JULY 2021
THE
Summer
ISSUE
A SUPPLEMENT OF
More •tho •pedics (n.): more hand and arm expertise
Our orthopedic surgery experts are trained in diagnosing, treating and preventing hand and arm injuries - and our fellowship-trained surgeon offers more specialized hand and upper-extremity care including reconstructive microsurgery.
Find your orthopedic expert today at ngpg.org/more l 770-830-3357
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JULY 2021
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DIRECTOR OF REVENUE Leah Nelson GENERAL MANAGER Norman Baggs ADVERTISING SALES Bernadette Mastracchio
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Megan Lewis
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CREATIVE SERVICES Chelsea Sunshine, Graphic Design Claudette Keeley, Ad Design April Seymour, Pre-press/Ad Design HOME MAGAZINE, A DIVISION OF The Times Gainesville, GA A Metro Market Media Inc. property
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HOT DOG FACTS
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OUTDOOR SPACES
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SUMMER GARDEN
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History and facts about this American staple. Create appropriate outdoor living spaces. Keep your garden safe in the summer heat.
GRILLING BURGERS Tips and tricks for making juicy burgers on the grill.
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APPLE TURNOVERS
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KEEP KIDS SAFE
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LAKE EATS
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CALENDAR
Recipe for classic Apple Turnovers. Safe summer tips for unvaccinated kids. Fountain Food Adventures on Lake Lanier. Community happenings to visit.
Manuscripts, artwork, photography, inquiries and submitted materials are welcome. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Metro Market Media Inc. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Metro Market Media cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. HOME: Living in North Georgia reserves the right to refuse advertisements for any reason. Acceptance of advertising does not mean or imply the services or product is endorsed or recommended by HOME: Living in North Georgia.
/HOMELivinginNorthGeorgia 345 Green St. | Gainesville, GA 30501 770-532-1234
www.homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com
TASTE OF HOME
BITE INTO THESE FACTS ABOUT
Hot Dogs
H
ot dogs are the yin to the hamburger’s yang. Franks and burgers are a common pair at barbecues and ballparks, and rightfully so. Handheld, portable meals, they pack a convenient and flavorful punchy. Few foods may seem as American as hot dogs. However, hot dogs are derivative of European sausages. This fact and more can shed light on the humble hot dog, which is sure to find its way to a grill near you this summer. • Mental Floss says it’s pretentious to consume a hot dog with utensils. Hot dog etiquette experts also insist adults should not top their hot dogs with ketchup, which they suggest is a topping strictly reserved for children. • Hot dogs are often associated with New York City. However, hot dogs gained popularity across the country in the 20th century. • Hot dogs are often called frankfurters. This refers to Frankfurt, Germany, where pork sausages similar to hot dogs are believed to have originated. • Hot dogs were given their name by cartoonist Tad Dorgan. He observed a vendor selling “hot dachshund sausage dogs” during a baseball game at New York City’s Polo Grounds. As legend has it, Dorgan couldn’t spell the name of the dog, instead writing only ‘hot dogs.’ The name eventually caught on. • Despite several jokes as well as speculation regarding what hot dogs contain, hot dogs are cured and cooked sausages that contain mainly pork, beef, chicken, and turkey. The meats come from the muscle of the animals. If a product contains organ meats, it must be declared on the packaging. • In 1867, Charles Feltman made a cart with a stove on it, which he used to boil sausages. The cart also had compartments to keep buns fresh. Carts that sell hot dogs on the street are now seen in cities across the country. • Hot dogs are a NASA-approved food for astronauts. • While hot dogs are sold at many venues, data indicates that the popular convenience store chain 7-Eleven sells the most grilled hot dogs in North America, with 100 million sold annually. • Relish, sauerkraut and even ketchup are popular hot dog toppings. But mustard is by far the most popular. • Why are there typically 10 hot dogs per pack and only eight buns per bag? When hot dogs were first introduced, they were sold at varying quantities at the butcher shop. Hot dogs were eventually standardized to packages of 10, but buns are baked in clusters of four in popular pans designed to hold eight rolls. Hot dogs are a summertime staple that have an interesting and extensive history. H
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1-866-262-7407 706-776-1144 hayesofbaldwin.com
July 2021 | HOME | 5
HOME & GARDEN
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT
Outdoor Living Spaces
H
ome trends come and go. What was popular as recently as a decade ago may have lost some luster in the eyes of today’s home buyers. Though that’s historically been the case in regard to real estate, outdoor living rooms are one relatively recent home trend that figures to have a longer shelf life, especially in the aftermath of a global pandemic during which people were encouraged to stay home as much as possible. Real estate professionals and organizations like the National Association of Home Builders note the popularity of outdoor living spaces among prospective home buyers, and how that popularity has grown in recent years. Outdoor living rooms not only appeal to potential buyers, they also serve as a means for current homeowners to get more out of their properties. Homeowners mulling outdoor living space projects should consider various factors before deciding to go ahead with a project. • COST: The home renovation resource HomeAdvisor estimates that the average cost of an outdoor living space is around $7,600. That cost can easily go up depending on where homeowners live and the features they want to have in their outdoor living spaces. For example, including a builtin fire pit in an outdoor living space will cost more than purchasing a standalone fire pit that can be picked up and moved. But many homeowners feel a built-in fire pit makes an outdoor living space even more special. • RETURN ON INVESTMENT: Return on investment is another factor for homeowners to consider as they try to decide if they should install outdoor living spaces and how to design those areas. Much conflicting data about the ROI on outdoor kitchens can be found online, but many trusted real estate organizations report that such additions do not mesmerize prospective buyers. Data from the American Institute of Architects indicates that outdoor kitchens are routinely ranked among the least desirable home features, which means homeowners should not expect substantial ROI when selling their homes. But that built-in fire pit? Estimates from the National Association of Realtors suggest fire features recover around 67 percent of homeowners’ initial investment. In addition, 83 percent of homeowners surveyed by the NAR who had installed fire features said they had a greater desire to be home after completing the project. H
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July 2021 | HOME | 7
HOME & GARDEN
HOW TO
Keep Gardens Safe IN SUMMER HEAT WAVES Summer is a season to relax and enjoy the warm weather. Basking in the summer sun is a great way to relax, but only when the temperatures are safe. Summer heat waves can compromise the health of human beings as well as their pets. Gardening enthusiasts also may need to go the extra mile to keep their plants and gardens from wilting under harsh summer sun. Extreme heat stress can be very harmful to plants. The online gardening resource Gardening Know How notes that some plants can withstand summer heat waves better than others. For example, succulents conserve water in their leaves, helping them to withstand heat waves when the dog days of summer arrive. But succulents are unique, and many plants will require a little extra help to withstand a heat wave. • TAKE A PROACTIVE APPROACH WITH MULCH. Gardeners need not wait until the heat arrives to protect their plants from searing summer heat. The sustainable living experts at Eartheasy recommend utilizing light-colored mulch during heat waves. Such mulch will reflect the sunlight and help to maintain cooler surface soil conditions. Eartheasy even notes that grass clippings, once they have turned from green to light brown, can make for the perfect mulch to protect plants from the heat. Clippings also are free, making them a cost-effective solution. • WATER WISELY. The horticultural experts at Yates Gardening note that water only helps plants withstand heat waves if it is applied effectively. If water is only applied in short bursts and not long enough so it can penetrate all the way to the root zone, roots will then stay near the surface. In such instances, roots will dry out during a heat wave and plants will not make it through the season. Timing also 8 | HOME | July 2021
is essential when watering. Eartheasy recommends watering in the morning to avoid heat scald and ensure as little water is lost to evaporation as possible. When watering during a heat wave, do so by hand rather than through a sprinkler. Hand watering allows gardeners to direct all the water onto the plants that need it most during a heat wave. • LET YOUR PLANTS PITCH IN. When planting new plants, it is important that gardeners recognize it takes time for these plants to establish their roots, so they are strong enough to withstand heat waves. In the meantime, strategic planting can help them make it through their first heat waves unscathed. Eartheasy notes that planting by taller, more established plants can provide new plants with shade that can help them survive heat waves. Just make sure new plants can still get the sun they need to thrive. Heat waves are inevitable and potentially harmful to gardens. Gardeners can help their plants beat the heat in various ways. H
Full Service Pharmacy Unique Gifts Embroidery Monogramming Packaged Prescriptions THE TIM ES THE TIM ES
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935 Green Street, GaineSville 30501 callriverSidepharmacy.com 770.532.6253 • Fax 770.532.6592
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Friendly, Honest People
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FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
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ES T A D E
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Presents
2021 Virtual Expo Theme Calendar
Health Expo Sponsored by
1st Wednesday every month at 10am New Theme and Speaker each month Theme is subject to change
- JULY Mental Health
- OCTOBER Open Enrollment & Advance Care Planning
- AUGUST Cancer Awareness
- NOVEMBER Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness
- SEPTEMBER Healthy Aging
- DECEMBER Respiratory Care
Register to attend at https://www.gainesvilletimes.com/virtualevents/ To become a speaker contact Megan Lewis at 770-535-6371 or at mlewis@gainesvilletimes.com
July 2021 | HOME | 9
TASTE OF HOME
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Tips to grill a juicier burger
Summer weekends wouldn’t be the same without backyard barbecues. And no backyard barbecue is complete without hamburgers. The exact origins of the hamburger are unknown, but historians believe this beloved staple of American barbecues can be traced to mid-nineteenth century Germany. According to History.com, political revolutions in Germany in the 1840s spurred many Germans to emigrate to the United States. Germans brought many of their cultural traditions with them, including their cuisine. One such dish was the chopped steak, which can be traced to Hamburg, a city renowned for its high-quality beef. Though few might now see ground beef as a remedy for digestive issues, that was a common belief in the 1860s, when a New York-based doctor named James Salisbury suggested that cooked beef patties could benefit the digestive system as much as chopped, chipped or ground beef. Buns were not yet in the picture at that time, but they were by 1904, when beef patties on buns were available at the St. Louis World’s Fair. In 1921, the first White Castle restaurant opened in Kansas, and hamburgers have been a staple of American cuisine ever since. Though it’s been a century since White Castle opened its first restaurant, people are still perfecting the art of making the perfect hamburger. Exactly what defines the perfect hamburger may be open to debate, but there’s no denying the desirability of juicy burgers. As grillmasters prepare for another season of backyard barbecues, the following are some ways they can make their burgers juicier.
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1. AVOID EXTRA-LEAN MEAT. Extra-lean meat might be healthier than the alternatives, but 93 percent lean ground beef is unlikely to produce juicy burgers. When making burgers from scratch, opt for 80 percent lean. WebMD notes that fat helps to hold burgers together while searing and cooking the meat. The result is a juicier interior than cooks are likely to get when using lean meats. 2. SWAP BEEF FOR LAMB. Cookbook author John Holl notes in his book, ‘The American Craft Beer Cookbook’ (Storey), that substituting ground beef with ground lamb makes for a juicier burger. Lamb is moist, so unlike lean beef, it can be grilled as well-done without drying out. Lamb also offers a different taste than beef, adding a little variety to a backyard barbecue. 3. SADDLE YOUR SPATULA. Flipping the burgers too much or pressing them against the grill as they cook can dry them out. 4. BE CONSCIOUS OF CARRYOVER COOKING TIME. Carryover cooking time refers to the length of time temperature in a food continues to rise even after it’s been removed from a cooking area. Beef is among the many foods that continue to cook after being removed from a heat source, so beef burgers can be removed from the grill before they reach the desired cooking temperature. This prevents drying out and ensures that once they’re served, the burgers will be juicy and safe to eat. Grilling a juicy burger is easily accomplished with a few simple and time-tested strategies. H
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TASTE OF HOME
Serve apple turnovers at summer gatherings Celebrations are common in July. American Independence Day is celebrated each July 4th, and that momentous occasion lays the foundation for a month-long celebration of Americana. Since the United States first gained its independence from Great Britain, many things have been described as representing the best of American culture. Rock-nroll music and baseball have long been deemed “as American as apple pie,” but how did apple pie come to be synonymous with America? Few fruits have been associated more with America than the apple, due in large part to John Chapman, affectionately known as Johnny Appleseed. Chapman was born in Massachusetts during the Revolutionary War. Chapman’s father fought in the war, then survived to return home to farm and teach his son the family business. The younger Chapman is said to have spent 40 years clearing land and planting apple seeds in Midwestern states. Apples thrived and became important foods for early settlers. Apples were easy to grow and store for use throughout the year, plus they were, and still are, versatile fruits that can be used in many different recipes. Apple pie is a popular dish made from apples, but a close cousin to pie, turnovers can be just as delicious. Turnovers are handheld desserts made with many of the same ingredients as pie. They are small pastries made by covering one half of a piece of dough with filling, folding the other half over on top, and then sealing the edges. Apple turnovers can be a sweet treat for July 4th barbecues or other events this summer. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of PillsburyTM.
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EASY APPLE TURNOVERS Serves 4 1 1/2 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (roughly 1 1/2 medium-sized apple) 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1 box Pillsburyª refrigerated pie crusts 1 egg
STEPS 1. In a 2-quart saucepan, mix apples, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of the water and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until bubbly. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender. 2. In a small bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Gradually stir into apple mixture, cooking and stirring until mixture thickens. Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla. Cool 15 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, heat oven to 350 F. Let pie crust pouch stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. 4. Remove pie crust from pouch; unroll crust on ungreased cookie sheet. Spoon cooled fruit mixture evenly onto half of crust to within 1Ú2 inch of edge. 5. In a small bowl, beat egg and 1 tablespoon water; brush over edge of crust. Fold untopped half of crust over apple mixture; firmly press edge to seal. Flute edge; cut small slits in several places in top crust. Brush top with remaining egg mixture. 6. Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Serve warm or cool. Drizzle with icing, if desired. Expert tips: Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or McIntosh, make flavorful pies. Braeburn or Gala apples provide good texture and a slightly sweeter flavor. H
Lanier’s Lakeside Locations
David Fountain, a local food enthusiast and our community’s Best of Forsyth Financial Planner and Investment Advisor, continues his monthly mission to uncover and support our local favorite restaurants! As the summer sun only continues to heat Gainesville, we find ourselves heading over to Lake Lanier to cool down and have some fun. This month, David wanted to highlight our community’s best lakeside locations that you can reach by either boat or car. His goal is to provide you, our readers, with a new favorite spot while also helping these restaurants regain some of the business they may have lost during the pandemic.
THE TWISTED OAR Lanier Islands Pkwy/Buford
PELICAN PETE’S Port Royale Drive/ Gainesville
FISH TALES Mitchell Street/Flowery Branch
PIG TALES Lights Ferry Rd/ Flowery Branch
SKOGIE’S LAKEFRONT RESTAURANT Dawsonville Hwy/ Gainesville
LANDSHARK BAR & GRILL Lanier Islands Pkwy/ Buford
SMOKEY Q Bald Ridge Marina Rd/ Cumming
Do not forget to visit our website to for upcoming and previous food adventures! Read our articles and browse the pictures at www.FountainsFoodAdventures.com, or follow the “food adventure” on Facebook and Instagram.
Tastings made possible and Sponsored by
THE SUMMER ISSUE
HOW TO KEEP KIDS SAFE UNTIL THEY CAN BE VACCINATED By mid-spring 2021, tens of millions of people in the United States and Canada had heeded recommendations from public health officials and gotten vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the Public Health Agency of Canada noted that the likelihood for severe illness from COVID-19 was very low for fully vaccinated individuals, prompting many people over the age of 16 to get vaccinated and paving the way for them to return to something resembling normal life. But what about children under 16? In early May, the FDA was expected to approve the Pfizer vaccine for kids as young as 12. Though that’s welcome news for parents of children between the ages of 12 and 15, those with younger children may be wondering what they can do to keep their youngsters safe this summer. Like their parents, children are itching to get back to normal life, but no one knows when young children will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that children are not little adults, so medical professionals cannot just assume vaccines will have the same effect on kids as they do on older people, including adolescents. Clinical trials on thousands of children are now underway to determine if the COVID-19 vaccines are safe for kids, but the AAP notes that those trials will need to be completed and researchers will need to determine if the shots are safe before kids can receive the vaccinations en masse. With no vaccine available to young children, parents will need to tiptoe through another summer balancing act as they try to keep kids engaged and happy but also safe. 14 | HOME | July 2021
1. DINE OUTSIDE. The CDC notes that on-site outdoor dining where tables are spaced six feet apart is significantly less risky than dining indoors. When dining out this summer, visit restaurants with outdoor seating that meets the minimum distancing recommendations. 2. RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO THROW CAUTION TO THE WIND. As more adults and adolescents become fully vaccinated, community transmission should go down. That should calm parents’ fears, but they must keep their guard up anyway. Kids should keep wearing their masks when they go to stores or even outdoor areas like playgrounds or ballgames. 3. TRAVEL WISELY. It is important that parents keep their guard up on summer vacations as well. Traditional tourist attractions may not be wise when traveling with children who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated. When choosing a vacation destination, choose a locale you can drive to so contact with people from other households is minimized. As you shop for a place to stay, consider a private vacation rental instead of a hotel. Private rentals with their own fully equipped kitchens and barbecue areas can reduce reliance on dining out, which should also make it less likely that kids are exposed to the virus while traveling. Until all children can be vaccinated against COVID-19, parents must continue to be patient and vigilant. That means safety must once again be a big priority this summer. H
THE 2021 WINNERS DIRECTORY
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The listings below are from winners of Best of Hall 2021. For a complete list of winners, go to bestofhallcounty.com. ACCESSORIES STORE, FURNITURE STORE, MATTRESS STORE, OFFICE FURNITURE AND DESIGN
AUDIOLOGIST/HEARING CARE INESVILLETIME S
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1210 Thompson Bridge Rd., Gainesvlle,Ga 678-971-5671 elitefurnituredesigns.com
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AUTO LOAN PROVIDER, CREDIT UNION, CUSTOMER SERVICE
678-971-5671
678-971-4648
770-503-1765
BANK, COMMERCIAL BANK
CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE, VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE
CARDIOLOGY GROUP
678-828-7118
770-534-9014
CHIROPRACTIC GROUP
DENTAL GROUP
DERMATOLOGY GROUP, SKIN CANCER TREATMENT
770-534-0656 WWW.WATKINSCHIROPRACTIC.COM
770-532-4555
678-989-3613 WWW.UCBI.COM
770-536-7546
Are you a Best of Hall 2021 Winner and would like to be included in this directory? Email your local Times Representative or email Marketing@gainesvilletimes.com
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THE 2021 WINNERS DIRECTORY
The listings below are from winners of Best of Hall 2021. For a complete list of winners, go to bestofhallcounty.com. EYE CLINIC, EYE SURGERY PRACTICE, EYEGLASS STORE
ELECTRICIAN
FINANCIAL PLANNING/INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE
ADVANCEDEYECENTER
770-532-0292
770-535-5000
FLORIST
GASTROENTEROLOGY GROUP
GENERATOR SERVICES
770-534-6691
770-536-8109
770-531-7890
770-531-7890
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING HEAVY EQUIPMENT & TRACTOR THANK YOU, HALL! COMPANY, PLUMBER
GOLF CART STORE
470-252-5622
770-532-9130
We are proud to be voted as Best Heating & Air Conditioning Co. & Best Plumber!
770-532-3331
(770) 532-9130 | www.gainesvillemechanical.com KITCHEN & BATH REMODELER, LANDSCAPER, COMMERCIAL CONTRACTOR, HOME REMODELER, LANDSCAPES, LAWN CARE / PATIO / DECK DESIGN / INSTALLATION MAINTENANCE, YARD MANAGEMENT
IN-HOME ELDER CARE SERVICE
TRACY TESMER
Design • Remodeling
770-530-1751 www.ahelpinghandga.com
678-450-1700 tracytesmerremodeling.com
NORTHEAST GEORGIA'S PREMIER DESIGN/BUILD FIRM Custom designs and professional remodeling services including: Kitchens & Bathrooms | Home Additions | Basements | Age in Place Remodeling & Design NESVILLETIME GAI S
470-252-5210 www.livingartlandscapes.net
THE 2021 Thank y Thank WINNERS for votingy for voting Best Real E DIRECTORY
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There's nothing better than seeing your kid
smile. We're here for all
your child's dental needs
Best Realthr Es Agent Agentinthr years ar Bigyears smiles beginin a r at Kids Dentistry. and remain committed to
not only The listings below are from winnerscreating of Best ofa worry-free and fun experience but also Hall 2021. For a complete list of winners, go to a safe one for you and your bestofhallcounty.com. kids when you visit our offices.
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Best Real Thank you Es fo Best Real Est FLOWERY BRANCH | GAINESVILLE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY!
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INESVILLETIM
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MORTGAGE/HOME LOAN PROVIDER ESVILLET
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For 25 years Longstreet Clinic has proudly cared for
MARGARITA, families across our community. And we’re still here, providing high quality, safe medical care tailored MEXICAN RESTAURANT
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ESTATE AGENT DREAL IAN NE H ICKS
Ca mewww.homestarfc.com se y r h e! 770.503.0380 | 332 Washington St. NW, Gainesville, GA 30501
678.794.1335
Ddianneh@redbowteam.com IANNE HICKS
Copyright © 2021. Homestar Financial Corporation 332 Washington St. NW, Gainesville, GA 30501. NMLS #70864. For licensing info: NMLSconsumeraccess.org. This is not a commitment to lend and not all customers will qualify. All terms, information, conditions, rates, and programs are subject to credit and property approval and may change without notice. Not all products are available in all states. Certain other restrictions may apply. Homestar Financial Corporation is an equal housing lender and is not affiliated with any government entity.
678.794.1335
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770.536.5501
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REHABILITATION SERVICES
SWIMMING POOL CONTRACTOR
TIRE SHOP, AUTO ACCESSORY STORE
Howorth Pool Service INESVILLETIME S THE TIM ES
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770-536-9300
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770-534-1417 Pump, Filter & Heater Repairs
Hall Tire & Wheel North New & Used Tires Wheels & Deals
770-297-5308 WWW.NORTHHALLTIRE.COM
888.959
888.959
FOOD ADVENTURES
Lanier’s Lakeside Locations
D
avid Fountain, a local food enthusiast and our community’s Best of Forsyth Financial Planner and Investment Advisor, continues his monthly mission to uncover and support our local favorite restaurants! As the summer sun only continues to heat Forysth, we find ourselves heading over to Lake Lanier to cool down and have some fun. This month, David wanted to highlight our community’s best lakeside locations that you can reach by either boat or car. His goal is to provide you, our readers, with a new favorite spot while also helping these restaurants regain some of the business they may have lost during the pandemic. THE TWISTED OAR Lanier Islands Pkwy/Buford Located in the beautiful Holiday Marina, The Twisted Oar is a wonderful spot for lakeside views and tasty food. This restaurant sits off the water and offers outdoor seating that gives you a beautiful view of the marina. David arrived with Caroline and Jennifer, and they chose to sit outside to enjoy the nice lake breeze. Offering everything from fresh seafood to wings, the group was excited for what this location had to offer. They began with the loaded potato skins, and that was a wonderful choice to start with. Filled with cheese, bacon, and chives, this appetizer got them all excited for the rest of their meal. The server promptly let David know that they had just begun offering pizza again, and being a pizza fan, David knew he needed to try it. He ordered the Buffalo Shrimp Pizza, which was topped with blue cheese sauce, grilled shrimp, mozzarella, and a drizzle of buffalo sauce. The pizza was well cooked, and the tang of the bleu cheese perfectly complemented the buffalo sauce. Caroline decided to order the Fish Sandwich, which included grilled fish, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, and tartar sauce on a hoagie. With onion rings as her
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side, Caroline highly enjoyed this meal. She said the fish was cooked to perfection and tasted very fresh. Jen opted for the shrimp tacos. Topped with lettuce, cheddar jack cheese, and Pico de Gallo, Jen said they sure hit the spot. The Twisted Oar is a pet friendly restaurant to ensure that your entire family, even the furry ones, can have a great time. Each week they offer a variety of specials, such as 10oz Ribeye and Blackened Red Snapper, so make sure to look it up before you visit. This eatery creates a fun and lively environment welcome to everyone by boat or car, and offers wonderful food, handcrafted drinks, and live music for your enjoyment. PELICAN PETE’S Port Royale Drive/ Gainesville Known for being the only floating tiki bar & restaurant on Lake Lanier, Pelican Pete’s creates a true ‘on the water’ experience. When pulling into the Port Royale Marina, you do not immediately see the restaurant. It is not until you clear the trees and begin walking onto the dock do you see the lively covered pavilion of Pelican Pete’s. David and fellow foodie, Sandee, were excited to enjoy the nice lake breeze during their meal, and this location provides the perfect dining area to do so. After getting settled, David decided to order the Pete’s Hot Chicken Sandwich. Their Nashville-style hot chicken was topped with bread and butter pickles, shredded lettuce, and mayo, all on a brioche bun. He described the chicken as very tender and provided an enjoyable kick of heat. Sandee opted for the Blackened Salmon Spinach Salad, which was topped with toasted pecans, bleu cheese, Vidalia onion, and warm Georgia peach bacon vinaigrette. She said this is a wonderful choice if you are looking for a healthier option. The blackened salmon was perfectly cooked, and she was happily surprised by their unique,
An Intimate Evening of Songs and Stories with
John Berry LIVE JULY 9, 2021 7:30 PM THE VENUE AT FRIENDSHIP SPRINGS 7340 Friendship Springs Blvd Flowery Branch, GA 30542 TICKETS: $50 EACH
To Purchase Tickets Scan the QR Code or go online at: www.gainesvilletimes.com/johnberry
homemade vinaigrette. Described as a ‘one of a kind’ space, Pelican Pete’s creates a fun and lively space to enjoy their many different food varieties. Pelican Pete’s is also pet friendly location, which is perfect for days when you bring fido on the lake. FISH TALES Mitchell Street/Flowery Branch Whether you choose to drive a car, boat, or helicopter to this lakeside restaurant, you are sure to be impressed with the fun atmosphere and tasty food. Located at the Hideaway Bay Marina in Flowery Branch, David arrived with Caroline, Jennifer, and Sandee. David and his fellow foodie friends decided to sit outside, and boy was that a good choice. The weather was perfect, and the refreshing breeze felt wonderful as they overlooked the marina. When deciding what to order, their server was immensely helpful by recommending their most popular dishes, as well as his personal favorites. They decided to start with the Fish Tales, and Tuna Poke Nachos. Everyone enjoyed the fish tales (fried grouper fingers), and it tasted especially wonderful with the homemade dill tartar sauce. The Tuna Poke Nachos were very fresh and was a great appetizer for David and Jennifer. For the main meal, David ordered the Floribbean Grouper, and said that the Caribbean jerked fish was very fresh and well-seasoned. Caroline and Sandee Opted for the Fish Tacos with shrimp, and Mango Mahi Tacos. Both tacos were wonderful, but Sandee recommends the Mango Mahi Tacos if you are looking for something new and exciting. Jen ordered the Spring Summer Salad with shrimp, and said the skewered grilled shrimp tasted wonderful with the fresh mix of lettuce, mangos, pecans, bleu cheese crumbles, grape tomatoes, and Caribbean mango dressing. The group was very satisfied with their meal, and all agreed their seafood was fresh and tasty. Open since 2010, owners Dale and Jessica Ozaki have done a wonderful job of creating a fun lakeside experience. The atmosphere of the restaurant is fun and lively, and allows you to enjoy their tasty food, full bar, and live music. If you have children, Fish Tales has a massive sandbox out front for their enjoyment as well. This family friendly restaurant is certainly one to check out. PIG TALES Lights Ferry Rd/ Flowery Branch Owned by the same people as Fish Tales (Dale & Jessica Ozaki), Pig Tales creates its own wonderful experience of BBQ goodness. Walking up to this location, you are met with a calming lake breeze that wafts 20 | HOME | July 2021
the savory scent of barbecue, which immediately left David and Jennifer excited to see what this eatery had to offer. After being seated, the server suggested that they start off with the Pig Tales Nachos. These nachos came completely loaded with pulled pork, queso, crunchy super slaw, and boom boom sauce on top of house made chips. David said that the pork was very tender, and that the ample amount of queso was a bonus. For the main meal, David opted for the Buff Chicken Sandwich- crispy chicken tossed in buffalo sauce with provolone, lettuce, and tomato on Texas Toast and drizzled with buttermilk ranch. He said the chicken was perfectly spicy and crispy, and surely satisfied his appetite. Jennifer decided on the Spinach Avocado Wrap, which was grilled chicken, spinach, fresh tomato, bleu cheese crumbles, and avocado ranch wrapped in a spinach herb tortilla. Being a huge fan of avocado, this dish was perfect for Jennifer. She said that the tomato, bleu cheese, and avocado ranch created a great flavor that left her wanting more. Located at the Aqualand Marina, this location provides beautiful views, tasty drinks, and a lively atmosphere to enjoy their many tasty BBQ varieties. This eatery is pet friendly, and their large outdoor seating creates the perfect environment to relax and have a good time with family and friends. SKOGIE’S LAKEFRONT RESTAURANT Dawsonville Hwy/ Gainesville Skogie’s Lakefront Restaurant is located in the Gainesville Marina and provides plenty of outdoor seating for your lakefront enjoyment. Owned by Tony and wife, Heather, this location has done a wonderful job of creating an inviting atmosphere to enjoy quality food. After being seated and looking over the marina, David and his fellow foodie friend, Ty, started off with Boom Boom Shrimp and Grouper Fingers. David and Ty raved about the shrimp and said that it was one of the best parts of his meal. The freshness of the shrimp, the crunch of the breading, and the spice of the sauce made for an exciting appetizer. The grouper fingers tasted great as well and got the two excited for their main meal. David ordered the Fried Green Tomato BLT and the Caribbean Plate. The BLT seemed to be made with high quality ingredients and made for a very tasty sandwich. David’s Caribbean Plate was the real showstopper of his meal. This jerk seasoned grouper, served with yellow rice, black beans, and plantains, made for a unique and exciting dish for David to enjoy. The fish was seasoned to perfection, and the plantains were perfectly cooked. Ty ordered the Shrimp Po Boy and said that the hand battered, made-to-order shrimp tasted perfect. While dining, David and Ty had the opportunity to hear live music,
and this only amplified their experience. Skogie’s Lakefront Restaurant is a fun, familyfriendly location to have a good time and enjoy some quality food. LANDSHARK BAR & GRILL Lanier Islands Pkwy/ Buford To get to landshark Bar & Grill, you have to either enter Lake Lanier Islands, or arrive by boat. This lakefront restaurant is located inside the waterpark and provides a wonderful view of the lake and the surrounding attractions. David arrived with fellow foodie, Caroline, and were sat outside overlooking the beach access and marina. Their friendly server informed the two that the Buffalo Sriracha Shrimp and the Beach Fries were a big hit for appetizers, so that is what the two decided to order. The Buffalo Sriracha Shrimp had a nice kick and tasted wonderful with the bleu cheese dipping sauce. The Beach Fries were smothered in cheese sauce, mixed cheese, bacon, sour cream, and scallions. This is the perfect appetizer for cheese lovers and was described by David as a deconstructed loaded baked potato. For the main meal, David decided on the Roasted Turkey Club. This triple decker sandwich was piled high with roasted turkey, smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, Swiss cheese, and signature mayonnaise on country white toast. As a turkey club lover, David highly enjoyed this sandwich, and recommends adding bacon to bring it up a notch. This family friendly spot is perfect to enjoy while the kids play. If you ever find yourself looking for some family fun on Lake Lanier Islands, Landshark is a great place to check out. SMOKEY Q Bald Ridge Marina Rd/ Cumming Originally started as a catering company in 2005, owners Rudy Conner and Judson Holder have done a stellar job of perfecting their barbecue. Upon arrival, David and fellow foodie Caroline were greeted by Judson and given a rundown on Smokey Q’s craft. Their small batch, dry rubbed meat is hickory smoked using the ‘low and slow’ method, and they pride themselves on their ability to make tender and flavorful meat that does not need the barbecue sauce to taste great. The talk of their methods made David and Caroline excited to try their BBQ varieties, so they made sure to order a little bit of everything. David ordered the smoked chicken wings, pork spare ribs, and the pulled pork sandwich. The chicken wings were David’s favorite, as they were flavorful and juicy all the way through. While not required, their homemade BBQ sauce complimented the tasty chicken very well. Their pork spare ribs were also a hit and feature more meat than a traditional baby back rib. These huge ribs were very satisfying, and the dry rub provided ample flavor. Judson informed us that people travel across the lake for their wings and ribs, and it is clear why. To further spice up his meal, David decided to make his own pulled pork sandwich creation by topping it with their homemade BBQ sauce, mac n’ cheese, and coleslaw. He was happily surprised by how well their sides and entrees meshed and provided an exciting tasting experience. Caroline ordered the chicken taco and was just as pleased with her meal. She decided to not add any BBQ sauce and was very pleased with how flavorful the chicken was on its own. Smokey Q is located at Bald Ridge Marina and provides outdoor seating that overlooks the water. This is a smaller location than the others- but do not be fooled. Their barbecue is very well made and affordable, making Smokey Q is the perfect spot to go for a quick lunch off the water.
Do not forget to visit our website to for upcoming and previous food adventures! Read our articles and browse the pictures at www. FountainsFoodAdventures.com, or follow the “food adventure” on Facebook and Instagram
Tastings made possible and Sponsored by
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JULY 2021
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 7/1/2021 Bingo 7:00pm American Legion Post 7 2343 Riverside Drive Gainesville
7/10/2021 Hall Homeschool Expo 9:00am Gainesville Civic Center 830 Green Street NE Gainesville
7/3/2021 Live Animal Showcase 11:00am Elachee Nature Science Center 2125 Elachee Drive Gainesville
7/15/2021 Restoring the Old to Make it Like New 11:00am Gainesville Branch Library 127 Main Street NW Gainesville
7/7/2021 Monthly Virtual Health Show Sponsored by NGHS 10:00am www.gainesvilletimes.com/ virtualevents 345 GREEN ST NW Gainesville 7/9/2021 An Intimate Evening of Songs and Stories with John Berry 7:30 pm www.gainesvilletimes.com/ johnberry The Venue at Friendship Springs 7340 Friendship Springs Blvd Flowery Branch 7/10/2021 Elachee Naturalist-Guided Hike 10:00am Elachee Nature Science Center 2125 Elachee Drive Gainesville 7/10/2021 Georgia Cross Stitchers 10:00am Hall County Library System, Gainesville Branch 127 Main Street NW Gainesville
7/17/2021 50th Anniversary Celebration 11:00am Hall County Farmers Market 734 E. Crescent Dr Gainesville 7/17/2021 Bobbin Lace 10:00am Hall County Library System, Gainesville Branch 127 Main Street NW Gainesville 7/20/2021 Searching Georgia’s Historic Newspapers Online 10:30am Gainesville Library Branch 127 Main Street, NW Gainesville 7/24/2021 Saturday Card Workshop 10:00am Hall County Library System, Gainesville Branch 127 Main St NW Gainesville
SAVE THE DATE
August 14 | 10A - 4P IRON MOUNTAIN RESORT 116 Iron Mountain Pkwy, Dahlonega, GA 30533
HUNTING-FISHING CAMPING-HIKING-BIKING & MUCH MORE PRESENTED BY:
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Contact Megan Lewis at 770-535-6371, MLewis@gainesvilletimes.com.
ARK ENCOUNTER
Tour Departs from Gainesville
July 26-29, 2021
4 Day / 3 Night All Inclusive
JOIN US AS WE VISIT THE FULL-SIZE REPLICA OF NOAH’S ARK, BUILT TO SPECIFICATIONS IN THE BIBLE. SEE ASTONISHING EXHIBITS INSIDE THE ARK ABOUT NOAH, THE FLOOD, AND THE ANIMALS AS DESCRIBED IN THE BIBLE. All Inclusive Price:
$1,441*pp Single Occupancy $1,115*pp Double Occupancy TRAVELING TO THE FOLLOWING GREAT DESTINATIONS IN 2021: • SAVANNAH, GA • ASHEVILLE, NC • CHARLESTON, SC • ST. AUGUSTINE, FL • NEW ORLEANS, LA • WASHINGTON, DC • MEMPHIS, TN • ARK ENCOUNTER & CREATION MUSEUM • DESTIN, FL • GOLDEN ISLES, GA • NASHVILLE, TN • MYRTLE BEACH, SC • PIGEON FORGE, TN
• Tour the magnificent engineering of the • Experience beautiful botanical gardens, seven-story tall, football field and a half long, waterfalls and trails, and animals in the Zoo largest timber-frame structure in the world • Riverboat Dinner Cruise along the Ohio River • 3 Night Accommodations at a Cincinnati • World-class exhibits about the biblical Riverfront hotel (centrally located to the Ark depiction of Noah’s Ark Encounter and Creation Museum locations) • Tour the 75,000sf Creation Museum and • All meals included witness the Bible vividly come to life (alcoholic drinks extra) • Journey through the realistic Garden of Eden • All gratuities Visit worldsbestadventures.com for trip dates and reservation deadlines as they become available. Limited space available on all vacations. All vacations are 21+ and will include walking tours. Alert your guide at the time of booking of any accessibility/mobility needs. Tour details listed may vary due to venue accessibility and city/state COVID restrictions. We will update any changes should they arise.
Now offering travel insurance! World’s Best Adventures continues to monitor the ongoing ramifications of the COVID-19 global pandemic. We are committed to responsibly traveling and ensuring the health and safety of our guests and associates. Guests will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccinations and will need to be fully vaccinated for two weeks prior to travel.
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$100 deposit required to reserve your spot. Reserve Today! For additional details and to book your trip, visit: www.worldsbestadventures.com or call us at 770-535-6323
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