Lakeside on Lanier January 2026

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January 2026

3292 Thompson Bridge Road #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 Phone: (770) 287-1444 Email: lakesidenews@mindspring.com

Vol. 32 Issue 1

Happy New Year from Lakeside!

Wishing All a Wonderful 2026!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Safe Boating Class offered America’s Boating Club Atlanta is offering its Basic Safe Boating Class for adults, youth and families, beginning on Saturday, January 31, with in-person instruction. Page 22

Highlands to Islands Trail Hall County voters’ approval of SPLOST IX in November is expected to help link northern and southern shores of Lake Lanier via a 30-plus mile multi-use trail. Page 23

Winter brings back our loons As coolness fills the night air each fall, excitement builds from the awareness that soon my annual love affair with a beautiful and mysterious visitor from the North will begin again. ’m referring to one of the most fascinating birds in the world ... the common loon. Page 25 Also inside: Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 31 Fishing news . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10 Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page 31 Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page 22 Columns: The Careful Captain . . . . . . . .Page 14 Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28 Design & Remodel . . . . . . . . . .Page 29 Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 13 One Man’s Opinion . . . . . . . . .Page 26 Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page 25

PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE

This December photo offers a beautiful yet wintery view of the lake with more days like it to come. Check out Glenn Burns’ forecast for the early part of the new year on page 13.

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January 2026

Water issues of odor and taste attributed to seasonal lake turnover 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, Vicki Hope Columnists Glenn Burns, Bill Crane, Tammy Doyle, 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 Officials in Gainesville have heard citizen concerns about the taste and odor in their drinking water for the past several months.

Immediate mitigation of the musty smell and taste has been addressed by using Powered Activated Carbon, increased testing and operational adjustments.

“This is an aesthetic issue and not a health issue,” said Linda MacGregor, director of the Department of Water Resources for the city of Gainesville.

“The taste and odor compounds continue to persist beyond the normal lake turnover for reasons that scientists do not fully understand,” she said. “In the second half of 2025, the taste and odor compounds have been much higher (than in prior years). While the duration and intensity of the turnover are unlike anything we’ve seen before, we can assure the public the water leaving the

plant and throughout the system has been tested and meets all drinking water standards.”

The city’s Department of Water Resources, as well as national experts and other utilities, have increased testing and operational adjustments to address the issue.

For the long term the city is working with others to undertake a project to address non-point nutrient runoff in the upper Chattahoochee watershed.

“The funding for this project is in the FY25 Federal appropriations,” MacGregor said. “The project will be a combination of research and implementation of best management practices. The project will begin in calendar year 2026. Gainesville is a partner in the project.

“This will allow a group of utilities, universities and other partners to work on Lake Lanier water quality issues over the next

PHOTO: CITYOFGAINESVILLE

Gainesville water resourses employee takes water sample for testing.

few years.”

The city has created an informative webpage that addresses specific issues and provides Frequently Asked Questions. Go

to gainesville.org/921/Water-Resources and click on the Taste & Odor tab for information, frequency of testing and other actions.

View the online edition at www.lakesidenews.com

January 2026

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 678-925-2652 • mackenziescott@kw.com 5415 Bay Circle, Cumming

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5990 Watermark Cove, Gainesville

This rare opportunity includes 2 lots and two doubleslip docks, on DEEP water, totaling 1.03 acres of prime lakefront living with 362 ft of Corps frontage. Halfmillion-dollar renovation from top to bottom. New sunset viewing deck! $2,300,000 (Forsyth)

Super-unique, fully renovated sanctuary that blends rustic charm with modern luxury, year round views of the lake and an easy walk to the dock. The massive, cleared side lot is a bonus. Over $250,000 in renovations in the past 3 years. $1,920,000 (Gwinnett)

Land, lake, barn, and a beautiful home! The long, beautiful tree lined driveway leads you to your private gated estate on 7.93 acres with seasonal views of Lake Lanier. Relax at your very own sanctuary of rolling pastures in solitude. $1,999,999 (Dawson)

FREE, deeded boat slip! Brand NEW construction sitting on almost 1.5 acres. Open-concept living with the primary on main and a finished basement. Beautiful finishes and upgrades galore! $1,199,900 (Hall)

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6 acres of privacy with a move-in ready 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home ready for you and your family! $750,000 (Hall)

BEST VALUE in Halcyon! This like-new townhome, lovingly maintained by its original owners, features 3 spacious BR, 3.5 BA, and stylish upgrades throughout.

Embrace the ultimate live-work-play lifestyle with the Big Creek Greenway shops and restaurants just steps from your front door. $674,000 (Forsyth)

4 BR, 2.5 BA home on a sprawling one-acre lot, room for a pool, seasonal lake views, easy walk to the dock and a 2.5-car garage with an unfinished room above! In a great location close to 3 marinas for gas and lakeside dining within 20 minutes. $999,999 (Hall)

Take your golf cart to Lanier Islands! Charming southend lake home with a single-slip party dock! $925,000 (Hall)

RECENTLY SOLD

Propes Drive Oakwood • $3,098,000

Heard Road Cumming • $2,605,000

Gaines Ferry Road Gainesville • $1,918,000

Garrett Road Gainesville • $1,295,000

Log Cabin Road Gainesville • $1,275,000

Roselight Lane Flowery Br • $1,108,125

Sams Road Dawsonville • $1,000,000

Martin Terrace Gainesville • $965,000

Little Mill Road Gainesville • $900,000

Hammock Trail Gainesville • $804,900

Westhampton Way Gainesville • $787,000

Thunder Trail Gainesville • $768,000

Green Hill Road Gainesville • $660,000

Woodland Circle Dawsonville • $635,000

Featured Testimonial "Pack the boxes before you call Teresa and Michele. They had a contract on our beloved lake house within 24 hours of the open house. They were everything we could ask for in real estate agents.

They are kind, compassionate, efficient, professional, etc. The video and the photos were absolutely amazing. In a world where everything sells on the internet first, great photos and videos matter.

The video was original and attention grabbing. The photos told the story of our beautiful lake home and the property." - Bill & Vicki C.

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

January 2026

January 2026

LAKESIDE 5

Michelle Sparks 404-379-5798

Nicole Columbo-Haymore 678-858-0265

Linda Thompson 770-313-5446

Vicki Holland 770-329-7602

Melinda Lloyd

Bethany Dyer

Office Manager

Marketing Manager

770-235-6907

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0 Mt Vernon Rd $5,200,000 • Sheila

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7170 Lawson Drive $3,350,000 • Sheila

799 East Lake Dr. $3,175,000 • Sheila

5040 Blackberry Ln $3,000,000 • Sheila

3620 Lake Ridge Ct 2255 Boy Scout Camp $2,950,000 • Sheila $1,500,000 • Nicole

1930 Tapawingo Dr $1,050,000 • Linda

9152 Beaver Trail $949,000 • Nicole

215 Toto Cr Dr. $850,000 • Vicki

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FMLS#7326304 • $89,900 6825 Lookout Pt, #24 Dawsonville Michelle 404-379-5798

6 LAKESIDE

January 2026

“Pineapple Willy’s, P.C. Beach” - 16x20 - Oil on Canvas

Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS 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, Patricia Fabian, Lydia Ferguson, Ann Goble, Jane Hemmer, Paula Hoffman, Shannon Hughs, Joyce Hornor, Leigh-Anne O’Brien, 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 NE GA History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville, GA

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VISIT OUR MODEL HOME - 644 East Lake Drive - Gainesville 770-654-7922 for hours & info www.arhomes.com/builder/rlw-homes-inc/

January 2026

LAKESIDE 7

THIS ISN’T JUST A DOCK.

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Lake Lanier’s exclusive Wahoo Docks dealer.

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8 LAKESIDE

January 2026

ARE YOU READY FOR THE BOATING SEASON? TAKE A BOATING SAFETY CLASS*

Only $25! - You may be able to save on your boating insurance* Taught by America’s Boating Club Atlanta at Lake Lanier • We’re local boaters with tips for Lake Lanier and NE Georgia

........................................................................

2026 America’s Boating Course Class Schedule January Class In Person

March Class Virtual/Online Three Sessions

Saturday, January 31, 8:30 am-5 pm

Session 1 - Wednesday, March 4, 7-9 pm Session 2 - Wednesday, March 11, 7-9 pm Session 3 - Saturday, March 14, 8:30 am - 12 pm

May Class In Person Saturday, May 2, 8:30 am - 5 pm

August Class In Person Saturday, August 8, 8:30 am - 5 pm In-person class locations will be confirmed with paid registration

June Class Virtual/Online Three Sessions Session 1 - Wednesday, June 3, 7-9 pm Session 2 - Wednesday, June 10, 7-9 pm Session 3 - Saturday, June 13, 8:30 am - 12 pm

Materials in Spanish are available • Hay materiales disponibles en español

........................................................................

Register: AmericasBoatingClubAtlanta.org

America’s Boating Club, A Unit of the United States Power Squadrons • *Meets NASBLA and GA DNR Standards

January 2026

LAKESIDE 9

THE CLOSEST MARINA TO ATLANTA!

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10 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

A sampling of fishing information and tips from area experts Lake level: Down 7 feet Clarity: Mostly stained Temperature: 50s Bass fishing Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good. On the lake right now you can see fish schooling, chasing shad in five feet of water and find fish in the ditches at 40 feet of water so several baits are working. For the first hour in the morning head to the backs of the pockets in 15 feet or less of water with either a quarter ounce Spot Choker or a Jerkbait that runs less than six feet deep.

The bass will begin to move out of the pocket as the sun rises, so move out with them to the first structure in the ditches. If you locate bait balls in the ditches that is a bonus but there are likely to be bass scattered anywhere in them. For the bass that you are able to get directly over use a half ounce silver spoon to drop straight down on them and vertically bounce it about a foot at a time. To cover a ditch or ledge area well begin with the boat in 50 feet of water and make long cast with a three eighths Spot Choker down the middle of the ditch or drop off of the ledge. Load either a three-inch Keitech Easy Swimmer in either Electric Shad or Clear Silver Glow colors on the Spot Choker. Work this bait slowly along the bottom on a steady retrieve. Once you feel the

strike or it feels heavy, don’t set the hook hard but rather give an easy pull and speed up your retrieve. On windy days there is still a spinnerbait or crankbait bite on the windy rocky areas of the lake with the bass being in less than 15 feet of water. A DT10 or a white spinnerbait with silver Colorado blades will draw the strikes. If you prefer to drag a bait, work a three eighths brown and chartreuse jig with a cinnamon pepper twin tail trailer around and under the docks in 15 feet or less of water. Be sure to work all the way back on the walkways to draw extra strikes.

The winter patterns are setting in and it’s a great time to be on Lanier for some big spots so Go Catch 'Em! This bass report is by Phil Johnson (770) 366-8845.

Striper fishing Lake Lanier stripers are enjoying the cold weather and they are finally starting their top water bite so be prepared for the birds hovering over the bait. Having your favorite lure tied on is a plus. I have seen them from Ga. 369 bridge up to Laurel Park so you might want to check your gas level in your boat, its cold out there and you don’t want to be stranded. Downlines are still catching fish and the smaller baits have been the preferred ones. Gainesville Creek has been loaded with bait and the umbrella rigs is a great

Consignments

WANTED

searching method. We are pulling the 9 rig unit 100 to 130 feet behind the boat at 2.5 to 3.5 mph. Keep your eyes open for change in depth and always have your retriever handy.

Wear enough clothes to keep warm and always wear your life jacket.

This Striper report is by Buck Cannon.

(404) 510-1778.

Crappie fishing Lake Lanier crappie fishing is good. The crappie are suspended in open water at 5 to 8 feet deep in open water and on deep water docks. Minnows are working well and the jig color of choice is d2d by ATX lures. Its a

1.25 inch flat tail, green in color. For your best fishing experience consider using the following equipment: a one piece ACC Crappie Stix rod and reel paired with 4 or 6 pound test K9 line with a Atx lure company jig. Further optimizing your efforts with a Garmin LiveScope.

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

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• This fishing report was compiled by Ken Sturdivant’s Southern Fishing, www.southernfishing.com.

THE MAGICAL SWIRLEYBIRD SPINNER

by Bill Vanderford

www.georgiafishing.com Happy New Year Friends!

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January 2026

LAKESIDE 11

12 LAKESIDE

January 2026

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January 2026

LAKESIDE 13

January weather can be unpredictable December turned out to be a month of temperature extremes. An extremely cold start led to a blowtorch Christmas. What is ahead in January? The Climate Prediction Center says above normal temperatures with below normal precipitation. I still think with th melting polar ice we are going to have more disruptions to the polar vortex and more quick bursts of cold arctic air.

In Atlanta, January is typically the coldest month of the year, but the term “cold” is relative. The average daily high temperature generally hovers in the low to mid-50s, while the average low dips into the mid-30s.

These averages, however, mask the daily variability that is characteristic of a Southern winter. You can experience days that warm up comfortably into the 60s, only to

be followed by frigid arctic air masses that plunge temperatures well below freezGlenn ing, sometimes even Burns reaching the teens.

The metro area receives a respectable amount of Lanier precipitation in January, Outlook typically averaging around 4.5 inches over the month.

Most of this falls as rain, with approximately 10 to 11 days experiencing some form of wet weather. Clear, sunny days are common, but the winter months also feature a higher rate of cloud cover compared to the sunnier spring and fall seasons.

The average monthly snowfall is minimal – around 1 inch – but historical data shows that major, crippling snow and ice events, sometimes referred to as “Snow Jam” events, have occurred in January, bringing the city to a standstill. Even a small accumulation of frozen precipitation can cause travel hazards due to the city's terrain and infrastructure.

Travel north of the metro area, into the foothills and mountains, and the winter experience shifts dramatically. January is unequivocally the coldest month for places like Blue Ridge, Helen, and surrounding areas.

The elevation difference translates directly into lower temperatures, making the mountains a zone of authentic, crisp winter air.

LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS MAY 1 1071.74 2 1071.70 3 1071.73 4 1071.72 5 1071.66 6 1071.57 7 1071.54 8 1071.48 9 1071.45 10 1071.49 11 1071.54 12 1071.83 13 1072.08 14 1072.35 15 1072.40 16 1072.42 17 1072.73 18 1072.42 19 1072.38 20 1072.27 21 1072.20 22 1072.06 23 1071.91 24 1071.86 25 1071.86 26 1071.85 27 1071.77 28 1071.81 29 1071.85 30 1071.88 31 1071.86 AV 1071.92 MAX 1072.73 MI 1071.45

JUN 1071.85 1071.77 1071.76 1071.76 1071.75 1071.73 1071.75 1071.74 1071.76 1071.79 1071.77 1071.90 1071.96 1072.01 1072.01 1072.01 1072.03 1072.09 1072.08 1072.06 1072.05 1072.04 1072.00 1071.97 1071.89 1071.90 1072.03 1072.01 1071.97 1071.95

JUL

1071.95 1071.98 1071.98 1071.91 1071.86 1071.80 1071.80 1071.63 1071.49 1071.40 1071.30 1071.27 1071.20 1071.16 1071.13 1071.07 1071.01 1070.96 1070.93 1070.88 1070.86 1070.82 1070.76 1070.65 1070.53 1070.42 1070.32 1070.22 1070.18 1070.09 1070.17 1071.91 1071.09 1072.09 1071.98 1071.73 1070.09

AUG

SEP

1070.11 1070.06 1070.03 1070.00 1070.03 1069.97 1069.90 1069.84 1069.79 1069.74 1069.71 1069.67 1069.73 1069.72 1069.72 1069.80 1069.81 1069.77 1069.76 1069.88 1069.90 1069.89 1069.90 1069.86 1069.79 1069.73 1069.67 1069.62 1069.55 1069.51 1069.48 1069.80 1070.11 1069.48

1069.42 1069.35 1069.28 1069.21 1069.20 1069.21 1069.17 1069.07 1068.97 1068.89 1068.81 1068.75 1068.69 1068.65 1068.56 1068.47 1068.42 1068.34 1068.24 1068.16 1068.13 1068.08 1067.99 1067.95 1067.93 1067.93 1067.89 1067.86 1067.81 1067.77

OCT

1067.70 1067.65 1067.59 1067.52 1067.46 1067.40 1067.30 1067.22 1067.17 1067.04 1066.92 1066.84 1066.75 1066.66 1066.58 1066.50 1066.42 1066.32 1066.25 1066.18 1066.09 1066.01 1065.95 1065.88 1065.83 1065.77 1066.04 1066.01 1066.03 1066.02 1066.00 1068.54 1066.62 1069.42 1067.70 1067.77 1065.77

NOV

DEC

1065.98 1065.98 1065.96 1065.94 1065.84 1065.81 1065.73 1065.72 1065.64 1065.58 1065.47 1065.40 1065.36 1065.27 1065.16 1065.08 1065.01 1064.95 1064.85 1064.79 1064.73 1064.71 1064.67 1064.64 1064.64 1064.63 1064.62 1064.57 1064.55 1064.54

1064.53 1064.58 1064.58 1064.62 1064.65 1064.68 1064.68 1064.67 1064.65 1064.63 1064.62 1064.61 1064.60 1064.59 1064.56 1064.56 1064.55 1064.52 1064.53 1064.53 1064.53

1065.19 1065.98 1064.54

See Burns, page 14

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

14 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Don’t ignore your tow straps If you trailer a boat or jet ski back and forth between home and your favorite body of water, you know the drill: back the trailer into the water, hook the winch strap to the vessel, and crank it up. You’ve probably done it hundreds – maybe thousands – of times.

Years ago, most trailer winches used steel cables. These days, they’ve been replaced with highstrength polyester or nylon straps.

They’re lighter, safer, easier to work with, and they don’t rust like the old cables did.

But they don’t last forever.

I got a reminder of that recently on a jet ski trip with friends. We were pulling my buddy’s ski out of the water when his winch strap suddenly snapped.

We managed to improvise a solution to get the ski loaded and secured, and luckily we found a replacement strap later that day.

The rest of the trip went fine.

Later it hit me: his trailer was the same age as mine, and I was

Frank Taylor The Careful Captain

still using the original strap that came with it. It only made sense to replace mine too. It also made me wonder how many people actually think about inspecting or replacing the straps they trust every time they hit the ramp.

Imagine what could happen if a winch strap failed while loading a boat. Best case, the boat just stops halfway up the trailer. Worst case, it slides back into the water and smacks another boat or a dock on the way.

And the winch strap isn’t the only one that matters. Most states require multiple tie-downs for towing – rear straps for sure, and in some places an additional front

tie-down. Even if they weren’t required, it’s just smart to use them.

Now picture one of those straps failing because you hit a bump, or because you had a minor accident and the boat broke loose. That kind of failure can turn into a serious mess in a hurry.

There is no exact science on how long they last. There are many variables that affect their lifespan: whether your trailer is stored indoors or outdoors, how often it is used, exposure to salt water or fresh water. The best method to determine when you should replace them is to check them.

So take the simple route: check your straps. If they look frayed, worn, or questionable, replace them. They’re cheap. And a whole lot less costly than dealing with what could happen if they fail.

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

• Burns Continued from Page 13 Average daytime highs in North Georgia generally fall into the mid-to-high 40s, while overnight lows frequently plummet into the 20s. These conditions make January the most likely month to experience significant snowfall in the state.

While snow is still not a daily occurrence, the mountains typically see several snowfall events each winter, with a higher probability in January. Accumulations are more substantial than in Atlanta, and the cold air helps the snow linger longer on the ground, creating picturesque, snow-capped vistas. This weather is a boon for winter activities, including skiing at resorts like those near Blairsville, or simply enjoying the peaceful, barebranched mountain trails. The cooler air also means a higher chance of a wintry mix, including sleet and freezing rain, which presents the most danger to trav-

elers on mountain roads.

My most vivid memory is not for a massive blizzard, but for a seemingly minor winter storm that produced a catastrophic level of gridlock and chaos. Colloquially dubbed “Snow Jam,” “Snowpocalypse,” or “Snowmageddon,” the event demonstrated how the combination of modest snow and ice accumulation, poor coordination, and mass commuter exodus could bring a modern metropolis of millions to a grinding, frigid halt.

The failure of the initial governmental and public response led to intense criticism and a fundamental shift in how Georgia prepares for winter weather. The political and social embarrassment spurred several long-term reforms.

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

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January 2026

LAKESIDE 15

Start the New Year Supporting a Clean, Full and Safe Lake Lanier!

TO SUPPORT PROGRAMS LIKE SHORE SWEEP:

The Lake Lanier Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as the premier advocate for Lake Lanier, made possible through support from memberships, donations and grants. Our members include homeowners, boaters, fisherman, local businesses and any stakeholders who share a vested interest in the lake.

As we step into our 60th year, we invite you to support our mission of protecting and preserving Lake Lanier. For as little as $100 a year, your donation will help keep Lake Lanier Clean, Full and Safe for the next 60 years and beyond.

Together, we can all make an impact on the future of Lanier.

A few key programs that your membership dollars make possible:

Scan the Q R code or mail a check to 821 Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 110 Gainesville, GA 30 501

Shore Sweep, the shoreline cleanup that engages 1,200+ volunteers and removes over 85 TONS of trash from Lanier annually.

Installing and maintaining 300 solar lights for safer night boating.

Maintaining 12 life jacket loaner stations, with plans to expand the number of stations on Lanier.

Monthly water testing and tracking for algae levels at 25 locations across Lanier.

@LAKELANIERASSOCIATION WWW.LAKELANIER.ORG

Ongoing abandoned and derelict dock and boat program to track owners and ensure their removal to keep our shoreline clean.

Curious about the status of your membership? Email lakeinfo@lakelanier.org!

Educational events and publications that keep members informed about issues and opportunities on Lake Lanier, such as boating safety, water quality, USACE shoreline management and more.

16 LAKESIDE

January 2026

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

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18 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Lakeside Calendar January 2026 BRASELTON Historic Downtown Braselton – Civic Center/Town Green, 9924 Davis St. - 706921-4016, 706-654-1944 (Civic Center) o Jan 24, 25 – Heart of Braselton Antique Show – Braselton Civic Center, 27 E Lake Dr., Sat. 9 am-6 pm, Sun 10 am-5 pm, free parking and admission. o Feb 7 – 12th Annual Chocolate Walk – 11 am-4 pm, check-in at The Mill, 16 Frances St, Tickets $20, tickets go on sale Dec 22.

BUFORD Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Hwy, Buford – 770-945-6762 o Jan 17 – Interstellar Echoes – Sylvia Beard Theater, 8 pm, $35-$45. o Jan 24 – Carla Cooke – 8 pm, $35-$45.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort 770-945-8787 o Every Tuesday – Trivia Tuesdays at Game Changer – 7 pm-9 pm o Every Wednesday – Music Bingo at Game Changer – 7 pm-9 pm o Every Thursday – Classic Bingo Night at Game Changer – 7 pm-9 pm CLARKESVILLE HABERSHAM COUNTY (Alto, Baldwin, Clarkesville, Cornelia, Demorest, Mt. Airy and Tallulah Falls) Clarkesville’s Historic Habersham Community Theater – 1370 N Washington St. 706839-1315 o Feb 11-22 – Something Rotten! – a musical comedy, 7:30 pm, 2 pm on Sunday.

Piedmont University - 1021 Central Ave, Demorest -706-776-0116, 800-277-7020

Offering Sales, Service and Detailing

o Thru May 2026 – Conserving America’s Wildlands: The Vision of Ted Turner by Rhett Turner, Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art, 567 Georgia St., Demorest Tallulah Gorge State Park - 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. - 706-754-7981 o Jan 17 – Beginner Archery – Must be able to draw 20lb bow, Meet at Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, 11 am-12:30 pm, Call to register, $15 plus $5 parking.

CUMMING/FORSYTH COUNTY Cumming Community Center - 770-781-2010, cummingcitycenter.com o Jan 22-25 – Disney’s Aladdin Jr., 7:30 pm, Sunday at 2 pm School Street Playhouse - 101 School St, Cumming - 770-781-9178 o Feb 6-22 – The Last Five Years – a musical, 7:30 pm, Sat 2 pm, Sun 2:30 pm DAHLONEGA/LUMPKIN COUNTY Historic Holly Theater 2024/2025 Season - 706530-5162, hollytheater.com o Jan 10 – Chi Town Transit Authority – 7:30 pm o Jan 17 – Kurt Thomas with High Cotton – 7:30 pm DAWSONVILLE/DAWSON COUNTY Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd., 706-344-1515 o Jan 1 – First Day Hike – 9:30 am-12:30 pm o Jan 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31 – Animals of Amicalola Falls – (Fri, Sat) 1 pm & 4 pm, lodge lobby. o Jan 10, 24 (2nd & 4th Saturdays) – Nature Journaling Activity, shelter #2, 11 am.

Bowen Center for the Arts - 334 Hwy 9N, Dawsonville - 706-216-2787, melinda@RainbowChildrensHome.org o Jan 3-Feb 7 – Sew much Fun! – a family sewing class – 10 am-noon o Jan 16-Feb 20 – Art of Community – A Bowen Member Exhibition – noon o Jan 21 – Bob Ross “Joy of Painting” – oil painting class – 10:30 am-4:30 pm Historic Downtown Dawsonville Dawsonville City Hall & Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, 415 Hwy 53 East. o Jan 24 – Java Jog 5K/10K – Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd – 8 am-$28.60-$65.20.

FLOWERY BRANCH Downtown Flowery Branch - 404-491-9601 o Jan 8, 22, Feb 12 – Winter Farmers Market – (2nd, 4th Thursdays) – 3:30 pm-6:30 pm GAINESVILLE/HALL COUNTY The Hall at Bourbon Brothers – 213 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville – 678-434-0475 Shows at 7:30 pm unless otherwise noted. o Jan 9 – 80s & 90s Country Night – Babe’s Bayou Band – 8 pm o Jan 10 – Guardians of the Jukebox: Tribute to 80s Icons – 7:30 pm o Jan 15 – The Bellamy Brothers – 7:30 pm o Jan 16 – Frankly Scarlet: The Grateful Dead Experience – 7:30 pm o Jan 23 – It’s a 2000s Party: Gainesville – 8 pm o Jan 24 – Fool House: The Ultimate 90s Party – 7:30 pm o Jan 29 – Lonestar – 7:30 pm o Jan 30 – Ramble Tamble, The Creedence Clearwater Revival Experience – 7:30 pm

Since 1985

o Jan 31 – Radio 80s: An 80s Pop & Rock Tribute – 7:30 pm Elachee Nature Science Center - 2125 Elachee Dr. Gainesville - 770-535-1976 o Jan 6-May 28 – Young Explorers Club – (weekly T/Th – 9 am-11 am) indoor/outdoor hands-on discovery for ages 3-6 and ages 7-12, $9.60-$12. o Jan 7–Apr 15 – Wild Wisdom – free, twice weekly series for adults, register online. o Jan 10, Mar 14, May 9 – Sci-Art Saturdays – natural science illustration – 10 am-12:30 pm, $12/$10 members, pre-registration required.

Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden -1911 Sweetbay Dr, Gainesville - 404888-4760 o Jan 24 – Pruning Basics – 10 am-noon. $25/$20 members. Register online.

Gainesville Theatre Alliance - 678-717-3624 o Feb 13-21 – The Play that Goes Wrong – Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre Hall County Library - 770-532-3311, X4011, hallcountylibrary.org Blackshear Place – 770-532-3311, ext. 151 o Jan 2 – Gentle Yoga – 11:30 am-12:30 pm, adults o Jan 15 – STEAM-Robots – 3:30 pm-4:30 pm, elementary o Jan 29 – Teen National Puzzle Day – 6 pm7 pm, middle/high school Gainesville Branch – 770-532-3311, ext. 3000 o Jan 10 – Saturday Storytime – 11 am-11:45 am, baby/family o Jan 26 – Manga, Movies & More – 6 pm-7 See Calendar, page 30

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January 2026

LAKESIDE 19

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20 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Redbud Project seeks new home; continues educational programming

By Pamela A. Keene When its lease with Gainesville Parks & Recreation was not renewed for the Linwood Ecology Center, the board of the Redbud Project began seeking alternative homes. The Redbud Project, a 501 (c) 3, has occupied the building at Linwood Park for more than a decade, offering educational and environmental outreach to the community.

The decision was made as part of Gainesville Parks & Recreation’s long-range planning.

“As we looked to nearing the completion of our 2030 Master Plan created in 2020, Parks & Recreation’s vision for the next ten years is to broaden our programming offerings to families, youth and citizens,” said Kate Mattison, director of Gainesville Parks & Recreation. Our 2030 Master Plan was focused on parks & facilities and have made great strides in our improvements: completing projects like The Coop, Midland Greenway renovation, Engine 209 Park, Wessell Park Improvements, and many more.

new long-range planning, our vision is to broaden our programming offerings. As we move into spring and create our next tenyear plan, people will be learning more of the details. Some of the improvements our community might see ongoing right now are at Roper Park, the Longwood Pavilion renovation and continuing the Midland Greenway trail system. Future improvements include adding a recreation center so that we have true indoor space for youth and adult programming.

Redbud Project will have vacated the building by the end of December.

Rasmussen’ email continued: “Despite setbacks with the city’s action, Redbud Project remains committed to our community-based conservation movement of concerned citizens, who are scouring Hall County for a site to PHOTO BY VICKI HOPE relocate administra-

It’s time now to focus on programming.”

“Redbud Project is grateful for this ‘nudge’ to move forward and strengthen and sustain our nonprofit, 501c3 organization to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,” said Margaret Rasmussen, founder and executive director of Red Bud Project through an email to Lakeside News.

Mattison continued, “We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with the Redbud project for quite some time, but as we move into a

Entrance to Red Bud Trails.

The map at the entrance to Linwood Nature Preserve.

tion and operations, temporarily or permanently, by December 31,” the email continued.

“Redbud Project moves forward stronger and more committed, encouraged by wisdom of the late anthropologist Margaret Mead: ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; in-

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

deed, it is the only thing that ever has.’ ” “Gainesville Parks & Recreation remains supportive of Redbud Project and are willing to help with this transition in any way that we can,” Mattison said.

“We wish them the best of luck as they continue important work in our community.”

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LAKESIDE 21

22 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Start the new year off right with boating safety and education

By Pamela A. Keene How about a brush-up on boating safety before the boating season begins in May? America’s Boating Club Atlanta is offering its Basic Safe Boating Class for adults, youth and families, beginning on Saturday, January 31, with in-person instruction.

“At $25 per person, the class is a bargain,” said Cindy Ringwall, commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta, based at Lake Lanier and Allatoona Lake. “By investing in a Saturday – when it’s probably cold outside – participants can learn about the recent changes in boating laws in Georgia, plus enhance their knowledge and skills.”

The class covers: • Boat Handling – Docking and Trailering • Safety Equipment and Procedures • Navigation Basics – Rules of the Road

• Boat Types and Terminology • Water sports – paddle craft, personal water craft (PWC) and towing.

“This is not just a class for beginners,” Ringwall said. “While it lays a foundation for safety on the water, it also appeals to experienced boaters who may want to refresh their skills.”

It is the nation’s premier basic boating safety course, having been approved by the US Coast Guard and the State of Georgia.

The Corps of Engineers and Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have teamed with America’s Boating Club Atlanta to offer this 8-hour course. All instructors are certified for teaching this class to the recreational boating public.

The class is approved by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and by the National Association of the State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and fulfills Georgia’s

state requirements for boater safety education.

“Another benefit of taking the Basic Safe Boating Class is that you may be able to save on your boat insurance after passing,” she said. “Check with your agent for details and eligibility.”

Here is the full schedule for the 2026 boating season, alternating between in-person instruction and online sessions: In-person classes: Saturday, January 31, Saturday, May 2 and Saturday, August 8. Online Zoom classes take place in three sessions – two Wednesday evenings and a half-day on Saturdays: Wednesday, March 4 and 11, plus Saturday March 14; Wednesday, June 3, 10 and Saturday June 13.

Courses are taught by local America’s Boating Club Atlanta instructors.

The cost is $25 per person; a book accompanying the course costs $28 and is optional.

To register or to learn more

PHOTO BY PAMELA A. KEENE

Instructor Dave Fuller teaches a Boating Safety Class.

about the club, visit americasboatingclubatlanta.org. For classes, click on the Education tab, the “Learn Basic Safe Boating.” The in-person classes will take place in the Lake Lanier area; specifics will be provided to those who reg-

ister.

The club also sponsors both on-the-water and land-based activities, including raft-ups, socials and monthly membership meetings with expert speakers. Membership is open to the public.

Outdoor Calendar January 2026 compiled by Jane Harrison o Home School Day, Gainesville. Homeschool students ages K-6th grade learn about health and wellness with STEM activities, 1-3 p.m. Jan. 8, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 per child, free to members. Registration encouraged. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Chilly Willy 5K/10K/Half Marathon, Sugar Hill. 8:30 a.m. Jan. 10, Sugar Hill Distillery, 1166 Church St. $35-$60. www.active.com. o Icy Martin Mines Hike, Helen. Naturalistled .9-mile hike to discover mining history and small waterfall, plus hot chocolate, 10 a.m.noon Jan. 17, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o 47th Annual Hogpen Hill Climb. 18K run from Helen to top of Hogpen Gap, plus 5K loop run, 9:30/8 a.m. Jan. 17, Riverside Park, 600 Edelweiss Strausse. $35-$80. www.active.com. o Home School Day: Birds & Worms, Helen.

Children ages 4-7 learn about birds’ eating habits, 10-11:30 a.m. Jan. 20, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087. o Java Jog 5K/10K, Dawsonville. 8/8:30 a.m.

Jan. 24, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. $30$60. www.fivestarntp.com. o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile-and- a-half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 6:15-7:45 p.m. Feb. 1, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981. o Blue Ribbon 5K, Gainesville. 2 p.m. Feb. 1, Chandler Field, 528 Prior St. $30. www.runnersfit.com.

On-Going o License to Chill Snow Island, Buford.

Snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides, s’more making, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. through Feb. 22; Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Various prices. www.margaritavilleresorts.com. o Wildlife of Unicoi, Helen. Learn about variety of wildlife, meet critters up close, 2nd/4th Saturdays, Visitor Center, Unicoi State Park, 1788 Hwy. 356. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-2201. o Women of the Woods Club, Gainesville.

Monthly gathering to empower women to explore outdoors with knowledge, safety & confidence, includes hiking and learning new skills, 3-5 p.m. first Fridays through May, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Behind the Scenes Animal Care, Gainesville. See what it takes to care for nature center’s animal ambassadors and assist with real animal care tasks, noon-1 p.m. Thursdays thru May 28, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10, free to non-members.

www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Wild Wisdom, Gainesville. Experts in natural science speak on topics from birding to geology to climatology, 9-11 a.m. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. www.elachee.org, 770535-1976. o Sprouts, Gainesville. Monthly programs for18 mos-3 yrs to learn about animals, plants and insects, 2nd Thursdays through May 14, with guided programs 9:30-10 a.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10, members free. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Sci Art Saturdays, Gainesville. Themed 3hour hands-on sessions in natural science illustration, plus guided hike with observational sketching, for 6th -9th graders, Nov. 16, Jan. 10, March 14, May 9, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $12 students, free to members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. o Saturday Walking Club, Cumming. 8 a.m.

Saturdays, Big Peach Running Co., Vision Drive (in front of fountain), Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Rd. www.bigpeachrunningco.com.

o Hikes, Archery, Bats of Georgia, Tree Identification, Dawsonville. Various free and fee programs available by reservation at Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd. naturalist@amicalolafallslodge.com, 706344-1515. o Beginner Archery, Tallulah Falls. Learn to shoot an arrow or improve your skills, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. third Saturdays through February 2026, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Must be strong enough to pull 20pound bow. Register in advance. $15, $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981. o Group Run/Walk, Led by Big Peach Running Co., Gainesville. 7 p.m. Tuesdays, NoFo Brewing Company, 434 High St.; 8 a.m. Saturdays, Farm House Coffee, 118 SE Jesse Jewell Pkwy. www.bigpeachrunningco.com. o Group Runs, Oakwood/Gainesville. Runs with Lanier Running Club, starters to elites, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, College Square Park, 3640 Mundy Mill Rd.,Oakwood; 6 p.m. Thursdays NoFo Brewing Company 434 High St., Gainesville; 7:30 a.m. Saturdays, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. Check website, Facebook & Instagram for updates.www.lanierrunningclub.org. o Sunday North Hall Rides, Gainesville. Bicycling on rural roads averaging 17-18 mph at steady pace, 30-45 miles, roll out noon Sundays from Haynes Rd. velocraig@hotmail.com. o Turning Leaf Book Club, Gainesville.

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

January 2026

LAKESIDE 23

New funding boosting buildout of Highlands to Islands Trail

By Jane Harrison Hall County voters’ approval of SPLOST IX in November is expected to help link northern and southern shores of Lake Lanier via a 30-plus mile multi-use trail.

The Highlands to Islands Trail has inched slowly through multiple Hall County communities since its inception more than 30 years ago. Expect to see movement on the multi-use trail this year, but some of it was still on the drawing board in late 2025. The recent SPLOST renewal that allocates $14 million to the corridor will not exactly launch a sprint to the finish line, but it does lay the groundwork for a long run toward the final stretch.

“Historically, the primary reason for slow trail development has been from lack of available local funding for construction, so the passing of SPLOST IX is a major boost to expediting trail construction in southern Hall County,” said Joseph Boyd, Director of the Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization. Most, if not all, the funding is expected to fuel construction of a major north-south spine between the University of North Georgia and Flowery Branch.

Boyd reported that in late 2025, the Gainesville-Hall MPO was finishing a study to identify the best route and expected costs for that connector. “Once the preferred route is identified, SPLOST IX funds will be used to design and construct the trail, as well as purchase any needed right-of-way for access,” he said. He expected Hall County, Oakwood, and Flowery Branch to begin design and construction of the section this year and beyond. The 8.8mile path will eventually link the popular Chicopee/UNG trails via

downtown Oakwood to the south Hall city. A side path will connect Flowery Branch to Bay Park on Lake Lanier. Continuing south, Highlands to Islands will tie into existing trails in Braselton and Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

The City of Flowery Branch is “very excited” about the trail project yet to break ground there, said Renee Carden, director of amenities and public events. In December final designs were being submitted to the Environmental Protection Division and US Army Corps of Engineers. The forecasted construction start is late summer or fall with completion projected by the end of the year.

Carden described the planned pedestrian corridor as a “safe, direct and scenic connection between Lake Lanier, the marina, surrounding neighborhoods and our downtown district.” She expects it to “serve as a meaningful asset for recreation, tourism, and daily life in Flowery Branch.” She envisions a wide range of amenities developing trailside, similar to what Gainesville has experienced along the Midland Greenway.

Carden expects features such as signage, landscaping, seating areas, wayfinding kiosks, educational markers, public art, and lighting will enhance the trail experience for pedestrians and cyclists. She also foresees local businesses – such as coffee shops, snack stands, or outdoor outfitters – popping up near key access points.

The long-awaited 2.5-mile Airport Connector between the Midland Greenway and Chicopee Trail may see some action this year. Boyd said construction will finally begin, but the entire segment may not be complete until

Construction of the trail section between downtown Flowery Branch and Bay Park on Lake Lanier is expected to be complete by the end of this year.

PHOTOS BY JANE HARRISON

The City of Gainesville is dredging the Parker Street Pond on the Midland Greenway to manage stormwater and provide amenities for pedestrians, including seating and a bridge.

2027. Some portions may open before then. “Construction has been delayed as Gainesville has had to work with GDOT and private landowners on access, rightof-way, and trail crossings,” he said. The process was nearly complete in December.

The Airport Connector runs between the current end of the Midland Greenway at the Pine Street/Industrial Boulevard intersection and Palmour Drive at the Chicopee Trail northern terminus.

Its route around the airport limits the type of development that might spring up there, but it does offer interesting views of airplanes taking off and landing, plus a surprising glimpse of natural beauty. “When we originally walked the path, we were surprised by how much we felt like we escaped the urban world around us. There are streams, wetlands, woodlands, etc. to enjoy along this path,” Gainesville public relations director Christina Santee-Moss told Lakeside in an interview for a previous story.

Those traversing the Midland Greenway in Gainesville likely have observed a large crater-like marsh filling with muddy water and lined with stormwater barricades between Parker and Banks streets. The city hopes this unsightly crevasse will transform into the Parker Street Pond this spring. “We are currently in the midst of dredging out the pond so that it will hold water at all times and still be able to capture the

stormwater during rain events,” said Kate Mattison, Gainesville Parks & Recreation Director. “We are also renovating all of the plantings around the pond as they were too difficult to manage and had become overgrown. The biggest pieces to the project are the seating area and the pedestrian bridge spanning the larger section of the pond. This will be a great feature for the public; a great spot to hang out, take photos, and enjoy a little bit of nature in the heart of downtown.”

The city also plans a spring completion for renovations at Longwood Park on Lake Lanier at the northern end of the Highlands to Islands Trail. That project includes a new pavilion and wider walking trails.

In the intervening years since the Highlands to Islands Trail was first envisioned, numerous other multi-use paths sprouted in the Atlanta area and North Georgia, where the Atlanta Beltline, Big Creek Greenway, Silver Comet Trail, and other greenways now host throngs of fitness buffs, recreation seekers, and commuters on paved paths seen as major economic engines and quality of life enhancements. The current development of apartments and restaurants along the Midland Greenway and UNG Connector illustrate the potential for economic growth and housing opportunities.

Walkers, runners and cyclists on the existing trails and crowds at Midland festivals and concerts at-

test to the trail’s recreational value. Yet, the Highlands to Islands Trail remains disjointed and unfinished.

Boyd, the region’s transportation director, attempted to explain why. “A regional trail network of this size takes time and money to complete, especially when a project runs across so many different jurisdictions. Over time, development and new priorities have changed the expected routes, which leads to new planning and engineering studies needing to be completed before moving forward. Additionally, any project that utilizes state or federal grant money has even more environmental and construction standards that must be met, which leads to longer construction times and a higher cost per mile.”

He said cost per mile can vary wildly based on terrain and rightof-way. “Currently we are planning for around $2 million per mile. The more a trail can utilize publicly owned right-of-way and existing level terrain corridors (old rail lines, roadbeds, public utility easements, ridge lines, etc.), the lower the expected cost.” The Highlands to Islands route traverses a patchwork of public, private and corporate territories covering a variety of geographical challenges, from bogs to ridges. The progression is expected to continue this year in small increments toward cementing a walkable/cyclable path from shore to shore.

24 LAKESIDE

January 2026

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January 2026

LAKESIDE 25

The quiet winter season brings back loons to Lanier

As coolness fills the night air each fall, excitement builds from the awareness that soon my annual love affair with a beautiful and mysterious visitor from the North will begin again.

Though I’ve certainly known more than my share of unique ladies, this one is very different.

She can fly, dive, swim faster than a fish and has a haunting song that penetrates the morning fog on Lake Lanier like the beam of a powerful searchlight. I’m referring to one of the most fascinating birds in the world ... the common loon.

Though I have written many times in my career about these historical and fabulous waterfowl, seeing them again, each year, warms my soul! For those of us here in the South, this is the only opportunity we ever have to be a part of their life’s journey.

It seems that only a few years ago, loons suddenly appeared for the first time on Lanier’s bluegreen waters, and for me it was

Female loon at Lake Lanier.

Loon near a fisherman.

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

love at first sight. These gorgeous birds are divers that normally measure 24 to 40 inches in length and have an elongated body and sharp, pointed bill. They are strong swimmers that propel themselves when diving by using radically webbed feet. Their legs are attached far back on the body – a characteristic that permits ease of movement when swimming, but causes great difficulty when attempting to walk on land.

Loons are unique among all other living birds because their legs are encased within the body all the way to the ankle. They can actually out swim most fish and are also good fliers but only become airborne after an extensive run along the top of the water.

I’ve seen them fly alongside my bass boat at 60 miles per hour, and they are capable of flying great distances without stopping.

In keeping with their uniqueness, loons rarely live or feed in areas that have been polluted by the extravagances of man, which makes me feel really good about the quality of the water at Lake Lanier. These beautiful creatures

Loons and seagulls together at Lake Lanier.

are also very family oriented, and always mate for life. Often, we at Lanier are privileged to observe parts of their courtship, but they fly back to their homes in Canada, Alaska or extremely northern areas of our country before laying eggs. During that period of incubation, both the male and female sit on the eggs and help nurture and raise the one or two chicks that they have each year.

It wasn’t until the movie, “On Golden Pond” that most people ever noticed loons, and until a few years ago, none were seen in our area. For some unknown reason, these ancient birds that are actually seen in the hieroglyphics of the pharaohs tombs, started showing up each fall around mid November and will remain until late April or early May. When I was a guide on Lake Lanier, bird watchers often hired my services to locate, study and photograph our transient loon population. It was such a pleasure to introduce these unique and magnificent birds to visitors at the

Lone loon at Lake Lanier.

An early loon pair at Lake Lanier.

lake. I still look forward to being on the water in the mornings listening to the haunting sounds of loon voices echoing across the fog-covered waters.

When most of the jet skis and mass humanity of summer have gone, and the cooler weather brings a quietness to the lake, it becomes an entirely different environment. The sounds of loons will fill the air with a symphony

of song and natural beauty that again brings sanity and uniqueness to the beautiful waters of Lake Lanier!

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.

Loon stretching near the shore.

26 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Cryptocurrency’s kryptonite may lie in policy, power outages Here’s the story of the highflying funny money that flew too close to the sun ... and then ... .

There are times in life when a moment crystallizes in your mind, and increasingly, at least for me, when you can anticipate when that latest “hot topic,” is about to Jump the Shark.

My father is an astute businessman and longtime savvy investor in many things, however, he is not the guy up to speed on all things new and different. A few months back, he pulled me aside, to apparently share something of great value in confidence.

In a near whisper, he offered, “They are going to stop using paper currency sometime soon, probably time to start moving some dollars into that crypto-currency stuff.” At that precise moment, I knew that if Dad was even aware that cryptocurrency existed ... that investment bubble was about to burst.

An endless string of coding, mostly zeros and ones ... moving toward infinity. In supposedly limited supply, while still being

Bill Crane One Man’s Opinion

n SHARE WITH BILL: bill.csicrane@gmail.com

mined and manufactured daily in data centers across the globe.

International regulation is all but non-existent, the market is new enough that the federal government is still figuring it out, and extensive passcodes, which can get lost, create intricate access to even your own crypto holdings.

Yet, this is a strong enough “free market” that the Trump sons have created a new crypto that has already increased the family fortunes by a few billion.

Cryptocurrency miners run computers in large warehouses on racks at top speed 24/7, which consume huge amounts of elec-

tricity as well as water to keep those computers running cool.

Those collective data farms are currently comparable to the domestic energy consumption of Norway. A single data center has roughly the same energy footprint as 250,000 American homes.

That electricity can’t all come from sustainable sources, meaning that the industry is also a net polluter.

And whether your cryptocurrency of choice is Bitcoin, Luna, Ethereum, or some lesser-known e-currency, they all share one thing in common at present.

After hitting peak prices in 2021, their values are all down substantially. Several smaller Crypto currencies have ceased operations, leaving their investors holding the bag. In fact, the only part of the e-currency industry operating solidly in the black are the e-currency exchanges. They each make a small commission whether prices are going up, or down.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also reports that more

than 46,000 Americans have been stung by Crypto scams since January 2021, as many still believe the myths of rapid wealth, much more than current market dynamics.

And of course, crypto boosters will tell you that all markets are cyclic and that their pricing and value will recover. For those crypto cheerleaders, I have five words for you to ponder: Electromagnetic pulse and black-outs.

Yes, the more reliable cryptocurrencies and data mining farms do have onsite backup generators … but even fail-safes fail. Who knew that the Kryptonite for highflying cryptocurrencies might be a combination of green energy policy and sporadic and unpredict-

able power outages?

Innovation can still save or turn any industry apparently heading for a quick exit or downturn.

And again, I am no expert, but perhaps add an endless string of XXXs to all of those zeroes and ones … those certainly seemed to have worked out quite well for the porn industry.

Bill Crane is a writer and true son of the South. A longtime columnist and political analyst, he is now spending a good part of his time living the lake life and loving North Georgia. He will share his thoughts and travels here.

January 2026

LAKESIDE 27

28 LAKESIDE

January 2026

Free is good: Joegardener.com helps you start 2026 right in the garden Free is good, right? Especially when it’s available from one of the nation’s foremost garden gurus – Joe Lamp’l, the Joe behind joegardener.com and the creator of the joegardener Online Gardening Academy.

And it’s even better that Joe lives in North Georgia so, while he has followers across north America, you can see his expertise in action at The GardenFarm, his working garden and the location of many videos and podcasts.

Joe’s got the credentials: For three years, he hosted “Fresh From the Garden” on the DIY Network. For a dozen seasons, he hosted an Emmy Award- Lamp’l winning national series on public television – “Growing a Greener World – with all 500-plus episodes now available on his YouTube Channel joegardenerTV. Read his bio at joegardener.com, watch the videos and podcasts and reap the benefits of his depth of knowledge and his extensive

Pamela A. Keene Curb Appeal

n MORE INFO: Email: pam@pamelakeene.com contacts with national and regional gardening experts.

Joe also offers his in-depth Online Gardening Academy with self-contained multi-chapter modules, getting into the “why-do” behind the “how-to.”

Titles include Beginning Gardening Fundamentals, Master Seed Starting, Growing Epic Tomatoes, The Perfect Soil Recipe Master Class and Managing Pests, Diseases & Weeds. One of the most popular is Organic Vegetable Gardening. Throughout the year he offers previews of the topics and a chance to join the Growing a Greener World community of gardeners. Once you join, you’re

in for life, with access to the classes you’re enrolled in, live office hours related to each topic and connections with the online community of gardeners across North America.

I could go on and on, but Joe is my go-to for all things gardening; I often access the Online Gardening Academy courses I’ve purchased, but I spend time on growingagreenerworld.com and joegardener.com to find a practical solution to a challenge in my own garden, to learn or relearn about the magic of soil or how to grow bumper crops of tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables.

Joe has written three books.

The latest, “The Vegetable Gardening Book,” is my go-to. I also own “Over the Fence” and “The Green Gardener’s Guide.”

They’re available on Amazon.

The free stuff A visit to either website will net gardeners more information than you can ever absorb, and best of all much of it is free.

Free Resource Guides: 5 Steps to Your Best Garden Ever; The Best of Must-haves; and The

Complete Guide to Home Composting. Each is nearly 50 pages.

I’ve downloaded mine and have them in my gardening notebooks, but you can bookmark them as well.

A full library of searchable video episodes about everything from seed starting to managing in-

sects organically, from how to grow blueberries to gardening for wildlife that you can watch at your leisure.

One of joegardeners’ biggest free resources is access to the nearly 450 podcast episodes covSee Curb page 30

Master Gardeners to host wellknown expert at symposium Dr. Allan Armitage, University of Georgia professor emeritus, will share two presentations on Saturday, February 28. Hosted by the Hall County Master Gardeners, Armitage the symposium is open to the public. Tickets cost $20 each and include a boxed breakfast and program.

Armitage will give two presentations: “From Chaos to Contentment” and “Common Sense Gardening,” (also the title of his latest book, due out in February).

Copies of his newest book will be on sale at the event. He will also

bring an assortment of his other books.“Dr. Armitage is certainly one of the most in-demand garden and horticultural experts in the Southeast,” said Jayne Berry, Hall County Master Gardener in charge of programs for 2026. “He delivers in-depth knowledge framed in an upbeat and humorous way. Every time he speaks at one of our events, it always sells out.”

The morning event takes place at First Presbyterian Church, 800 South Enota, Gainesville. Details and tickets are available at hallmastergardeners.com. For questions, call the Hall County Extension Office at 770 5358293.

January 2026

LAKESIDE 29

The great debate: Shower or shower/tub combo

Remodeling a bathroom can feel overwhelming – there are many choices to make from function, style, space, cost, and how those elements come together.

Bathrooms are tricky because even small decisions can lead to unexpected expenses or extra work if things go wrong. With careful planning and informed choices, you can tackle the process confidently and achieve lasting results.

Of all the choices you’ll make, whether to have a shower/tub combo or a walk-in shower remains one of the great debates in remodeling. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, as well as lots of design possibilities.

Things to think about before you start • What do you really need from your bathroom?

• How much space do you have to work with?

• What’s your budget?

• Will your space and budget actually cover your needs and wants?

Tammy Doyle Design & Remodel

nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com • Which features can you live without if you must make tradeoffs?

Taking time to answer these questions will help you start your bathroom remodel with confidence, making sure your choices match your needs and personal style.

Figuring out what you really need Before choosing colors or styles, it’s advisable to identify the functional requirements of the bathroom space, especially in smaller spaces. Once you identify essential needs, it’ll be easier to

make decisions that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical for your lifestyle.

If you or someone in your household requires better accessibility due to age, injury, or disability, a walk-in shower can make daily routines simpler and safer. It’s also a great option if you want to plan and make your home easier to live in for years to come. Of course, walk-in showers aren’t only about accessibility.

Many people just prefer showers over baths for their convenience.

If you have kids or think you might need a tub for guests or future family, a shower/tub combo might be practical. Bathtubs make washing little ones much easier, and most homebuyers expect at least one tub in the house. Baths aren’t just practical – they’re relaxing and can even help with stress, sleep, or heart health.

Newer tubs are designed with comfort in mind, so you don’t have to put up with cramped, shallow models anymore.

Material and style options Modular Units: Modular

shower or tub/shower inserts have always been popular because they’re easy to install and keep clean. While fiberglass used to be the go-to, you can now choose from acrylic or Vikrell (a superdurable blend of acrylic and fiberglass). These come in various styles, from ones with built-in shelves or benches to accessible designs. You can even find inserts with modern tile patterns for an upgraded look.

Tile Choices: Tile adds creativity without requiring the elimination of a tub. There are countless styles, colors, and patterns, and plenty of ways to pair drop-in, modular, and freestanding tubs with tiled walls.

If cleaning grout sounds like a hassle, the good news is that grout has come a long way; stain-resistant and epoxy options make maintenance much easier. If you prefer fewer grout lines, you can install large sheets of stone composite or porcelain. The main drawbacks are that tile is more expensive to install and harder to change later, and some materials,

PHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING

A walk-in shower is a solid choice for a bathroom remodel.

like natural stone, may need more upkeep.

Natural stone and quartz slabs: A newer trend is using large slabs of natural stone or quartz for shower walls or tub surrounds, rather than lots of small tiles.

Companies like Cambria offer thin quartz slabs perfect for these spaces, creating a bold, elegant look and making cleaning simple.

See Design, page 30

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30 LAKESIDE

January 2026

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 12/17/25) $4.69; $3.69, diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thur.-Mon; Closed Tue/Wed) 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 12/17/25) $5.19 Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) On-site eatery: Skogies HABERSHAM MARINA Hours: Office/Dock: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; Closed on Sunday 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 12/17/25) $4.59 HARBOR LANDING Hours: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info: 470-323-3478 • 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 12/17/25) $5.39 non-ethanol; $5.79 diesel On-site eatery: Various restaurants.

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

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 12/17/25): $6.49 premium; $5.39 unleaded; $4.93 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m-5 p.m., daily) 5 percent discount with Suntex advantage membership On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar LAZY DAYS (at Holiday on Lake Lanier) Hours: Office/Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) 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 12/17/25) $5.59 regular PORT OF INDECISION MARINA Hours: Office 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info: 470-323-3444 • margaritavilleatlanierislands.com Location: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford Types of slips available: 14x32, 14x36, (254 units, up to 40’), covered Types of fuel: non ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/17/25) $5.39 non-ethanol; $5.79 diesel (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) 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., Closed Sundays.

Info: 770-887-5715 • bestinboating.com/port_royale Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville

• Calendar

SAFE HARBOR AQUALAND Hours: Office/Leasing, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Info: 770-967-6811 • shmarinas.com Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Houseboats, covered cruisers, & all types of open slips plus covered & open dry slips, totaling 1,725 wet docks and 460 dry docks Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 12/17/25) $5.20, non-members; $3.84, members (Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) On-site eatery: Pig Tales SAFE HARBOR HIDEAWAY BAY Hours: Office/Store/Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily.

Info: 770-967-5500 • shmarinas.com Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Wet (510) Dry (150) Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 12/17/25) $4.47, non-members; $3.67, members On-site eatery: Fish Tales SUNRISE COVE MARINA Hours: Office/Store/Dock - 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon.; Closed Tues.

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 12/17/25) $5.29 unleaded Ethanol Free

• Design

Continued from Page 18

pm, middle/high school Murrayville Branch – 770-532-3311, ext. 171 o Jan 5 – Puzzle Week – all week, all day, adults o Jan 14 – Read Rover – reading to dogs – 3:30 pm-4:30 pm, elementary o Jan 30 – Baby Steps – 10:15-10:45, baby/preschool North Hall Tech Center - 770-532-3311, ext. o Jan 5 – Chair Yoga – 1 pm-2 pm, adults o Jan 20 – Read Rover – 3:30 pm-4:30 pm, elementary o Jan 24 – Video Game Club for TEENS – 3:30 pm-4:30 pm, middle/high school Spout Springs Branch – 770-532-3311, ext 191 o Jan 7 – Drop-in Craft for children – 10 am4 pm, elementary o Jan 21 – Little Learners: Letters – 10:30 am-11:30 am, baby/pre-school o Jan 28 – Reverse Coloring – 2 pm-4 pm, adults Northeast Georgia History Center - 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville - 770-297-5900 o New Permanent Exhibit Now Open – Threads of Sacrifice: Stories from Northeast WWI, WWII, and Korean War The Arts Council - 331 Spring Street, SW, Gainesville – 770-534-2787, Email: Kaytiea@theartscouncil.net

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 12/17/25) $5.39 regular (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)

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

o Thru Feb 20 – Deeply Rooted: An Intimate Portrait of Place – Tues-Fri 10 am-4 pm, free o 2026 Evenings of Intimate Jazz – gate open 7 pm, shows at 8 pm: Jan 16, 17 - Roman Street; Feb 13, 14 – Ashleigh Elizabeth Smith; Mar 20, 21 – Sammy Hanson Quartet; Apr 17, 18 – Jazz at the Movies; May 16 – Joe Gransden Ensemble GWINNETT COUNTY Players Guild/EagleTheatre – The Bowl at Sugar Hill, 5039 W Broad St, Sugar Hill - 770945-6929, 770-945-6716 o Feb 6-15 – A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder – tickets required.

HIAWASSEE-TOWNS COUNTY Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds – 1311 Music Hall Rd, Hiawassee – 706-896-4191 o Jan 10 – The Marshall Tucker Band, 7 pm o Jan 31 – Chris Janson, 7 pm WHITE COUNTY City of Cleveland o Jan 18 – VIP Wildlife Park Tour – North Georgia Wildlife and Safari Park, 2912 Paradise Valley Rd, Cleveland, 4 pm-7 pm.

City of Helen o Jan 10, 24 – Wildlife of Unicoi – 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month, Unicoi State Park & Lodge, 1788 Hwy 356, noon-1 pm, reservations call 706-878-2201, ext 550.

- compiled by Vicki Hope

Continued from Page 29 With the right sealant, natural stone will last for ages. Just keep in mind that these slabs are heavy and tricky to install, so you’ll want a pro to handle them. And they’re usually more expensive. If you love this look but want something simpler, porcelain slabs are a good alternative.

Things to keep in mind Whether you go for a shower/tub combo or a stand-alone shower, you’ll have plenty of options to make your bathroom feel luxurious, energy-efficient, and

valuable for your home. Features like whirlpool tubs, body jets, or rainfall shower heads can turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, and water-saving fixtures help keep utility costs down.

Contact us, Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling, to talk about your ideas and find the best solutions for your space. Call (678) 450-1700.

Tammy Doyle is the Executive Vice President for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.

• Curb Continued from Page 28 ering every garden topic you can imagine.

They are available on every major podcast app provider by searching for “the joe gardener show.”

Gardening resources links to ideal tools for particular tasks; information about birding, weed ID invasive species and how to locate a Master Gardener class near you.

Now’s the time to set your path toward

a productive, plentiful and fun year of gardening. No matter if you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, joegardener.com has the goods!

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

January 2026

LAKESIDE 31

Lakeside Dining Guide

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Bullfrogs Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily year round. This Southern Gastro Pub features re-imagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from fullservice bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car.

Buford. 770-945-8787.

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music.

Open year round. Hideaway Bay Marina.

770-967-3775, www.fishtaleslakelanier.com.

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

Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining on the water at Port Royale in open-air thatchedroof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. Live music on weekends Open daily. 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. Open Friday-Sunday. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. 678-828-7676, www.PigTalesLakeLanier. com.

Sidney’s Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier.

Serving breakfast daily and dinner Monday - Saturday year round. 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. Live music on weekends. Open Tues. - Sunday. Closed on Monday. Call from your boat & they will pick you up. Gainesville Marina. 678 450-1310; www.skogieslakefrontrestaurant.us.

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

32 LAKESIDE

January 2026

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