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November 2023
3292 Thompson Bridge Road #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 Phone: (770) 287-1444 E-mail lakesidenews@mindspring.com
Vol. 29 Issue 10
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 2024 at Margaritaville Get your beach towels ready for all things new at Margaritaville in 2024. The Lake Lanier destination is adding more ways to have fun. Ground is being broken on Fins Up Falls, a four-slide set of water slides. Page 8
Aquatic Learning Center At the end of September, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, Elachee Nature Science Center and Hall County Parks and Leisure celebrated further improvements to the organizations’ Floating Classroom/Lake Lanier Aquatic Learning Center. Page 2
Visiting LaGrange, Ga. Since I haven’t visited LaGrange, Ga. in nearly 20 years, I was stunned by the growth of this small city that extends from beyond the old downtown square all the way to I-85. Page 33 Also inside: Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 26 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 47 Dining guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 47 Fishing news . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10 Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Lanier map . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 34 Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page 44 Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page 31 Recreation guide . . . . . . . . . .Page 45 Safety guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 44 Shore Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 35 Columns: The Careful Captain . . . . . . . .Page 20 Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 38 Design & Remodel . . . . . . . . . .Page 43 Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 O’Neill Outside . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12 Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page 33
PHOTO BY JENNIFER ARCHER
Young Logan Archer of Cumming was photographed by his mom, Jennifer Archer, during Shore Sweep 2023. The boy was “supervising” two volunteers who were removing debris from the Bald Ridge Marina area of the lake. More Shore Sweep photos, story, page 16.
2 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Donations keep students learning about Georgia’s water resources is published by Lanier Publishing, Inc., 3292 Thompson Bridge Rd. #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 287-1444 Publisher/Editor Alan Hope Production Susan Nish Susan Daniel Creative, Inc. Senior Writer Pamela A. Keene Contributing writers Jane Harrison, Millie Adcox Columnists Glenn Burns, Vinnie Mendes, Bianca Bryant, O’Neill Williams, Frank Taylor Travel Editor Bill Vanderford Lakeside is published monthly by Lanier Publishing, Inc. based in Gainesville, GA, with distribution in some 300 locations around Lake Lanier and other areas. Opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of Lakeside, its staff or its advertisers. Manuscripts and photographs submitted will be considered for publication. Lakeside cannot be held responsible for such materials in case of damage or loss.
By Pamela A. Keene At the end of September, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, Elachee Nature Science Center and Hall County Parks and Leisure celebrated further improvements to the organizations’ Floating Classroom/Lake Lanier Aquatic Learning Center. Thanks to a gift from the J.M. Huber Corporation, new signage has been installed at the Lake Lanier Aquatic Learning Center, located at Keith Bridge Park. “The occasion provided us the opportunity to publicly thank the officials of J.M. Huber Corporation for their ongoing and generous contributions to the Lake Lanier Aquatic Learning Center and to Chattahoochee Riverkeepers’ West Point Lake Floating Classroom program,” said Jason Ulseth, executive director of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. “The company has been an important partner as we have expanded the Floating Classroom program. Thanks to J.M. Huber Corporation and other strong and supportive sponsors, we are able to continue to expand our educa-
tional programming around the ACF basin, its lakes and the Chattahoochee River.” An on-the-water environmental education program, the Floating Classroom program teaches Georgia’s students about science, ecology, history and math and allows hands-on, up-close learning about one of Georgia’s major drinking water sources. The Lake Lanier Aquatic Learning Center is operated through a partnership with Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, Elachee Nature Science Center and Hall County Parks and Leisure. The West Point Floating Classroom is a project of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, extending the mission of on-the-water learning. “Using 40-foot boats, students can experience the source of their drinking water up close – some for the very first time – so that they can better understand the lake and river system,” Ulseth said. “They use scientific equipment to monitor water quality, view wildlife through binoculars and learn about watershed concepts. It
helps instill a sense of being responsible water stewards and about the importance of conservation in a changing climate.” Since the program was created in 2000, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper has PHOTO CREDIT CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVERKEEPER served nearly Representatives from partners in the Lake Lanier 100,000 students Aquatic Learning Center celebrate the installation of and teachers new signage at the organization’s boathouse at aboard the Lake Keith’s Bridge Park. From left, Maranda Martin, Elachee Nature Science Center; Normary Rivera Colon, Lanier Aquatic Learning Center J.M. Huber Corporation; Lea Volpe, J.M. Huber Corporation; Jason Ulseth, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper; and the West and Brent Holloway, Hall County Parks & Leisure DePoint Floating partment. Classroom. The Floating Classroom proThe J.M. Huber Corporation’s gram is supported by public, corfinancial commitment includes porate and private donors. funding for 1,600 scholarships for Donations are also used to fund a the Floating Classroom program limited number of scholarships for 2022, 2023 and 2024. for students from Title I schools For more info about the Floator programs serving students from ing Classroom program or to economically disadvantaged com- make a donation, visit Chattamunities. hoochee.org.
November 2023
LAKESIDE 3
We Sell Lifestyles - Not Just Homes
LAKE LANIER SPECIALISTS TERESA SMITH 770-654-4173 • teresasmith@kw.com
MICHELE KAPLAN 678-677-5653 • michelekaplan@kw.com
LivingOnLakeLanier.com
MACKENZIE SCOTT
The American Dream is a national TV show that focuses on lifestyle, culture & real estate. Our team is proud to be the newest hosts of Selling Atlanta. We will be featuring local businesses and attractions with a splash of real estate showcasing why we love where we live so much!
678-925-2652 • mackenziescott@kw.com
6031 Shadburn Ferry Road, Buford
3621 Lake Ridge Court, Gainesville
471 Sams Road, Dawsonville
1904 Buford Dam Road, Buford
BEAUTIFUL gated luxury home on the south end of the lake. Three beautifully finished levels completely updated with a fabulous wine cellar. The home has 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. There is an amazing outdoor living area with a full kitchen, pizza oven and fireplace. In-ground, gunite saltwater pool and hot tub with waterfall. Dock with deep water. $2,950,000 (Hall)
RENOVATED top-of-theline home in the prestigious Harbour Point Yacht Club. 6 BR/6.5 BA. Owner's suite on the main, powder room on main, 3 BRs w/ensuites on the upper level. 1 BR/bath suite above the heated and cooled 3-car garage and on the terrace level. 10’ plus ceilings throughout. 3-Story home with everything an entertainer could desire! Including: 2 kitchens, theater with 86” smart TV and surround sound, gym, cardio room, heated swimming pool with spillover spa/hot tub, putting green, privacy “cabana style” curtains and more. Boat slip option available! REDUCED $1,749,000 (Hall)
NEW CONSTRUCTION 3BR/4.5 BA home on the quiet waters of the north end of Lake Lanier. The heart of this home is a chef's dream, featuring GE Café appliances. 2 master BRs, 12-ft ceilings on the lower level, 10-ft ceilings on the main. You will love the outdoor shower, path lights and rear super oversized fireplace. Custom landscape, large boulders and a fire pit, provide a serene backdrop for relaxation. A permitted deepwater dock with a party deck and new decking awaits you, easily accessible via the pathway across the street. REDUCED $1,499,999 (Dawson)
ON THE SOUTH END of the lake. 4 BR/2BA home w/ master suite on main level. Wrap-around front porch. Easy access to the lake, with TWO single slip docks. There is a mobile home on the property that is currently being utilized as a rental, adding to the income potential. With three covered carports specifically designed for RV storage, you'll have plenty of space to store your outdoor toys. New roof installed in July 2023. There are two lots included in this package amounting to a generous 1.81 acres that have been combined together for tax purposes. REDUCED $975,000 (Gwinnett)
6310 Cortland Walk, Alpharetta
4243 Perry Drive, Gainesville
5741 Rocky Ridge Run, Gainesville
6433 Waterscape Ridge, #39-40, Gainesville
2/1 CABIN with 720 sq. ft. and large crawl space. Possible fixer upper. Easy walk to single slip dock with a fixed pier on Wahoo Creek. $579,000 (Hall)
WHY PAY LAKE HOME PRICES when you can be just minutes from Lake Lanier! This adorable 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home is just waiting for you to call it your own! This home has a large, private 1.67 acre lot that is fenced in ready for your furry friend. An extra parking pad has been added for your convenience. There is a large unfinished basement just waiting for you to make your dream media room or workout room! Quiet street, with No HOA! $399,000 (Hall)
AMAZING 1.86 AC PRIMO LOT in Waterside on Lake Lanier subdivision with covenants, no HOA and individual docks. The minimum heated sq ft requirement is 3000 sq ft. This lovely lot has a single slip dock in a great cove for swimming and relaxing. Close to Athens Boat Club and easy access to Gainesville and Dawsonville and SO close to the North Georgia Mountains with hiking, tubing and kayaking within 30 minutes. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. $284,900 (Hall)
END UNIT 3 BR/3.5 BA townhome in Halcyon! Amenities include pool, clubhouse, firepit, and access to the Big Creek Greenway. 2-car garage, open dining, kitchen, living room and covered balcony. Kitchen includes SS appliances, quartz ctops, and a gas range. Oversized owner's suite is located on the 3rd level. Minutes from GA-400, you enjoy easy access to downtown Alpharetta, Avalon, the new Cumming City Center, Lake Lanier, and more! It doesn't get much better than this low maintenance lifestyle! REDUCED $675,000 (Forsyth)
6442 Waterscape Ridge, #27, Gainesville
! ! ! D D D ! L L L D ! O O O L S S S SOLD SO 6288 Lanier Harbor Ldg Buford $398,900
3482 Marina Crest Dr Gainesville $650,000
Castleberry Bridge Road Dawsonville $1,927,500
! SOLD D ! L D O L S SO 23 Sundown Way Dawsonville $600,000
6507 Paradise Pt Rd Flowery Branch $810,000
1221 Repton Place Gainesville $590,000
!
4257 Tall Hickory Gainesville $1,800,00
230 Lake Circle Dawsonville $2,250,000
SOLD
!
302 Indian Cove Road Dawsonville $1,193,000
SOLD 8455 Jensen Gainesville $957,000
!
DON'T MISS OUT on this beautiful lot on Lake Lanier with a cleared path to the dock and DEEP water at the double slip dock. Waterside is a lovely subdivision with VERY NICE homes and NO HOA. Septic tank permit for a 3 BR home of 3000 sq ft+ and an architectural review board for new house plans. Seasonal lake view from the building site where you will be able to see the lake for miles. Build your new home when you're ready and enjoy the lake and your boat dock in the meantime! REDUCED $275,000 (Hall)
Featured Testimonial “We worked with Mackenzie and Teresa to find our new lake home on Lanier. Mackenzie was our main point of contact and she is a true gem. She goes above and beyond, and is always on top of things. She is persistent, responsive, and really advocated for us to get our home amid other competing offers. We couldn’t have found our new home without her. Teresa and the whole Living on Lake Lanier team was behind us too. They know the lake, and have long standing connections that give them an edge. Highly recommended!” - Jennifer P.
Lake Lanier Experience Isn't Expensive, It's Priceless! We are on social media! Give us a follow @LivingOnLakeLanier
We can help turn your dream into a reality, call us today!
4 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Bev Knight 678-86 860-0 0-099 990
Lake Lanier Specialist
770-503-7070
*** Featured Home *** UNDER
ACT CONTR
Renovated one-of-a-kind south lake home South lake home featuring an unforgettable renovation & big views. New roof, HVACs, floors, fixtures, the works! Open floor plan w/ windows filled w/ glorious lake views, gentle path, great water, boat house w/ party deck! Separate guest house w/ kitchen, in-law suite also has its own kitchen. Massive decks w/ hot tub & pavilion overlooking the lake. Car enthusiasts, it has an attached 2-car garage, detached 3-car garage & an open 3-car garage/carport. $1,299,000
Lakefront, no dock
Forsyth County renovation
N! G SOO COMIN
Gainesville $699,000 North Hall 5BR, 3.5BA UNDER
A CONTR
Lake living w/no maintenance G SOO COMIN
Gainesville $TBD in the 600s
N!
Cumming $450,000
Acreage in Clermont
Ellijay lots
Clermont $370,000
Various sizes, prices, and mountain views
CT
Gainesville $420,500 Special thanks to Angie Trotman, Keller Williams Lanier Partners
w w w. H o u s e s O n L a n i e r. n e t
November 2023
LAKESIDE 5
…when you’re ready for the good life! 770-503-7070
Stay informed with informational videos
Just click the QR code with your phone’s camera to watch the video. You’ll find these and other Lake Lanier videos on our YouTube channel @TheGoodLifeGroupLanier Inherited estate specialists
We take the stress out of selling an estate When a loved one dies, one of the biggest challenges is the sale of an inherited estate. Between sibling disagreements, legal matters, signatory requirements, understanding Corps’ rules, staging, cleaning, repairs, removing furniture…it’s all overwhelming in a time of terrible grief. For that reason, our team specializes in helping families navigate this difficult and emotional transaction. We’ve been through it, and we’re here to ease your stress.
Check out Brittany’s testimonial video
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6 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 sdavis@gonorton.com 770.536.1250
#1 Agent on Lanier since 2012
Lake Lanier’s #1 Realtors and Trusted Advisors Since 2001 R BUFO
D
ES GAIN
VILLE
$3,395,000 • 8 ACRE LAKE LANIER ESTATE IN BUFORD! RARE opportunity to find acreage on south Lake Lanier! Many recent updates! Gated long drive, magnificent property offers acreage, trees, privacy and tranquility. Circular driveway leading to a beautiful, traditional, and updated 8,538 sq ft all-brick home with fully finished terrace level. Features: 2-car garage + a 2-car drive around garage at the terrace level with storage and a workshop, a heated gunite salt-water pool, and a large barn/workshop to store all your toys! Quiet cove on south lake, with 350' of shoreline, single slip party dock. No HOA! FMLS#7232570 5040 Blackberry Lane Sheila 770-235-6907
$3,355,000 • A “SOON TO BE BUILT HOME” IN THE NEW GATED NORTHRIDGE ESTATES ON LAKE LANIER DEVELOPMENT, plan by AR Homes “Palmetto” plan on lot 3, where water views, gentle topography and grass to water set this lot apart. 5,148 square feet of finished space plus 1287 sf of covered outdoor living space with two outdoor fireplaces. This plan is all about lake living and entertaining! Incredible lake views from almost every room. FMLS#7216157 4632-A Shirley Road Sheila 770-235-6907 or Stephanie 770-654-4161
ING CUMM
LE ESVIL GAIN
$2,350,000 • THE LAKE LANIER HOME YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR! 1st time on the market, this well maintained and updated property is move-in ready. Deepwater lot, one-year new 32x32 top of the line aluminum dock with party deck, cable railing and a boat hoist. FMLS#7241493 5845 Charleston Lane Stephanie 770-654-4161
$1,995,000 • PREPARE TO BE WOWED BY THE BEST PANORAMIC WATER AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS ON LAKE LANIER FROM THIS BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME! In the gated High Pointe neighborhood with a covered boat slip. 5 BR, 4 BA & 2 half BA. FMLS#7232307 2736 High Vista Point Stephanie 770-654-4161
R ERY B W O L F
RD BUFO
$1,649,000 • 5 BEDROOM, 4 BATH RENOVATED RANCH over finished terrace level w/ lake views. 171 feet of water frontage on Lanier. Grandfathered road to 32x32 twin slip dock in protected deep cove. FMLS #7277024 5995 Warpath Road Stephanie 770-654-4161
$1,399,000 • ONE OF THE FINEST LOTS ON LAKE LANIER. Gorgeous water and a 150-foot wide low CORP line, rip rap shoreline, sandy beach. Totally remodeled 3BR | 2.5BA $1,399,000 • CONTEMPORARY LAKEFRONT HOME. 4 BR, 4BA in a highly sought after South Lake Lanier location, with a deep water double-slip dock. FMLS#7213774 cottage w/ detatched 2 car garage on almost an acre lot. FMLS #7285608 5930 Pilgrim Point Extension Nicole 678-858-0265 6181 Lake Lanier Heights Road Sheila 770-235-6907
ING CUMM
LakeLaniersFinest.com
November 2023
LAKESIDE 7
Jennifer Anderson 770-356-2629
Stephanie Gillespie 770-654-4161
Michelle Sparks 404-379-5798
Nicole Columbo 678-858-0265
Linda Thompson 770-313-5446
Vicki Holland 770-329-7602
Melinda Lloyd Office Manager
Marketing & Agent
770-235-6907
LAKELANIERSFINEST.COM
Let Our Experience Help You Navigate Today’s Market! ESV GAIN
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R BUFO
$1,390,000 • TURN-KEY 5-BEDROOM LAKEFRONT RETREAT! Double slip, deep water dock with 234 feet +/- of water frontage! Nestled in nature. 32x32 dock features low maintenance decking, boat hoist/lift, dock boxes, and 2 jet ski ports. FMLS#7260125 3184 Lake Ranch Drive Nicole 678-858-0265
D
ING CUMM
$895,000 • LOT WITH A PAVED PATH TO THE WATER. 3/2 Cottage, 32x32 dock. FMLS#7209008 3375 Shoreland Drive Nicole 678-858-0265
$850,000 • 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 2 car garage on over half acre lot. Single slip dock, great water and sought after South lake location. 7790 Kings Point Drive Michelle 404-379-5798
RECENT SALES AND PENDING
LAKE LOTS FOR SALE
FMLS#7231198 • $3,350,000 • SOLD • 1455 Mary Alice Park Road • Cumming • Jennifer FMLS#7250265 • $3,150,000 • SOLD • 6249-A Ben Parks Road • Murrayville • Stephanie FMLS#7224447 • $2,700,000 • PENDING SALE • 6538 Blue Waters Drive • Flowery Branch • Sheila FMLS#7218366 • $2,350,000 • SOLD • 5332 Point South Drive • Gainesville • Sheila FMLS#7228834 • $2,399,000 • SOLD • 5390 Larch Lane • Gainesville • Sheila FMLS#7253430 • $1,400,000 • PENDING SALE • 4588 Shirley Road, #9 • Gainesville • Sheila/Stephanie FMLS#7253431 • $1,400,000 • PENDING SALE • 4580 Shirley Road, #10 • Gainesville • Sheila/Stephanie FMLS#7276367 • $1,300,000 • PENDING SALE • 5989 Nachoochee Trail • Flowery Branch • Stephanie FMLS#7283546 • $1,200,000 • SOLD • 270 Longview Drive • Dawsonville • Linda FMLS#7233942 • $1,100,000 • PENDING SALE • 4572 Shirley Road, #11 • Gainesville • Sheila/Stephanie FMLS#7248778 • $1,100,000 • SOLD • 390 E Lake Drive • Gainesville • Jennifer FMLS#7201783 • $110,000 • SOLD• 6005 Moonlight Place • Gainesville • Stephanie
FMLS#7275559 • $150,000 • 6008 Tradewinds Cove, #43 Gainesville • Jennifer 770-356-2629 NEW • $150,000 • 7790 Kings Point Drive, Lot 1 Cumming • Michelle 404-379-5798 FMLS#7185025 • $129,900 • 6825 Lookout Point, #24 Dawsonville • Michelle 404-379-5798
Introducing Northridge Estates on Lake Lanier! The newest development on Lake Lanier featuring a gated enclave of 15 beautiful estate lots. D Water views from every homesite D Each lot permitted for a private 32x32 twin slip dock D Private road, protective covenants & underground utilities
SHIRLEY ROAD
D Priced from $950,000-$1,400,000 D No time limit to build
1
LOT 1
ING PEND ING PEND ING PEND
15
9
10
2
6
7
5
13
Docks
12 LOT 6 LOT 7
LOT 15
Docks
LOT 8 LOT 9 LOT 14
LOT 13
LAKE LANIER
LOT 12
LOT 11
LOT 10
Docks
LOT 2 LOT 3 LOT 4
8
11 14
4
3
Ranging from 1.42 - 7.37 acres, every parcel is a unique opportunity to build your custom dream home! Located on the north end of Lake Lanier in Hall County.
LOT 5
www.northridgeonlakelanier.com Marketed exclusively by The Sheila Davis Group at the Norton Agency Contact Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 or Stephanie Gillespie 770-654-4161 for more information.
LakeLaniersFinest.com
8 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Set for 2024 at Margaritaville: largest waterslide complex in Georgia By Pamela A. Keene Get your beach towels ready for all things new at Margaritaville in 2024. The Lake Lanier destination is adding more ways to have fun. Ground is being broken on Fins Up Falls, a four-slide set of water slides. The new amenities package at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort will include a pool, pickleball court, playground and pavilion for RV resort guests. “Fins Up Falls will be the largest waterslide complex in Georgia,” said Bucky Perry, vice president of operations of Margaritaville. “It’s the first time that a major attraction has been added here in a long time, and it promises to amp up the level of fun and thrills here next season.” With four separate slides radiating from a central tower, each has a descriptive name, different speeds and features. Apocalypso features plunging drops, uphill blasts and a nearvertical ascent. With 418 feet of slides, it has an average water speed of 30 miles per hour. Serpentine Storm combines the
Holiday festivities at Margaritaville begin Nov. 11 The folks at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands have been making snow for several weeks to ensure that License to Chill Snow Island is ready for its opening on November 11. Less than two weeks later on November 22, the lights come on for this year’s Lakeside Light Spectacular, a walk-though glittering wonderland to celebrate the holidays. Blizzard Mountain Snow Tubing, ice skating, amusement rides, holiday food and beverages will be available at Snow Island. Landshark Bar & Grill is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more info, visit www.margaritavilleresorts.com. Rendering of new water slide.
high-banking rotations of a bowl with the rapid descent of a downward-spiraling flume. Dreamsicle Dive includes a closed- and open-tube design. Mango Mania, an aqua tube waterslide, features varying slopes and slide paths designed for younger guests. More details about the campground amenities package will be announced after the first of the year. It is scheduled to open in spring 2024. In all, Margaritaville will be making a multi-million dollar investment for the 2024 season.
PHOTO: MARGARITAVILLE
What’s new at Lanier Islands, Legacy Lodge By Pamela A. Keene Locals and resort guests alike can now enjoy special dining experiences at Lanier Islands and Legacy Lodge. “We are so excited to offer white-tablecloth dinners at Sidney’s on Friday and Saturday nights,” said Missy Burgess, marketing and public relations manager for Lanier Islands. “And we’re offering a classic Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings on Thanksgiving Day, so make your reservations soon.” The full-service menu at Sid-
“Crazy About Sailboats” - Oil on canvas, 24x36, by Anne Brodie Hill
Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS Lake Lanier Artist
www.annebrodiehill.com • 770-718-7586 Lake Sidney Lanier & Gainesville prints, Postcards, Notecards Original Oil, Acrylic, and Watercolor Paintings
Gallery on the Square, 118 Main Street, Gainesville, GA Other Fine Artists at Gallery (www.gallerysq.com) Ann Alexander, Pam Kohler-Camp, Lydia Ferguson, Ann Goble, Jane Hemmer, Paula Hoffman, Shannon Hughs, Joyce Hornor, Connie Lynn Reilly and Shirley Seguin Prints, postcards, notecards also available at:
Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street, Gainesville, GA Frame-Tastic, 565-B Shallowford Road, Gainesville, GA
ney’s offers a wide selection of starters, such as crab cakes and charred hearts of romaine or a cheese and charcuterie selection. Land and sea choices range from chicken or beef tenderloin to diver scallops or fresh fish. PHOTO: LANIER ISLANDS A couple enjoying Sidney’s restaurant at LaHours for Sidney’s nier Islands. are breakfast Monday 6 to 9 p.m. through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 10 Additionally, Legacy Lodge a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 .am. to 11 a.m.; Friday and has opened its Lobby Bar on FriSaturday dinners are served from See Lanier Islands, page 45
November 2023
LAKESIDE 9
THE CLOSEST MARINA TO ATLANTA!
SHIP STORE GAS DOCK 600 DRY STACKS (UP TO 28’) BRADLEY'S SPEED & MARINE SHOP LOCATED ONSITE
2200 Habersham Marina Road Cumming, GA
770 887-5432 www.habershammarina.com
10 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Lake Lanier Fishing Report
A sampling of fishing information and tips from area experts Lake level: Down six feet Temperature: 70s Clarity: Mostly clear Bass fishing Bass fishing on Lanier is good. The bite is still on a day to day hour to hour routine. One day it will be on fire and the next day it’s a grind or the morning, tough, then the afternoon is on fire. Top water and hard swimbaits have been the most productive baits over recent days with spinnerbaits and the Alabama coming into play this week. The Slickstick and the Sebile in either Blue Herring, Chrome or white have been the steadiest colors. For the top water bite it has been a variety from day to day. The Gunfish and Ima Skimmer have worked well but a variety of other baits have worked, too. If you can get on the schooling fish it seems they will take a lot of different baits. The fish are scattered but seem to be more in the first third of the creeks and on the main lake around humps and long points. On days with stronger wind a three eights ounce white with silver blade spinnerbait has produced fish on rocky points and wind blown banks. The Alabama rig has also produced
fish in the same areas. The bass are feeding up for the winter and a lot of nice spotted bass are being caught right now so looking for the areas with shad is critical. The jig bite has slowly picked up and should increase of the next few weeks. A brown three eights jig with either a cinnamon pepper or root beer trailer will produce some good quality fish right now but just not a lot of fish. Fall on Lanier is always a great time to get on the water so Go Catch ‘Em! This bass fishing report is by Phil Johnson: pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845. Striper fishing Striper fishing is good. Work the channel as the water temperatures cool down. Stripers are in the river channel. The methods are planer boards and weighted flat lines. Blue backs is the choice of bait but take some shiners, also. Put baits 30 to 40 feet behind the boards and flat lines 80 to 100 feet behind the boat using the trolling motor at .05 to 1 mph. Fish are from Big Creek and the Port Royal area so locate fish using your electronics. Watch for the arrival of the birds and have a top water
Consignments
WANTED We Will Sell
YOUR BOAT “the connection between boat buyers and sellers”
www.boatsplusga.com The best choice if you want to sell or trade your boat
1993 73' Houseboat Twin Mercruisers/Execellent Condition Price $229,900
1995 Sea Ray 400EC Loaded 40' Great Condition Price $74,900
2007 Sea Ray 260 Sundeck Huge Cockpit/Party on the Water Price $39,900
2018 Bennington G22 25' with Yamaha 115hp & Trailer Price $27,500
1997 Century Walkaround 21' w/ 150 Yamaha and Trailer Price $13,900
Boston Whaler Montauk 17 17' Center Console 90hp & Trailer Price $12,900
Other listings on our website: www.boatsplusga.com Consignment Program • Boat Locator Service Financing Available • Trades Considered
Phone: 770-965-4215 • Fax: 770-967-4561 • Email: jim@boatsplusga.com 6470 Lanier Islands Parkway • Buford, GA 30518
bait tied on just in case they pop up in front of you. Remember to wear your life jacket. This striper report is by Buck Cannon, 404 510-1778. Crappie fishing Crappie fishing is good. As water temperatures are cooling, the crappie seem to be mostly suspended at the 10- to 12-foot
depth. Most of a recent week’s catch was on live small minnows straight down with a split shot. Also, try small jigs with a slow retrieval and black and gray are working well. Look for covered docks near a channel with brush or structure underneath. This crappie report is by Captain Josh Thornton, 770 530-6493, www.crappieonlanier.com.
THE MAGICAL SWIRLEYBIRD SPINNER by Bill Vanderford
www.georgiafishing.com
November 2023
LAKESIDE 11
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12 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Memories as a captain with Lord Nelson Charters For the past 26 years I have been in the enviable position of doing something I love and getting paid for it! Not only was I able to use a lifetime of boating knowledge to teach others how to operate in situations they had never encountered before, but I also enjoyed the serenity of sunset sails and the joy of wreaking havoc with a staged pirate invasion! I managed this by working part-time as a charter captain for Lord Nelson Charters. We offered afternoon cruises and sunset sails, did corporate team building sessions on sailboats or pontoon boats and offered a bit of theatrical entertainment. On the pontoons we would teach clients how to use a hand bearing compass and read a nautical chart. We’d familiarize them with the channel markers and the three “R”s (Red Right Returning). Each pontoon would carry six to 10 occupants, one of whom would be the designated boat driver who went through separate training on how to safely handle a boat on the
Vinnie Mendes On the Water
lake. There would also be a captain, who would tell them where to go, a navigator to tell them how to get there, a tactician, who would decide what order to take the clues in and the rest of the crew who would participate in the decision making. From time to time, they would rotate crew positions, so everyone got a chance to be captain, navigator etc. Then we would turn them loose on either a scavenger hunt or a treasure hunt. On a scavenger hunt, each team would have to go around the lake answering questions such as “What is the color of the flag on University Yacht Club?” or “How many chimneys are on the house with the red roof behind channel marker #7?” In recent years with
the internet, someone would inevitably look up the website for UYC and get the color of the flag without having to go there. Likewise with the red roofed house, someone might get on Google Earth and zoom in on marker #7 to count the chimneys. This is all legitimate as we are simply teaching them how to work together as a team in an environment that they are not used to. On a treasure hunt, we would hide a bunch of pirate booty such as swords, hats, vests, “jewels,” and “gold” on various islands around the lake, give each team a treasure map and turn them loose to collect as much treasure as they could in an allotted time. The challenge was to figure out what order to visit each island in so they could get to them all in the time allowed. The team who brought back the most booty would win! For the sailing event, we would have four or five large sailboats, each with about five clients and a licensed captain aboard. In the morning we would teach them
how to sail, and after rafting up for lunch we’d give them a bunch of challenges to accomplish, the last one being a race back to the bar! For me, it was an ego trip, because I would start with a group of people, some of whom had never been on a PHOTO PROVIDED BY RICKI LEE HAGEN boat before, much Clients having a good time aboard Grendel. less a sailboat, and by midafternoon, turned them on board the “pirate ship.” This into competitive racers! was a custom-built wooden boat Another event we would offer that looked like she belonged in was the “pirate attack.” This the last century or possibly the would typically occur in conjuncone before that! We had a bunch tion with a company dinner cruise of actors aboard dressed in pirate on one of the party barges availcostumes and would approach able from Lake Lanier Islands. from windward. When we were These are converted houseboats sure everyone could see us, we approximately 80 feet long which would run up the “Jolly Roger” might take 50 or so passengers for and fire off a round or two of a catered dinner onboard and a black powder shells from a 10sunset cruise of the lake. Meangauge saluting cannon. It made a time we would be stalking them See Mendes, page 46
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 13
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14 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Take a trip to the big lakes to catch big catfish In southeastern South Carolina, Lake Marion together with Lake Moultrie form what is known as the Santee Cooper Lakes. These lakes are connected by a Diversion Canal. Lake Marion is the larger of the two, covering 110,000 acres, while Lake Moultrie covers 70,000 acres. Both lakes are located in the lower part of South Carolina near Charleston. Hold on a minute, how many acres? 180,000! If you’re a Georgia fisherman, as I am, let me reference that for you. That’s Clark’s Hill at 70K, Hartwell at 56K at full pool and taking into consideration that both border on and venture deep into South Carolina they both are “Carolina” lakes also, then add Lake Lanier at 37K and West Point at 26K all rolled into one. It’s not Okeechobee but it’s big. At one spot on Lake Moultrie, it’s 14 miles across from shore to shore. These legendary lakes were created during the early 1940s and have become a recreational paradise. People come from all
O’Neill Williams O’Neill Outside
n MORE INFO: www.oneilloutside.com
over the U.S. to visit these lakes. The Cypress trees combined with the swampy wilderness add a beauty to these lakes that set them apart from all other lakes in the state. Ok, we’ve started. Now about catfishing. We could talk about how the stripers were landlocked first in the Santee River when the dam was built and how they lived there then were hatched by the Department of Natural Resources, but we aren’t. This is about catfish. Who do you call to guide you on the lake for your first trip? Call Captain Darryl Smith, www.cap-
taindarryls.com. How’s the fishing? Darryl fishes out of Canal Lakes Marina in Cross, S.C. It’s a good, safe, clean place to stay overnight and Mac Daddy’s Restaurant is there with some good eats. Darryl will guarantee you a catch of at least 100 pounds of catfish per day. Afterall, he has 23 line class world records, has been featured on 19 television shows and nearly 500 publications. You’ll be fishing out of a 30foot pontoon boat with a shelter, so you’ll be dry and warm no matter what. I talked with Captain Darryl recently and he detailed the following to me: He guides on the lake 320 days per year and has had clients from all 50 states and 67 countries. In 2018 he averaged catching 60 catfish per day. His largest Blue weighed in at 140 pounds pushing the lake record of 143 pounds. Wanna total that up? 60x320=19,200 catfish per year. Now you know whom to call. I’ve been fishing with Darryl
three times; each time producing a television show, once in the shallow backwaters filled with trees and stumps and two times “out in the lake” over the sunken islands and old river channels. Without doing anything out of his normal techniques, we always caught a giant cooler full, about 50 or more cats ranging from four pounds to 35 pounds. I think the largest Blue I caught with Darryl was 63 pounds. On many occasions, we’d have three hooked at once. I’m going PHOTO BY CAPTAIN DARRYL SMITH back soon. A typical catfish caught with Captain Darryl. What makes these lakes so In simple terms, the water temfertile to be able to produce what peratures, amount of both freshmay be the best catfishing destiwater and sea run baitfish, shad, nation in North America? See O’Neill, page 20
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 15
New Custom Construction • Ready to Move in Now!
Wow!!! Are you ready for Ultimate Lake Living? This home has the most amazing Sunset & Gentle Breezes every night, you may never want to go inside. But when you do go inside, you will love this New Custom Construction Home with 5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, located on the North End of Lake Lanier on 1.5 acres with a 3-car garage. Easy access to 32’x32’ Double Slip Martin Aluminum dock using the concrete golf cart path. Too Many Special Features to List. This is a real must see! Sophisticated, Open Concept Design with easy entertaining on a large scale and for everyday living. Impressive Gourmet Kitchen with Custom Wood Cabinets to Ceiling, Quartz Countertops, 48” gas stainless steel gas range, Beautiful Metal Vent Hood, 11’ wide center island, coffee station, built in microwave and large walk-in pantry. Great Outdoor Living, starting at Front Porch with Eastern Pine Columns, Vaulted Covered Back Porch, Back Deck with Trex Deck Flooring + Terrace Level Cover Patio. Effortless flow from Indoor to Outdoor Spaces with Multiple 8’ Sliding Glass Doors. One of the Special Features is 2 Primary Bedrooms, 1 on Main level and 1 on Terrace level. Luxurious Main Level Primary Bathroom with free-standing soaking tub, steam shower, body sprayers, heated floors, Makeup station and VIP suite, LED vanity mirrors. Spacious Storage Closet with Washer and Dryer hookups + Custom Closet design, floor to ceiling closet system. All 5 bedrooms have their own ensuite and view of the lake. The Terrace level was built for entertainment with a 12' ceiling, Custom Wine Cellar, 2nd Kitchen & Bar, Designer Lighting, Large Gathering Room with fireplace, game room & extra unfinished storage. 2nd primary suite with large bedroom and large bathroom. 5th bedroom is extra special with access to the bunk room from this room. Great when having extra family or friends visit. This property offers tremendous flexibility, both outdoors and inside, for the maximum enjoyment of just about any activity or hobby. It is one of the most extraordinary properties for entertaining friends and family at the lake. All bathrooms have showers designer tile to ceiling, all glass frameless shower enclosures, handheld sprayers, and modern matte black fixtures throughout. Smart technology designed with 1-gig high-speed internet, state-of-the-art interior and exterior. This home is also equipped with an EV charging outlet and is pre-wired for a whole-home generator, pool and security cameras. Spray insulation, batts and ceiling insulation between floor systems for noise reduction. Plenty of parking with 16ft driveway and extra 2 parking pads. There is No HOA. $3,290,000 Contact Brian Canty for details. The Brian Canty TEAM • Realty Professionals 678-614-9197 • rprobc@aol.com www.briancanty.com • www.lakefront-bargains.com
16 LAKESIDE
November 2023
1,600 volunteers break record at 35th Annual Shore Sweep By Pamela A. Keene The fourth Saturday of September is a special day for Lake Lanier. It’s Shore Sweep day, and this year more than 1,600 volunteers showed up to clean up the lake, its waters and shorelines. “This is a brand-new record for the number of volunteers at Shore Sweep,” said Amy McGuire, executive director of the lake-advocacy organization. “Our dedicated volunteers collected more than 80 tons of trash, garbage, rubbish at this year’s event and our volunteers and sponsors made the event a great day for the lake and helped us further raise awareness for Lake Lanier.” In addition to the day-of collections at 13 sites around the lake, the organization opened seven advance drop-off locations two weeks before the event.
“With more people helping, less trash collected and more efficient collection processes through the use of equipment provided by United Rentals, that’s an incredible demonstration of the lake’s cleanliness – and mindfulness of lake goers.” McGuire said that encapsulated foam continues to be a major concern for the lake, although it seems like less was collected than last year. “Hats off to everyone who participated and of course to all our amazing sponsors and community partners,” McGuire said. “Our annual lake clean-up is not possible without the teamwork for this labor of love of all who come together to give the lake some much-needed TLC.” For more info or to join the LLA, visit lakelanier.org, or call 770 744-4547.
As always lots of encapsulated flotation was taken off the lake.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LLA
Gathering trash from the shore one piece at a time.
A rusted-out ramp is removed from the lake. A train of encapsulated floation is being hauled to shore. Guys pull in part of an abandoned dock at Bald Ridge Marina.
Trash was transported to drop-off points in various and creative ways.
A veteran of Shore Sweep shows off the 2023 T-shirt while wearing the 2016 version.
Items small and large were removed from the shoreline.
November 2023
LAKESIDE 17
Your Support of LLA Makes A Big Splash in Lake Lanier
SCAN ME!
JOIN OR RENEW
TO SUPPO RT PROGRAMS LIKE SHORE SWEEP & MORE, SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN OR R ENEW YOUR LLA MEMBERSHIP TODAY!
The Lake Lanier Association is the premier advocate for Lake Lanier made possible by funding through memberships, donations and grants. LLA members are homeowners, boaters, fisherman, local business and stakeholders in Lake Lanier. LLA protects Lake Lanier as a facilitator and conduit between all governances resulting in on-lake initiatives that protect the lake we all love. Together, we make an impact. As 2023 comes to a close, we ask that you consider supporting the Lake Lanier Association with a year-end gift or on Giving Tuesday! LLA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit which relies on membership and member donations for 80% of our funding. For as little as $100 a year, your tax deductible membership would protect and preserve Lake Lanier. A few key programs that your membership dollars make possible:
LET’S BE SOCIAL! Follow LLA on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to stay up to date on all things LLA!
@LAKELANIERASSOCIATION WWW.LAKELANIER.ORG
Shore Sweep, the shoreline cleanup that engages 1,600+ volunteers and removes over 160,000 lbs. of trash from Lanier annually. Installing and maintaining 289 solar lights to ensure safer night boating, with plans to grow and expand the number of lights on Lanier. Maintaining 11 life jacket loaner stations at parks providing a safer visitor experience. Monthly water testing and tracking for algae levels at 28 locations across Lanier. Ongoing abandoned and derelict dock and boat program to track owners and ensure their removal to keep our shoreline clean. Informational and educational events/publications to keep our members informed about issues and opportunities on Lake Lanier, such as boating safety, water quality, USACE shoreline management and more. Ready to jump in? Scan the QR Code and support LLA today! If you would like to confirm the status of your membership, email LLA at lakeinfo@lakelanier.org!
18 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Drier weather expected this winter I hope all of you enjoyed the beautiful fall color this year. As we begin our transition to winter, there is a lot of speculation as to what we will see. I can tell you what we know for sure. We are going to have a strong El Niño. I know that may sound ominous. However, a strong El Niño more often than not, means less of an impact here in Georgia. So what is El Niño? El Niño is associated with a band of warm ocean water that develops in the central and east-central equatorial Pacific, including the area off the Pacific coast of South America. The ocean warming affects the wind and weather patterns around the world. This is what we usually expect to see here in the
United States. As you can see on the accompanying map, drier weather is exGlenn pected this winter across Burns north Georgia. We’ve already seen that drier then Lanier normal weather late this Outlook summer and most of this fall. Rainfall has been pretty scarce and that dry pattern is expected to remain. The temperature forecast however, remains a bit of a challenge, as the oceans have been extraordinarily warm on their own. What we usually see are cooler temperatures here. The climate scientists at NOAA aren’t so sure. Here’s the updated winter outlook from NOAA: We have a 50/50 chance of above or below average temperatures. We also have a lot of fun when science can’t make a prediction by looking at nature. Our friend, the woolly bear caterpillar says we’re going to have a mild winter. The position of the longest dark bands supposedly indicates which part of winter will be coldest or hardest. If the head end of the caterpillar is dark, the beginning of winter will be severe. If the tail end is dark, the end of winter will be cold. If we look back at the last couple of CREDIT NOAA strong El Niño years, 1998-99 we had Drier than normal conditions are predicted See Burns, page 45 for North Georgia this winter.
SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER
LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS MAR
APR
1 1070.70 2 1070.70 3 1070.73 4 1070.82 5 1070.87 6 1070.83 7 1070.79 8 1070.73 9 1070.68 10 1070.63 11 1070.60 12 1070.77 13 1070.74 14 1070.69 15 1070.70 16 1070.72 17 1070.83 18 1070.86 19 1070.86 20 1070.86 21 1070.78 22 1070.69 23 1070.59 24 1070.60 25 1070.75 26 1070.88 27 1071.15 28 1071.15 29 1071.30 30 1071.26 31 1071.30 AV 1070.82 MAX 1071.30 MI 1070.59
1071.35 1071.32 1071.34 1071.26 1071.17 1071.09 1071.11 1071.75 1071.99 1071.96 1071.96 1071.91 1071.90 1071.88 1071.83 1071.82 1071.74 1071.66 1071.59 1071.47 1071.34 1071.28 1071.16 1071.11 1071.01 1070.94 1071.01 1071.03 1071.03 1071.13
MAY
1071.05 1070.99 1070.93 1070.85 1070.79 1070.77 1070.74 1070.72 1070.47 1070.30 1070.13 1070.02 1069.98 1069.96 1069.88 1069.81 1069.74 1069.66 1069.59 1069.63 1069.64 1069.47 1069.41 1069.34 1069.28 1069.20 1069.19 1069.12 1069.09 1069.05 1068.95 1071.44 1069.93 1071.99 1071.05 1070.94 1068.95
JUN 1068.87 1068.81 1068.77 1068.77 1068.68 1068.64 1068.55 1068.47 1068.42 1068.39 1068.51 1068.61 1068.61 1068.63 1068.67 1068.71 1068.71 1068.70 1068.91 1069.05 1069.10 1069.16 1069.19 1069.22 1069.30 1069.35 1069.38 1069.37 1069.36 1069.38
JUL
1069.39 1069.46 1069.42 1069.44 1069.46 1069.44 1069.44 1069.43 1069.42 1069.43 1069.43 1069.40 1069.39 1069.38 1069.35 1069.32 1069.27 1069.18 1069.13 1069.13 1069.19 1069.20 1069.17 1069.14 1069.10 1069.08 1069.05 1069.00 1068.96 1068.96 1068.88 1068.88 1069.26 1069.38 1069.46 1068.39 1068.88
AUG
SEP
OCT
1068.80 1068.68 1068.70 1068.63 1068.60 1068.59 1068.57 1068.52 1068.39 1068.34 1068.34 1068.34 1068.30 1068.21 1068.18 1068.15 1068.09 1068.04 1068.01 1067.96 1067.87 1067.82 1067.75 1067.67 1067.61 1067.58 1067.52 1067.52 1067.67 1067.71 1067.64 1068.12 1068.80 1067.52
1067.56 1067.51 1067.46 1067.35 1067.21 1067.02 1066.85 1066.68 1066.67 1066.66 1066.56 1066.48 1066.40 1066.32 1066.18 1066.15 1066.21 1066.14 1066.08 1066.04 1065.98 1065.91 1065.65 1065.81 1065.76 1065.72 1065.67 1065.59 1065.52 1065.49
1065.42 1065.37 1065.31 1065.24 1065.18 1065.11 1065.05 1065.00 1064.92 1064.86 1064.86 1064.88 1064.83 1064.76 1064.73 1064.65 1064.61 1064.56 1064.51 1064.48 1064.43 1064.42 1064.36
1066.36 1067.56 1065.49
SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER
November 2023
LAKESIDE 19
20 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Ignoring no wake zones can lead to dangerous situations It’s no secret that sometimes people don’t follow the rules when on the water. It may be that they don’t care about following the rules. Maybe it’s that they just don’t know the rules. But the one rule that seems to be the most widely abused or ignored involves no wake zones. A no wake zone is an area of the waterway where vessels are required to slow down to avoid potentially dangerous situations or damage to property or the environment. These no wake areas are usually marked by buoys or signs that indicate where the no wake zone starts. It is common to find these markers around marinas, bridges, docks and narrow channels. There seems to be a lot of confusion on just how slow you must go when entering a no wake zone. Unfortunately, the answer is not an easy one. In other words, the answer is: “It depends.” Different vessels have different handling characteristics. Therefore, the speed for what constitutes no wake differs from one vessel to
Frank Taylor The Careful Captain another depending on the type: propulsion and steerage. The US Coast Guard’s definition of the proper no wake speed is the slowest speed at which the driver can still maintain steerage of the vessel. Many personal watercraft have a “no wake” setting that allows you to automatically set the speed of the vessel to a no wake speed. For boats, it is simply setting your throttle to a minimum speed that allows you to maintain control of the vessel in current conditions. An area of a waterway may be designated as a no wake zone for many reasons: • Safety – Local authorities may have determined that lower speeds are required in an area to
allow the safety of marine life or because there is congestion. • Property Damage – A passing vessel creates waves that can do damage to vessels that are docked or anchored nearby. It must be noted that on many waterways, the vessel operator is responsible for damage that occurred as a result of wake from the vessel. • Environmental Damage – Wake created by a vessel can do damage to shorelines and natural habitats. • Limited Sight Lines – If there is limited sight distance due to a turn in a channel or due to an obstruction such as a bridge, local authorities want to ensure that traffic moves slowly through these areas. Although these are all good reasons not to violate a no wake zone, there is another good reason. Violating a no wake zone can lead to a hefty fine from the local authorities. I’m sure that many of us boaters have looked over to one side or the other and seen the local authorities standing by observing traffic passing by, just
waiting for someone to get a little too antsy with the throttle. When you are on the water, play it safe for your environment and your wallet. Don’t be afraid to slow down and enjoy the trip. Besides, when you are on a boat,
the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination. Frank is past commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta and is currently a content creator at the YouTube channel “The Ships Logg.”
• O’Neill
Continued from Page 14 clams, mussels, shrimp, menhaden, even black mullet abound. The various species of catfish; blues, channel, yellow, mud, flathead, etc., spawn up to seven times per year. It’s the perfect catfish habitat. So, what do you have to bring along? Tackle, if you like, but Darryl has just the right stuff. You bring food and drinks and a big smile. The only other thing I might suggest is to be sure and bring some children and stick around for a couple of days. You see, you don’t have to be an expert angler to harvest a cooler full
fishing with Darryl at Santee. It’s perfect for children. The fish are friendly and there’s plenty of them. Darryl will setup the rods and reels, bait up the rigs and make the casts. All you really do is start reeling when the rod tip dips. Think about what that might do for a child’s confidence, reeling in a catfish as big as he or she is. It’s an instant memory. O’Neill Williams has been a television, radio and print personality for more than 40 years and more recently has added podcasts and video on demand to his repertoire.
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LAKESIDE 21
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22 LAKESIDE
November 2023
November 2023
LAKESIDE 23
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24 LAKESIDE
November 2023
November 2023
LAKESIDE 25
26 LAKESIDE
November 2023
Lakeside Calendar November 2023 ♫ denotes musical event o Nov. 1 – NEGA Writers host Author Emory Jones at Gainesville Branch Library. Info: 770532-3311 ♫ Nov. 2, Nov. 16, Dec. 21 – Concert by Diane and David Peoples at Murrayville Branch Library. Info: 770-532-3311 o Nov. 2 – First Thursdays at Old Town Flowery Branch Info: 404-491-9601 o Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Music Bingo at NoFo Brew Co., Gainesville. Info: topher@nofobrew.co o Nov. 4, Dec. 2 – Greeting Card Workshop at Gainesville Branch Library. Info: 770-532-3311 o Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28 – Trivia Night at NoFo Brew Co. Info: topher@nofobrew.co ♫ Nov. 10 – 84 a Tribute to Van Halen perform at Rosati’s Pizza and Sports Pub, Cumming. Info: 678-513-1113 ♫ Nov. 11 – Roger Moore Music performs 8 p.m. at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, Buford. Info: bandsintown.com ♫ Nov. 12 – Down East Boys perform at Antioch Baptist Church, Cumming. Info: bandsintown.com o Nov. 17-19 – The Nutcracker performed by Gainesville Ballet Co. in Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium, Gainesville. Info: 770-5346246 ♫ Nov. 18 –Slippery When Wet, a tribute to Bon Jovi, performs at Rosati’s Pizza and Sports Pub, Cumming. Info: 678-513-1113 Boot Barn Hall ♫ Nov. 1 – Thunderstruck-America’s AC/DC Tribute, 7:30-10 p.m. ♫ Nov. 10 – Liverpool Legends ♫ Nov. 11 – Pure Prairie League ♫ Nov. 17 – Songwriters Showcase featuring April Brooks, Katie Deal and James Corbin.
♫ Nov. 18 – The Marshall Tucker Band Info: bootbarnhallga.com (Times are 7:30-10:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.) Brenau University o Thru Nov. 28 – Chris Boyko: Assembling the Masses in the Presidents Gallery o Nov. 2-4 – Oblivion, Evening of Dance Concert in Pearce Auditorium o Nov. 2-Dec. 8 – Juried Exhibition: Seize the Clay in Simmons Visual Arts Center ♫ Nov. 27 – Holiday Concert in John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts Info: 770-538-4764; brenau.edu Buford Community Center ♫ Nov. 2, 3 – Live at the Garden: A Tribute to Billy Joel ♫ Nov. 11 – Six One Five Collective Info: bufordcommunitycenter.com Clarkesville’s Historic Habersham Community Theater o Nov. 30-Dec. 10 – Elf the Musical Info: 706-839-1315; habershamcommunitytheater.com Cumming City Center ♫ Nov. 3 – Skyler Saufley ♫ Nov. 4 – Troubadour Project ♫ Nov. 10 – 84 Van Halen Tribute ♫ Nov. 11 – Landslide tribute to Fleetwood Mac o Nov. 18 – Winter Market featuring seasonal winter pop-up market Info: 770-781-2010; cummingcitycenter.com Dahlonega’s Historic Holly Theater ♫ Nov. 4 – Mountain Music Night-30th Anniversary Event o Nov. 10-12 – The Snow Queen o Nov. 25 – It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Info: 706-530-5162; hollytheater.com Gainesville Theatre Alliance o Nov. 10-18 – Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella Info: 678-717-3624; gainesvilletheatrealliance.org Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds ♫ Nov. 4 – Ashley McBryde ♫ Nov. 11 – Colt Ford & Creed Fisher ♫ Nov. 22-Dec. 23 – Mountain Country Christmas in Lights Info: 706-896-4191; georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Interactive Neighborhood Kids o Thru Nov. 5 – Pumpkin Craft Week o Nov. 6-12 – Day of the Dead Craft Week o Nov. 13-19 – Veterans Craft Week o Nov. 20 – Holly Jolly Holiday Event o Nov. 20-26 – Thanksgiving Craft Week o Nov. 27-Dec. 3 – Fall Craft Week Info: 770-536-1900; inkfun.org Lake Lanier Islands Resort o Nov. 4 – License to Chill Snow Island opens o Nov. 22-26, Dec. 1-Jan. 3 – Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular Info: 770-945-8787; lanierislands.com Northeast Georgia History Center o Nov. 14 – Forum: A Stroll Down Memory Lane o Nov. 18 – Homestead Day: Autumn Frolic Info: 770-297-5900; www.negahc.org Piedmont University ♫ Nov. 7 – Chamber Ensembles ♫ Nov. 9 – Piedmont University Singers ♫ Nov. 14 – Conservatory Strings ♫ Nov. 16 – Piedmont Univ Wind Ensemble Info: 800-277-7020; piedmont.edu Quinlan Arts Center
o Thru Dec. 9 – 76th Members Exhibition Info: 770-536-2575; quinlanartscenter.org School Street Playhouse (formerly Cumming Playhouse) ♫ Nov. 10 – Olivia Ivey Jazz Combo Info: 770-781-9178; schoolstreetplayhouse.com Tannery Row Artist Colony o Nov. 11, Dec. 9 – 2nd Saturday events Info: 470-326-6656; tanneryrowartistcolony.net 37 Rock Cafe ♫ Nov. 2, 9, 16, 22, 30 – The Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos Show ♫ Nov. 3 – Radio Star-Classic Rock & Party Hits ♫ Nov. 10 – The Iron Maidens ♫ Nov. 17 – The Mad Hatters ♫ Nov. 18 – Hit List ♫ Nov. 24 – The Chris Key Band ♫ Nov. 25 – Nu Wave ATL Info: 678-288-2030; buford.37main.com The Well ♫ Nov. 3 – Excitable ♫ Nov. 4 – The Troubadour Project ♫ Nov. 11 – Landslide ♫ Nov. 18 – Elton Live Info: 404-271-3178; gigs@thewellga.com University of North Georgia ♫ Nov. 2 – Guest Artist recital by Marianna Prjevalskaya and Dr. Kristofer Rucinski ♫ Nov. 12 – Choral Fall Concert ♫ Nov. 13 – Patriot Choir Fall Concert ♫ Nov. 30 – Sinfonietta Concert Info: 678-717-3930; www.ung.edu Voices of North Georgia ♫ Dec. 1, 2 – Christmas Voices ♫ Mar. 2 – Gala: Beatles and Bacharach ♫ Apr. 26, 28 – Give My Regards to Broadway Info: voicesofnorthgeorgia.com
Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 27
COMING EARLY SPRING!
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November 2023
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 29
Lake Life Built Around You
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23-KTL-053_AD_10-25x11-25_LakesideNews_r4.indd 1
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November 2023
Holiday events celebrate area’s diverse environment By Jane Harrison The holidays shine bright around Lake Lanier and in the mountain headwaters. Boat parades, dulcimer pickin’, snow tubing, carriage rides, Santa visits, tree lightings and numerous other traditional and non-traditional activities abound in the diverse environment spanning small mountain towns to the bustling lake shore. Here’s a sample: o License to Chill Snow Island/Lakeside Lights Spectacular, Buford. Snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides, s’more making, plus walk-through holiday light extravaganza with festive music; Snow Island 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Nov 4- Feb. 25; Lights Spectacular 5-9 p.m. Nov. 22 - Jan. 15, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Various prices. www.margaritavilleresorts.com o Holiday Bazaar, Gainesville. Shop for ornaments, handmade gifts, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 18, Hall County Farmer’s Market, 734 E. Crescent Dr. www.exploregainesville.org. o Hops & Holly Wreath Making, Gainesville. Make evergreen wreath, sip a brew, 2-3:30 p.m. Nov. 18 or Dec. 16, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $50, $45 members. www.atlantabg.org. 404888-4760. o Cumming City Center Winter Market/Tree Lighting. Artists sell homewares, fashion accessories and more beginning at 10 a.m. followed by 6 p.m. holiday celebration with live music, family activities, warm drinks and desserts, Nov. 18, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton St.
o Mountain Country Christmas in Lights, Hiawassee. See Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in holiday lights, plus music, arts vendors, food, Santa visits and Cowtown exhibit with cow milking, butter ice-cream making, 6 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Nov. 23-Dec. 9, nightly Dec. 14-23, 1311 Music Hall Rd. $7, free to children 12 & younger. www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.org.
www.cummingcitycenter.org. o Jingle Mingle, Gainesville. Kiddy train rides, carriage rides, open house and live music at historic buildings, holiday shopping, Santa’s arrival and Lighting of the Chicken ceremony, 4-6:30 p.m. Nov. 18, Historic Gainesville Square. www.exploregainesville.org. o Celebrate the Holidays, Braselton. Annual parade, tree lighting, live reindeer, entertainment, market and more, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Nov. 18, downtown Braselton & Town Green. www.explorebraselton.com. o Wilshire Wonderland of Lights, Gainesville. Stroll through beloved Gainesville park decorated with holiday lights, Nov. 22-Jan. 5, Wilshire Trails Park, 849 Wilshire Trials Rd. www.gainesville.org.
o Old Fashioned Christmas, Dahlonega. Annual celebration with near-daily holiday activities beginning with Lighting of the Square 5:30 p.m. Nov. 24, carriage rides, Santa visits, food trucks, Festival of Trees, and more through Jan. 7. Holiday parade with 11 a.m. Dec. 9, Historic Downtown Dahlonega. www.dahlonegachristmas.com.
o Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, Clermont. Annual holiday parade with floats, bands, tractors, antique cars & Santa, followed by tree lighting, 5 p.m. Nov. 25, Main Street. www.clermontga.com. o Holiday Tree Trail, Gainesville. View sixfeet Fraser firs decorated by local clubs, organizations and businesses, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Sun., Nov. 28-Dec. 31, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $14.95 adults, $12.95 children ages 3-12, free to children younger than 3 and members. www.atlantabg.org. 404-888-4760. o Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm, Sautee Nacoochee. See Mansion at West End decorated in period décor, learn about Victorian holiday traditions from re-enactors, plus live music, s’mores around a bon fire, 4-7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in December. $15-$49, free to children 5 and younger. Registration required. www.gastateparks.org. 706-878-1077. o Christmas in the Mountains Festival & Lighted Parade, Cleveland. Parade, open houses, market on downtown square, Cleveland County Courthouse, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 2, intersection Ga. 129/115. www.whitecountychamber.org. o Christmas on Green Street, Gainesville. Annual celebration on Historic Green Street with antique car parade, marching bands, and floats, plus food trucks, activities and performSee Holiday Events, page 31
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 31
Outdoor Calendar November 2023 ♫ denotes musical event. o Family Frolics Nature Program, Gainesville. Explore natural habitats with sensory play, crafts, stories and more, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Nov. 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 Yoga on the Lawn, Cumming. Outdoor yoga class, 11a.m.-noon Nov. 1, Lou Sobh Amphitheater, 423 Canton Rd. www.cummingcitycenter.com. o Moonshine Run 5K, Sugar Hill. 8 a.m. Nov. 4, Sugar Hill Distillery, 1166 Church St. $30$45. www.fivestarntp.com. o Dogs on the Run 5K, Cumming. Run with or without dog, 9 a.m. Nov. 4, North Forsyth Middle School, 3845 Coal Mountain Dr. $35-$45. www.fivestarntp.com. o Creating Floral Arrangements, Gainesville. Learn about floral design, create an arrangement, 10-11 a.m. Nov. 4, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $50, $45 members. www.atlantabg.org. 404888-4760. o The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood, Flowery Branch. Dramatic performance of original play, 2:30 p.m. Nov. 4 & 5, Flowery Branch Market Pavilion, 5210 Railroad Ave. Gates open 1:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs. $5. www.flowerybranchga.org. o Give it a Shot Shotgun Clinic, Helen. Participants age 12 and older learn to handle, operate, maintain and store a shotgun, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 9, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $10, plus $5 parking. 706-878-3087, www. gastateparks.org. o Steam Engine, Antique Tractor, Gas Engine Expo, Cumming. Annual tribute to old time tractors and power equipment presented by the Cumming Antique Power Association, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 10 & 11, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. www.cummingfair.squarespace.com.
o Run For Rangers 10K/5K/Half Marathon, Dahlonega. 10K/5K 9/9:15 a.m. Nov. 11, Hancock Park, corner North Meaders/Hancock St.; half marathon on forest service gravel roads, 11:30 a.m. Nov. 12, Camp Merrill, 1 Camp Merrill Dr. $30-$60. www.active.com. o Family Fun Day, Flowery Branch. Inclusive sports, crafts, food and vendors community event for people with disabilities, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 11, Alberta Banks Park, 5575 G.C. Crow Rd. Hall County Parks & Leisure Facebook, 770-519-2302. o Guided Gold Rush Hike, Helen. Guided hike of 1.3-mile Martin’s Mine Trail, 10 a.m.11:30 a.m. Nov. 11, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. No dogs. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o Home School Nature Day, Gainesville. Children ages 5-12 learn about Cherokee history and foraging, 9-10:30 a.m. Nov. 16, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $15 per student, members free. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o National Take a Hike Day, Gainesville. Guided 1-mile hike along Dodd and Elachee Creek Trails for ages 5 and older, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Friends of Chattahoochee Golf Tourna-
• Holiday Events Continued from Page 30 ances at historic homes, 2-7 p.m. Dec. 3. See new schedule: www.exploregainesville.org. o Holiday Craft-Making, Gainesville. Create a holiday craft, free with regular admission, 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 5, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. $14.95 adults, $12.95 children ages 3-12, free to children younger than 3 and members. www.atlantabg.org. 404-8884760. o Holiday Boat Parade, Lake Lanier. Festival of lights on the water with decorated boat; parade begins at 5 p.m. Dec. 9, north of Port Royale and floats toward Aqualand Marina for judges’ review before heading to Margaritaville for music and awards. Rain out day Dec. 10. Entry fees $75-$200. www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org. o Annual Christmas Parade, Helen. Fire trucks, horses, dirt-buggies, floats, candy, Santa, 2 p.m. Dec. 9, Downtown Helen. www.helenga.org.
o Christmas at the Inn, Toccoa. Festive dulcimer music, hot apple cider and teacakes, 19th century stagecoach inn decorated with greenery and handmade ornaments, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 9 & 10, Traveler’s Rest Historic Site, 4339 Riverdale Rd. www.gastateparks.org, 706-886-2256. o Holiday Jamboree on the Mountain, Clarkesville. Live music, nature crafts, Santa visits, hayrides, Mellinger Center/campground, 3-5 p.m. Dec. 9, Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3805 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-746-2141. o Happy Holiday Hike, Helen. Naturalistled hike to covered bridge to learn some fun holiday lore, plus hot cocoa and cookies at the visitor’s center, 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 14, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-8784308 ext. 7.
ment, Gainesville. 11th annual fundraiser, Nov. 17, Chattahoochee Golf Course, 301 Tommy Aaron Dr. www.gainesville.org. o Ways of the Cherokee, Gainesville. Naturalist/author Mark Warren presents two sessions on a history of native people in Southern Appalachia and seeing the forest from the ancient Cherokee perspective, 10 a.m. & noon Nov. 18, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $12 per program, $10 veterans. Register in advance. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Tryptophan Half Marathon/10K/5K/ 1Mile, Cumming. 7:30/7:45/8/9 a.m. Thanksgiving Day Nov. 23, 415 Peachtree Pkwy. $20-$45. www.active.com. o Gobble Wobble 10K/5K/1K, Alpharetta. 7:45/8/9:15 a.m. Thanksgiving Day Nov. 23, Halcyon, 6365 Halcyon Way. $25-$50. www.runnersfit.com. o Limestone Shirt Factory Turkey Trot 5K/10K/Half Marathon, Gainesville. 8 a.m. Thanksgiving Day Nov. 23, Riverside Preparatory Academy Track, 2001 Riverside Dr. $35$50. Participants urged to donate 3 cans of food for We Care Hall. www.runnersfit.com. o Turkey Trot Hike, Helen. Nearly 3-mile loop hike from Visitors Center to wetlands, 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. Nov. 24, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trail. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 4:45-7:15 p.m. Nov. 27, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706754-7981. o Run Santa Run 5K/1-Mile Fun Run, Cumming. 8:30/9:30 a.m. Dec. 2, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. Free, bring a new unwrapped toy valued at $25. www.active.com. o Downtown Star Walk, Gainesville. Walk the scale model of the solar system with Elachee Nature Science Center naturalist, 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 2, The Sun, Downtown Gainesville Square, 112 Bradford St. NE. Register by Nov. 30. $10, $9 Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770535-1976. On-Going o Tin Cup Cruise In, Cumming. Classic car show, 6-9 p.m. first Thursdays, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton St. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.com. o Sunset Yoga, Gainesville. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays Nov. 7-30, Engine 209 Park, Midland Greenway, 878 Grove St. City residents $120, non-residents $170. Pre-register by Nov. 3. www.gainesville.org.
♫ Outdoor Concerts, Cumming. Skyler Saufley performs blues, 7-9 p.m. Nov. 3; Troubadour Project performs 1970s rock classics, 7-9 p.m. Nov. 4, Van Halen Tribute 7-9 p.m. Nov. 10; Landslide tribute to Fleetwood Mac 7-9 p.m. Nov. 11, Lou Sobh Amphitheater, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton St. No outside food, coolers, alcoholic beverages, containers or smoking. Bring lawn chairs/blankets. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.com. o Discovery Saturday, Gainesville. Wild animal showcase, exhibits, crafts and hike, 10 a.m.3 p.m. Saturdays in November, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 ages 3 and older, free to children younger than 3 and Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-5351976. o Group Run Riverside, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 8:309:30 a.m. Saturdays, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Group Run NoFo, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6-7 p.m. Thursdays, NoFo Brewing Company, 434 High St. SE. www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Group Run LNB, Gainesville. Run with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays, Liquid Nation Brewery, 2100 Atlanta Hwy. www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Art in the Park, Dahlonega. Unique arts and crafts 10 a.m.-5 p.m. first Saturdays through November, Hancock Park, corner of North Park and Warwick St. www.exploredahlonega.org. o Vintage Auto & Truck Swap Meet/Cruise In, Clermont. 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. first Saturdays through November, 151 Oxford Rd. (next to Clermont ball field), 4 -8 p.m. cruise in with music, food vendors, Clermont Chattahoochee Park, 639 Main St. www.clermontga.com. o Sunday North Hall Rides, Gainesville. Bicycling on rural roads averaging 17-18 mph at steady pace, 30-45 miles, roll out 12:30 p.m. Sundays from Haynes Rd. velocraig@hotmail.com. o Canoe/Kayak/SUP Rentals, Gainesville. Canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals, reserve via email 48 hours in advance for paddling Monday, Tuesday Thursday, Friday and Saturday mornings, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd. $20-$30 per hour, $10 for additional hours, maximum 4 hours. info@lckc.org. o First Visit Tour, Helen. Guided van tour of Smithgall Woods State Park to see covered bridge, Duke’s Creek, park cottages and more, 10-11 a.m. first Saturdays, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. Donations welcome. Reservations required. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o Hall County Winter Farmers Market, Gainesville. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays through mid-December except Thanksgiving weekend, 734 E. Crescent St. www.hallcountyfarmersmarket.org. o Turning Leaf Book Club, Gainesville. Monthly discussions of nature-themed books, 11 a.m. first Wednesdays Jan.-May, Sept.-Nov., Linwood Ecology Center, Linwood Nature Preserve, 118 Springview Dr. mastergardener@hallcounty.org. – compiled by Jane Harrison
32 LAKESIDE
November 2023
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November 2023
LAKESIDE 33
Historical charm and modern architecture blend in LaGrange Since I haven’t visited LaGrange, Ga. in nearly 20 years, I was stunned by the growth of this small city that extends from beyond the old downtown square all the way to I-85. Despite this expansion, the true heart of this historic and beautiful town is still found in and around the immaculate old Lafayette Square at its center. A new visitors center is located just off the square in a building that has modern architecture with a Southern charm, and a friendly staff to point you to the best places and events in LaGrange. Nevertheless, any trip to LaGrange should begin on the square viewing a multitude of colorful flowers, an unforgettable fountain and a stately statue of Lafayette, who was an important leader in our Revolutionary War with the British for our independence. An ideal base of operations for any stay in LaGrange would have to be the Courtyard LaGrange by Marriott located directly across the street from Lafayette Square. From this perfect centrally located facility, everything in LaGrange can be easily reached. Though the hotel Bistro in the lobby has an excellent breakfast, I would suggest a short walk down the street to a very interesting local restaurant. Gus’s Grill offers a Chicago based menu with a Greek flare and is known for their homemade biscuits. While dining, take a look around at the collectibles and clever knick-knacks throughout the dining room. Following a hearty breakfast, a walk around the outside of Lafayette Square is a must. This unique and historic downtown area has
Bill Vanderford Travel Editor
n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD
dozens of local boutiques, antique stores and other shops and restaurants. It might be a little boring for the guys, but the ladies in your group could spend hours within minutes of the hotel! For those who enjoy history and unique architecture, I would certainly visit the Hills and Dales Estate that is located just minutes from the downtown square. This 13,000-square-foot home of the Callaway family is surrounded by one of the best-preserved 19th century gardens in the nation and is a legacy of the family’s lifestyle. Completed in 1916, the Fuller E. Callaway home was designed to flow gracefully into its gardens of dwarf boxwood parterres, which have adorned the terraces of the hill for more than 175 years.The classic lines of the 13,000 square foot home have now silently watched over the gardens for over a century. For lunch, I would suggest 505 Eats … a Korean-owned spot located just down the street from the square. The menu features delicious Southern classics, and owner and chef Joyce Sato dreams up an additional menu of
specials each week. However, the hamburgers and Reuben here are utterly fantastic! Another special place to spend some time is the Nutwood Winery which is a sprawling 10-acre farm highlighted by a 6,000 square foot Tasting Room & Vineyard Cafe along with the historic manor home and 200-year-old pecan trees that give Nutwood its name. The indoor/outdoor seating area offers guests a relaxing environment in which to enjoy good company, and of course, great wines. Nutwood’s delicious wines pair beautifully with light bites and outdoor activities that provide entertainment for the entire family. And, if you happen to be there on a Friday or Saturday, you will be treated to some fantastic music by someone like Tyrone Moultry! If you happen to be in LaGrange on a Saturday night, nothing could be better than an evening of unique music at the
Entrance to the Callaway home, above. Painting of Fulller Callaway in a reading room at the Hills and Dales Estate, left.
Pure Life House of Music, which is an intimate music venue founded by Maggie McDonald as a place for up-and-coming musicians to showcase their work. The
night I visited, I was lucky to hear the beautiful sounds of Meaghan Farrell. Whether you have a whole weekend or just a day to spend in LaGrange, the city is sure to keep you entertained with a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, interesting restaurants and plenty of history! 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.
Tyrone Moultry performing at the Nutwood Winery. Inside 505 Eats in LaGrange.
The Nutwood Winery, left/above.
A unique theater in downtown LaGrange.
Part of the vineyard at the Nutwood Winery.
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EXIT 14
General U.S. Army Corps of Engineers .............770 945-9531 Water Release Schedules....................770 945-1466 Recreation/Water level Info ..................770 945-1467 DNR, Law Enforcement Division ..........800 241-4113 Lake Lanier Association Inc..................770 503-7757 Boating Safety Courses US Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla 29...........770 891-6362 Atlanta Sail & Power Squadron ............770 734-6412 Marinas 1. Safe Harbor Aqualand....................770 967-6811 2. Bald Ridge......................................770 887-5309 3. Gainesville......................................770 536-2171 4. Habersham.....................................770 887-5432 5. Holiday............................................770 945-7201 6. Port Royale.....................................770 887-5715 7. Lanier Harbor ..................CLOSED AS OF 2/4/14 8. Lazy Days at Holiday......................770-945-1991 9. Safe Harbor Hideaway Bay ............770 967-5500 10. Sunrise Cove..................................770 536-8599 11. Sunset Cove...................................678 304-3157
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North Georgia Crappie Anglers do a whole lot more than fish 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 To look at the website of the North Georgia Crappie Anglers, you might think that the 150 men and women members would be too busy serving the community to take time to fish. In some ways, you’d be correct. However, its members from across North Georgia do plenty of both, often combining a fishing tournament for children or veterans with a chance to spend a day on the water. “Twelve of us got together eight years ago to create a familyoriented club that’s dedicated to education and community service,” said Woodie Burk Malone Jr., who spent many years as a kid fishing Lake Lanier with his father, Woodie Burk Malone, former mayor of Chamblee for 32 years. “Our mission for the club from the very beginning was to give back in as many ways as we could, and that’s just what we do.” Yes, there’s plenty of fishing, from nearly a dozen tournaments each year – some for members and others for the public or special groups – to family multinight fishing trips to Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, the Carolinas or around Georgia, the members stay active. “This is our network of friends
and family,” he said. “Each year we have a low-country boil, a pig roast, quarterly fish fries and other social events for members. We go to comedy clubs together, Braves games, dinners, but we always keep others in the community in mind.” For club members, fishing education and introducing more people to the sport is important, even if they don’t ever fish again. “There are so many people who just aren’t able to experience fishing or even being on the water, so we host groups from the military, such as the Wounded Warriors Project, Fishing with Everyday Heroes, first responders, various children’s groups, people with disabilities or are wheelchair bound.” The club’s 26 female members have created their own set of events for groups including My Sister’s Place, The Place and Jessie’s House in Cumming. The activities may be a pontoon boat ride and lunch, or it may be a fishing event. “We volunteer at Meals By Grace, donate kids fishing poles to other group’s tournaments, and we’ll be gearing up for the Toys For Tots this month to help out the US Marine Corps make kid’s Christmas wishes come true.” Malone spent his career in the
Posing for a photo during one of the many tournament outings.
real estate business, buying houses, fixing them up and reselling them. He said that one of his favorite things to do to support the club is to cold call. “You give me a lead and I’m reaching out to them to help us with events, trophies and other costs for these groups we help. We don’t charge a single penny to the groups we bring out to the lake. Our community involvement is all about people power, donating our time, pitching in and helping,” he said. “What we have to give to the community and other people is our time, our fishing knowledge and just pitching
in to help. It’s about people power, and since many of us are retired, our club gives them a way to give back and say thank you.” The North Georgia Crappie Club’s membership meetings take place on the second Thursday of each month, 6 p.m., at the VFW Hall, 1045 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming. People who are interested in joining are welcome. For more information about the club or to become a sponsor, visit northgeorgiacrappieanglers.com or call Malone at 770 634-6539.
An excited youngster poses with her fishing rod and trophy, above. Fishing equipment, boats and captains are all part of the club's efforts to put on a tournament.
Youngsters smile as they get ready for a day of fishing, right.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NGCA CLUB
Woodie Malone, left, radio and TV personality O'Neill Williams who was a guest speaker, and club member Jim Bliss pose during a tournament
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November 2023
BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN
Unfamiliar lands: Northern Greece and the Balkans reveal their storied pasts friendship and passion for learning by our astute Trip Leader Ilias Pantazis, an Athens native who frequently travels to the U.S. At 32 years old, he’s been leading groups for more than seven years and has more energy than the Energizer Bunny. Traveling with Ilias as our seasoned trip leader, we didn’t miss a thing. On our walk along the shore in Thessaloniki he pointed out the first of many Holocaust memorials we’d see for the next 18 days. He also shared personal stories about his family and how the Holocaust affected them, as well as how World War II factored into this amazing part of the world we were about to experience. Thessaloniki, a major shipping port on the Thermaikos Gulf on the Aegean Sea, offers a view of Mount Olympus, in Greek mythology the home of the gods, where we would visit in a couple of days. Meanwhile Thessaloniki’s history called. We met the hero of our adventure: a 20-foot statue of Alexander the Great mounted on his rearing horse, atop a 35-foot base. Created in 1973 by Greek sculptor Vangelis Moustakas, the statue itself weighs between four and five tons. Nearby, the city’s official symbol, the White Tower built in the 15th century, houses a museum of armor and armaments. Thessaloniki’s Upper Town holds treasures of the ancient city, including several Orthodox Christian (i.e., Byzantine) churches, remnants of the centuries of war
Ionnina in Northern Greece is known as the silver city because of its nearby mines; the town’s many craftsmen still make religious crosses, chalices and jewelry that is shipped to churches and cathedrals around the world.
Trip leader Ilias Pantazis, left, and a guide in the Mount Olympus visitors center stand in back of a topographic model of the mountain and point out photos that correspond with features on the model.
between the Orthodox Byzantines and the Muslims of the Ottoman Empire. Throughout our journey, we would hear of the conflicts between the two cultures, the Ottoman Empire (i.e., the Turks) eventually defeated the Byzantines, making way for the 400year rule of the Ottoman Empire. A visit to a former mosqueturned monastery that’s still in use helped us understand why monks created elaborate paintings and frescoes of biblical and religious scenes embellished with gold. Because most people couldn’t read, these works of art told the stories;
In September, Lakeside News Senior Writer Pam Keene continued her international treks. On her most recent Overseas Adventure Travels trip, she and fellow travelers journeyed to Northern Greece, Albania and North Macedonia, through mountain terrain, seaside towns, ancient ruins and modern cities to learn about this little-known part of the planet. Here is her accounting of Northern Greece. By Pamela A. Keene hen I told people I was going to Northern Greece and the Balkans in early September, most said, “You’ll love the Greek islands,” “I’ve been to Athens and loved the Parthenon” or “What are the Balkans?” Rather than getting into a long explanation, I just smiled. But here’s the “real” trip: Northern Greece, Albania and North Macedonia, entitled “Ancient Lands of Alexander the Great.” From Thessaloniki by the sea and the famed Mount Olympus to the holy site of Meteora and its cliff-top monasteries to the Albanian capital and a village to visit a family farm, then on to North Macedonia’s historic and ancient Lake Ohrid and the country’s thriving capital of Skopje, my 18-day adventure revealed far more about this part of the world than I ever anticipated. Athens was just a memory from my previous trips because we didn’t go near the Greek capital. However, we were treated in the Greek way of kindness,
W
PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE
Plane trees are omnipresent in Greece. The one in this town square is more than 300 years old.
the shining gold added a spiritual and other-worldly sense to separate the mystical from the earthly. No trip to this region would be complete without seeing Mount Olympus, the highest in the country. Among the most biodiverse in the world, it has nearly 1,700 species of flora, 32 types of mammals, more than 115 species of birds and 22 species of reptiles and amphibians. In 1938, it was made a National Park, the first in Greece, and now attracts thousands of visitors who hike, mountaineer and even snow ski on its peaks. Our group took a hike along one of the forested ravines. As we left Thessaloniki, we stopped at the Royal Tombs of Vergina, the final resting place of King Phillip II. Unearthed almost
40 years ago from beneath a manmade hill, the tombs from the fourth-century BC are remarkably well preserved; the site includes a museum of relics from the Macedonian era. Perhaps the highlight of our time in Northern Greece, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora was other-worldly. It’s the second-most visited site in Greece, after the Acropolis in Athens. The mystery continues to baffle visitors about how the monks built 26 monasteries atop numerous towering rock formations that look like the surface of the moon. These elaborate sanctuaries appear to rise fully complete from the tops of the rocks. Today, only six survive, still occupied and See Greece, pages 37
In many churches and monasteries, like this one in the Upper City of Thessaloniki, visitors can browse a gift shop filled with icons of the Greek Orthodox church.
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BONUS TRAVEL COLUMN maintained by the monks or nuns who live there in modern times. We visited two of these incredible structures, accessible by climbing on trails and stairs. Both were filled with stunning colorful frescoes depicting the life of Christ and other biblical stories, plus dedicated worship areas. Built as far back as the 10th century, the stone structures were mind-boggling. Each stone was hoisted as high as 1,000 feet, carefully laid to join with massive beams that formed the walls and ceilings. Over the centuries, the resident monks have preserved the interiors as they appeared when first built, just as colorful and just as holy as they were hundreds of years ago. It was difficult to leave this ethereal place, where, by the way, the 1981 James Bond film, “For Your Eyes Only,” was made As we continued toward the Albanian border, we stayed two nights in the Greek region of Zagoria’s Aristi village. Giving us a chance to be close to the land, we hiked several miles along the Vikos Gorge, listed by Guinness as the world’s deepest canyon. The famous Vitsa stairs took us to Kokkori Bridge, a stone arch bridge built in the 18th century. An afternoon rafting trip on the Voidomatis River, which maintains a temperature of around 40 degrees, offered a smaller group of us views of 600-year-old trees, bluffs, cliffs and rock formations and a collection of flora and fauna that was breathtaking.
Thessaloniki’s White Tower was built in the 15th century after the city fell to the Ottomans in 1430.
A local merchant sells freshly made baklava, a Greek specialty.
Thessaloniki’s sidewalk restaurants were welcoming and popular with locals and visitors alike; the served a mixture of traditional Greek foods.
Our time in Northern Greece was ending; the excitement began to build as we headed toward Albania and North Macedonia, two Balkan countries just beginning to welcome travelers. We reached the half-way point of our adventure, and the best was yet to come. Next month in Part II, find out how Albania and North Macedonia survived communist rule to become two of the newest frontiers of tourism in the Balkans.
The streets of Thessaloniki’s Upper City (old town) are narrow, steep and winding.
Visitors are silhouetted by the lighted fascade of King Phillip II’s tomb in Vergina, Greece. Discovered buried under a massive mound of dirt 1977, it remained intact and unlooted; many of the relics found there are displayed in its museum.
PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE
Several of the centuries-old monasteries, built atop high rocks in Meteora, are open to visitors on a rotating basis, top. In the museum in Vergina, relics like the armor of King Phillip II were found in the tomb of the former king and father of Alexander the Great, left.
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Time to make backyard improvements for a spring splash By far, fall is the best time to upgrade your landscape and outdoor space. With cooler temperatures, trees and shrubs are entering dormancy; newly installed plants will require less protection from the hot sun; and watering requirements will be less. Just remember that if you add trees and shrubs to your landscape, you’ll still need to water until they are established. Take a look at your lawn and landscape and use the next several months to set a path to success for next spring. Find spaces that can benefit from bringing in a group of holly plants, several distinctive evergreens, a few showy maple trees and an eye-catching mass planting of spring- or summerflowering shrubs. Make your plans for these projects and space them out to take advantage of sunny warmer winter days: • Yard and clean-up – remove spent plant materials from raised beds and trim dead limbs from trees and shrubs. However, do not prune spring-flowering azaleas,
Pamela A. Keene Curb Appeal
n MORE INFO: Email: pam@pamelakeene.com forsythia or others that bloom on old growth or you’ll be removing next spring’s blossoms. • Leaf collection – blow leaves from garden spaces that have accumulated under plants and on your turf. Collect them in an out-of-the-way space near your vegetable garden to use as spring mulch or to add to compost. Shred them with your mulching lawn mower or use a leaf shredder to hasten the process. It’s an inexpensive way add organic matter next spring. • Add perennials – coming back year after year, many perennials attract pollinators and back-
yard wildlife, providing food all year long. Choose cone flowers, black-eyed Susans, bee balm that self-seeds, asters and others that add color and will reward you with spring and summer blooms. • Pamper your garden tools – when did you last clean and sharpen lawn mower blade, pruners and clippers? Clean them with a wire brush to remove dried-on dirt and grime, sharpen and oil them with a drop of two of oil, even vegetable, olive or canola oil will work, rather than WD 40 which can gum up tools and is not a good anti-corrosion coating. • Clean and inspect – your patio and deck furniture. A halfcup of white vinegar and onefourth a cup of baking soda makes a gentle cleaner to remove dust, dirt and most mildew using a soft brush or sponge. Murphy’s Oil Soap is a good alternative. A toothbrush can get into smaller areas. Protect metal furniture after it’s cleaned by applying car wax. If necessary, replace worn and
Fire pits are todays newest trend.
PHOTO: PIXABAY
shabby-looking pieces, ordering over the winter when demand is low and prices can be more affordable. • Add a firepit – today’s newest trend, the Solo Stove, provides a safe, cozy and smokeless way to enjoy the outdoors from the cool nights of fall and spring to the colder nights of winter. Depending on the size, it can be portable; plus it uses standard firewood. • Upgrade your grill – Using charcoal, ceramic Kamado Joe Red Eggs can smoke a brisket or
pork butt, cook steaks, pizza and burgers or roast vegetables. You can even cook the Thanksgiving bird on one. Some people are adding Traeger pellet grills to their repertoire of outdoor cooking choices to provide slow-cooked wood-fired flavor. • Build an outdoor kitchen – when the leaves are off the trees, pick a clear site for outdoor entertaining. From installing a stone patio to building a stacked-stone fireplace or a fully equipped outSee Curb, page 45
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Change of Watch at UYC: A time for reflection and looking ahead By Pamela A. Keene As is tradition each autumn, the leadership of University Yacht Club changes. The current commodore literally passes the gavel to the next in line. The process is a multi-weekend string of activities, including an on-the-water tribute to the outgoing commodore, the club’s annual membership meeting and an official swearing in of the new people in charge. September 30’s Fleet Pass in Review and dinner saw several dozen members’ boats – from decorated houseboats and cruisers to runabouts and sailboats – parade past outgoing Commodore Bret Bennington and his partner Gail Raper. With boat horns and cannon blasts penetrating the air, it began an afternoon of celebrations. “The Pass in Review was a day I will never forget,” said Benninghoff. “Gail and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It was all worth it just to experience that moment at the end of the swim dock. The powers above granted
us perfect weather and beautiful warm sunshine.” Benninghoff reflected on his time as commodore: “University Yacht Club has meant more to me than you will ever know,” he said.” I absolutely loved my journey serving our organization. Although there were heart aches and hurdles to clear at times, the successes always outweighed those moments. “Someone asked me to name my three most proud moments as commodore. There are not one or two or three,” Benninghoff said. “Just being able to call you friends, being able to participate, experience the journey, and making sound decisions in leadership for our success; these are the things I’m most proud of.” On October 7, club members participated in the annual meeting. After the meeting and dinner, new officers took their oaths. New Commodore Steve Simpson took the reins of the 73-yearold club. The son of a US Air Force father, he spent his youth at various bases domestically and
abroad. He graduated with a degree in management science from Georgia Institute of Technology, then served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. His first career at ToucheRoss, later Deloitte, was in Atlanta, where he met UYC member Rick Smith. Smith eventually recruited him for membership in UYC. He and his wife Diane joined in 2013. “From the very start, we have both loved this club and the people here,” Simpson said. “Diane and I have been very active from the beginning and she will be my right hand during my time as commodore.” Simpson became a member of the Board of Governors in 2017 and quickly moved up the ranks, becoming treasurer in 2019. It’s the first step on the leadership track to commodore. A musician, he spearheaded the annual musical/stage shows that are some of the most popular club-wide events. “There are wonderfully talented people of the club and it’s so much fun and so
rewarding to put together a major production for the enjoyment of all our members,” he said. “Some are professional musicians; others share their gifts as well to make these shows memorable each year.” A partner at Deloitte for 25 years building large-scale IT systems for clients, until he retired in 2001, Simpson also built a high-end global racing business in Buford, Historic Sportscar Racing – HSR, now owned by PHOTO BY PAMELA A. KEENE NASCAR. Bret Bennington, left, passes gavel to Steve Additionally, he built Simpson. his own shop in Buford to maintain cars for clients and his members to put together an event own collection of historic race at Road Atlanta in 1977. It just cars. Now known as Simpson really grew from there.” Racing and Classic Car RestoraOver the years, he’s taken tions, it serves the automotive and clients around the world to race marine business. their historic vehicles, continuing “My love of racing started in to build a global reputation for the 1970s when I was a member Simpson Racing with the cars that of the Atlanta Jaguar Club,” he the company campaigns. said. “I encouraged a bunch of our See UYC, page 45
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Living on Lake Lanier now on national television By Pamela A. Keene The real estate team at Living on Lake Lanier is now on the national television radar. Led by real estate broker Teresa Smith, she and her team will be featured on “The American Dream,” an EMMY award-nominated lifestyle television program that’s broadcast across the country. “We’re so excited to be part of this lifestyle program and be able to share all that’s fun and interesting about Lake Lanier, North Atlanta and North Georgia,” said Smith. “As part of ‘The American Dream: Selling Atlanta,’ we’ll be giving people across the country a close look at all we have to offer here, highlighting lifestyle, culture and real estate.” On the first Saturday of every other month, the Living on Lake Lanier team will showcase parts of the area to reveal reasons North Georgia has become so appealing to residents. Smith will share co-hosting with Michele Kaplan, Mackenzie Scott, and Lisa Mitchell of the Living on Lake Lanier team.
Episode One aired on October 7 and featured the Gainesville location of NoFo Brew Co as well as a lake home that began as a small fishing cabin and has been remodeled and expanded to capture the rustic elegance of lake living. It can be viewed on the American Dream website at www.theamericandream.lightcast.com, then clicking on Georgia. Episode 2 will air on December 2 and showcase downtown Alpharetta as well as Helen’s Oktoberfest and the Uhu-
burg Renaissance Castle. “This is truly a lifestyle program to capture all the amazing reasons that people chose to live in this area,” she said. The Living on Lake Lanier/Keller Williams team has also been featured on HGTV’s Lakefront Bargain Hunt. For more information, visit livingonlakelanier.com, the company’s Facebook page at Teresa Smith Living on Lake Lanier or at @livingonlakelanier on Instagram or call their Buford office at 770 654-4173.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TERESA SMITH
Realtor Teresa Smith and team will be featured on The American Dream TV program.
Bring on the cheer, the 2023 Holiday Boat Light Parade is here By Pamela A. Keene It wouldn’t be the holidays without the Holiday Boat Light Parade on Lake Lanier. Once again, this festive event will benefit The Georgia Sheriff’s Youth Homes. “During the holidays, what better way to celebrate the real meaning of the holidays than giving back?” said Richard
Pickering, event coordinator for the non-profit organization. “With five campuses across Georgia, the Georgia Sheriff’s Youth Home serves many children all year long. This is just one way that we as a community can share our resources with others, especially during the holiday season.” Pickering said that he’s hoping for an even stronger turnout than
in 2022, when 52 boats participated. The group donated about $8,000 to the youth homes and hope to do more this year. “Even if you can’t bring a boat, we urge you to make a donation through the website,” Pickering says. The event is open to houseboats, cruisers, runabouts, pontoon boats and sail boats. Parade marshaling begins at
5:30 p.m. north of Port Royale, then travels past Aqualand, down Big Creek to University Yacht Club, past Holiday Lazy Days and Holiday Marina before heading back to Port Royale where decorated boats can dock nearby. “Anyone with a boat can participate and we encourage See Parade, page 45
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LAKESIDE 43
Hearth and Home: How to add or upgrade a fireplace Since the beginning of time, fire and a hearth have been at the center of human experience; there is something deep within us that needs and celebrates the dance of flame in our lives. While we no longer depend on fireplaces for heat and cooking for the most part (thank goodness!), many homes continue to incorporate them into their design. The presence of fireplaces today is not focused on survival, but on the aesthetic, comfort and decorative desires of homeowners, and fireplaces of many kinds continue to be popular home features. Fireplace types Traditional fireplaces that burn wood remain the most popular (can you really beat the crackle of a wood fire?), but the downsides of fumes, smoke, and mess have led to several innovations that can evoke the sense of a wood fire without actually burning logs. Increasingly common are gas fireplaces, relying on natural gas as a source of fuel with faux “logs” that appear to be aflame but are not consumed. The advan-
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nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com tages are that a fire doesn’t depend on a dry supply of wood, they can be started with the flick of a switch, and are still real flames that give off heat. Oh, and there’s no ash to clean out of the hearth. A newer product on the market is the electric fireplace which is an affordable, eco-friendly, putanywhere option. These use LED lighting and built-in heaters to mimic the look and feel of an authentic fire. They also do not require an exhaust outlet or chimney like woodburning or gas fireplaces do. Adding a blower to
your fireplace helps circulate heat and makes a difference when you’re interested in warmth and not only aesthetics. The fire ribbon, a “minimalist” gas-powered flame, also has become popular in the last few years. Their shorter vertical size allows fire ribbons to be placed in smaller spaces or open areas. Indoor fireplaces For modern indoor fireplaces, there are almost infinite options for materials ranging from traditional brick and natural stone to ultra-modern with tile, quartz, or granite. Building a new home allows you to pick and choose upfront, but the fireplace and its surroundings in an existing home usually can be renovated to suit your needs. With the contemporary focus on television viewing, one of the trickiest decisions is where the fireplace and TV should be placed in relation to each other. With the fireplace usually being the architectural center of a given room, finding a convenient and viewable spot for a 50-inch or
PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING
TVs above fireplaces are effective but installation can be tricky.
larger screen can be a real challenge. One solution is a remodel that incorporates a large screen and smaller fire source, such as a fire ribbon, on the same wall. While fireplaces in the living room are the most common (and usually only) location in modern homes, bedroom fireplaces have become a highly desirable upgrade. Installing a traditional woodburning fireplace in a bed-
room is often possible, though a more cost-effective and safer option could be an electric fireplace. Outdoor fireplaces Installing a fireplace outside can add a welcoming vibe to an entertainment area, patio, poolside, or a tucked-away relaxation spot. The mechanics of outdoor fireplaces allow for much simpler, and even larger, designs. Good planning can even create a fireplace not just for ambiance and heat, but also as an outdoor kitchen complete with baking oven. Outdoor fireplace design usually limits materials to brick and natural stone as they can withstand the elements and temperatures more effectively. As mentioned above, ribbon fireplaces also are increasing in popularity, and their flexibility allows them to be implemented outdoors in a variety of ways, such as along a stone ledge or inside a stone table surrounded by seating. Removing or converting a pre-existing fireplace There are times and circumSee Design, page 46
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LAKE LANIER MARINAS INFORMATION BALD RIDGE MARINA Hours: Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F, marina: 24/7 access. Info: 770-887-5309 • baldridgemarina.com Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered. Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $4.89; $4.29 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.5 p.m., Thurs.-Mon. Closed Tues./Wed.) On-site eatery: Smokey Q BBQ GAINESVILLE MARINA Hours: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info:770-536-2171 • gainesvillemarina.com Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville Types of slips available: 600 slips, dry stack covered up to 25', wet covered & uncovered up to 80'. Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.39 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) On-site eatery: Skogies HABERSHAM MARINA Hours: Office/Store,9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week 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 10/20/23) $4.99 (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) HARBOR LANDING Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford Types of slips: Houseboats only. 18x60, 22x80 Types of fuel: Diesel, non ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.99 non-ethanol; $5.99 diesel nonethanol (Gas is not sold after 4:30 due to volume return of boats.) On-site eatery: Various restaurants.
HOLIDAY MARINA Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week. Info:770-945-7201 • holidaylakelanier.com Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100' Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totaling 1,238 slips Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23): $6.49 premium; $5.99 unleaded; $5.79 diesel (5 percent discount with Suntex advantage membership) On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier) Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., WednesdayMonday. Closed Tuesday. Info: 770-945-1991• lazydaysonlakelanier.com Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford Types of slips available: Wet slips from 50-125 foot covered & 100 foot open slips; 554 covered dry stack spaces up to 36 feet Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol marine fuel treated w/ ValvTect; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $6 regular PORT OF INDECISION MARINA Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., daily Info: 470 323-3465 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford Types of slips available: 14x32, 14x36, (254 units, up to 40’), cov. Types of fuel: non ethanol. Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.89 non-ethanol On-site eatery: Various restaurants. PORT ROYALE MARINA Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; Service, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., M-F.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., S. Closed Sundays. Info:770-887-5715 • bestinboating.com/port_royale Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106' totaling 815 slips & dry stack storage (521) for up to 39'.
Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23)$5.29 regular (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.) On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., M-S. Closed Sat./Sun. Info: 770-967-6811 • shmarinas.com Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Houseboats, covered cruisers, & all types of open slips plus covered & open dry slips, totaling 1,725 wet docks and 460 dry docks Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.99, non-members; $4.37, members (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week.) On-site eatery: Pig Tales SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Info: 770-967-5500 • shmarinas.com Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Wet (510) Dry (150) Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.34, non-members; $4.11, members On-site eatery: Fish Tales SUNRISE COVE MARINA Hours: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon, Closed Tuesdays. Info: 770-536-8599 • sunrisecovermarina.com Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered-20-70'; Covered-24-50'; to include an exclusive 44' Sailboat Breakwater Dock. Total Wet Slips 688 and nine (9) Dry Storage Spaces (boats on trailer). Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 10/20/23) $5.89 unleaded Ethanol free
LAKESIDE’S SAFETY GUIDE A GUIDE TO BOATING AND SWIMMING SAFETY RESOURCES PRESENTED BY LAKESIDE ON LANIER Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included) BOATING Boater Education Courses with Certification Exam Basics of Boating - America's Boating Course • Course: Meets Georgia DNR and NASBLA requirements for boater and PWC certification; covers boat handling, safety equipment/procedures, rules of the road, boat types/terminology. • Instructors: America’s Boating Club – Atlanta (formerly Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron • When: Classes will resume in 2024 • Cost: $25 per student • Information/registration: americasboatingclubatlanta.org/ or Email - ABC@usps-atlanta.org
Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification - USCGA • Course: NASBLA certified entry level classroom-only course with test for boater education and PWC certification. Covers basic boating terminology, “rules of the road,” navigation, operation, legal requirements, emergencies, water etiquette and more. • Instructors: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers • Minimum age: 12 • When: Classes will resume in 2024 • Where: U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 29, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch • Cost: Individuals $35; bring lunch • Information/registration: Hector Colon, hlcolon55@gmail.com, 678-778-2131; http://wow.uscgaux.info/peclass.php?unit=070-02-09 On-Line Courses • www.boat-ed.com and www.boaterexam.com/usa/georgia include study guide and Georgia Certification Exam with unlimited exam attempts; cost is $34.95 payable upon exam passage. Temporary certificate printed upon passage; permanent card mailed. • www.boatus.org/free offers free course, exam,print your own certificate; mailed certificate $5.
• 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 - 770-533-5850, www.gainesville.org/359/Swim-Lessons • Georgia Mountains YMCA - www.gamountainsymca.org/programs-2/swim-lessons, 770-297-9622 • Cumming Aquatic Center - 770-781-1781 www.cummingaquaticcenter.com • Gwinnett Swim - www.gwinnettswim.com, 404-590-7946 • Swim Atlanta - www.gwinnettswim.com, 404-590-7946 NOTE: Please contact Lakeside on Lanier News to list additional boating and water safety classes. lakesidenews@mindspring.com.
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• Curb
• UYC
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door kitchen with specialty appliances, running water and storage, you’re only limited by your imagination and your budget. • Create activity zones – from a place for cornhole or bocce ball to badminton or a giant checkers board game, provide an alternative to screen time with some family fun. Add a square game table to a patio grouping for an evening of board games or cards.
Just because it’s cold outside, you don’t need to stay inside. Even if you only try one or two of these suggestions, you’ll have a good head start on spring and more ways to enjoy your outdoor space next summer. Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener. She also writes for more than a dozen publications across the country, covering features, travel and gardening.
• Lanier Islands
• Burns
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day and Saturday evenings featuring a full bar, signature cocktails and tapas. Opened last spring, Game Changer has become a popular family entertainment option. It was recently expanded with more choices for all ages. “Game Changer’s diverse experiences range from virtual sports suites and challenge golf to arcade games and ax throw-
Simpson retired from actively racing in 2015, and he continues to serve the motorsports community. “I even have about 40-50 marine customers who come to me for service or parts,” he says with a smile. Simpson and his wife Diane have two married daughters, Brittany, who graduated from Georgia Tech, and Taylor, a graduate of Lehigh University, and seven grandchildren.
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ing,” she said. “And we recently added bingo, music bingo, football watch parties and Keno.” Game Changer will be open all winter except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. For more details, to view the most recent menus or for specific hours, visit wwwlanierislands.com. For reservations: 770 945-8787.
6/10ths of an inch of snow that winter. Our most recent strong El Niño winter was 2015-16 where we had 3/10th of an inch of snow. Our average snow is 2.9 inches in Atlanta. Looks like we start cold and then warm, at least to me. Enjoy your November. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Glenn Burns is chief meteorologist emeritus for WSB-TV in Atlanta.
Simpson’s goals for his year as commodore are straightforward. “I hope to build a robust social calendar with attractive events for members,” he said. “I want to lead the board and bridge to further improve the club’s financial strength, and to ensure that the people who come up behind me will carry on the traditions of the club for years to come. “University Yacht Club has a rich history of traditions that bring us all together.”
• Parade
Continued from Page 8 people to come with their families,” he said. “We will be giving out trophies at the after-party, taking place at Pelican Pete’s.” The Facebook page – Holiday Boat Light Parade at Lake Lanier – will include the most up-to-date marshaling and parade route, as well as links to registration, the safety video and images from previous years’ parades.
“Over the years, the parade has been building its participation and we hope for a good turnout this year,” Pickering said. “Let us know you’re coming to support this incredible children’s charity.” Entry fees are based on the length of the boat registered. The event’s rain date is Sunday, December 10. For more info, visit www.georgiasheriffsyouthhomes.org.
Lakeside’s Recreation Guide Provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers The Corps of Engineers welcomes you to beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier. Located just 35 miles northeast of Atlanta, the lake offers some of the finest camping opportunities in the South. The Corps operates 7 campgrounds at Lake Lanier. (Duckett Mill, Sawnee and Van Pugh South will be closed for the 2023 camping season due to staffing issues.) 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 Sid-
ney 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
n MORE INFO: Water release schedules - 770 945-1466 Lake information - 770 945-1467 • Corps of Engineers - 770 945-9531 www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/Lake-Sidney-Lanier
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.
ENJOY A SAFE AUTUMN ON THE LAKE!
Practice Safe Boating Use life jackets, stay sober and monitor the weather to try and prevent boating accidents!
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• Design
• Mendes
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lot of noise, and it sent a cloud of gunship. powder smoke drifting down on the Finally, my favorite events were the quarry. We would yell “Prepare to be sailboat charters, where I would take up boarded!” Once aboard, “Captain No to 15 people aboard the big wooden boat Beard” would introduce the various and go out for three or four hours to members of the crew, including me, “Vi- watch the sunset or simply sail around the cious Vinnie, the Scourge of the Chattalake. hoochee.” We called ourselves the I met all kinds of interesting folks such “Legendary Pirates of Lanier” not to be as rap artists, where we did a photo shoot confused with the “Pirates of Lanier,” the for an album cover, a bachelorette party, organization that sponsors the Poker Run global employees who were attending each year to raise money for charity. Then corporate meetings, a bride and groom we would explain that we had lost a sailing off into the sunset after their wedbunch of our crew to desertion, and terding, and many more. rible wounds, and diseases such as Lord Nelson Charters has created scurvy, and we needed to recruit replace- happy memories of Lake Lanier for me ments. Then we proceeded to teach them and many, many others. Sadly, the busihow to “Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk” ness is being sold so I don’t know what to be pirates, i.e., how to “Swagger and the future will bring. However, I did have Snarl” and to “Stagger and Scratch” and a good run for 26 years and the best part “Lurch and Laugh.” Each time they did was that I went sailing and got paid for it! this we would give them another piece of Glad to have been aboard. pirate gear, such as a hat, sword, vest, Mendes has been sailing all his life and bandana etc. Pretty soon we had 40 or 50 on Lake Lanier for the past 25 years. His family owns a marina/bar/restaurant so he pirates swaggering and snarling and has plenty of real life experiences to draw lurching and laughing around the deck. For anyone who wasn’t interested in this, from. His favorite line: “You can’t make this stuff up.” I would take them sailing on the pirate
stances when the needs of families and their living spaces evolve beyond the desire or requirement for a fireplace where one already exists. If your fireplace doesn’t work or you don’t use it regularly, that’s a lot of valuable space that could be used to better purpose. Sometimes a family member may develop asthma or other respiratory issues that make having a fireplace an ongoing health concern. Regardless, there are
many opportunities when removing or converting a pre-existing fireplace. The space itself can be repurposed with little change, or it (and the venting system) can be totally removed to make more storage space or even add windows. Fireplaces are a great amenity for almost any home and typically increase the resale value of your investment. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an old one, you can’t go wrong with a hearth for your home!
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Lakeside Dining Guide Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily. This Southern Gastro Pub features reimagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. 770-9458787. Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Hideaway Bay Marina. 770-967-3775, www.fishtaleslakelanier.com Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatched-roof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. 70-887-5715 ext 5., www.pelicanpetes.com Pig Tales - Casual lakeside dining featuring BBQ, burgers, wings and more. Great customer service, full service bar with draft beer, wine & mixed drinks, live music on weekends. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. 678828-7676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier.com. Sidney’s Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Only serving breakfast. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. 770-945-8787, www.lanierislands.com. Skogies – Made from scratch seafood, BBQ
and American fare with a great view served in a laid back pet friendly environment. A full Sunday breakfast menu includes eggs benedict served five ways, Omelettes, shrimp & grits, cathead biscuits & gravy, breakfast sandwiches & more. Call from your boat & they will pick you up. Gainesville Marina. 678 450-1310; www.skogieslakefrontrestaurant. us. Smokey Q BBQ - Pulled Pork and Chicken Sandwiches, Philly Cheesesteaks, Pork and Chicken Tacos and more! Seasonal. Bald Ridge Marina, 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Cumming. 770 910-4961. The Twisted Oar - Holiday Marina. Offering fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak; casual dining. Full bar service, tropical and frozen drinks. Live entertainment, trivia, indoor/outdoor flat screen TVs. Open year round. www.thetwistedoar.com, 678 7147572.
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