Lakeside On Lanier May 2024

Boating safety classes are not just for new boaters. More than 25 employees at Marine Specialties recently took a certified Safe Boating Class. Page 39 Boating safety

Happenings around Lanier

Lots of events are happening around Lake Lanier in the upcoming months, including Food Truck Friday, Tri The Parks, Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club’s Beginner Racing League, the Duck Derby, the Great American Boat Parade and the Beach Bash. Page 2

Happenings around Lake Lanier this season

Food Truck Fridays

The next three dates for Food Truck Friday are, of course, on Friday, May 17; Friday, June 21; and Friday, August 16. The event features various food trucks at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. Time for each event runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Gates open at 5 with live music from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Events are free to enter. On-site parking is limited, shuttles are available, and a courtesy dock is available. Off-site parking 2024: New Horizons Lanier Park, 675 White Sulphur Rd.

More information: www.exploregainesville.org.

Running, biking at LLOP

Tri The Parks: Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquabike is set for Saturday, June 8. The event runs

from 6 a.m. to noon at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. For fees and additional information visit www.exploregainesville.org.

LCKC league

now open

Registration for Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club’s Beginner Racing League is now open. Organizers say the league is the perfect opportunity for children age 7 to 17 to experience what the sport is like.

The season ends with a “Fungatta” on May 11.

More information: www.exploregainesville.org.

Duck Derby set for May 11

The 26th annual Duck Derby, benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake Lanier, is set for Saturday, May 11. The fun-filled event culminates with thousands of little rubber ducks being dumped into the lake at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. The first to cross the finish line wins the grand prize of $10,000 cash with more prizes for those finishing second through fifth. To adopt your ducks or for more info: www.boysgirlsclubs.com.

Boat parade set for May 18

The Great American Boat Parade, set for Saturday, May 18, has added a pair of concerts at

Margaritaville. The charitable organization drew over 5,000 boats in 2020 and organizers hope to pass that mark

this year. The event benefits half a dozen first responders chosen by their departments.

For more information, visit www.thegreatamericanboatparade.org.

Beach Bash set for July 12

More than 100 tons of sand will turn the Lake Lanier Olympic Park into a tropical playground on Saturday, July 12. There will also be live music, a hula-hoop and limbo contest

and a kid’s beach zone. Food trucks will be on site as well. Parking is limited.

For more information visit www.exploregainesville.org.

"You will not find a better realtor than Teresa Smith - anywhere! We chose Teresa and her team to help us sell our home on the lake after doing much research on the best team to get our home sold quickly and for top dollar. They did not disappoint!"

- George & Susan S.

gated luxury home on the south end of the lake. Three finished levels completely updated with a wine cellar and an amazing outdoor living area. Dock with deep water. $2,550,000 (Hall)

Flowery Branch

MILLION dollar sunset views, south lake location

Lakefront home in sought-after Forsyth County

With a seasonal lake view and 67 ft. of ACOE/lake frontage, it is conveniently located a mile from Port Royale. The terrace apartment is easy to rent. The interior has been lovingly renovated with an emphasis on modern convenience and rustic elegance. Luxurious master swim spa on the new composite back deck. $425,000

Elevated lake living

Lakefront brick home in sought-after Mt. Vernon school district with so much to offer! Spacious ranch on a full finished basement, elevator, primary suite + extra bedroom on main, luxe finishes, sunroom, terrace kitchenette/bar with room to expand to a full kitchen, great views, gentle path to deep-water double slip dock, stunning architecture featuring Roman arches, 3-car garage and much more. $1,490,000

Gainesville $699,000

Getting ready to list? *** Featured Home ***

The longer you wait to list, the more competition you will have. To stand out, you’ll want your home to be in tip top shape. Here’s a checklist of the minimum steps to take to maximize the price you get for your house.

• Right before you list, get it deep cleaned from top to bottom, especially if you have pets. Smells matter.

• Update your landscaping. Trim bushes, refresh pine straw and rake away leaves.

• Replace burned out light bulbs. Light makes your rooms look bigger.

• For the same reason, clean your windows. Better light = more $

• Stage the house to showcase the lake view. Nothing adds more value to the house than that view.

• Pack half of your stuff and store it away. You’re going to have to pack it anyway, so go ahead and box or throw away the clutter.

• Touch up paint where it has been chipped. Clean your intake vents and light switch plates.

• By all means, if you ever had a ceiling leak but it is now fixed, touch up the water stains with Kilz and ceiling paint. Like pet smells, water stains put off buyers in a heartbeat.

The Good Life Group offers free staging to clients including some furniture and finishes. Call today to find out more.

Forsyth County renovation

Fins Up: Margaritaville opens with multi-million-dollar enhancements

By Pamela A. Keene

Call it by its new name: Fins Up Water Park.

Anchored by Fins Up Falls, a towering multi-slide complex, the rebranded waterpark has kicked it up several notches for family fun. Standing at 418 feet tall, Fins Up Falls encompasses four diverse slide experiences.

“Fins Up Falls is Georgia’s first waterslide coaster,” said Charles Burton, executive director of LLIDA, the state authority that oversees operations of the property. “Rides vary from ultra-high intensity with uphill and downhill twists and turns at average speeds of 30 mph on Apocalypso to the gentler Mango Mania for younger riders.”

All four slides are accessible from the same tower.

The addition of the new Fins Up Falls brings the total number of waterslides to 15.

The original water park at Lanier Islands opened in 1974 along with a golf course and a hotel. During the 1980s, the beach area was expanded. A second hotel –

then known at Emerald Pointe and Conference Center – and another golf course opened later that decade.

The Virgil Williams family took over operations in 2005 as Lake Lanier Islands Management Company and since that time has invested millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements, upgrades, expansions and additions. The waterpark, then known as LanierWorld, was expanded in 2010 with a lakeside restaurant and entertainment programming.

Big changes came to the Islands in 2018 through a joint venture between Safe Harbor Development, the brand partner with Margaritaville, and LLIMC, and over the years Safe Harbor has added the Camp Margaritaville RV Resort, a multi-dock marina and dry-stack storage, Port of Indecision Marina.

The rebranding of Fins Up Water Park is the first of more planned expansion including new amenities at Camp Margaritaville RV coming soon.

For more info, visit www.mar-

garitavilleresorts.com or call 470 323-3440.

Goodbye fence: New access to the water at Margaritaville

The fence around the water at Fins Up Water Park has been replaced.

“Visitors to the Fins Up Water Park beach will be able to cool off in the water this season with the addition of a new floating water barrier,” said Charles Burton, executive director of LLIDA, the state authority that oversees operations of the property. “The floating lakeside buffer will adjust with changing lake levels to allow people to access the water a few feet off the shore.” Also, there are plans to expand the Wibit Inflatable Aquatic Adventure allowing more guests to enjoy the lake.

“Our objective is to ensure that guests are able to access water safely,” he said. “And because it will move with lake levels, the beach-and-water experience will remain constant, even when lake levels fluctuate.”

The system was installed in the off season. “The new system will

“Clark’s

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

allow us to operate the park in the safest way possible for our guests, while giving them the experiences

they’ve come to expect at Margaritaville Lanier Islands,” Burton said.

Practice Safe Boating

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

Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS Lake Lanier Artist

Bridge, Lake Lanier”” - by Anne Brodie Hill

Kids finish up the ride on the new Cat4 Tube Slide. PHOTO BY MARGARITAVILLE

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

Lake level: .35 feet over full Temperature: Low 60s

Clarity: Main lake clear, coves and creeks, stained Bass fishing

Bass fishing on Lanier is very good. The bass are in all modes of spawn right now with some spawning, some post spawn and some moving up to spawn. Overall it means the fish are shallow.

A worm on a three sixteenths shakey head has been the most consistent bait recently on secondary points, rocks and docks. Trixster Bait’s Green Pumpkin worm has been very successful along with a Zoom Watermelon Red worm.

The last few docks in the backs of the pockets have been producing both spots and largemouths with some big fish mixed in. Work your bait as far under the dock as you can as well as behind the docks.

The jerk bait bite has picked up recently on the reef poles, long points and bedding flats.

It seems there are more largemouth bed on the last full moon than spots but there should be a major move by the spots on the upcoming full moon. This should help the jerk bait bite.

On the windy days be sure to check out the blow throughs with a white spinnerbait for some great action.

And now is the time to begin watching for the herring spawn on rocks, walls, poles and hard points. If you locate the spawn it is a great opportunity to catch fish on multiple moving baits. There are still many largemouth on bed in the backs of the pockets but if you do target these bass please be gentle with them and release them as quickly as possible so they have a chance to return to their bed.

It’s fun fishing time on Lanier with good weather to boot so “Go Catch ‘Em!”

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

Striper fishing

Striper and spotted bass on Lanier has been on fire! The bait has been difficult to find but if you’re not familiar with what’s available contact your nearest bait shop.

The method is still planner board, flat lines and down lines. The umbrella rigs are also picking up an extra fish or two.

Some might even be up the rivers and that’s a good shad run this time of the year.

Because the rivers are tricky be extra careful and remember to wear your life jacket.

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

Crappie fishing

Crappie are between four to 15 feet deep and under docks.

Look for creeks or coves near a main channel for roaming fish. They are shallow in two to four feet of water. Cast to them or

just troll for them. Minnows are working well.

You may want to try jig colors grey on grey, or green and black and green and chartreuse.

The gear I recommend for crappie fishing is Acc crappie stix 1 piece rod and reel with a 6-pound test K9 line, along with Garmin Live Scope and Power Pole.

This crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton. Contact: 770 530-6493, www.crappieonlanier.com.

Does your boat have all legally required safety equipment aboard? REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE VESSEL SAFETY CHECK!

Take A Boating Safety Class - Only $25!

You may be able to save on your boating insurance*

Taught by America’s Boating Club Atlanta at Lake Lanier

In Person Classes

May 11 & July 13

Virtual/Online Three Session Classes Begin May 29 & July 31

Register for class or safety check: AmericasBoatingClubAtlanta.org or call 770-734-6412

You’re invited to our monthly meeting

Thursday, May 23

Breakwater Grill

4856 Hog Mountain Rd, Flowery Branch

6 p.m. - Social hour

7 p.m. - Presentation by the Lake Lanier Association

Cash bar and meal; no charge to attend the meeting

We’re local boaters with tips for Lake Lanier and NE Georgia ........................................................................ ........................................................................

Witnessing the battle between Mother Nature and humans

Clam digging and lobstering were the major industries when I grew up in a little town on the Jersey shore. A number of my classmates dropped out of school at age 15 and went to work with their fathers and grandfathers, either digging clams or catching lobsters. Back then it was a lucrative profession. They would work their tails off from April to October, then buy a new Cadillac and drive down to Florida for the winter. Next spring, they would come back and repeat the process.

There were two types of clams in our area, soft clams or “steamers” and hard clams called Quahogs. To dig soft clams, you simply walked along the beach at low tide and when you saw the “breathing” or “siphon” holes in the sand, you dug with a “clam fork,” which was just a heavyduty pitchfork, and there were the clams.

Hard clams lived in deeper water way beyond the low tide level, and you had to rake them up with a long handled, curvedtined rake. Both of these methods

were hard work.

In the 1950s, when outboard motors became popular and affordable, they developed an ingenious method of digging clams. They would hang a chicken wire rack over the stern of the boat, just behind the outboard motor, then cruise slowly through the shallows, allowing the outboard to stir up the mud. The larger clams would be thrown up into the wire mesh where they could easily be scooped up into bushel baskets and taken to market. The smaller ones would slip through the mesh and sink back to the bottom. The only problem here was that the baby “seed” clams were so light that they would float away and wash up on the beach to

be eaten by the seagulls.

The state passed a law outlawing this method, known as “pumping,” but it was so much easier than digging clams that many of the clamdiggers still practiced it while trying to avoid the game warden. Within about 10 years there were so few clams left in the bay that clam digging was no longer a viable occupation. Some moved on to places where there were more clams, but most just found another way to earn a living. Now, over 50 years later, the clam population has replenished itself, and even though the lower area of town is still known as “Clam Town,” it’s mostly a bedroom community for commuters to New York.

The lobsters in our area were

what is known as a “Maine” lobster, although they thrive from the Canadian border all the way down to North Carolina. South of there, another species (without claws) known as “Langostas” are prevalent. Lobstering was similar to clam digging, i.e. long hours, hard work but lucrative rewards during a good season. The work involved setting traps called “pots” in shallow water. Since the lobsters are carnivores, these pots were baited with cut up chicken parts or other hunks of meat, the older the better. They were hauled up every day or so to collect the catch and rebait them.

There was a state law requiring that the “carapace,” or largest part of the shell, be grown to a certain length. If the lobster was too

small, known as a “short” it had to be thrown back into the water until it matures. The wily lobstermen, instead of obeying the law would simply break off the tails and claws throw the carapace overboard, getting rid of the evidence.

Another law stated that the female lobsters called “chickens” or “Chix,” when heavy with eggs, had to be thrown back. The eggs are carried on the outside of the carapace, so the lobstermen would simply break off the tails and claws, the same as with “shorts,” and toss the carapace overboard. Local restaurants were glad to buy the premature tails and claws for lobster stew and salad.

PHOTOS COURTESY WIKIPEDIA PHOTO: UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

How not be a #QualifiedCaptain; take a safety class

I feel like I need to start this article out by clarifying the title. I often push the idea of having the proper knowledge and skillset to safely pilot your vessel on the water. In other words, you should make every effort to be a qualified captain, right? This is true. The title of this article references a popular social media hashtag that is being used to highlight individuals who make less than optimal decisions while operating a boat or a personal watercraft.

In a world where practically everyone has a phone that takes pictures and video, it is hard to do anything in public without the possibility of it being recorded. The prevalence of social media means that much of that recorded content is going to end up being a

Frank Taylor

The Careful Captain

feast for the eyes of people looking for entertainment. Some time ago, someone came up with the idea of taking a picture or video of a fellow boater that was suffering from the consequences of a bad decision made while on the water. It was posted to social media using the hashtag #qualifiedcaptain. The rest, as they say, is history.

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Ever since then, a quick search on social media using that hashtag will result in a plethora of images and videos of people that have made bad decisions on the water and what the results were. There is even an Instagram page and a website dedicated to the concept. You may even see someone wearing a Qualified Captain T-shirt or hat.

So, what does this all have to do with boating safety? I do believe that a lot of people think that boating is easier than it is. They think that all you have to do is point the boat in the direction that you want to go and push the throttle forward. This could not be further from the truth. There is a pool of knowledge and skill needed to make sure that enjoying a day on the water can be done correctly and safely. It is not rocket-science. Anyone can learn it. But still, it must be learned.

The content that can be found using the #qualifiedcaptain can be entertaining, but if you think about it, it can also be educa-

tional. This is a short list of some of the content that I ran across when doing a simple hashtag search:

They are not going anywhere

There is the guy with a beer in his hand, trying to climb onto the boat from a beach. He falls off multiple times because he is clearly under the influence. If you look closely, you will notice the boat is on the bottom because the water is too shallow. There are not going anywhere and that is a good thing.

Getting friendly with the dock

There are a lot of these.

Boaters trying to approach a dock or slip and ending up on top of the dock. Usually this is a result of inexperience leading to the operator panicking with the throttle.

That’s not a boat

Boat launching gone wrong where the tow vehicle ends up in the water. This happens launching anything from jet skis to large cruisers.

On the rocks

A picture of a very nice 35-

foot cruiser firmly up on a rock island. The interesting thing is that there was a lighthouse on the island. Was it alcohol? Was it at night and the operator became disoriented? I don’t know.

All of these incidents could have been prevented if the operators had the proper knowledge and made better decisions. If you have not done so already, consider taking a boating safety class.

America’s Boating Club has a chapter right here in Atlanta and they offer them. There are also classes that you can take online. If you purchase a boat, have someone spend some time with you so you can become familiar with the vessel. Finally, make good decisions when out on the water.

Don’t leave your common sense at the dock. If you don’t do this, people may see you the next time they search for #qualifiedcaptain.

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

Service of honor: The US Coast Guard Pipe Band steeped in history Shore Lines

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

By Pamela A. Keene

Don’t blow off the traditions of bagpipers; Scotland’s national instrument has been around since the 1500s and are more versatile than people give them credit for.

First used as instruments of war, bagpipes as we know them today replaced trumpets as a rallying call on the battlefield. Although the origin of bagpipes is somewhat up for debate – did the Egyptians, the Irish or the Scots invent them? – there’s no denying that bagpipes produce one of the most distinctive musical sounds in the world.

Times have changed, and the bagpipe carries a much broader recognition. People think of bagpipers as marching units in parades, performers at funerals or military ceremonies and at various celebrations of Scottish history, such as the Highland Games held each fall at Stone Mountain.

However, in the United States the only currently active pipe band affiliated with the military is the US Coast Guard Pipe Band.

For the past 15 years, Lake Lanier’s ML Loudermilk, who lives in Hoschton, has served as the Pipe Major in the US Coast Guard Pipe Band, a national organization with nearly 140 musical members, either bagpipers or drummers.

“While we are not formally attached to the Coast Guard, we have been officially recognized as an associate organization and are allowed to wear the insignia and use the name, and all our members are either active duty, retired or reserve members of the Coast Guard, combat veterans or belong to the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. Membership is open to men and women.”

The band, founded in 2002, is formed around individuals and local detachments who may fulfill nearby requests for bagpipers. However for major events, Loudermilk and the group’s Drum Major Kevin Conquest, in Gilbert,

Arizona, will put out a call to assemble as many musicians as available.

“Although our members are literally spread out across the country, we do a pretty good job of making our presence known through an average of more than 70 events each year,” said Loudermilk, who joined the organization in 2004 when he and his wife Sally lived in Anchorage, Alaska. “Most people have no idea that the US Coast Guard Pipe Band plays at some pretty large military and public gatherings every year.”

Some of the most significant performances have included The USS Arizona Memorial and the Repatriation of the USS Oklahoma Pearl Harbor sailors in Honolulu, HI, the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the annual Grand Haven, Michigan, Coast Guard Festival and numerous 9/11 memorials and remembrance ceremonies.

He says that about 95 percent of performances are solo, when a member is asked to play “Amazing Grace” at a retirement, funeral or memorial service.

The Atlanta detachment, based within USCG Auxiliary/Flotilla 2-9, is comprised of 12 pipers and one drummer.

Depending on the type of request, Loudermilk works with the available players to muster a group.

sals are few when a large group plays a concert or marches in a parade.

“Typically band members have only several hours to rehearse at most when we all come together,” he said. “We’ll go over logistics of that particular event – from which tunes we’ll play in which order, run-throughs of each and how we will handle changes be-

“We’re requested at Blessings of the Fleet, Changes of Command for boating and military groups, such as University Yacht Club, the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and America’s Boating Club Atlanta, which usually requires five players or less,” Loudermilk said. “When we’re requested at a parade, such as Mardi Gras or a military holiday, we send out the call to all our members across the country and whoever can come, does.”

Because the group is so farreaching geographically, rehear-

tween songs.”

“It’s the same way when we do large performances,” he said. “And it is so amazing how we all come together and everything just works.”

For new members or a new piece of music, a recording, video, CD or DVD will be sent to everyone to practice on their own.

Loudermilk learned to play 35 years ago and readily admits that bagpipes are not the easiest instruments to play.

“You’ve got to have physical stamina, air control and lung ca-

pacity,” he said. “Add to that proper posture and the special techniques required to master the instrument. Typically bagpipes are played for extended periods of time and that can be exhausting unless you stay in shape.

The original bagpipe’s bags were made from the skins of animals, such as sheep or calves, designed to hold air. Now, they are often made of Gortex. The flow is regulated by the musician’s applying pressure on the bag with his left arm, and the air passes three pipes, called drones, coming over the player’s left shoulder. The bagpiper inserts the blow stick into his mouth to continue to fill the bag. The musical notes are created on the chanter, the lower pipe with fingerholes to produce different notes, played by the hands.

The band’s repertoire includes about 20 tunes, ranging from traditional Scottish folk songs such as “The Green Hills of Tyrol,” “The Rowan Tree” and “BrownHaired Maiden” to patriotic music including “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.”

“Most of our audiences recognize ‘The Coast Guard Hymn,’ ‘Scotland the Brave’ and ‘Semper Paratus,’” he said. “But far and away our most requested tune is ‘Amazing Grace.’ With the mournful, haunting sound of the pipes, there’s hardly a dry eye in the house when we play it.”

For more information about the USCG Pipe Band, visit www.uscgpipeband.org.

PHOTOS BY USCG PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Pipe Major M.L. Loudermilk performs during a National Day of Prayer service.

A performance on the fantail of the USCG Cutter MacKinaw.

PHOTO BY TED MCGEE

Pipe Major ML Loudermilk, Pipe Sergeant John Quinn and Pipe Corporal Robert Miller performed at the University Yacht Club Opening Day in 2023.

Pipe Band performs at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City.

Lake Lanier Association

Ready to jump in?

What's stopping you?

Support LLA, become a member today!

For as little as $100 a year, your Household Membership supports these on-lake intiatives...

Removing over 90 tons of trash annually at Shore Sweep

Light-up 289 hazard markers with Solar Lights

Stock and maintain 10 life jacket loaner stations

2 miles and counting of shoreline protected with Rip Rap

Monthly Water Quality Testing , all 12 months of the year

Remove Abandoned and Derelict Docks & Vessels (ADDV) from the waters of Lanier

SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN OR RENEW YOUR LLA MEMBERSHIP TODAY

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

Ready to Jump In?

Scan the QR code above to join or renew your LLA Membership or visit: members.lakelanier.org/join

CLEAN LAKE

Shore Sweep, Adopt-a-Lake Water Quality Testing, Clean Lake Pledge & Mini Clean-Ups

FULL LAKE

Rip Rap, Erosion and Sedimentation, Island Protection through municipal funding, USACE Basin Management

SAFE LAKE

Life Jacket Loaner Stations, Solar Lights, Channel Markers, Safety Course & Education

TOGETHER

Through education and advocacy, we work to keep you informed about important matters.

LLA works closely with local authorities to protect Lanier.

Boating is unpredictable but with a BoatU.S. Unlimited Towing Membership, it’s easy to keep your cool when something goes wrong. The last thing you want to worry about is “how are we getting home?” With TowBoatU.S. by your side, we’ve got your back and we’ll get you back.

Enjoying May but worrying about next month

May is without a doubt, one of my most favorite months of the year. The heart of our severe storm season is behind us, the temperatures, for the most part, are still fairly comfortable, and we don’t have that summer heat and humidity to deal with just yet.

Our pollen season, as we all know, was just brutal! Pollen counts began in late February, when we had those early spring-like temperatures, and continued through April. Above average rainfall this spring, along with the abnormally warm temperatures, gave us record high pollen counts. The climate experts now say we can expect earlier and longer pollen seasons because of climate change.

As we move into May, the average low

Glenn Burns Lanier Outlook

temperature for the month is 61 degrees with an average high temperature of 81 degrees. Our normal monthly rainfall is 3.56 inches. However, the Climate Prediction Center outlook for May is for above average temperatures and rainfall. We seem to be right in the crosshairs for that heavy rain.

Our El Nino is coming to an end as the sea surface temperatures begin changing in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, off the coast of South America. La Nina is rearing its ugly head as colder sub-surface water is rising. La Nina usually brings us active hurricane seasons and that is what leading forecasters are projecting.

Hurricanes usually form in June in the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf temperatures have to be at least 80 degrees for a tropical system to form. However, as of late April, many areas in the Gulf were close to, or above that mark (see graphic to left). And that usually does not happen until the beginning of the hurricane season in June.

But for now, let’s just sit back and enjoy one of THE finest weather months of the year.

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

Surprise! I’ve done some research on what ‘we’ like to do

Realizing that it may be frightening to many of you, O’Neill has done a bit of research as to who among us is a fisherman, hunter, camper, or plain ole adventurer here in the mountains of North Georgia – and where he spends his time and money. I think you may be surprised.

First of all, allow me my personal conclusions, bearing in mind that Gail and I are Georgia natives and have been enjoying the Southeastern wildlife and landscape for 80 years. In the interest of being inclusive with as few words as possible, let’s call these Georgia participants, men and women, or “we.”

We hunt whitetail deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits and enjoy them both as trophies and dinner. We fish for bass, bream, crappie, trout and other finny critters. We buy hunting and fishing licenses and pay the 6% excise tax, without complaint, on “outdoor” gear that ultimately and directly pays for wild animal and land management. We stick to the rules regarding other owners’ land and the

O’Neill Williams

O’Neill Outside

n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com

hunting and fishing approval dates and seasons as set forth by the Georgia and other states’ Department of Natural Resources. We stick to the rules without an umpire or field judge to call us out or drop and flag.

Now, let’s expand, without judgment or explanation, what else “we” do, where we travel and where do we spend our money. Without revealing my sources of information, please take my word for it that the following stats are reliable totals as generated by the major TV and radio stations in our area.

Ok, for whatever it’s worth and

noting that these percentages include the Southeastern states, see if you fit. Here goes:

• 51% live in a two-person household; 81% own their home; 77% have no one under 17-yearsold living at home; 51% do their own home repairs; top two vehicles are Ford and Toyota; 94% pick Bojangles’, Dairy Queen or Dunkin’ (Donuts); for a pick up meal to sit down for dinner, 89% choose Cracker Barrel, LongHorn or Waffle House; top retailer is Walmart; 59% attend professional sports and finally, 81% watch pro baseball on TV.

And here’s a snippet showing the activity level of fishing and hunting in Georgia: There are 800,000 hunting license holders who, I believe conservatively, hunt 15 times annually and 1.1 million fishing license holders, again very conservatively, exercise that activity 40 times per year. That’s a total of 56 million days of use. Quite a number.

If you and yours don’t have some of these “days” in your calendar, you’re missing out on what

really counts long term.

O’Neill Williams has been a television, radio and print personality

• Mendes

Continued from Page 12

Just like the clams, the lobsters could not reproduce fast enough to keep up with human consumption, and pretty soon, they had all but disappeared from the Jersey shore. Slowly, the lobster species recovered and now can be found along the shore again, but it’s nothing like it was 50 or 60 years ago, when you could go down to the local fish market and buy a 10- or 12pound lobster for 95 cents a pound!

It was interesting to live through the time when I could witness the transition from plenty to scarcity and back

for more than 40 years and more recently has added podcasts and video on demand to his repertoire.

again, and view firsthand how the planet and ecology will heal itself if left alone long enough. The only question is: Will the time period be 50 years like the clams and lobsters, or 10,000 years as is estimated for global warming? The bottom line is that whenever humans go up against mother nature the score is Mother Nature: One, Humans: Zero.

Mendes has been sailing all his life and on Lake Lanier for over 30 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.”

Newly covered premium dock designed especially for Pontoons, Wakeboards and Small Cruisers.

Holiday Marina is located at the south end of Lake Lanier just outside of Lake Lanier Islands. It is the oldest marina and one of the largest on the lake. For over 53 years, Holiday has become synonymous with Lake Lanier and boating. And equipped with almost 1300 wet slips – ranging from 22′ to 100′ in length and is the largest and closest marina to metro Atlanta.

Lanier Islands Pkwy.

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Lazy Days is the legendary, full-service marina located just a short drive north of Atlanta on I-985, off the Lake Lanier Islands Parkway exit. Lazy Days can dry stack boats up to 36 feet and offers wet slips up to 125 feet. Lazy Days has an on-site service department by Singleton Marine. With more than 690 miles of shoreline, the lake is well known for its aqua-blue colored water, spectacular scenery and unique recreational activities.

We offer:

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Abundance of convenient, well-lit parking

Lake Lanier’s largest in-house Boat Service & Repairs

24/7 gated security with guardhouse

Lake Lanier’s largest floating Gas Island with 26 pumps

Heated & A/C bath-house with laundry & fitness center

Two Ship Stores with everything from beer & ice to cleaning supplies

In-House & On-Site Boat Sales & Brokerage

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Fresh water, GFCI power & wifi available at all docks

♫ May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – Blue Sky Concert Series, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at 1 Main St., Gainesville.

Info: 770-531-6598.

♫ May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – Music Bingo, 7 p.m. at Hall & Hound Brewing Co., Cumming. Info: 470-239-8423.

o May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Trivia, 7 p.m. at Hall & Hound Brewing Co., Cumming.

♫ May 3 – First Friday Concert Series, 7 p.m. at 301 Main St., Gainesville.

Info: lshubert@gainesville.gov.

♫ May 5, June 2, July 7, Aug. 4, Sept. 1, Oct. 6 – Music in the Branch, 6:30-8 p.m., at Amphitheater, 5603 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch.

Info: 770-967-6371.

o May 7, 14, 21, 28 – Trivia Night, 7 p.m. at NoFo Brew Co., Gainesville.

Info: topher@nofobrew.co.

o May 8 – Wine Tasting, 7 p.m. at Hall & Hound Brewing Co., Cumming.

Info: 470-239-8423.

♫ May 9, 16, 23, 30 – Music Bingo, 7 p.m. at NoFo Brew Co., Gainesville.

Info: topher@nofobrew.co.

o May 10 – Latin Arts Festival, 3:30-9 p.m. at 5210 Railroad Ave., Flowery Branch.

Info: 770-967-6371.

♫ May 10 – Highlights from the Opera presented by Lanier Chamber Singers, 7:30-9 p.m., at Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville. Info: 470-228-2375.

♫ May 11 – Gospel in the Park – Free, 1-6 p.m., 304 Main St., Dawsonville.

Info: 706-203-4922.

Blackstrap Rock Hall

♫ May 4 – Malefic/Nihilect/Imperii

♫ May 10 – Billy Bats and The Made

Men/Manic Third Planet/the Carolyn

♫ May 17 – Axecident/Zyx/Tidalist

♫ May 18 – Withered/Of Ancients/Six

♫ May 25 – Die 985/FreakShow

Sinema/Vicki’s Dream

Info: 678-696-8285; blackstraprockhall.com

Boot Barn Hall

♫ May 2 – Keith Burns

♫ May 3 – Boys in the Band

♫ May 4 – Excitable/Def Leppard Tribute

♫ May 5 – Elle King

♫ May 9 – Dueling Pianos

♫ May 10, 11 – The Rocketman Show

♫ May 17 – Sabbath/Black Sabbath Experience

♫ May 18 – Purple Madness/Prince Tribute

♫ May 19 – The Jerry Douglas Band

♫ May 24 – Fly Betty

♫ May 25 – Hardwired/Metallica Tribute

♫ May 31 – Craig Morgan

Info: bootbarnhallga.com

Brenau University

o Thru May 23 – Jenny Bishop Heaton: Lavish Delights exhibition

o May 11, 12 – Dancing Under the Bao Bao

Tree: A Celebration of Dance Culture

Info:: 770-538-4764; brenau.edu

Buford Community Center

♫ May 18 – The Purple Xperience with Special Guest Black Lion

Info: 770-904-2740;

bufordcommunitycenter.com

Clarkesville’s

Habersham Community Theater

o May 23-26, 30-June 2 – Rumors

o July 18-21, 25-28, Aug. 1-4 – The Voyage of The Dawn Trader

Info: 706-839-1315; habershamcommunitytheater.com

Cumming City Center

♫ May 10 – Gold Standard

♫ May 24 – Mike Veal Band

♫ May 31 – Purple Madness, Prince Trib.

Info: 770-781-2010; cummingcitycenter.com.

Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater

o Thru May 12 – Bonnie & Clyde

♫ May 25 – Reo Survivor & Co., REO Trib.

♫ June 1 – Songs of the South/A Tribute to Alabama

Info: 706-530-5162; hollytheater.com

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

o May 4 – Run for the Rhodos 5K

o May 9-11 – Top of Georgia Plein Air Festival

o May 11 – Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival

♫ May 11 – Deana Carter

o May 18 – Georgia Mountain Fire & Smoke

Cooking Festival

o May 24 – Hiawassee Pro Rodeo

Info: 706-896-4191; georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Hall County Library

o May 4 – Greeting Card Workshop

o May 10 – Georgia Cross Stitchers

o May 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 – Adult Brain Teaser Week

o May 15 – Introduction to Google Docs

o May 19 – Free Screening of “Saving the Chattahoochee”

o May 24, June 28, July 26, Aug. 23 – Master Craftswoman Agatha Christie – A Reading Group

Info: 770-532-3311, X4011

Interactive Neighborhood Kids

o Thru May 5 – Space Craft Week

o May 6-12 – Mother’s Day Craft Week

o May 13-19 – Pizza Craft Week

o May 20-26 – Bee Craft Week

o May 28-June 2 – Memorial Day Craft Week

Info: 770-536-1900; inkfun.org

Lake Lanier Islands Resort

o May 4 – Water Park opens at Margaritaville Lanier Islands

Info: 770-945-8787; lanierislands.com

Quinlan Arts Center

o Thru June 8 – Spring Exhibition

o May 4 – Spring Exhibition Artist Talk

o May 7, 14 – Bugs, Birds and Flowers

o May 13 – Ekphrasis for the Masses

o May 16 – Georgia Art League Program

o June 13-Aug. 10 – Summer Exhibition

Info: 770-536-2575; quinlanartscenter.org

School Street Playhouse

o Thru May 19 – Don’t Dress for Dinner

Info: 770-781-9178; schoolstreetplayhouse.com

The Arts Council

♫ May 4 – Wasting Away...with The Arts Council 2024 Fundraiser

♫ May 18 – The Black Gold Orchestra

See Calendar, page 46

• Electrical & Water Services Call

Sunrise Cove Marina is named for the stunning views and surroundings, especially against the morning sunrise. A quiet cove tucked away on Lake Lanier, the Marina rests on 62 sprawling acres of beautiful timberland countryside, with an abundance of wildlife presence.

• Covered & Uncovered Slips

• Jet Ski Docks

• Ship Store

• Clean Restrooms

• Bathhouses

• Laundry Facilities

• Fuel Dock

• Pump-Out (Free to Sunrise Cove Slip Members)

• Security

• Private Launch Ramp

• Clubhouse for Banquets and Parties

Blackstrap Ghost Tours a hit in Gainesville’s Midland district

By Jane Harrison

A streetlight flickered and freight trains rumbled in the distance as a group of sweater-clad history buffs, hard rock groupies, and Gen Zers from down the street gathered around a Goththemed barmaid. On the cool spring evening, a mixed assemblage of 20 embarked on a tour down bricked alleys, cracked sidewalks and a graveled railroad yard just off Gainesville’s Midland Greenway. The rhythm of Latin beats from a tiny cantina nearby and the faint strains of country twang from downtown seemed incongruous with tales of woe and mystery held inside timeworn former warehouses and factories just steps from the vibrant Midland pathway.

Such was the scene last month at a Blackstrap Ghost Tour, a sold-out venture into weird tales of strange phenomena reported to have occurred in and around the dead buildings being resurrected in the thriving Midland district. The spooky experience started inside Blackstrap Rock Hall, where tourists sipped to-go beer, wine, and wine slushies surrounded by black walls, black lights and eerie tunes. Tour guide Nicole “Cadaver” downed a beer and led them out with her red glowing lantern.

The bimonthly tours hatched after Blackstrap Rock Hall’s Halloween festival last October drew a crowd to the South Main Street venue. “We started talking about haunted houses. We’d been on

shaped early Gainesville. Like many communities with roots in the early 1800s, the Queen City survived “a fair share of tragedy,” she said. Fires, tornadoes, factory mishaps, and illnesses struck many who frequented the old industrial sector. “These tragedies left scars on this community … potentially resulting in some of the paranormal activity we’ll talk about tonight.”

ghost tours before” in other cities, said Kyle Sanders, founder of the rock hall and Let There Be Rock School. “We didn’t know how it would go over .... We wanted to join forces with the Longstreet (Piedmont) Hotel,” behind the rock hall. So one day Sanders and wife, Elizabeth, walked in the door of the old hotel to talk to Richard Pilcher, Longstreet Society president and keeper of the historic inn, now a museum.

“We thought he’d either be all in or look at us like we’re crazy,” Kyle Sanders said. The rock star and Longstreet historian shook hands. A few weeks later Nicole and Ryan “Cadaver,” a long-time amateur ghost detective and Gainesville rock band veteran, were leading goosebump-seeking tourists.

“It’s been interesting, it really has,” said Pilcher, who bemoaned the loss of visitors due to the pandemic. “There were weeks without a single visitor. Now when somebody comes in with 25-30 people in tow, I’m glad to see them.”

The torch carrier for the Confederate general who made his home in Gainesville after the Civil War leads the tour through the renovated hotel’s first floor, stuffed with Longstreet photos, documents and relics. That is all that’s left of the original three-story, 45-room Piedmont Hotel that General Longstreet owned from 1875 until his death in Gainesville in 1904.

During the tour, Nicole cited past hardships that

But first she pointed across the street to Remedy Distillery, a modern Midland establishment housed in an old warehouse. It may not be haunted, she said, but it serves libations that might enhance the ghostly experience or sooth the nerves afterward. She recommended the Peach Remedy, a whiskey that scares up a little more drama in her narrative.

She went on to describe strange incidents in the Blackstrap building, including a visitor wearing “old timey clothes” who inexplicitly entered and exited the green room and a force that seemed to hold the restroom door closed. Next, she led tourists toward the old train station where she told of visions of General Longstreet waving amid locomotive steam after his death. Two freight trains thundered by in opposite directions while listeners waited to hear more tales about a foreboding structure across the tracks.

Nicole gestured toward the “hulking, vacant, creepy building with a large smokestack.” The Gainesville cotton mill “knew hardships, pain and sorrow from the moment the doors opened,” in 1903, she said. A tornado, child labor, and dangerous equipment took a toll inside its walls. “It’s one of the most haunted” in town, she reported.

A short walk back toward the greenway brought tourists to the front steps of the Piedmont Hotel, where Pilcher greeted them from an old rocking chair and welcomed them inside. Squeaky floorboards, old photographs, antique furniture and a toy soldier battle replica backdrop the stories Pilcher shared about Longstreet’s tenure at the hotel and strange happenings reported after he was gone.

The place echoes with past

life. “It’s an old building, creaky with loud sounds. I’m suspicious of every noise I’ve heard,” Pilcher said. Visitors sometimes report feeling Longstreet’s presence. Two women even called Pilcher to tell him they felt the General went home with them. “Just tell him to leave,” he responded.

The tour ended back at the rock hall, where heavy metal band ATL Crue blasted tour goers to the modern era with a set that included “Looks That Kill.” Blackstrap’s Sanders said all the spooky stories are rooted in “some truth, not made up from scratch.” He has not personally witnessed any paranormal activity but has garnered stories from “people being honest about what they have seen.”

Midland newcomer Fredy Fuentes said the tour stirred his curiosity about the block where he now lives. He wondered if the walks would expand to the downtown square, where more potential haunts await.

“Our goal is really to bring more attention to the Midland area which is seeing great growth

and really becoming a special place here in Gainesville, but we have definitely discussed expanding the tour to go farther,” Sanders said. “We’ve also tossed ideas around about different forms of transportation to take it a step further than our current walking tour.”

Tourist Amy Hamilton said she bought a tour ticket to explore Midland history and “do something out of the ordinary.” She and a friend expressed intrigue with the “very interesting” original proprietor of the Piedmont Hotel.

“I’ve been at this place for 30 years,” Pilcher said of the Longstreet museum. “I’ve seen prostitutes soliciting and now there’s rock music next door. The neighborhood is being built up. The Midland Greenway has brought a lot to this part of town. It’s all good.”

He pondered whether the General, “a pretty progressive sort of guy,” would have liked rock n’ roll. “He may not have liked it, but he would have been entertained.”

Blackstrap Ghost Tours

• Upcoming: 8 p.m. May 4 & 25, June 15. See website for more upcoming dates.

• Where: Blackstrap Rock Hall, 852 Main St., SW, Gainesville

• Cost: $20 adults, $10 children ages 6-12, plus tax; includes free concert afterward on Blackstrap performance nights.Tours may sell out.

• Refreshments: To-go beer, wine, wine slushies, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

• Info: www.blackstraprockhall.com, www.longstreetsociety.org.

Longstreet Society President Richard Pilcher, upper left, greets Blackstrap Ghost Tour participants at the historic Piedmont Hotel.

PHOTOS BY JANE HARRISON

Nicole "Cadaver" shares spooky stories rooted in history by the railroad tracks in the Midland district.

Blackstrap Ghost Tour guests order to-go drinks and snacks at the rock hall before venturing out.

o Family Frolics Nature Program, Gainesville. Explore natural habitats with sensory play, crafts, stories and more, 10:30-11:30 a.m. May 1, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Children ages 18 mo.-4 yrs. free with $10 adult admission. Register in advance. 770-5351976, www.elachee.org.

o Campfire Cookin’, Tallulah Falls. Roast s’mores & weenies on the campfire, all you can eat, 4:30-5:30 p.m. May 3, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o 48th Annual Railroad Days Festival, Lula. Parade, arts & crafts, and entertainment, 5 p.m. May 3 movie event at depot, 10 a.m. May 4 parade, Downtown Lula. www.cityoflula.com.

o Amateur BBQ Cookoff, Flowery Branch. Barbecue, food trucks, music 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 4, Cherokee Bluffs Park, 7769 Copper Kettle Way. www.facebook.com/HallCountyParks.

o Hall County Fit Families 5K, Gainesville. 9 a.m. May 4, Laurel Park, 3100 Cleveland Hwy. $30. www.runnersfit.com.

o Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show, Gainesville. A1A concert, plus catered dinner and more, 6 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. concert May 4, Smithgall Arts Center Pavilion, 331 Spring St. SW. $50 concert only, $150 concert & dinner. www.theartscouncil.net.

o Blackstrap Ghost Tours, Gainesville. Walking ghost tour to historic sites near Blackstrap Rock Hall and Midland Greenway hosted by Blackstrap Rock Hall and The Longstreet Society, 8 p.m. May 4 & 25, June 15, Blackstrap Rock Hall, 852 Main St. SW. $20 adults, $10 children ages 6-12. www.blackstraprockhall.com.

o Birds of Prey, Dawsonville. Join Blue Ridge Raptors to meet birds of prey up close, 1 p.m. May 5 & 18, Lodge Lobby, Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd. $5 parking. 706-344-1515.

o Learn to Row, Gainesville. Beginner rowing classes for ages 18 and older, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tues. & Thurs.; May 7-June 1, Lake Lanier Rowing Club, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3100 Clarks Bridge Rd. $240. Other classes scheduled June 4-29. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Tour and Tea at Tallulah, Tallulah Falls. Morning stroll on North Rim Trail to hear stories of Victorian Era on the gorge, followed by cup of tea on Interpretive Center back patio, 6-8 p.m. May 10, Tallulah Falls State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $40, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Latin Art Festival, Flowery Branch. Live music, art, food trucks celebrating Latin American culture, 3:30-9 p.m. May 10, Downtown Flowery Branch. www.flowerybranchga.org.

o Sunset Cruise on Lake Lanier, Gainesville. Cruise on Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s Floating Classroom to see wildlife and enjoy the sunset, 6:30-8:30 p.m. May 11, River Forks Park, 3500 Keith Bridge Rd. $15-$20. Register in advance. Limited to 24 participants. www.chattahoochee.org.

o Super Mom 5K/10K, Buford. 8 a.m. May 11, 301 E. Main St. NE. $25-$35. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Outdoor Leisure Pool Opens, Cumming. Pool with splash features, slides and more, weekends beginning May 11, daily May 24-31,

Outdoor Calendar May 2024

Cumming Aquatic Center, 201 Aquatiac Circle. www.cummingaquaticcenter.com.

o Touch a Truck, Gainesville. Touch, see and talk about trucks of all kinds, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May 11, Boat Ramp, Don Carter State Park, 5000 N. Browning Bridge Rd. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 678-450-7726.

o Super Stars, Helen. Learn how to use a telescope, find constellations, planets, 8-10 p.m. May 11, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $10, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.

o Food Truck Friday, Gainesville. Food trucks, beer/wine tents, live music, retail vendors 5-9 p.m. May 17, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd. Free admission; table rentals available. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Creek Critters Stream Exploration, Gainesville. Check water quality, look for insects, wildlife in Walnut Creek, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 18, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $15. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Smithgall’s Snakes, Helen. Meet native, scaly friends, learn their place in ecosystem, 1011 a.m. May 18, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.

o Flowery Branch Spring Fun Run. 9 a.m. May 18, Flowery Branch Depot, 5302 Railroad Ave. $30. www.runnersfit.com.

o Mason Strong 5K, Dawsonville. 9 a.m. May 18, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $25-$30. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival. Arts & crafts, beer & wine, jazz music, May 18 & 19, Hancock Park, one block north of downtown square. www.dahlonega.org.

o North Georgia Super Sprint & Kids Triathlon, Dawsonville. Pool swim/bike/run for individuals and relays, various start times May 19, Veterans Park, 186 Recreation Rd. $45-$50. www.fivestarntp.com.

o Saving the Chattahoochee Movie, Gainesville. Screening of new film, “Saving the Chattahoochee: The Story of the Women Who Defended the River,” with special guest Sally Bethea retired founding director of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, 5:30-8:30 p.m. May 20, Hall County Downtown Library, 127 Main St. SW. Free. www.chattahoochee.org.

o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 8:30-10 p.m. May 22, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10 cash, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Master Naturalist Lite, Gainesville. Explore the world of reptiles and amphibians in classroom setting and hike, 10 a.m.-noon May 23, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10, members free. Ages 16 and up. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

o Memorial Day Ceremony, Cumming. Annual community ceremony, details to be announced, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. May 24, Lou Sobh Amphitheater, Cumming Community Center, 423 Canton Rd. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.com.

o Tour of North Georgia, Clarkesville. Bicycle road race, time trial and criterium, May 24 & 25, various locations in Clarkesville & Demorest. $25-$145. www.bikereg.com.

o Midland Music Fest, Gainesville. Local brew, live music, food trucks, gates open 5 p.m. May 25, Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW. $30-$150 VIP, free to children 12 and younger. www.midlandmusicfest.com.

o Iconic Trees of Amicalola Falls, Dawsonville. Naturalist-guided hike to identify amazing trees along on Appalachian Approach Trail from Visitor Center to Reflection Pond, 11 a.m. May 25, Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd. Guidebook, pencil, and paper provided. $5. www.gastateparks.org, 706344-1515.

o Memorial Day Classic Baseball Tournament, Gainesville. Youth baseball tournament, May 25 & 26, Lanier Point Park, 1579 Lee Waldrip Dr. NW. www.southernsportspromotions.com.

o Jeep Day, Cumming. Jeep show and contest, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 26, Cumming City Center, 424 Canton St. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.com.

o Free Tours for Military, Sautee Nacoochee. Veterans, military service members and their immediate family invited for free tours, 10 a.m.3 p.m. May 27, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy. 17. www.gastateparks.org, 706-8781077.

o Splash Zone Opening, Gainesville. Outdoor pool with water features opens May 27, Francis Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way. www.gainesville.org.

o Kidz Dayz, Cumming. Outdoor games, vendors, face-painting and more, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 30, Cumming Community Center, 423 Canton Rd. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.com.

o Movie Night: Under the Same Moon, Gainesville. Bring lawn chairs, picnic for free movie outside, popcorn available for purchase, 6-9 p.m. May 31, Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW. Free. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Master Naturalist, Helen. 8-week adult envi-

ronmental education program with classroom lectures and hands on-activities led by local and state experts, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays June 3July 22, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $285, $5 parking. Registration required. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-4707.

On-Going

o First Friday Concerts, Gainesville. Concerts on downtown square 7-10 p.m. first Fridays through September, preceded by 4-6 p.m. solo artist near Main St. Concert lineup: MayHot Flash 80s Band; June-Vintage Vixens; JulyThe Soul Purpose Band; August-Fly Betty Band; September-Steve Bryson Band. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Music in the Park, Dahlonega. Live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. first Fridays May-October, Hancock Park, one block north of downtown square. www.dahlonega.org/events.

o Music in the Branch, Flowery Branch. Free concert, food trucks, 6:30 p.m. first Sundays through October, Flowery Branch Amphitheater, 55603 Mitchell St. www.flowerybranchga.org.

o Monthly Farmers Market, Braselton. Farmers, bakers and food makers sell fresh local goods, 4-7 p.m. Fridays, Town Green, 9924 Davis St. www.explorebraselton.com.

o Wellness Wednesdays, Gainesville. Outdoor yoga for all levels ages 13 and older, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Wednesdays in May, Smithgall Arts Center Pavilion, 331 Spring St. SW. $8. www.exploregainesville.org.

o Appalachian Jam, Dahlonega. Traditional mountain music players, singers and listeners gather outside the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site to enjoy tunes, 2-4:30 p.m. Saturdays through October, downtown Dahlonega. www.dahlonega.org/events.

o Snake Sundays, Tallulah Falls. Meet, pet and learn about live snakes, 9:30-10-30 a.m. Sundays in May, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Sunset Birding, Tallulah Falls. Search for and identify birds by sight and sound, 7:45-9 p.m. May 11 & 18, 8-9:15 p.m. May 25, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd. $10, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

o Movie Under the Stars, Braselton. Bring lawn chairs & blankets for family friendly move, concessions for purchase 7 p.m., movie at dark, third Saturdays May-July, Braselton Town Green, 9924 Davis St. Free. www.explorebraselton.com.

o Clermont Segment Ride. 5 high-effort bike ride segments for total of about 25 miles, average speed 17-18 mph, roll out 5:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Clermont Park, 639 Main St. velocraig@hotmail.com.

o Birds of Prey, Dawsonville. Blue Ridge Raptors bring birds of prey for educational, up close program, 1-2 p.m. Saturdays through June 1 and June 15, July 6 & 20, Aug. 3, Visitor Center Arch Room, Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-344-1515.

– compiled by Jane Harrison For more calendar items, visit lakesidenews.com/calendars.

• CUSTOM BOAT DOCKS

• COMMERCIAL & COMMUNITY DOCKS

• DOCK REPAIR & REFURBISHMENT

• BOAT LIFTS & JET SKI PORTS

• CONCRETE WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAYS AND CART PATHS

• SHORELINE RESTORATION

• RIP RAP EROSION CONTROL

• SHORELINE STEPS & PATHWAYS

• DREDGING

• ALL TYPES OF BOAT LIFTS SERVICED/REPAIRED

Shady Dale Rodeo offers an exciting ride each year

With the fast moving, constantly changing modern lifestyle, some wonderful things seem to be blown away with the dust. One special event, however, is growing stronger with every passing year. Now into its 40th season, the Shady Dale Rodeo, to be held this year on Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8, brings excitement back to the countryside south of Covington, GA! It is held on Ga. Highway 83, just south of the red flashing light at the intersection with Ga. Highway 142 in downtown Shady Dale. This year’s event will feature the best cowboys and cowgirls from across North America competing for big prize money.

This event is presented by Masonic Lodges Walton #200 and Jasper #50 of Jasper County. The Shady Dale Rodeo is an IPRA sanctioned professional rodeo event produced by Southern Rodeo Company. It has been voted the number one outdoor rodeo in the Southeast many times. The Shady Dale Rodeo is put on by an all volunteer crew of local Masons, Shriners and other citizens of the surrounding area. In addition to the rodeo action you can enjoy a full line of concessions, including pit cooked barbecue and fresh baked goods. The proceeds go to various Masonic charities and scholarships.

There is something for the whole family, including bare back and saddle bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, world championship bull riding and a calf scramble for kids 6 to 12. Friday night is family night with all youngsters 10 and under admitted

Bill Vanderford

JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com

free. A variety of concessions will be available that features home cooked barbecue, hot dogs, hamburgers, boiled peanuts and the favorite, Farm Bureau ladies’ home made cakes, pies, cookies and other sweets. A specialty act will be Blake Goode performing the colorful and exciting “Liberty Stand” and other stunts on his Brahma Bull riding team culminating with a jump through a blazing ring of fire.

A hurricane in waiting, With his anger set on full!

But I know as I lower myself down,

It’s only eight terrifying seconds to the crown!

Admission: Adults $25, Children 6 and up $10 and Under 6 years old free.

For more info, check this web site: www.shadydalerodeo.com.

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.

If you want to think what it is truly like to crawl on a 2,000pound angry bull, here are a few words that I copied from a poem, written by a cowboy, who knows; The truth is much more dangerous, The truth is what I know, The truth is underneath me, The truth is set to go!

My boots are on the sideboards, Beneath me is the bull,

Having fun at the Shady Dale Rodeo.

Women's barrel racing.

Bull riding action at Shady Dale. Calf roping.

Shooting a gun while standing on a bull.

Showing the colors and firing up the crowd at the rodeo.

Showing the colors at Shady Dale.

The bull is king at Shady Dale.

UYC celebrates 74 years in 2024 Opening Day tradition

By Pamela A. Keene

Technically,

University Yacht

Club never closes. Throughout the year there are social events, board meetings, meals in the dining room and members coming back and forth to their boats. But nothing is ever as necessary to the lifeblood of any yacht club as Opening Day.

Tradition dictates yachting attire for the men, including navy jackets, white slacks and the club

insignia on the jacket pocket. Women have a bit more flexibility.

This year on Saturday, April 6, more than 150 members and guests attended the formal opening ceremony on UYC’s Great Lawn behind the clubhouse, followed by a buffet dinner inside.

“Yacht club traditions give us time to pause and think of all those who have been part of UYC’s 74-year history,” said Commodore Steve Simpson. “And while we boat, socialize and

participate in events all year, Opening Day is celebrated as the beginning of the boating season.”

Fleet Chaplain Bruce Shortell conducted the Blessing of the Fleet, signifying that all the members’ vessels – sail and power – are ready for the season.

University Yacht Club is a 501 (c) 7 private membership club, located at 6649 Yacht Club Rd, Flowery Branch.

For information about the club, visit universityyachtclub.org or call 770 967-2814.

New ADA docks

one of two new courtesy docks ordered by Forsyth County. The new docks are located at Six Mile boat ramp and Young Deer boat ramp. The company says the all aluminum docks are ADA compliant with fully encapsulated flotation and feature easy entry and exit for all boaters including kayakers.

The Boathouse, Lake Lanier’s new $23 million facility, officially opened for business late last month with speeches, tours, and a ribbon cutting ceremony. It is located at the Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Hall County. Officials say they are already booking events three years out. The facility is also home to the Lake Lanier Kayak Club and the Lake Lanier Rowing Club.

Lakeside’s Safety Guide

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

BOATING

Basics of Boating - America's Boating Course

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

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

• When: In-person Full-day Class OR Virtual 3-session classes: In person - Saturday, May 11 & July 13. Virtual/Online 3 sessions - May 29 plus June 5 & 8; July 31 plus August 7 & 10

• Cost: $25 per student; Optional: $28 reference text available from instructor

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

Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification - USCGA

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

• Instructors: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers

• Minimum age: 12

• When: 9 am - 5 pm: May 18, June 15, July 20, Aug. 17, Sept. 21, Oct. 19

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

• Cost: Individuals $35; bring lunch

• Information/registration: Perry Hidalgo; uscgaux29@gmail.com; 470-310-3336/404-447-4599 http://wow.uscgaux.info/peclass.php?unit=070-02-09

On-Line Courses

• www.boat-ed.com and www.boaterexam.com/usa/georgia

include study guide and Georgia

Certification Exam with unlimited exam attempts; cost is $34.95 payable upon exam passage.

Temporary certificate printed upon

•

Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included)

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

Vessel Safety Checks

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

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

Sailing Classes

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

SWIMMING (Lessons/Aquatic Programs)

Frances Meadows Aquatics and Community Center

• Location: 1545 Community Way, Gainesville.

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

• Location: 2455 YMCA Drive, Gainesville

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

Cumming Aquatic Center

• Location: 201 Aquatic Circle, Cumming

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

Gwinnett Swim

• Location: 5396 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford

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

Swim Atlanta

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

• Information/registration: www.swimatlanta.com

Education Courses with Certification Exam

Raising the flags are part of the Opening Day ceremony. UYC board and officers all decked out for Opening Day.

PHOTOS: UYC

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE Workers from Southeastern Dock Supply in Gainesville install

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SDS

Mulch & Path Steps

River Rock Shore Steps

Behind the scenes at Rose Lane; no planning required

This May, Rose Lane is part of “In Our Own Back Yards” at the Hall County Master Gardeners biennial Garden Walk. Rick and I have been busy, but our garden would not be what it is without the hands of many Hall County Master Gardeners volunteers and others who have contributed since we moved here in 2008.

Our gardens are never the same year to year or month to month. New elements, including our working greenhouse and Rose Cottage – not a she-shed, please –complement our river-rock dry creek beds, nearly two dozen raised beds for vegetables and flowers, space for berries, figs and pears plus blooming trees and shrubs that include native and Encore azaleas, five kinds of hydrangeas, multiple cultivars of camellias and whatever else I simply can’t resist on regular trips to nurseries and plant sales.

Fortunate enough to find three acres in Flowery Branch, we started transplanting trees and shrubs here about the same time we broke ground in 2007. To the

Pamela A.

Keene

Curb Appeal

n MORE INFO: Email: pam@pamelakeene.com

frustration of my landscape-design friends, we had no plan, but somehow Rose Lane, named for my mother Rosa, has morphed into a plant-filled mosaic of colors all year long. From two small gardens with 20 hybrid tea roses our current count is more than 80 bushes in raised beds equipped with drip irrigation. We keep reducing the size of our lawn to keep expanding

not only the rose beds but also our food gardens.

Rick grows Clemson okra that reaches 8-feet, at least a halfdozen types of peppers, plus green beans, squash, cucumbers and a few other summer crops.

I can’t get enough tomatoes, mostly heirlooms, started from seed for the most part and including this year’s excellent performing All American Selections ‘Purple Zebra,’ the large red-andyellow striped ‘Solar Flare’ and my favorite ‘Midnight Snack’ black-and-red tasty cherry. Our driveway and just about every

other sunny spot in our yard will be lined with grow-bags to maximize production.

This year I’ll probably have at

least a dozen different varieties, probably more. We’ve learned to pick them right when they start

See Curb, page 46

Garden Walk showcases Hall’s best landscapes

Hall County’s best gardens and landscapes will be on full display on Saturday, May 18, and it’s only $15 per person ($20 at the event) for a day of stunning beauty.

“For the garden owners, the work began years ago, and in the past six months, they’ve been adding flourishes and details for ‘In Our Own Back Yards,’ our members’ biennial garden showcase,” said Carol Sowers, chair of this year’s Hall County Master Gardeners Garden Walk. “Attendees will be in for a treat to see these beautiful gardens because of their diversity and the ideas they can adapt in their own home landscapes.”

Five private gardens and a public space are on the tour; exact addresses will be listed on the tickets. The landscapes range from garden whimsey featuring dragons and operating trains to birdand pollinator-friendly spaces, a teaching garden, a wildflower meadow, a shade garden and a moss lawn. They’ll demonstrate companion plantings, problem-solving techniques and new ways to plant.

Master Gardeners will be on hand to give gardening advice and answer questions.

For information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.hallcountymggardenwalk.com. In-person tickets are available during business hours at the Hall County Extension Office, 734 Crescent Drive, Suite 300, Gainesville, GA 30501

Roses from Rose Lane

Boating safety: Marine Specialties staff gets back to the basics

By Pamela A. Keene

Boating safety classes are not just for new boaters. More than 25 employees at Marine Specialties recently took a certified Safe Boating Class, taught by instructors from America’s Boating Club Atlanta, formerly known as the Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron.

“Safety has to be No. 1 on the water for all boaters, including those of us who work on the water every day,” said Mark Millwood, environmental, safety & health manager for the 36-yearold company that provides dock building and shoreline solutions in Georgia and South Carolina. “From formalized instruction about the Rules of the Road to safety information about best practices for operating a boat, the day-long class has really brought boating safety back to the forefront within our team.”

Taught by America’s Boating Club Atlanta certified instructors, the course follows the curriculum approved by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. The course includes the latest information about Georgia boating laws, which may change from year to year.

Millwood, who worked with the US Army Corps of Engineers for more than 10 years, joined the Marine Specialties team in 2023. He was directly responsible for sourcing and coordinating the full-day boater safety course for the team. “During my time with the Corps of Engineers here on Lake Lanier, I’ve seen quite a number of on-the-water incidents that could have been avoided,” he

said. “One of the takeaways from the course is to always be aware of other boat operators on the water and be ready to take diversionary actions to avoid an accident. Many of the accidents on the water result because at least one boater isn’t aware of the Rules of the Road – who has right of way, which side to pass a boat on when it’s approaching your vessel, always operating the boat in a safe manner.”

The course also emphasized the importance of having a designated lookout to keep an eye out for other vessels.

“It may sound amazing, but several years ago, our 100-foot barge was hit by a fishing boat,” said Tom Child, president and founder of Marine Specialties. “It’s hard to believe that someone wouldn’t see a 100-foot barge, but the driver of the fishing boat apparently had his focus elsewhere.”

“Never assume that you know what the other boater is going to do, has ample boating knowledge or that the driver is paying attention,” Millwood said. “The course helped teach our own boat operators to always be aware of their surroundings.”

Marine Specialties requires all its employees to wear PFDs when on the water. “They don’t leave the dock without them,” Millwood said. “It’s just good practice, even for good swimmers, because you never know when you may end up in the water.”

The company has initiated other safety procedures, including adding strobe lights on all of its boats.

“They’re on all the time when we’re on the water, day or night,”

Millwood said. “We want to be really visible to other boaters, because often we’re moving a large dock or bringing in a load of riprap and our barges are not as maneuverable as smaller vessels.”

The course was taught in English, and a Spanish translator was available to help explain difficult concepts. The company purchased reference copies to the instruc-

tional book in both English and Spanish that are available to employees.

“With the books, our employees will have access to the book for reference about what they learned,” Millwood said. “It was well worth the investment for Marine Specialties to bring the class to our boat operators and leads.”

Millwood said that the com-

pany plans to offer the course to new employees. “It’s just a good idea for anyone on the water to be up-to-date and aware of boating safety practices,” he said. “It’s our responsibility as a business that works on the water to always operate in a safe manner and ensure that all our boat operators are fully trained in the safe operation of their craft.”

Wear your life jacket for a chance to win!

If you want to get people talking about boating and safety, wear your life jacket at work on Friday, May 17. That’s the day the Safe Boating Campaign has chosen as “Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day.”

“Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day is a great opportunity to share with others your love for boating,” said Yvonne Pentz, communications director of the National Safe Boating Council, a nonprofit dedicated to helping create a safe boating experience for all boaters and the lead organization of the Safe Boating Campaign. “The NSBC can’t wait to see the creative and fun ways boaters wear their life jacket at work for a chance to win a prize.”

Here’s how to participate:

• Wear a life jacket to work

• Snap a picture

• Post the photo on social media (hashtag #wearyour lifejacketatworkday)

• Tag the Safe Boating Cam paign (@boatingcampaign)

Boaters will randomly be selected to win prizes from the Safe Boating Campaign throughout the day.

Make sure your life jacket fits properly, is suitable for the activity and is USCGapproved (with the USCG label).

U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in four out of every five recreational boating fatalities in 2022, and that 75 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

There are many options for boaters when it comes to choosing a life jacket. When selecting a life jacket, a boater should check

that it is U.S. Coast Guard approved, appropriate for the water activity, and fits properly.

The Wear It! event is part of the National Safe Boating Council’s Safe Boating Week, taking place from May 18-24 across the U.S. For more information, visit, www.safeboatingcouncil.org.

Does your boat have what it takes for a safe boating season?

By Pamela A. Keene

Do you know that your boat is required to carry certain equipment? It’s the law.

But you can get a free Vessel Safety Check from either of two groups on Lake Lanier: US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 29 and America’s Boating Club Atlanta. “It’s surprising how little equipment is legally required to be on board,” said Bruce Lindsey, commander of the USCGA/Flotilla 29.

According to law, vessels more than 16 feet long – except canoes and kayaks – must have the following on board and accessible:

• A Coast-Guard approved life jacket of the type and size for each person to be appropriate for conditions and activity;

• At least one Type IV throwable flotation device;

• A working approved fire extinguisher, less than 12 years old;

• A sound-making device;

• Working running lights;

• A current Georgia DNR boat registration card.

Lindsey said that there are some important adjectives in the list. “Some boaters go to the store and purchase life jackets but they never unwrap them or keep them so that they’re easy to get to an emergency,” he said. “That’s what the ‘accessible’ means.

During the Vessel Safety Check, it’s a good time to ask questions about your boat and its operation.

“Just a few reminders from us can go along way toward a safe boating season,” he said. “For instance, we suggest that boaters spend a few minutes at the dock, especially early in the season or if new people are aboard, to go over safety tips, such as where the life jackets are located.”

Once the check is complete the owner is given a boat decal.

“This will let the DNR and Corps of Engineers who patrol the

lake that you have undergone a Vessel Safety Check for that year,” Lindsey said. “It’s more likely that you won’t be stopped for them to check for proper equipment when you display the sticker.”

Both the USCGA and America’s Boating Club Atlanta have members who are certified to conduct these checks. By appointment they will come to your boat slip, dock or convenient boat ramp.

“Safe boaters will have an annual safety check each year,” Lindsey said. “The checks are free. They will assist owners in being properly equipped and they are not reported to any third party. It takes less than an hour, time well spent to ensure a safer boating season.”

Sign up for safety checks at americasboatingclubatlanta.org or wow.uscgaux.info/i_want_a_vsc/i ndex.php.

PHOTO: MSI

For the team at Marine Specialties safety is No. 1. It’s always “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day.”

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

Sharing the adventure and beauty of Morocco

In January, Lakeside News’ senior reporter traveled to Morocco. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s bisected by the Atlas Mountains, bordered by Algeria on the east and shares the Sahara Desert with about a half-dozen African countries.

Known by most Americans as the setting for the movie “Casablanca,” the country’s intrigue and mystery would unfold as we dug deep into this amazing culture.

This month, Pam explores the Sahara Desert, including visiting a successful date farmer who has unraveled the secrets of an otherwise-dry desert, and comes back down from the High Atlas Mountains to the legendary Casablanca.

By Pamela A. Keene

The excitement built as our band of seven made preparations to spend two nights in the Sahara. We transferred only the luggage we would need for the two-night stay and traded our 17-passenger van for two four-wheel SUVs.

We actually swapped vehicles in the town of Erfoud, at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Known for its Museum of Fossils and Minerals and the many fossil factories that mine these pre-historic treasures, Erfoud is an oasis town that some call the “Gateway to the Sahara.”

It’s not that impressive, until we realized the we were standing where the ancient Saharan seaway stretched across what we now know as the Sahara Desert. The proof is in the results of many generations of Berber families

who continue to mine and restore large pieces of stone filled with fossilized trilobites, chambered nautilus, horseshoe crabs and intricate, delicate remains of graceful jellyfish that look like crystalized ferns.

One of the managers gave us a quick tour for first-hand views of the workmanship that goes into the hand-dug chunks of stone to reveal these pre-historic animals. Workers cleaned and chiseled the large slabs of stone by hand, then polished them to be purchased by collectors as stand-alone sculptures or tables. They were stunning.

Then it was on to the most intriguing part of the adventure for me: two nights under the stars deep within the desert. We drove for several hours over low dunes of rust-colored sand before arriving at the Overseas Adventure Travel camp: 12 semi-permanent tents with real beds, very nice bathrooms and heated foot warmers to keep us toasty at night.

The camp staff, including a cook, kitchen assistant and several others, saw to our every need with hot coffee to take off the 35degree overnight chill to meals that included the traditional tajine and plenty of Moroccan bread. Desserts were yummy.

Camel rides on the agenda for our first day allowed us more than 90 minutes to go even deeper into the desert where we dismounted and rested on the fine desert sand to listen to the deafening silence of the isolation. We were disrupted by a group of ATV riders about a mile away who looked

like gnats as they scooted across the dunes.

Our second Sahara day included a stop at a local community center for a performance by traditional Moroccan musicians playing drums, heavy castanets and three-stringed lutes.

The day’s highlight – a journey to a family farm. The 68-year-old date farmer shared with us the secrets of growing dates and produce in the arid desert. He had worked out an arrangement with the government to tap into one of the many cisterns for irrigation, expanding the water’s reach by way of a very effective drip system with water being fed into the fields from each end.

His date farm – 150 female date trees and one male tree –

a presentation by the local school children, then returning to the home for fresh-made cous cous and a special tajine meal.

OAT and Grand Circle Travel are also known for the positive support the company and its travelers bring to communities around the world. More than 500 projects in 50 countries have been supported by more than $250 million donated by travelers and the Lewis family who owns the two

companies. A portion of each trip is also donated to the Foundation. Projects range from building bathrooms and helping furnishing classrooms in remote countries to installing storage for clean water and supporting women’s programs to help them learn to create self-sufficient businesses.

Since 2016, Grand Circle has funded the Imik Simik Women’s Association for Rural Devel-

See Morocco, page 41

keeps him busy most of the season, climbing each tree to handpollinate the female trees after scaling the 20-foot male tree to retrieve pollen-laden flowers. He also grew carrots, lettuce, spinach and a variety of fruits, not only to feed his family but also to take to market.

The next morning, we packed up to begin the final legs of our journey. We again crossed the High Atlas Mountains at more than 7,000 feet above sea level, with the landscape becoming increasingly green.

One of OAT’s signature activities, we spend “A Day in the Life” of a multi-generational farm family, walking into the fields for

Walls of a small village look like a relief model from the basket of a hotair balloon.

Simple clay boxy construction is pervasive in the countryside.

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Made from clay, sticks and dung, this nomad house is very basic. Plastic covers piles of hay for the livestock, top. Nomad families maintain herds of sheep in covered pens, bottom.

Faces tell the stories of the Moroccan people many of whom lead simple but hard lives.

opment, creating workshops and programs to teach girls and women how to cook, sew, read, develop healthcare and other skills. The association is now managed by the local women, who have also created a business selling fresh-baked cookies, pastries and bread to local guesthouses in the village.

As we neared the end of our 15-day journey, we headed to Marrakesh, a teeming city with two distinct cultures: the chaotic life of the medina (the old walled city) and the modern city where international business and industry take place daily.

For two nights, we stayed within the old city walls at another riad, immersing ourselves in the daily lives of street merchants selling spices, pottery, clothing, leather goods and traditional foods.

A pre-dawn hot-air balloon ride about 45 minutes drive from the riad allowed three of us to have a bird’s-eye view of the expansive countryside, dotted with clay/adobe-type houses; some even had beautiful blue swimming pools. After the ride, a buffet breakfast fueled us for the day.

More exploration in the old town lent itself to shopping for colorful scarves, hand-carved wood items and a fabulous roasted lamb lunch. Cooked in a pit 10 feet in the ground, the lamb was tender and tasty. Of course, we ate like Moroccans, using our fingers as utensils. The old slogan for Kentucky Fried Chicken comes to mind.

The next morning we drove to our final destination: Casablanca. Here’s where the truth was told.

There were no film sets to visit to relive the iconic 1942 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. The movie was completely created on Hollywood sound stages. The only hint of Rick’s Café is a modern-day restaurant inspired by the film; it opened in 2004. It’s usually filled with tourists who want to check an item off their bucket list.

However, it seems we saved the best for last. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, built right next to the Atlantic Ocean, is the largest in Morocco, the secondlargest functioning mosque in Af-

rica and the 14th-largest in the world. Its minaret is nearly 690 feet tall, the tallest in the world.

Designed by French architect Michel Pinseau, construction began mid-summer 1986 and took seven years to build. It’s the only mosque in Morocco that allows non-Muslims entry.

Soaring painted and carved wood ceilings, detailed mosaics, intricately patterned tile floors, hand-crafted marble walls and a retractable roof are just a few of the elements of this amazing testament to the heritage and culture of Morocco. Visiting the Hassan II Mosque was worth the wait.

And wait I did to make my way to Morocco, and I’m so glad I took this journey instead of the one-day visit to Morocco during my Iberian Peninsula trip right after Covid. As we made our way around the coast of Portugal and Spain, traveling on the 80-passenger Clio in the Grand Circle Fleet through the Strait of Gibraltar, we were denied entrance because of the pandemic.

At the time, I was disappointed, although we instead visited the tiny Spanish territory of Ceuta in northern Africa. After hearing from so many friends who had visited Morocco, sharing the sense of adventure, the beauty of the country – so different from

BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN

other parts of the world – and the kindness and genuineness of the people, it was a trip I needed to experience for myself.

The trip was way too short, but the memories continue to stay with me. Would I go back? Now, what do you think?

Youngsters in a nomad family home appreciate gifts such as small picture books.

Big cities, such as Marrakesh, sell Western brand names, above.

Colorful and bright, many of the schools incorporate Moroccan architectural features, left.

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Shy at first, ßthis brightly dressed woman warmed up to having her portrait made.

Morocco panoramic of some of the dozens of street vendors selling specialty fruit drinks in Casablanca, above.

A view of the Atlantic Ocean shows Casablanca’s skyline along the rocky shore.

One of our servers at our Sahara camp lives there year-round and helps maintain the compound.

Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque is the second-largest in Africa. Its minaret is nearly 657 feet tall.

After our daybreak balloon rides, of course we're served Moroccan mint tea

Shops selling pottery, leather goods, spices, and exotic items lined the streets of the medina in Marrakesh.

First 2024 Food Truck Friday at LLOP

Clockwise from top left:

Lanier Canoe and Kayak paddlers race as the band plays at Food Truck Friday last month.

Joe Beez of Cumming sets up his rowing shell at the Lake Lanier Rowing Club's exhibit area.

Fifteen month old Kennedy Rhodes of Gainesville, left, and 2 year old Carter Levent of Braselton seem to be enjoying snacks.

A youngster tries out the punching machine.

Register now for May 18 boat parade

By Pamela A. Keene

Remember to register for this year’s Great American Boat Parade on Saturday, May 18. With a new route, two concerts and new beneficiaries, the event begins at the entrance to Balus Creek and ends at Margaritaville.

“We’re anticipating excellent participation this year, hoping to surpass previous year’s registration,” said John Gunther, committee chair.

“Several local first responders will be the recipients of funds raised; we’re working with several local law-enforcement groups to identify them and they’ll be announced closer to the event.”

Organizers have added two concerts at Margaritaville as part of the afternoon’s festivities.

“Pandora’s Box, an Aerosmith cover band, and Back in Black, an AC/DC cover band will entertain from the floating stage.”

The line-up area has been moved, beginning at 11 a.m. at the entrance of Balus Creek just south of Brown’s Bridge. “Not only does this give the boats a

place to wait for other participants, we’re asking that as boats arrive they circle around the island and join the rear of the gathering,” Gunther said.

The event will begin at noon.

Gunther said the pacing for the parade is approximately 5 to 6 knots south through the main channel to the dam. The parade will then head to Margaritaville.

“We anticipate arriving at Margaritaville around 3:30 p.m. to give people plenty of time to dock and get to the beach if they want to be on land for the concerts,” he said. “There are over 200 slips available at Margaritaville, once those are filled or if people don’t want to tie up to the docks there is room for a couple thousand boats in the cove before you get into the channel.”

The Great American Boat Parade, a 501 (c) 3, began on Lake Lanier in 2020. The first year it drew nearly 3,500 boats. Registration is $35 per boat.

“The excitement level has been incredible,” Gunther said. “Of course, there are some that

See Parade, page 46

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

When we discuss home design and remodeling with clients, sometimes what’s under our feet tends to get overlooked or at least take a backseat to other features. In the past, we’ve discussed the variety of flooring options available that can enhance the beauty of your home. But if you have a multi-level home like many people, you may not have given much thought to the stairs themselves.

While functionality will almost always be paramount when it comes to the path that takes you from one floor to another, staircase design shouldn’t be overlooked. It influences everything from aesthetics and home value to safety.

By thoughtfully considering the design of your home’s staircase, you can achieve a structure that is both practical and beautiful.

Five considerations for staircase design

1. Aesthetics. A staircase often serves as a home’s focal point, especially if it’s located in the main living area or entryway. A

nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com

well-designed staircase can contribute to the style and visual appeal of your entire house, making a great first impression on family and guests alike. A unique staircase that showcases craftsmanship and creativity can even elevate the architectural character of your home. Like each aspect of home design, staircases also present an opportunity to highlight your personal style, whether you prefer a modern look or something more traditional.

2. Functionality and Safety. Outside of the aesthetics, your staircase still must prioritize safety and functionality. Handrail

placement, step size, tread depth and even lighting all contribute to the usability and safety of a staircase, especially if you have children, elderly residents, or individuals with mobility issues who live in or visit the home.

3. Space. If you have a staircase in your home, then you already know they can take up a significant amount of space. By optimizing the design, you can make the most of your available space and even create additional storage or functional areas within or around the staircase. Even if space is limited, adding features into the staircase (such as built-in shelving or a wine rack) will maximize functionality.

4. Flow. By their nature, staircases facilitate movement between different levels of the house. Design should encourage smooth circulation throughout the space, ensuring easy, efficient access to all areas of the home.

5. Property Value. Believe it or not, a well-designed staircase can increase your home’s value. Buyers often pay attention to the quality and design of staircases,

so investing in a stylish yet functional staircase may have a positive impact on resale value.

Once you’ve considered overall staircase design, it’s important determine what your staircase will look like and what materials/features you will incorporate. Here are some ideas:

• Classic Stairs. These steps are exactly what they sound like, most often constructed with common types of hardwoods. Although they are traditional, that doesn’t mean they aren’t also beautiful. Many homeowners choose creative handrails or spindles to add style.

• Floating Stairs. This modern design creates a visually striking effect by appearing to “float” without visible support. Sleek and minimalist, these staircases are great for contemporary-designed interiors but would feel out of place in a more traditional or transitional-designed home.

• Spiral Stairs. A spiral staircase not only adds a touch of elegance and charm, it is ideal if you’re looking to save space. They are constructed using var-

ious materials such as metal, wood or even glass, offering a wide range of design options.

• Curved Stairs. A curved staircase will add a sense of sophistication to the home. It makes a great focal point in entryways, in particular.

• Under-Stair Storage. Maximize space and efficiency by incorporating storage solutions

See Design, page 46

Bianca Bryant Design & Remodel

Proper renovation of a staircase can add to a home’s value.

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

BALD RIDGE MARINA

Hours: Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F, marina: 24/7 access.

Info: 770-887-5309 • baldridgemarina.com

Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming

Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered.

Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel

LAKE LANIER MARINAS INFORMATION

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) N/A (Dock currently closed for repairs.)

On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ

GAINESVILLE MARINA

Hours: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., daily

Info:770-536-2171 • gainesvillemarina.com

Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville

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

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.55 (Dock open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., daily.

After Memorial Day wkend: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.-Sun.)

On-site eatery: Skogies

HABERSHAM MARINA

Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily.

After Memorial Day wkend: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.Fri.; 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat.; 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun.

Info: 770-887-5432 • habershammarina.com

Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming

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

Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $4.90

HARBOR LANDING

Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., daily

Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford

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

Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.89 non-ethanol; $5.99 diesel (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.)

On-site eatery: Various restaurants.

HOLIDAY MARINA

Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m., daily.

After Memorial Day wkend: 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Info:770-945-7201 • holidaylakelanier.com

Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford

Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100'

Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totaling 1,238 slips

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

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24): $6.49 premium; $5.99 unleaded; $5.79 diesel (5 percent discount with Suntex advantage membership)

On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar

LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier)

Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily. On May 15: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 8 a.m.-6 p.m., S/S.

Info: 770-945-1991• lazydaysonlakelanier.com

Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford

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

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

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $6 regular

PORT OF INDECISION MARINA

Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., daily

Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford

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

Types of fuel: non ethanol.

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.89 non-ethanol

On-site eatery: Various restaurants.

PORT ROYALE MARINA

Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; Service, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., M-F.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., S. Closed Sundays. Info:770-887-5715 • bestinboating.com/port_royale

Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville

Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106' totaling 815 slips & dry stack storage (521) for up to 39'.

Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol

Lakeside’s Recreation Guide

Provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $4.99 regular (Dock/Ship Store : 9 a.m. -6 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat./Sun. After Memorial Day wkend: 8 a.m.-7 p.m., daily.) (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)

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

SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND

Hours: Office/Leasing/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily

Info: 770-967-6811 • shmarinas.com

Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch

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

Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.39, non-members; $3.83, members (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.)

On-site eatery: Pig Tales

SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY

Hours: Office/Store/Dock open 9 a.m.5 p.m., daily. Hours change Memorial Day Weekend to 9 a.m.-7 p.m., daily.

Info: 770-967-5500 • shmarinas.com

Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch

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

Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.40, non-members; $4.08, members

On-site eatery: Fish Tales

SUNRISE COVE MARINA

Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon. Closed Tuesday. (Hours will change May 27 to 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat.)

Info: 770-536-8599 • sunrisecovermarina.com

Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville

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

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol

Price of fuel: (as of 4/12/24) $5.89 unleaded Ethanol free

The Corps of Engineers welcomes you to beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier. Located just 35 miles northeast of Atlanta, the lake offers some of the finest camping opportunities in the South. The Corps operates 7 campgrounds at Lake Lanier. Bolding Mill, Duckett Mill and Old Federal Campgrounds are managed by Hall County Parks and Leisure Services. Toto Creek Multipurpose Park, plus Thompson Creek and Nix Bridge Day-Use parks are managed by Dawson County.

Camping enthusiasts may enjoy the luxuries of fully developed areas with water and electrical hookups or “rough it” at designated primitive areas. Camping in undesignated areas such as on the lake’s shoreline and islands is prohibited.

All campgrounds have beach areas, boat ramps and restrooms. Most of our campgrounds also have showers, playgrounds, accessible sites and manned entry stations. To make reservations, download maps, check out campsite photos and see site availability visit Recreation.Gov.

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

Day Use Parks

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

Picnic Shelters

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

Day Use Fees

Day use fees are charged at some park areas which have boat ramps or beach areas.

Fees (per day):

Boat launching $5

Vehicles

$5

Commercial vehicle $20

Pedestrian/bicycle $2

Annual pass $40

State and County Parks

Lake Lanier has 18 state and county parks that are available for use.

Rules, Regulations and More

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

For more camping info you can also visit: lakesidenews.com/explore-lake-lanier/camping.

Practice Safe Boating

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

n MORE INFO:

Water release schedules770 945-1466

Lake information - 770 945-1467

Corps of Engineers - 770 945-9531

www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil -Works/Recreation/Lake-Sidney-Lanier

•Parade

Continued from Page 42

want to make this political and have tried to spin the nature of the day away from just being Americans and giving back to our community. We encourage everyone to make sure to display the American flag over any other flag they choose to fly.” He said that the event will be an “epic family event to display patriotism and appreciation for those

• Calendar

Continued from Page 26

o June 8 – Southeastern Young Artists with the Gainesville Ballet Co.

♫ June 22 – Dookie – America’s Premier Green Day Tribute Band

♫ July 3 – Northwinds Symphonic Band presents Patriotic Pops Concert

♫ July 13 – Gangstagrass

♫ July 20 – Riverstreet

♫ July 26 – Rush of Fools

♫ Aug. 10 – Kings of Queen-Queen Tribute

♫ Aug. 24 – Back in Time

♫ Sept. 14 – Dancing Dream-Abba Tribute

Info: Julie Garner, julie@theartscouncil.net; 770-534-2787.

37 Rock Cafe

♫ May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – Metalsome Live Band

Karaoke

♫ May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – The Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos

who protect the freedoms we enjoy; to show local first responders that we want to help take care of them in a time of need; and to show the lake community that we can all come together to enjoy a day on the lake to celebrate our great country.”

For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page.

• Curb

Continued from Page 38

turning color. This minimizes bird and squirrel damage. We also water our grow bags every day, first thing in the morning, using drip irrigation or old-fashioned hand watering to keep the funguses at bay.

As if you couldn’t tell, Rose Lane is my happy place, well one of my happy places, and we love to share it with others. It’s an organized mess, but it’s our mess that rewards us 365 days a year –

366 each Leap Year – with blooms, food and respite.

Hope to see you at all of the gardens featured on the Hall County Master Gardener Garden Walk on May 18!

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

♫ May 3 – Aunt Betty

♫ May 4 – Thunderstruck-America’s AC/DC Tribute

♫ May 10 – Slippery When Wet-Bon Jovi Tribute

♫ May 11 – Double Take (‘80s experience)

♫ May 17 – Red Not Chili Peppers – Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute

♫ May 18 – Troubadour Project (‘70s Rock)

♫ May 25 – Nostalgia (‘80s Music)

♫ May 31 – Dr. Kahn – Millennial Pop/Punk Info: 678-288-2030; buford.37main.com

The Well

♫ May 4 – Carpool – Cars tribute

♫ May 11 – Aunt Betty

♫ May 25 – BlairOutLoud

♫ July 6 – Radio ‘80s

Info: 404-271-3178; gigs@thewellga.com

Continued from Page 43

beneath the stairs. Think beyond just empty space to include built-in cabinets and drawers, or even consider opportunities to add a workspace or cozy reading nook.

• Custom Railing Designs. As mentioned earlier, you can personalize staircases with custom-designed railings or spindles with intricate patterns or motifs, reflecting your style and personality.

• Contrasting Materials. Additionally, mixing different materials like wood and metal can help create a visually striking

staircase. For example, you could consider wooden steps with metal railings (or vice versa), adding depth and texture to your design.

• Natural Elements. Capitalize on a recent design trend that looks here to stay by bringing the outdoors inside through natural elements like stone or reclaimed wood. Connect your home with nature while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Bianca Bryant is a designer for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.

Classifieds

CONCRETE/MASONRY

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

CLEANING SERVICE

Experienced and reliable cleaning service available in Hall County and surrounding areas! Air B&B cleaning, residential, move in-out, office cleaning. Book with Tershia. 706 371-2577.

EMPLOYMENT

Atlanta Marine Service has multiple positions open. Technicians with experience in the Marine Industry. Lot Porter with knowledge of hauling boats and operating a tractor. Top pay,401K,insurance.Contact Greg at 678-482-6499 or greg@atlantamarine.com

To submit a classified, visit www.lakesidenews.com/classifieds or call 770-287-1444.

“Best BoatLift in the Industry”

“Best Customer Service”

- Pleasure Boaters - Fox Sports Network

To find a dealer near you, call 864-467-1806 or go online. 4G Square Tank Technology, Doesn’t Cut Corners!

www.boatlifts-floatair.com

Lakeside Dining Guide

Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily. This Southern Gastro Pub features reimagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. 770-9458787.

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Hideaway Bay Marina. 770-967-3775, www.fishtaleslakelanier.com.

La Cazuela – An Atlanta area landmark with two locations around Lanier. Features fajitas, selection of combination platters and more. 4965 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford, 770-6146871.

Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatched-roof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. 70-887-5715 ext 5., www.pelicanpetes.com

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

828-7676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier.com.

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

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

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

The Twisted Oar - Holiday Marina. Offering fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak; casual dining. Full bar service, tropical and frozen drinks. Live entertainment, trivia, indoor/outdoor flat screen TVs. Open year round. www.thetwistedoar.com, 678 7147572.