocks and docks.

Look for the sun facing rock with deeper water nearby or docks that sit near the creek channel. It seems a key to both these patterns has been to have deeper water close by so the bass can easily move between depths. The three eights Spotchoker rigged with a three inch Keitech is still producing in the ditches. It takes some time to locate bait in the ditches now so be prepared to be in search mode.

Once you find bait the fish are more willing to feed on the Spotchoker. Again a very slow presentation is the key to triggering the fish. If you feel a tick and the bass doesn’t hook up just stop your bait for several seconds and start your retrieve again.

Jigs worked in the deeper water and along the ledges have also been producing some good fish. Look very closely at your

electronics as the fish are often glued to the bottom right now.

Don’t get locked into only looking in one depth right now as the bass are beginning their spring migration form the deep to the shallow. Two or three degree changes in the water temperature can greatly change the depth that you find them.

It’s the time of transition so be flexible and go catch ‘em!

This bass fishing report is by Phil Johnson; Pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845.

Striper fishing

Stripers are beginning to look for large schools of bait so they can pack on the weight for their move up the rivers.

Flat lines, planer boards and trolling mini macs and umbrella rigs should cover the method. Blue backs, gizzard shad are the bait of choice.

Watch for birds and your electronics and once you’re ready, put out your spread. Remember to wear your life jackets.

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

Crappie fishing

Crappie can be found in shallow water and suspended shallow under docks. We

started trolling in recent days and had limited success but the fish we got from trolling were the best fish of the year. I expect the trolling to get better every day until the spawn.

A recent catch came mainly from docks the fish were suspended in 5 to 25 feet of water. The jig that produced the best was the black and grey color combination. Crappie love the shade so cast into the shadows or shaded areas of dock. When dock shooting the biggest fish are usually the first to bite.

I use ATX lure company’s jigs on a Lip

Thrashin lure. 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 and a Acc crappie stix.

I’m hosting an Outdoor Apparel all ladies fishing tournament on Saturday March 25 from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Call for details.

This crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton, 770 530- 6493.

Nautical Boat Club® is for Those Who Want More from a Boat Club

A premium experience sets us apart from the others

Your leisure time is valuable, and your Nautical Boat Club® membership will help you make the most of it. You and your family will enjoy all the benefits of playing out on the water, for less money, and without the stress or hassle of boat ownership. Here’s what sets us apart:

CONCIERGE-LEVEL SERVICE

• Experience the 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.

• Enjoy a personalized, impeccable guest 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.

EXCLUSIVE

MEMBERSHIP PERKS

• Premium boat brands and first-class maintenance

• Guaranteed reservations

• Unlimited use of the full fleet of boats

• Boating safety and orientation instruction

• Complimentary water toys

• Guests are always welcome

• Reciprocity at all Nautical Boat Club locations featuring premium ports and first-class marinas across the country

How to become a better bass fisherman

So, you want to be better. Why? Simple enough, you want to catch more and bigger bass and to be more consistent in doing so. Good reasons. Maybe it’s so you will do better in tournaments, more respect and admiration from your employment associates or even to be able to teach your sons, daughters or grandchildren.

One answer is, go fishing more often, read more, study more, watch television shows more. All those are good ways to do so but the best one is to join a bass fishing club. Why? What if you’ve never been to a particular lake but the next club tournament is to be there. Are you going? Yes, you are. Is it likely that your partner for that trip has been there? Probably. You’ll be exposed to a different lake or stream and will have to prepare to put your reputation on the line against fishing talents of others, so you try to do well.

Do you suppose your partner for the day on that lake or any other on the schedule will be

O’Neill Williams

O’Neill Outside

n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com

doing his best, trying harder, being inventive, using his skills to the max to catch as many big bass as possible? Yes, he will likely be doing so, and you can watch and learn, copy and paste so to speak, learn his methods and places that he will be demonstrating to his benefit.

How has he adapted to the water and weather conditions? Did he change the strength of his line, fish deeper, fish shallower, slower, faster? Change the size of his bait? It’ll be like going to school to learn to be a better bass fisherman.

Do you test and expand your experience in foul weather, cold, windy, hot, or even a busy lake? Remember, that time when you might choose not to go fishing will be a day that the club has a tournament scheduled and you need to be there. Will that help? Well duh! It will. You’ll be required to bass fish in conditions that may be difficult, after a hard rain, during a hard rain, in the wind, in the cold, stained water, very clear water, hard times. Will you be better for it in the long run? I should say so.

Simply put, think of how good a bass fisherman you could be if you took the above suggestions to the max, that is, fishing with an experienced guide on a different lake with him doing his best every day for a year. You rarely took a day off, no, you fished virtually every day. Would you be a better bass fisherman after that year? You bet you would.

So, carefully pick a club with a good reputation, one that conducts tournaments often and with

an array of destinations, throw in some charitable activities like taking children fishing and ask to join up. If you don’t have a bass boat, ask to join anyway. Remember most tournament schedules are with two people per boat so you can be a non-boater and still get to bass fish all around the area lakes.

Ultimately the greatest benefit to you is this: Once you have had the bass club experience and have honed your skills in a host of directions, places, etc., you’ll get to teach a youngster those skills and he can enjoy the outdoor experience too.

O’Neill Williams has been a

O’Neill’s fishing buddy with an 11 pound bass.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY O’NEILL WILLIAMS television, radio and print personality for more than 40 years and more recently has added podcasts and video on demand to his repertoire.

Camp Blanding, revisited and enjoying the extensive museum

Last month I wrote about Camp Blanding as it was in the 1940s. Several years ago, I was driving around I-295, the Jacksonville bypass and saw a sign for Blanding Boulevard. I had some time to kill, so I decided to ride on out and see if the old camp was still there.

To my delight, it not only exists under the control of the Florida National Guard, but they have an extensive museum with a bunch of WWII relics including weapons, aircraft, and vehicles. These are not display mockups, but the real thing. You can get up close and personal with tanks, cannons, howitzers, and aircraft, including a C-47 transport plane. This is the military version of the Douglas DC-3, which was a staple of the airline industry from the 1930s through the 1960s. I remember flying in several of them while I was in the Navy in the ’60s. The seats were simple aluminum frames with canvas laced between them to save weight. They all faced the rear of the plane for safety in case of a crash. Not a good thing to think about at

20,000 feet.

But for me the most interesting was an Army DUKW. That’s a military designation: “D” for the production year, 1942, “U” for amphibious, “K” for all-wheel drive, and “W” for dual rear wheels. It’s pronounced “Duck.” It was basically a cargo carrier that you would load on a ship, then it would drive down a ramp into the water, continue up on the beach and go on down the road! It was invaluable during the invasion of Sicily, where the water was too shallow to allow the LSTs and other cargo ships to get close to shore.

The Duck was designed by Olin Stephens, designer of many of the successful America’s Cup defenders, from the 1950s

through the1980s, including the “Intrepid,” the last wooden Twelve Meter. During the Cup races, she led at every mark around the course.

I met Stevens at a lecture in the 1970s and asked him about the “Duck.” He said it was simple: he just took a GMC 2½ ton truck chassis, made it float and added a big propeller and rudder! There were many other innovations, such as allowing the driver to increase or decrease the tire pressure by flipping a switch on the dashboard. This gave the Duck the ability to go across loose sandy beaches with low tire pressure, slightly higher pressure to cross sharp rocks or coral, and then use the highest pressure to do 50 mph down the road!

I remember back in the 1970s and ’80s, the US Coast Guard station on Sandy Hook, N.J. had one. She was all painted up in the Coast Guard colors of white with the orange stripe and would make an appearance around the county for Memorial Day or 4th of July parades.

However, her most important

function was once every four- or fiveyears during times of flood. We lived on the shore of Sandy Hook Bay, which faces northeast. Whenever there is a full moon (affecting the height of the tide) and a northeast storm, the towns around the bay and rivers flooded.

Now northeast storms, (or “Nor’easters”) occur during the fall and winter. Typically, they blow for three or more days from the same direction. The tide would come up, but when it went out the pressure of the wind would keep most of the water in the bay, so low tide was not much lower than high tide! Then the next high tide would be even higher and so on, flooding the town.

Many of the houses were built in the early part of the last century

as summer residences, before building codes, and are susceptible to flooding.

You can imagine how it felt for a family to have six feet of water on the front lawn and two feet in the living room, wondering what’s going to happen next when this Leviathan, with US Coast Guard painted on the side, comes roaring down the street, sometimes afloat, sometime awash, leaving a two foot high wake behind it, crushing everything in its path, including fences and shrubbery to pull up to the living room window and take the family

See Mendes, page 18

Military pieces at Camp Blanding Museum.

Virtual 3 sessions - March 29, plus April 5, 8

In person - Saturday, May 13 - all-day class

June

Saturday, July 8 - all-day class

sessions - August 2, plus 9, 12

DOCKBLOXX are revolutionary products designed to provide clean, strong, mounting surfaces for all your boating/docking accessories. Our Patent-Pending design “Cinches” tight to your dock post giving you the ability to keep your dock and accessories organized, clutterfree, and out of our valuable waterways.

No more unsightly Zip Ties, Bungees, or Hose Clamps!

Don’t use car tires on your boat trailer

Did you know that trailer tires are not the same as vehicle tires?

It may be tempting to put car tires on your trailer, but it is not a good idea because trailer tires are constructed to address the unique requirements of a trailer. Keep in mind using the right tires applies to all trailers, not just boat trailers.

You may be asking yourself, “What is so different about trailer tires and why should I use them on my trailer instead of normal car tires?” We will use the rest of this article to highlight the unique features of trailer tires.

Have you ever been towing a trailer and made a turn that resulted in scrubbing the trailer tires on a curb? This happens a lot. Fortunately, trailer tires are constructed with thicker sidewalls to deal with the extra abuse. Thicker walls also allow these tires to carry a heavier load than car tires of a similar size. Additionally, they provide stability that keeps the trailer from swaying back and forth as you drive down the road.

Another thing that we should keep in mind is that the construction of a car or truck is different

Mendes

Frank Taylor The Careful Captain

than that of a trailer, especially in terms of dynamic load. The tire design accounts for these differences. Putting regular vehicle tires on a trailer results in tires that are not designed to handle the road stresses they will endure. The consequences could be the tread wearing unevenly or the tire overheating. This stress could eventually lead to a blowout.

So how do you tell if a tire is a trailer tire or a vehicle tire? All tires have a type and size code on the side of the tire. The first part of the code indicates the type of tire. This is followed by a number that indicates the width in millimeters. The next number indicates the sidewall height in terms of percentage of width. The last

number is the rim size. If there is an R before the last number, it is a radial tire. Radial tires dissipate heat in a way that allows them to travel at higher speeds for greater distance.

If the code starts with a P, then it is a passenger car tire. Example: P265/50R20. These tires are typically used on passenger cars, minivans, and SUVs.

If the code starts with an LT, it is designed for light trucks. Example: LT235/75R15. These tires are typically used on vehicles that carry heavy loads like full sized vans, heavy duty pickup trucks and full-sized SUVs.

If your tire’s code starts with ST, it is designed for trailers (ST stands for Special Trailer). Example: ST175/80R13. These are the tires that are meant for trailer use. Make sure that your trailer has the right rubber to hit the road this summer. Your road trips will be a bit more pleasant and safe.

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

Continued from Page 14

safely aboard. Then off down the road to the next rescue!

I’m sure the volunteer fire department and private citizens with small outboard motorboats were responsible for many more rescues, but none as spectacular!

This has mostly changed since “Superstorm Sandy,” when a lot of federal money was made available to raise the older houses above the onehundred-year high water mark. The only caveat was that if you didn’t use the money to raise the house, you were no longer eligible to receive any more, as well as not being eligible for flood insurance.

It always makes me smile when I think of all the farmers out in Iowa, Arkansas, Illinois, Oklahoma, and those other states that begin with a vowel, paying their taxes and the money being used to raise houses on the north Atlantic Coast. It makes up for all the

tax money we pay them on a regular basis not to grow corn, or soybeans or whatever else the federal government decides they shouldn’t grow to keep the price stable!

This column is dedicated to the 800,000 men and women who passed through Camp Blanding on their way to war in Europe and Africa.

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

Tank at Camp Blanding Museum.

Spring signals increased tornado outbreaks

Spring is in the air. Flowers and trees continue their wake-up from winter hibernation. Pollen counts are increasing. This is my least favorite season, especially this particular season.

As you well know, this is the third year in a row where we continue to have a La Niña weather pattern. The unseasonably cold water off the coast of South America continues to impact the normal global wind patterns.

We’ve seen an extraordinary number of tornadoes in the south this past January and February and now severe storms will really ramp up this month. Southerly winds from the Gulf of Mexico will provide a conveyor belt of warmth and tropical moisture over the south, providing a lot of fuel to storms along approaching cold fronts.

In 2022, due to La Niña, we saw about 150 more tornadoes in the country than what would be considered an average year. Here in Georgia people continue to recover from the unusual January outbreak we saw. On January 12 there were about a dozen tornadoes. The strongest was an EF 3 was in Pike and Spalding counties. The NWS

Glenn

survey showed the path at 31 miles long. Winds in the EF 3 twister were 150 miles per hour. At one point, there were three tornadoes on the ground in Pike and Spalding alone! Some 1,465 homes suffered damage with more than 250 suffering major damage or totally destroyed. Troup and Meriwether counties had EF 2 tornadoes that were also long tracked.

It is very likely were will see increased tornado and severe storm outbreaks this month. Here’s what I need you to do. One day, sit down with your family. Make sure everyone know where they need to go when a tornado warning is issued. Make sure your all have bike helmets or something to protect your head. A flash light is also a good idea.

I also would like you to remember that Georgia has two tornado alleys. The northern one runs from Rome to Gainesville, including Lake Lanier.

From 1950 to 2006, this area has seen more that 130 confirmed tornadoes. Please be weather aware this month.

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

o 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. Free. Info: 770-532-3311, X4011.

o Mar. 4 – Dahlonega Literary Festival, held at Dahlonega Baptist Church, 234 Hawkins St., features a day filled with a variety of events for fans of various genres of fiction and non-fiction writing. Admission: free. Lunch and $20 for each speaker. Times: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Info: www.literaryfestival.org.

o Mar. 7 – Purim in The Chocolate Factory –features Chocolate Fountain, Purim Dinner, animated Megillah and magic show. 5:30 p.m. at Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St. NE. Celebrate the Jewish historical story of Queen Esther and Mordechai. Admission: $18, adults; $10 children. Info: info@jewishhall.com.

o Mar. 11 – 16th Annual Color/Holi Festival 2023 featuring Indian food, Bollywood music and dancing. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. Free admission and parking.

Info: Search festival name on Facebook.

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

Info: 770-532-3311 X4011.

Lakeside Calendar March 2023

Brenau University

o Thru Mar. 23 – Excerpts in Paint: Works by Ferdinand Rosa exhibit in Presidents Gallery, Brenau University, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville. The solo exhibition features abstract paintings created by Rosa which highlight his works from his Costa Rican Rhapsody and Tsunami Eulogies series. Times: 9-4 p.m., Mon.Fri. Free.

o Mar. 28 – One Family: Many Melodies at 7:30 p.m. in Pearce Auditorium features Brenau’s Vocal Chamber Ensemble, directed by Ashley Conway, accompanied by Ben Leaptrott, performing a collection of songs from around the world. Free.

Info: 770-534-6263; galleries.brenau.edu.

Buford Community Center

o Mar. 3 – Good Shot Judy features Brett and Jeff Cahoon, former punk band members of Ten Years from Now who formed a small combo featuring old-time jazz standards. Presented in the Sylvia Beard Theatre at 8 p.m. Tickets: $30$40.

o Mar. 24 – Salute to Glen Campbell, 8 p.m. in the Sylvia Beard Theatre, features Nashville artist Jeff Dayton paying tribute to Glen Campbell with whom he had toured for 15 years as his lead guitarist. Tickets: $30-$40. Info: www.bufordcommunitycenter.com.

Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater

o Mar. 24-26 – “101 Dalmations Kids,” based on the Disney Classic, is sure to bring the whole family together featuring hits like “Cruella De

Vil” and more. Times: 7 p.m., Fri./Sat.; 2 p.m., Sun. Tickets: $14, adults; $10, students/children.

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

Gainesville Theatre Alliance

o Mar. 9-12 – John & Jen presented in UNGGainesville Ed Cabell Theatre is a musical which explores the dynamics of family relationships, set in America between 1950 and 1990. Recommended for ages 13 and up. Times: 7:3010 p.m., Mar. 9-11; 2:30 p.m., Mar. 12. Admission: $16-$24.

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

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

o Mar. 10 – Tanya Tucker, 7 p.m. at 1311 Music Hall Rd. Abbey Cone opens. $60 (level 1); $35 (level 2).

o Mar. 31 – Gary Allan, 7 p.m. $50. Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.

Interactive Neighborhood Kids

o Thru Mar. 5 – Pig Craft Week, make a fun pig craft this week.

o Mar. 6 – Popcorn Craft Week, enjoy making a fun popcorn craft.

o Mar. 13-19 – St. Patrick’s Day Craft Week, help celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a green craft.

o Mar. 17 – Easter in the Neighborhood, take a picture with the Easter Bunny, make Easter crafts and visit with live baby farm animals. Pre-purchased tickets are required (deadline to purchase is Mar. 15th). Times: 4-7 p.m. Admis-

sion: $15, child; $10, adult; free for under 2 years old.

o Mar. 20-26 – Puppy Craft Week, create your own puppy with some fun craft materials.

o Mar. 27-Apr. 2 – Doctor Craft Week, pretend to be a doctor in the museum and create own doctor craft. $1 with paid admission to museum; INK Members, free.

Info: 770-536-1900; www.inkfun.org.

Northeast Georgia History Center

o Mar. 12 – Free Family Day! Scots-Irish Heritage in Georgia features living history presentations, demonstrations and crafts about some of the first settlers in Georgia of Scots-Irish ancestry. Times: 1-4 p.m. Free. Pre-register online and receive one free raffle ticket for a chance to win a copy of “Chasing the Frontier: Scots-Irish in Early American” by Larry J. Hoefling.

Info: 770-297-5900; www.negahc.org.

Piedmont University

o Mar. 21 – Piedmont University Singers & Piedmont Pro Musica Choir and Orchestra, 7:30-9 p.m. in the Chapel at 992 Central Ave., Demorest, will perform Maurice Durufle’s Requiem and other works.

o Mar. 30, Apr. 2 – Bright Star, performed in the Swanson Center for Performing Arts & Communications, 365 College Dr., Demorest, tells of love and redemption set in the American South in the 1920s and 1940s. Times: 7:30-9:30 p.m., Mar. 30; 2-4 p.m., Apr. 2. Tickets: $10, adults; $5 seniors/students/faculty; free staff/stuSee Calendar, page 45

Crawfish, i.e. Cajun Mudbugs, are king in Lake Charles, La.

Growing and eating crawfish in and around Lake Charles, La. has always been the ultimate experience for local residents. Despite the decline of traditional farming and the importation of foreign crawfish, growing of these “Cajun Mudbugs” has become a huge industry in recent years, and being successful takes little more than land and good water.

Crawfish are everywhere in the rich bayou lands of Southwest Louisiana. Therefore, one only has to level the land, build dikes capable of holding back about 3 feet of water, add water with excellent quality, and wait for the crawfish to come.

“When the crawfish come,” said a local farmer, “I have to continually move water through a staggered levee system to keep my crawfish alive and active. They’ve got to have good levels of oxygen to prosper. Catching them after they have grown, however, is a different story.”

Two factors provide a feeling of security for the fast-growing mudbugs. These are muddy water and darkness. The clearer the water, the more active the crawfish are at night. Muddy water provides enough security for crawfish to remain active during the day. “I’ve seen it time and time again when running traps,” said the farmer. “If you put a trap out in clear water and come back an hour later, you won’t have any crawfish. Come back in five hours and you may have a couple. Yet, if you come back the next morning, you’ll have a pound or so. But, when you set that trap in muddy water, you can come back

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

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

sume on an average of 5 to 10 pounds of these tasty freshwater lobsters before you realize what you have done.

in an hour and have 1 or 2 pounds.”

Because many of the wetlands where crawfish have always grown naturally have, or are being destroyed by man, most of the crawfish crop today is harvested from created farms. In fact, about 85% of the 100 million pounds of crawfish produced each year come from farms in Louisiana.

The art of eating crawfish peaks during the spring and summer season. Whether you call them les e’crevisses, crawfish, crawdads, crayfish or Cajun mudbugs, it’s the eating and party atmosphere that accompanies this unique experience that is unforgettable! Even if you don’t suck the juices out of the head, every cook’s own secret recipe will have you soon piling up stacks of bright orange shells as you con-

Cajun country in and around Lake Charles is a virtual plethora of legendary and mouthwatering cuisine. One can feast on such prize dishes as shrimp, crawfish etouffee, crawfish pie, oyster, shrimp or crawfish po boys, catfish, fried gator tails, crabmeat, redfish and, of course, world famous gumbo that is prepared differently by every chef! The best part of Lake Charles and all of Southwest Louisiana, however, is its wonderful, friendly people who consider you as part of their extended family as soon as you first greet them. Therefore, this historical and colorful section of our country is certainly a destination that all Americans should experience during their lifetime!

For more information about planning a trip to this area, contact: Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.visitlakecharles.org) or Jeff Davis Parish Tourist Commission (www.jeffdavis.org).

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

PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

Zydeco music at a crawfish boil, top. Dancing in Lake Charles, right.

A crawfish sorting and counting table (above) and a sorting conveyor (bottom left).

Eating is the best part of a crawfish boil, below.

Stirring up the mud in the crawfish pond (below right) and harvesting the traps.

Mardi Gras fun in Lake Charles.

BRAG pedals into Gainesville/Braselton in June

By Jane Harrison

An estimated 1,500 bicyclists will roll into Gainesville in early June in a “Lakes and Libations” tour likely to pry riders off their saddles for a dip in Lake Lanier and a sit down dinner downtown.

The 43rd Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) wheels into the city June 5 for an overnight at the Gainesville Civic Center before taking off for two nights in Braselton. The route starts June 4 in Clayton and travels 325 mostly rural miles to Augusta on June 10.

Gainesville seems to be a cyclists’ favorite pit stop enroute downstate from the mountains. The bike tour has steered into the city six times since the mid1980s. The last time, in 2019, tired cyclists landed at Lake Lanier Olympic Park after a grueling mountain stage from Ellijay.

“Gainesville is beautiful! It has so much to offer … the downtown, the lake, beautiful roads,” said BRAG Executive Director Franklin Johnson. He said construction at LLOP prevented an overnight camp at the lake, but that won’t keep cyclists out of the water. “We’re definitely trying to arrange some program at the lake, maybe paddle boarding” at LLOP, Johnson said.

Gainesville tourism director

Robyn Lynch described BRAG as a “repeat tourism and sports event that we have been proud to host every five years.” She added that it “brings in an estimated $200,000 economic impact to Gainesville with the opportunity for our sports alliance and tourism team to showcase what Gainesville has to offer and encourage participants to visit again with family and friends.”

BRAG cyclist Tim Evans touts the on-and-off the bike benefits of

the tour. Evans, who regularly pedals the rolling hills of northern Hall County and adjacent territories, first rode BRAG in 2011 and plans to ride this summer. Before that, he will get his bike legs pumped in the April BRAG Spring Tune Up in Rutledge.

“BRAG is like a rolling bike-apalooza festival. I see many friends from Gainesville-Hall County and the Metro Atlanta region participating each year and for many others it is a major event on their calendar,” said Evans. “A bicycle offers the chance to experience Georgia at a human pace and to see Georgia’s communities, its kind people and all that our beautiful state has to offer, one mile at a time. Plus, you really earn your lunch and the snacks at the BRAG support stops.”

In his post as vice-president for economic development for the Gainesville-Hall County Chamber of Commerce, Evans sees BRAG as a valuable contributor to local economies. “There is an immediate economic value to BRAG stopping overnight in the community. Some riders will opt to stay in local hotels (not everyone likes tent living), eat at local restaurants and shop,” he said. “I find that BRAG riders are largely business and community leaders from all walks of life and all over the Southeast US. There is a longterm benefit in the connection BRAG participants will make with Gainesville-Hall County, and the memories they take with them from their visit can translate into new opportunities down the road.”

Johnson expects the fastest riders, pacing an average 20 miles an hour, will clip out of the pedals at the Gainesville Civic Center around 11 a.m. June 5, starting a

o Mommy & Me Nature Program, Gainesville. Program on spring and wildflowers for children age 18 months-4 years, 10:30-11:30 a.m. March 1, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Register in advance. Children free with $10 adult admission. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Lake Lanier Boat Show, Buford. In-thewater boat show, March 3-5, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. www.lakelanierboatshow.com.

o Run Dahlonega 5K. 8:30 a.m. March 4, Uni-

parade of arrivals through around 2 p.m. Lynch said the city plans to provide transportation from the civic center through Gainesville with stops at the downtown square and Midland Greenway so riders have the opportunity to experience local tap rooms and restaurants. The tourism department will also provide entertainment at the civic center for participants who choose to relax after a long ride.

Cyclists who don’t opt for a hotel stay or downtown shuttle can shower, chow down, sip a beer, shake a leg, get derailleurs adjusted, have their quads kneaded, stretch their hamstrings, and settle down for the night inside the civic center or camp outside at nearby parks. The tour brings its own dining hall, BRAG Bar, shower van, mechanics, massage therapists, yoga instructors and baggage truck.

To keep cyclists on route, BRAG organizers provide a roadby-road cue sheet and post routes on the Ride with GPS app. Additionally, road signs and markings show the way. In mid-February, Johnson said he was finalizing the June route, which will travel out of Gainesville at 7 a.m. and may roll on a short section of the Highlands to Islands Trail. The preliminary map showed rest stops in Cornelia, Lula, Oakwood and Flowery Branch where cyclists can refuel with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cookies.

Lynch expects locals to welcome the tour, as they did in 2019. “Commuters and businesses alike were very receptive to the cyclists and many businesses even stood outside, waved and held up signs encouraging the participants. With ample advance notice,

I know that the Gainesville community will welcome the participants and support their efforts. With the combined efforts between the Gainesville Police Department and the BRAG Safety Team, we do not anticipate having any road closures for this event,” she said.

Evans encouraged cyclists of all shapes and experiences to hop on a bike for at least one BRAG stage. “Just do it. It’s a ride, not a race. You don’t need a fancy bike or special equipment. My bike of choice is 25 years old, and it’s half my age. Most any bike and bike helmet will do. If it has been a while since you’ve ridden that bike, your local bike shop can check it out for you to make sure it’s road worthy. BRAG is the best supported event in cycling and it is a very welcoming event and community to first-time participants,” he said.

Participants who may not have the legs to pump up hills or sprint into towns have another option: ebikes. Johnson allows electricpowered bikes that assist pedaling. In fact, he said that 10 of 72 cyclists in BRAG’s winter ride on

Outdoor Calendar March 2023

versity of North Georgia Drill Field, 82 College Circle. $25-$30. www.runnersfit.com.

o Yonah Dam 10K, Toccoa. Run along Tugaloo River, 8:30 a.m. March 4, Yonah Dam, 3844 Yonah Dam Rd. $30-$35. www.active.com.

o Grab Your Squad 5K, Dawsonville. 8:30 a.m. March 4, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. 20-$25. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Group Run Wild Wings Lot, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 8:30 a.m. March 4 and 9:30 a.m. March 25, Wild Wing Café, 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy. www.lanierrun-

ningclub.org.

o United We Run 5K Run/Walk, Gainesville. 9 a.m. March 4, Chicopee Baptist Church, 13 1st St. $25-$35.

o Introduction to Beekeeping, Gainesville. Learn how to get bees and start a hive, 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. March 4, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $34, $29 members. www. atlantabg.org, 404888-4760.

o Cows Come Home Celebration, Sautee Nacoochee. Fun-filled activities centered around

the Georgia coast were e-biking it. He added that some purists may still look down their handlebars at the new technology, but “it’s not cheating to use pedal assist. It’s a small but growing” contingent of BRAG cyclists. Johnson got off his bike to talk with Lakeside News by phone on the side of the road near St. Mary’s a day after BRAG ferried back from Cumberland Island. The sound of cars whooshing by and cyclists chatting juxtaposed the different modes of transportation and the mind frames they inhabit. He explained why he chooses to bike Georgia and invites others to join him. “There are infinitely more opportunities to discover the fabric of communities. Life on a seat with two wheels is so much different from traveling on four wheels. Most people (traveling from Gainesville to Augusta) take 985, 85 and 20 to get from point A to point B. They fly by the unique small towns and their people, food and culture.” They’ve nothing new to brag about either.

For more info: www.BRAG.org.

former dairy at historic farm, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 4, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy. 17. $7. www.gastateparks.org, 706-8781077. www.unitedwayhallcounty.org/race.

o Southern Cross Gravel Grind, Dahlonega. Bicycle races sold out to participants, 50-mile 10 a.m., 30-mile junior race 10:25 a.m. March 4, Montaluce Winery, 946 Via Montaluce. www.mountaingoatadventures.com.

o Virtual Science Night. Free online program on Aquatic Georgia presented by Elachee Na-

See Oudoor calendar, page 31

Tents dotted Lake Lanier’s Clarks Bridge Park during the last BRAG event a few years ago.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

Outdoor Calendar March 2023 - continued

ture Science Center naturalist Andrew Lyons, 78 p.m. March 7. www.elachee.org.

o Full Worm Moon Hike, Winder. Slow hike to see night creatures, including earth worms, 78:30 p.m. March 7, Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S. Broad St. Bring headlights or flashlights and water. Meet at Area B Boat Ramp. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 770-867-3489.

o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 7:15-8:45 p.m. March 7, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706754-7981.

o Group Run Wilshire Trails, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 9:30 a.m. March 8, Wilshire Trails Park, 849 Wilshire Rd. www.lanierrunningclub.org.

o Group Run Riverside, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, 8:30 a.m. March 11 and 9:30 a.m. April 1, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. www.lanierrunningclub.org.

o Dempsey Dash 5K/1K Fun Run, Gainesville. 9 a.m. March 11, Brenau University Amphitheatre, 102 Prior St. $10-$25. www.runnersfit.com.

o Hike on Martin’s Mine Trail, Helen. Naturalist-led hike to waterfall, remnants of mining on creek, 10-11:30 a.m. March 11, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. Register in advance by calling 706-878-47407. www.gastateparks.org.

o Paddy’s Day PathFest/Parade, Braselton. Decorated golf carts, bicycles, scooters, wagons, skaters and walking groups parade on LifePath and participate in challenges for adults and juniors, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 11, line-up begins 8:30 a.m. Ace Hardware, 3740 Village Way. www.braseltonlifepath.com.

o Handmade Soaps, Gainesville. Make one pound of gentle soap, 1-3 p.m. March 11, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $55, $50 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404888-4760.

o Spring Forward into a Hike, Winder. 2-3 mile hike on yellow trail, 10 a.m.-noon March 12, Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S. Broad St. $3, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 770867-4589.

o Drawing/Painting Tulips, Gainesville. Capture shapes and colors of tulips with watercolors, 9:30 -11:30 a.m. March 14, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $69, $64 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o Sour Patch 5K, Sugar Hill. 8 a.m. March 18, Indigo Brewing, 5019 W. Broad St. $32-$45. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Day in the Life of a Miner, Dahlonega. Peek at 1830s life of miner with demonstrations on gold panning, blacksmithing and more, 10 a.m.4 p.m. March 18, Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, 1 Public Square. $8-$10. www.gastateparks.org, 706-864-2257.

o Spring Container Gardening, Gainesville. Explore plant selection, soil types, containers and more, 10-11:30 a.m. March 18, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $34, $29 members. www.atlan-

tabg.com, 404-888-4760.

o Living with Bears, Helen. Learn about bear behavior, vocalizations, hibernation and what to do if you encounter a bear, 11 a.m.-noon March 18, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706878-3087.

o Beginner Archery, Tallulah Falls. Learn to shoot an arrow or improve your skills, 1-2:30 p.m. March 18, 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 Sweet Treat 5K, Sugar Hill. 8 a.m. March 19, Scoops Handmade Ice Cream, 5029 W. Broad St. $32-$45. www.fivestarntp.com.

o The Great Cookie Chase 5K, Dawsonville. 2 p.m. March 19, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $32-$45. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Crow Calling 5K/Fun Run, Cleveland. 3/3:45 p.m. March 19, Mossy Creek Methodist Church, 2154 Post Rd. $25-$30. www.active.com.

o Corps Campgrounds Open, Lake Lanier. Season opens at Corps campgrounds around Lake Lanier, March 23. www.sam.usace.army.mil

o Chamber Chase 5K Corporate Challenge/2-Mile, Gainesville. 6 p.m. March 23, Riverside Preparatory Academy 2001 Riverside Dr. $30-$35. www.runnersfit.com.

o John Ferriss Lanier Sprints Regatta, Gainesville. Collegiate rowing competition, 8 a.m. March 25, Lake Lanier Olympic Park. www.lakelanierrowing.sportngin.com.

o Miracle at UNG 5K, Dahlonega. 9 a.m. March 25, Yahoola Creek Park, 464 Mechanicsville Rd. $25. www.runnersfit.com.

o Sweep the Hooch. Annual clean-up on land and water with Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, Upper Chattahoochee to Metro Atlanta, 9 a.m.noon March 25, various locations, including Don Carter State Park. www.chattahoochee.org.

o Garden Walking Tour, Gainesville. Guided tour to discover what’s blooming this spring, 1011:30 a.m. March 25, April 8, or April 29, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $34, $29 members. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.com, 404888-4760.

o Paddle Your Saddle Triathlon, Dawsonville. Paddle 1.78 miles, bike 6.81 miles, run 2.15 miles, 8:30 a.m. March 26, War Mill Park, 4081 War Hill Park Rd. For individuals/2person/relay teams. Bring lifejackets. Kayak/canoe rentals available $50/$60. Race entry $30-$65. www.fivestarntp.com.

o World Champion Rodeo, Cumming. Bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding and more, 8 p.m. March 31 & April 1, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. $15 ages 11 and older, free to ages 10 and under. www.cummingfair.squarespace.com.

o Road to the Final 4K/4-Miler/Shoot the Hoop Challenge, Dawsonville. 8/8:30 a.m. April 1, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $30$60. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Doggie Easter Egg Hike, Mountain City. Dogs search for eggs filled with treats on Black Rock Lake Trail, 10-11:30 a.m. April 1, Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 700-675-4798 ext. 1.

o Hemlock Treatment, Helen. Volunteers treat hemlocks for wooly adelgid, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. April 1, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706878-3087.

o Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Gainesville. Free April 1 egg hunt on Midland Greenway, 682 Grove St. 2 p.m. ages 0-3 and 8-10, 2:45 p.m. ages 4-5 and 6-7. www.gainesville.org.

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

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

On-Going

o Saturday Explorations, Gainesville. Explore live animal showcase and other exhibits 9 a.m.-

3 p.m. Saturdays, Elachee Nature Science Center, Elachee Dr. $10 ages 2 and older, free to Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-5351976.

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

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

o Group Runs, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Liquid Nation Brewing, 2100 Atlanta Hwy. www.lanierrunningclub.org.

o Home School Hiking Club, Mountain City. Ranger-led hikes not exceeding 3 miles for home school students, includes activities, 10 a.m.-noon fourth Wednesdays through May, Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy. One time fee $15 adults, $10 children. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-746-2141.

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, 4-7 p.m. 3rd Fridays March and May, patio next to Town Green on Davis Street. www.braselton.net.

compiled by Jane Harrison

Sweep the Hooch slated for March 25

Over the past dozen years, volunteers from the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper have collected more than 204 tons of trash, garbage and debris from the Chattahoochee River and its watershed. The organization’s 2023 event takes place on Saturday, March 25.

In 2022 more than 2,300 volunteers participated in the event that removed almost 60 tons of trash from the rivers, streams, lakes and wetlands.

As in previous years, volunteers are needed as walkers, waders and paddlers. Some will collect trash and remove invasive plants along the shorelines. Others will collect debris from shallow water; they are asked to provide their own

waders. Paddlers in canoes and kayaks will be assigned sections of the river to paddle; they must provide their own boats.

Registration is open now at www.chattahoochee.org.

A previous Sweep the Hooch.

Holiday Marina’s Alex Laidlaw retires, but says he’s not slowing down

By Pamela A. Keene

When it comes to local knowledge, the pool of those with longterm familiarity of Lake Lanier and the marina business just got smaller. Alex Laidlaw retired from Suntex Marinas, which owns Holiday Marina, Lazy Days, Sunrise Cove, Allatoona Landing, Little River and Glade, after more than 30 years on Lake Lanier.

Laidlaw grew up in the boating business on the Chesapeake in Towson, Maryland. In addition to being an avid boater, he worked in the marine retail business during college at Towson State University in Maryland, working for E&B Marine Supply. His family also owned and operated a 14store chain called BoatGear America, which was purchased in 1989 and eventually became West Marine.

By the early 1980s, Laidlaw was traveling the west coast of Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi opening retail stores for BoatGear America.

“The last two stores I opened were in Atlanta, including the Doraville store in 1987,” said Laidlaw. By 1989, BoatGear took over the retail space at Holiday Marina and that was Laidlaw’s introduction to Lanier. Within a year,

Laidlaw received a phone call that would change his career path.

“I got a call from Bill Anderson, president of Westrec, who asked me if I’d be interested in becoming the manager at Sunrise Cove Marina,” he said. “I knew from the moment I drove up over that hill and saw those 700 sailboat sticks on the lake, it felt like home.”

Laidlaw was 30 and on the cusp of a 33-year-career in marina management, most recently serving as Vice President of Operations for all Westrec Marinas and Area Vice President for the company’s three Georgia properties: Holiday on Lake Lanier, Sunrise Cove and Allatoona Landing Marine Resort.

“Within two years of becoming manager at Sunrise, the marina had more than doubled its income and Bill started sending me to other marinas in the Westrec portfolios to help make them profitable, Laidlaw said. “I became the lake guy working with marinas across the country.”

By 1995, he became regional manager for Westrec, which was expanding, and moved to Holiday Marina as general manager.

Laidlaw became active in the community, supporting the Holiday Classic Golf Tournament that for 24 years as benefitted the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier.

“It’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done,” he said. “We’ve been raising more than $50,000 a year net to support the local clubs.”

He received the club’s Helping Hands award in 2012 and was recognized with the National Boys & Girls Club’s Medallion award in 2013.

On a national level, after earning his Certified Marina Manager designation, he began to serve on state-wide, regional and national boards.

Among his leadership in the marina business, he was Chair of the Association of Marina Indus-

Lake Lanier Boat Show: More dealers, models, boats

By Pamela A. Keene

The spring Lake Lanier Boat Show, March 3-5, promises more dealers, more models, more boats and an expanded show. Taking place at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, the show is presented by the Marine Trade Association of Metro Atlanta for boaters in Northeast Georgia.

“The spring show will feature more boats than our fall show,” said Tabor Reins, president of the Marine Trade Association. “We have added more vendors, food options and activities for the whole family, plus our dealers are all well stocked for the 2023 boating season.”

Organizers are predicting more than 250 boat models representing more than 50 brands sold by local dealers.

“We will have a full selection of our brands, as well as a

number of pre-owned boats,” said Larry Sosnow, vice president of sales at Atlanta Marine. “The fall show far exceeded our expectations and we were very pleased with the turnout. Given good weather, we should have another great show.”

Sosnow said that inventory has returned to pre-pandemic levels and that bodes well for prospective boat buyers and dealers.

“There will be boat-show specials just in time to get folks back out on the water for this year’s boating season,” he said. “Our employees are very excited about this spring show.

The show will take up all the in-water slips and docks at Mar-

garitaville.

“One of the benefits of our show is that many of the boats will be in the water and visitors can walk the docks to board them, speak with the dealers and learn about them,” Reins said. “At this show we will have even more boats in the water, but we have a great setup on land as well. This allows for us to have plenty of boats to showcase for our visitors.”

Vendors ranging from dock builders to marine accessory suppliers will be set up in the parking lot. There will also be food trucks and LandShark Landing will be open. The weekend features entertainment – country/rock musicians Owl Creek Band on Saturday and Southern rock on Sunday featuring the Robby Litt Band. Both shows begin at 1 p.m. on See Boat show, page 35

tries, which represents more than 1,000 marinas, boatyards, yacht clubs, public/private moorage basins and other marine industry-related entities. He now sits on the AMI’s Emeritus Board of Directors, is a former board member of the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the editorial board of Boating Industry Magazine, the Marine Environmental Education Foundation and the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation.

These days, Laidlaw plans to just take time for himself and his family. Son Andy and his wife Anna have a 2-year-old son, Lucas; Andy is an electric journeyman. Daughter Amanda is married to Jake Alkire. “He is a great son-in-law and works for One Water Marine, so the legacy continues,” Laidlaw said. Amanda just graduated Summa Cum Laude in biology from the University of North Georgia. Both of them live in Dahlonega.

“I’m a boater – power, sailboat, fishing, coastal – and I’m a golfer,” he said. “Now I can work on my game more.” He will be playing and still hosting in this year’s Holiday Classic on October 13, the event’s 25th anniversary.

Music will be occupying part of his retirement as well. “I’m an old DeadHead, so I’m going on the road with them, attending concerts whenever I can. I first saw them when I was 18 in 1978, so I’ve been following their music from pretty far back.”

Laidlaw possess a distinct perspective of Lake Lanier. When he came to the lake, Erwin Topper

was operations project manager of the Lake Lanier Management office of the US Army Corps of Engineers. He has worked with two other operations project managers since then: Jonathan Davis and the now-operations project manager Tim Rainey.

“We’ve had a great relationship with the Corps of Engineers over the years,” he said. “It’s a partnership that has worked really well because we respect each other and have the common goal of providing a quality experience for the public and well as being a steward of the environment.

“I have watched Lake Lanier and its marinas over the years and how we have gotten to where we are today,” he said. “For instance, when I came here several of the marinas were still privately leased and managed, including Lanier Harbor and what was then LanMar.

“Doug Beachem owned Lazy Days, which he created after his dad, Jack Beachem, sold Holiday in 1983,” he said. “The Beachem legacy goes back to the early days of Lake Lanier and I was proud to be associated with that history.

“Perhaps one my most proud accomplishments was being able to ‘reunite’ Lazy Days and Holiday when Westrec bought Lazy Days in 2016,” Laidlaw said. “It was a lifelong gift to put the two Beachem marinas on Lake Lanier back together. It was really something: a good business decision and solidifying the history and legacy. It all comes full circle. It’s been my honor to be able to serve the public on Lake Lanier.”

Jim Frye, vice president of business development for Westrec Marinas, paid tribute to Alex Laidlaw (center) during his retirement party at Twisted Oar last month.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

Alex Laidlaw at work.

Georgia’s Premier In-Water Boat Show

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 2/18/23) $4.29; $4.49 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs.-Mon. Closed Tues./Wed.)

Security: 24/7 security, gated

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

Lake Lanier Marinas Info

HOLIDAY MARINA

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

Phone: 770-945-7201

Website: www.holidaylakelanier.com

Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford

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

Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies.

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

Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/23) $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

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

Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/23) $5.49 regular (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)

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

Menu: Burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings and more

Security: Gated, 24/7

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

SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND MARINA

Hours of operation:Office/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

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 2/18/23) $5.39 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Ship Store Seasonal: Open May-September

On-site eatery: Skogies

Menu: BBQ, seafood and American fare.

Phone: 678-450-1310

Security: 7 days a week

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

HABERSHAM MARINA

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

Phone: 770-887-5432

Website: www.habershammarina.com

Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming

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

Store: Yes

Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/23) $4.69

Security: Yes

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

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 2/18/23) $6.49 regular

Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring

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

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

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

Store: Yes

Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane

Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/23) $6.17, non-members; $4.00, 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 2/18/23) $6.49, non-members; $3.79, members

On-site eatery: Fish Tales Lakeside Grille

Menu: Grouper fingers, sandwiches, salads and more

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 2/18/23) $6.49 non-ethanol (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.)

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

Security: 24/7

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

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 2/18/23) $6.49 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 & Ship Store, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; Service, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. Closed on Sundays

Phone: 770-887-5715

Website: www.bestinboating.com/port_royale

Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville

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

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 2/18/23) $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.

Sundays

Gainesville Marina Boat and RV event successful

By Pamela A. Keene

Despite chilly and damp weather in midFebruary, the 3rd Annual North Georgia Boat and RV Extravaganza had good attendance.

“We had good crowds and we heard excellent comments from our vendors,” said Philip Burton, managing partner of Gainesville Marina.

“Many of our attendees purchased products and dealers had buyers.”

Groups including Lake Lanier Association, America’s Boating Club Atlanta and the Chattahoochee River Keeper had steady traffic at their booths.

The event featured multiple pontoons, tritoons, center consoles, ski boats, deck

• Boat Show

Continued from Page 33

the floating stage near LandShark Landing.

In addition to boat sales, local angler Ken Sturdivant of Southern Fishing is facilitating fish tank demonstrations and fishing seminars.

4G Square Tank Technology, Doesn’t Cut Corners!

To find a dealer near you, call 864-467-1806 or go online.

“Dealers will be on hand to talk everything boating,” Reins said. “They can give pointers about towing, hitches, storage and accessories, anything a new boater or a seasoned one needs.”

boats and other water craft, plus recreational vehicles such as RVs, campers, popups, pull-behinds and 5th-wheelers.

The show’s lead sponsor is Transcend Roofing Systems, which is sponsoring a boat prize giveaway.

Tickets for the show are $15 per person, which includes parking. According to the website, all attendees and the public are required to come via land. Vendors and food trucks will be set up in the parking lot. For more information, visit www.lakelanierboatshow.com.

Attendees enjoyed the opening day of Gainesville Marina’s boat show last month.

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

Year of the Orchid: Secrets to reblooming this tropical houseplant

Do you walk past the colorful orchids in the grocery store because you think they’re too hard to grow? If so, you’re missing out on an easy-care houseplant that can make quite an impression.

All they need is the right light exposure, moderate temperatures and a good dowsing every week to 10 days.

When it comes to houseplants, I’m known in gardening circles as the “plant murderer.” For years, friends have given me houseplants, thinking I have an invincible green thumb for all things growing.

Not so. Bless the hearts of the unsuspecting houseplants that come to Rose Lane. Within months, they’ll curl up and die

except for two standouts: Christmas cactuses and orchids.

Because 2023 is the official Year of the Orchid, as declared by the National Garden Bureau, I’m highlighting this beautiful plant and de-mystifying its secrets. And now through April 9, the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Midtown campus’ Orchid Daze showcases one of the world’s largest collec-

tions of orchids in the Fuqua Orchid Center. They’re in full bloom now, creating a breathtaking display with hundreds of species.

Orchids as houseplants

Those grocery-store varieties are most likely phalaenopsis, known as one of the more reliable orchid rebloomers for orchid novices. Available in a wide assortment of colors from white to purple, yellow to green, the showy bloom sprays can add elegance to any room.

Start with a larger plant and pick out one with a strong bloom stem with at least a few buds that are only partially open. This will extend your enjoyment as the

plant becomes acclimated to its new environment.

Examine the leaves for bruising, damage or brown places, looking for a healthy plant with several green leaves in various stages of growth. A good choice will also have several air roots protruding from the pot, usually a nice silver gray. This means that the plant is actively growing and is not dormant.

Your orchid will most likely be potted in a clear container tucked inside a ceramic pot. Gently remove the inner pot and examine the roots to ensure that the lower roots look healthy and a bit plump.

That’s the one you take home.

Formula for success

Once you get it home, give the orchid a good dowsing of tepid water from the tap. Allow it to absorb the water for about an hour, then dump out the excess from the outer pot before moving it to its new home.

Orchids rely on long periods of indirect light – usually 10 to 16 hours. East-facing windows are best and that’s how I keep mine in

some state of bloom most of the year.

Place the plant close to a big window, then just leave it alone. It’s probably potted in growing medium, such as bark and perhaps a bit of sphagnum moss. Leave the air roots alone; do not tuck them into the pot or trim them.

Orchids like moderate temperatures, just a bit cooler than we humans, but they will survive just fine between 65 and 75 degrees indoors.

Water the plant about every 10 days by showering it with a sink sprayer, letting it drain, dumping out the excess water in the outer container, then returning it to its place beside the window.

You can also dump some tepid water directly onto the plant from a watering can; just be sure that it’s not sitting in water. Wet roots encourage rot, a sure-fire way to kill the plant.

Grooming and feeding

Your orchid will show it’s healthy three ways: it will grow new air roots; it will grow new leaves; and it will put out bloom spikes.

Many people confuse the air roots with bloom spikes. Here’s how to tell the difference: the air roots are typically gray-ish and a little lumpy. Bloom spikes pop out nearer the top leaves of the plant and are a dark green.

The roots will grow sideways or downward. The bloom spikes will turn upward and point toward the light source. As the bloom spike grows, use a small stake and See Curb, page 46

Local inventor creates DockBloxx to keep docks safe and tidy

By Pamela A. Keene

Dreaming of mounting a flatscreen TV at your dock, but can’t figure out how to overcome the steel supports? Are you tired of tripping over and walking around extension cords, hoses and dock toys at your slip?

DockBloxx has the answers. Invented by a local man, Brady Bragg, this high-density plastic bracket can be used to store items off the dock and get them out of the way.

“The whole idea is to make the dock and slip safer and less cluttered,” said Bragg, who used his marina experience to create DockBloxx.

“So many docks have steel supports, especially the covered docks in marinas, that it has been a challenge to keep items off the dock and gangways. DockBloxx solves that problem.”

In his teens, Bragg worked at Holiday Marina for a few summers on the rental and gas docks. “I’ve always worked around the lake and I know the lake life,” he said. “As I looked

around, I saw the need for something that can help both boaters and marinas and make the docks more safe.”

An admitted tinkerer, Bragg started making sketches until he landed on an idea to create a twopart high-density plastic bracket that could be easily mounted on vertical supports. He began creating the brackets in his garage and testing them around the lake.

“I made them in the most common sizes so that they can be universal, then tested them on the slips of some of my friends last year,” Bragg said. “We launched a website and have been marketing them through social media.

“Then we did the Atlanta Boat Show this year and we’ve been getting a ton of interest and sales are skyrocketing.”

DockBloxx has a manufacturing and warehouse facility in Hall County, where the products are made. They’re being sold on Lake Lanier and Allatoona Lake; they have been shipped to several states, including Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Car-

olina, Tennessee and Missouri.

“The marinas and other groups are taking notice,” said Dan Nestor, Bragg’s partner. “We’ve been meeting with stakeholders around the lakes and getting tremendous support. Hideaway Bay has a display and inventory in its ships’ store. Aqualand is coming on board, and the Lake Lanier Association has expressed its support

as well.”

DockBloxx can be used in a multitude of applications, from mounting flat-screen TVs and fishing gear, to gathering up extension cords, hoses and cumbersome boat toys.

“You would be amazed at how different your slip can look,” Bragg said. “And it will help you and your family be safer, keep

track of your gear and be a good steward of the lake by keeping items out of the lake.”

DockBloxx is a major sponsor of the Lake Lanier Boat Show this year, March 3-5, at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. The company will have a booth at the show. For more information, visit www.dockbloxx.com or call 770 265-9850.

From hoses to drinks, Dockbloxx products help spruce up the dock.

PHOTOS BY DOCKBLOXX

‘Game Changer’ expands Lanier Islands’ entertainment options

By Pamela A. Keene

When late last year Lanier Islands’ Virgil Williams offhandedly mentioned that the resort would be getting a game changer after the first of the year, he was serious.

The resort has just opened ‘Game Changer,’ a 23,000-squarefoot indoor recreation destination that includes virtual sports suites, a putting green, arcade games and an escape room.

“We’ve totally converted the former indoor tennis courts to a family fun center with something for everyone, no matter their age,” said Missy Burgess, the Islands’ director of marketing and public relations. “In addition to all the games, ‘Game Changers’ has a seasonally influenced menu created by our own onsite chef.”

The restaurant will offer salads, greens and bowls, handhelds including burgers and sandwiches, main courses such as loaded macaroni and cheese and fried chicken, plus a special menu for youngsters.

The main floor offers wideopen entertainment where four

lanes of ax throwing, more than 50 classic and state-of-the arts arcade games, a 9-hole putting green and a western-themed escape room that includes a bankvault break-in challenge are located. Upstairs, four virtual sports suites with large screens simulate more than 30 sports games from golf to soccer, football to baseball.

“Game Changer has been one of Mr. Williams’ visions for sev-

ABC Atlanta installs officers, gives awards

By Pamela A. Keene

As is custom, American’s Boating Club Atlanta installed officers for the 2023 boating season in the middle of February. Additionally, the club used the occasion to present awards for volunteer service. More than 40 members and guests attended the luncheon that also provided a year in review for the 150member organization that serves both Lake Lanier and Allatoona Lake, as well as North Georgia and Atlanta.

nities for boaters to share time on the water and with events on shore. Its mission includes promoting boating education and safety on the water. It is a unit of America’s Boating Club/The U.S. Sail and Power Squadron. For info about registering for classes or joining, visit www.americasboatingclubatlanta.org.

eral years, and we are all excited that it is finally open,” Burgess said. “It’s a weatherproof place for fun for all ages. When it’s raining or too hot, people can come to Game Changer and continue the fun of the Islands. Plus it’s another place to go at night when the beach is closed. It’s truly a ‘Game Changer’ for our guests.”

For more information, visit www.lanierislands.com.

The club is returning to in-person classes and events, including on-the-water activities. Its $25 boating education classes begin in March and offer a safety course for all levels of boaters.

The following members received awards: Eric Ringwall, Commander’s Award; Ken Odum, Troncalli Education Award, Ken Odum; and Pamela Keene, Nell Moon Award.

America’s Boating Club Atlanta is a social and educational organization that offers opportu-

PHOTO: LANIERISLANDS.COM

The new indoor Game Changer area is now open.

Left to right: incoming Commander Ken Odum, District 17 Past Commander Hector Colon, Education Officer Margaret Sherrod, outgoing Commander Judy Marcopulos, Executive Officer Barak Zuckerman, Secretary Donna Odum, Treasurer John Reichmann.

Spring is the season to consider a home ‘refresh’

Typically, in the spring, we talk about cleaning and organizing. But this year, let’s talk about some simple spring updates for your home. When it comes to making updates, there are so many options out there, but which options will have the most impact?

Let’s start on the interior of your home. One of the best updates you can make to the interior of your home is new paint. If your home’s walls are tired or dated, freshen them up with a new color. Color “trends” are typically shortlived, so make sure you pick out a color that is true to your style and personality. Whites and grays are not for everyone, and that’s OK! There are an infinite number of options out there.

I recommend using a premium grade paint, such as Benjamin Moore, PPG, or Sherwin Williams to get the best results. Cost will vary depending on whether you’re willing to do the work yourself or if you prefer to hire a professional. When painting the walls, don’t forget about trim and doors;

Sara Bagwell Design & Remodel

chipped, yellowed, or dingy trim needs an update, too. This will help your home feel fresher and cleaner.

Another update you can make to the interior of your home are new window and floor coverings. Spring is a great time to switch out heavy curtains or blinds with something lighter and brighter. Cotton, linen, and silk are all great materials for curtains, and if you’re looking to block out light for sleeping, choose options with blackout panels. When it comes to floors, hardwoods or other woodlook materials continue to be the

most popular. If you want to add some warmth to your wood floors, consider adding or changing out a rug. A rug, along with other accessories, is the best places to bring in “trendy” patterns or colors since they can be changed out easily. You can go with lots of different materials for your rugs as well: wool, polyester, jute, or cotton, and don’t be afraid to bring in a mix of textures in your coverings and accessories. This will add dimension and interest to your space.

Speaking of wood floors, if you have solid wood floors anywhere in your home, take inventory of their current condition. If it’s been many years since they’ve been finished, it may be time for a refinishing. This would also be a great time to change the color. Lots of homes built 20 years ago or more tend to have orange or yellow tones, so now would be the time to change to a brown, more neutral and timeless tone. Changing the color of your floors can bring new life and style to your space. Just don’t forget,

refinishing hardwoods is a complicated endeavor and best left to a professional.

In addition to the interior of your home, there are also many updates you can make to the exterior. Just like the interior, painting can give your home a facelift. If it’s been 10 years or more since your home was painted and you still like the color, you may just consider a fresh coat.

Otherwise, if it’s time to repaint and you’re tired of the color, now is the time to change it up. Just make sure you get the necessary approvals from your HOA, if applicable. And when you’re painting the exterior, don’t forget the trim, as well. If you have vinyl siding that cannot be painted, a good pressure-washing

will help clean and brighten up your home.

Next, consider your home’s curb appeal. Changing up your front door can bring a new look to your home. This could either mean replacing your door with a new one or painting your existing door a new, bold color. Changing your shutters to a new color or style is a great update, too.

Lastly, now is the time to clean up your yard before the summer heat hits. New landscaping can

See Design, page 46

A fresh coat of paint or a new rug can instantly change the look of your home.

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Immersive Egypt from Abu Simbel to Alexandria (part II)

This is Part II of Lakeside Senior Reporter Pam Keene’s experiences visiting Egypt and the Nile, during a combination river cruise and land trip taken last November. This installation picks up after a visit to the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut’s tomb is one of more than a dozen and a half where visitors can immerse themselves in the passageways that lead to the burial chambers of some of Egypt’s greatest rulers.

The journey continues upriver south – the Nile is one of only two rivers in the world that flows north – to visit more temples along the Nile on the way to Aswan, Abul Simbel, back to Cairo then north to the modern city of Alexandria.

By Pamela A. Keene

Our river cruise continued after our morning exploration of the Valley of The Kings, our 100-passenger ship the Nefertiti turning to the South to cruise toward Aswan. The Nile’s riverbanks hold the secrets to many ancient temples, including Edfu’s Temple of Horus, the ancient god of war and sky. As one of the country’s best-preserved temples, it is the second-largest in the country.

Taken there by horse and buggy, the trip to the temple along bumpy streets dodging cars, trucks, bicycles and humans was part of the experience. The horses tore down the streets, egged on by their drivers. We arrived to a dusty area with what seemed like hundreds of carts and drivers, many parked under pole barns as they awaited passengers for the return trip.

Thirty-eight massive columns inside began to reflect the Greek and Roman style of architecture as those two civilizations traveled across the Mediterranean to mark their influence known in Egypt. The inside walls are carved with religious scenes. In addition to the many chambers with columns, there’s replica of the wooden boat that was used to take Horus’ statue out of the temple during festivals.

Along the voyage toward Aswan we stopped at several other architectural highlights, including several temples at various times of the day. But our destination of Aswan and the wonder of Abu Simbel was top of mind for us travelers.

The bustling city is famed for its two dams – one built in 1902 and called the Low Dam, and the other constructed between 1960 and 1970, and aptly named the High Dam. Both were built to help regulate flooding; the latter, which created the reservoir called Lake Nasser, generates power and helps increase agricultural production.

When the High Dam was built, the resulting flooding threatened several significant architectural wonders, including the massive Abu Simbel temple built by Ramses II, Egypt’s longest-ruling and by some estimates considered its most powerful king.

UNESCO became involved 60 years ago to spearhead international support to move the mountain and its two temples 658 feet farther inland and 214 feet higher. The project, almost 50 percent funded by Egypt, even-

tually cost upward of $80 million in 1960 dollars, and took nearly a decade to complete.

Taken apart block by block by teams of archaeologists, engineers and scientists, it has become one of the modern world’s most amazing feats, recreated exactly as it was discovered in the early 1800s.

It was breathtaking on its own but realizing the feat of moving thousands of tons of carved rocks was awe-inspiring. They reconstructed the mountains into which the temples were built, and moved the hand-carved pillars, massive statues and wall paintings.

The next morning we returned by plane to Cairo for a visit the Sphinx and the Giza Pyramids. Not as crowded as the last time I was there, it was enjoyable to walk around the grounds, take photos of camels and horse-drawn carts and the many different cul-

tures who flocked to these ancient marvels. Our visit included camel rides, orchestrated by our trip leaders, against the backdrop of the Pyramids. Off in the distance, the nearly complete Grand Egyptian Museum cut an impressive presence.

Other sights in Cairo included the newer National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, which opened in 2021. More than 50,000 artifacts, from decorated wooden coffins to furniture, statues to jewelry, could have kept us exploring for days. The highlight was the special display of 20 royal mummies of ancient kings and queens. No photos were allowed.

The formal part of our journey was complete and the majority of our travelers returned home. However, about 20 of us took the trip to Alexandria, the second largest

city in Egypt and the main port on the Mediterranean in ancient times. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, with its extensive library and iconic lighthouse, it was the center of civilization.

Today it is an industrial center for natural gas and oil pipelines, but tourists are more interested in the seaside with its many hotels, the new modern library – the largest in the world – and other historic sites.

We visited the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, which combine Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultural influence and were used as burial places from the second to the fourth centuries AD. Our exploration included a climb 25 feet underground to view more wall carvings, multiple chambers and vestibules.

Saving the best for last, we

Iconic view of the Sphinx in front of the Giza Pyramids.

The great Pyramids of Giza.

Four imposing 70-foot statutes on the façade of Abu Simbel Temple depict Ramesses II and Egypt’s three main gods.

Tourists await their chance to enter the chambers of the Great Pyramid

toured the Alexandria Library, opened in 2002 across the highway from the Mediterranean. The main building houses a massive reading room and all the library’s records are available online at no charge. It has space for 8 million books, plus six specialized libraries, four museums, and permanent collections, including ancient manuscripts.

Alexandria is the hometown of our trip leader, Marwa, and she

took extra time to ensure that we experienced the city from her perspective. For instance, she took us to her favorite ice-cream shop –not like American ice cream, but light and fluffy – and stopped by a streetside vendor who made rather tasty pitas filled with sauteed thin-sliced liver, peppers and onions, a popular Egyptian delicacy. Rick ate two of them; not me, thank-you.

As we left Alexandria and

headed back to Cairo for our flight home, it was hard to imagine that the past three weeks were coming to a close. I’m just now getting through the thousands of images I shot with my iPhone and Nikon and reliving the memories of this immersive, amazing bucket-list journey. Although other adventures loom large for 2023, chances are they won’t rival my three weeks in Egypt and all that I experienced.

The state-of-the-art reading room in the Alexandria Library.

This woman carved in rock relief could possibly be one of Ramesses II’s daughters.

Limestone reliefs inside the smaller temple at Abu Simbel depict Ramesses II in battle.

Colorfully costumed, whirling dervish perform a 700-year-old ritual dance.

In the Alexandria Museum, a room is dedicated to showing a mummy inside its several layers of painted caskets.

These three pigeon towers, foreground, are commonplace across the country.

At the East Harbor of Alexandria, stray cats often hover around fishermen for their meals.

The Egyptian flag flies over the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th century fortress on the Mediterranean coast.

The head of a statue sculpted in the Greek style.

A tour guide pauses beside a modern bais-relief sculpture outside the Antiquities Museum at the Alexandria Library.

Pitas hot from the woodfired brick ovens come out puffy, warm and tasty.

A man dressed in the traditional galabia robe and blackand-white scarf.

Sailboat along the coast.

EXIT 14

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

Water Release Schedules 770 945-1466

Recreation/Water level Info 770 945-1467

DNR, Law Enforcement Division 800 241-4113

Lake Lanier Association Inc. 770 503-7757

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

Atlanta Sail & Power Squadron 770 734-6412

Marinas

1. Safe Harbor Aqualand 770 967-6811

2. Bald Ridge 770 887-5309

3. Gainesville 770 536-2171

4. Habersham 770 887-5432

5. Holiday 770 945-7201

6. Port Royale 770 887-5715

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

8. Lazy Days at Holiday 770-945-1991

9. Safe Harbor Hideaway Bay 770 967-5500

10. Sunrise Cove 770 536-8599

11. Sunset Cove 678 304-3157

Calendar

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dents.

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

Quinlan Arts Center

o Mar. 2, 4 – 45th Annual Gala-Fine Art Auction. Preview night begins at 5:30 p.m. on Mar. 2. Food truck, wine and beer trucks available. Event is free and open to the public. Silent Auction bidding accessible at 5:30 p.m. online. The Live Auction begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mar. 4. Ticket holders will have access to Live Auction. Tickets: $200/person.

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

University of North Georgia

o Mar. 2 – Symphony No. 100 “Military Symphony,” features the UNG Sinfonietta’s winds, brass and percussion performing Franz Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 100. Composed in 1794 for a special performance in London. Info: 706-864-1423.

o Mar. 5, 6 – UNG Jazz Concert, Shott Performance Hall in Dahlonega from 2:30-4 p.m. on Mar. 5 and the Performing Arts Lobby from 7-8:30 p.m. at Gainesville Campus on Mar. 6. Part of A Little Night(hawk) Music Series. The Jazz Ensemble will present “Here and Now” featuring music from swing to Latin grooves and modern sonorities composed by local artists, UNG faculty and UNG students.

o Mar. 9 – Griffin Recital, 7:30-8:30 p.m. in Nix Fine Arts Center, features Hope Griffin de-

tailing the beginning preparation and final details entailed with recording an original song.

o Mar. 23 – Homecoming Concert of UNG Singers & Le Belle Voci present this portion of its spring tour at 7 p.m. at Dahlonega Baptist Church, 234 Hawkins St., Dahlonega.

o Mar. 24, 26 – Faculty Recital Joe Chapman presents UNG Dr. Joe Chapman presenting his Faculty Piano Recital in the Nix Fine Arts Center, 238 Georgia Circle, Dahlonega. Times: 7:30-9 p.m., Mar. 24; 3-5 p.m., Mar. 26. Info: 706-864-1423.

o Mar. 28 – Golden Brass Series, 7:30-9 p.m. in Hoag Student Center, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega, celebrates the Euphoria of Spring Time with performance by UNG students, Low Brass Collective and faculty members with world class guest artists. Info: 706-864-1423.

o Mar. 30, 31 – Music Theatre Ensemble, 7:30-10 p.m. in Nix Fine Arts Center, 238 Georgia Circle, Dahlonega, features “Live Out Loud,” selections from various Broadway musicals.

Info: 678-717-3930; www.ung.edu.

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.

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

Lanier Landscaping and Bobcat

DNR Youth Birding Competition returns to its roots

Georgia’s popular Youth Birding Competition returns to its roots this year while still offering the wider åå for birding adopted during the pandemic.

The 17th annual birdathon held by the state Department of Natural Resources and partners is set for April 14-22, with an awards ceremony and banquet the last evening at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center near Mansfield. Teams of kindergarteners through high-schoolers will pick a 24-hour stretch during the nine-day span and compete by age group to find the most birds statewide before 5 p.m. April 22.

Following three years of COVID-forced changes and even cancellations, the 2023 competition will again include the contestending in-person banquet for all teams at Charlie Elliott’s conference center, about an hour east of Atlanta. Coordinators feel comfortable with reinstituting the banquet and ceremony for everyone who competes, said Tim Keyes, event founder and a DNR wildlife biologist.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer a full in-person event again this year, and we are looking forward to seeing everybody again!”

Keyes added that this year’s competition will include two changes made last year: the week-plus window in which teams can

bird (the traditional event covered only the 24 hours prior to the banquet) and the option for teams to electronically submit their birding checklists early (allowing judges to review them before teams check-in at Charlie Elliott conference center for the banquet and awards ceremony).

The goal of the birding competition is encouraging an awareness and appreciation of Georgia’s birds and the outdoors. About 100 youth take part each year. Keyes is hoping even more organizations, from Scouts and schools to nature centers and birding groups, enter or sponsor a team this year.

To register: www.georgiawildlife.com. Deadline is March 31.

The event is free and birding expertise is not required. Mentors are available to help beginning teams.

There is also a companion T-shirt Art Contest (details on same website). Participation on a birding team is encouraged but not required. Art entries are due by March 13.

Sponsors of the Youth Birding Competition include The Environmental Resources Network or TERN – friends group of DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section –Georgia Ornithological Society and the Georgia and Albany Audubon societies.

Lakeside Dining Guide

Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily. This Southern Gastro Pub features re-imagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. 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. 770-967-3775, www.fishtaleslakelanier.com

Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatched-roof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. 70887-5715 ext 5., www.pelicanpetes.com

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

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

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lands.com.

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

The Twisted Oar - Holiday Marina. Offering fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak; casual dining. Full bar service, tropical and frozen drinks.

Live entertainment, trivia, indoor/outdoor flat screen TVs. Open year round. www.thetwistedoar.com, 678 7147572.

Classifieds

FREE DOCK

24x32 dock on Lanier w/40 ft walkway. Retractable wheels. New style floats. Wired for power. Great, well built dock but needs new decking. Delivery possible. Free. Email: jonathanbeck@cs.com.

a loose twist tie to guide its path. Soon you’ll have tiny buds developing along the spike that will reward you with stunning long-lasting blossoms.

A spike of phalaenopsis blooms can last several months with buds opening all the way to the tip of the spike.

As the blooms fade, pinch them off. However, don’t cut the bloom stalk back until all the blooms have died. If the spike is still green, it means that your plant potentially has the energy to push out a new flowering spike from the current spike. It speeds up the process of re-blooming to

Hall County Master

Gardeners Spring Expo

• April 7 – 8:30-5

• April 8 – 8:30-4

• $2 per person

(No pets, please)

• Chicopee Woods Ag Center (1855 Calvary Church Rd. Gainesville.)

simply cut the spike back one inch above the highest node, or bump, on the spike.

If the spikes are completely brown, cut them back to the base of the plant.

About every three months, mix up some Peters Orchid water soluble fertilizer and water the plants. This will help replenish nutrients. Just be sure to avoid wet feet, so dump out the excess from the pot.

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help give your home some major curb appeal. If you don’t have the budget for new plants, just weeding your yard, putting out new mulch or pine needles and pruning can have a big impact. You don’t want overgrown trees or bushes covering up your beautiful home.

When it comes to updating your home, the sky is the limit. Updates can range from new ac-

For more information about caring for orchids, visit www.ngb.org/year-of-the-orchid/. The National Garden Bureau offers a free downloadable book about orchids and their care.

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.

cessories to new paint to a completely re-designed interior or exterior. Just don’t forget, for more time-consuming work or work beyond your skill set, reach out to a local professional for help. It will save you both time and money in the long-run.

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