Lakesideonlanierfebruary2015

FREE

Visit Our Website

at almost 300 locations around Lake Lanier

Lakesidenews.com

Buying or Selling a Lake Home?

• Daily Lake Level

CALL PATSY!

• Lanier Marketplace • Tour of Homes

See my ad on the back page.

Please recycle

February 2015

3292 Thompson Bridge Road #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 Phone: (770) 287-1444 Fax: (770) 287-1445 E-mail lakesidenews@mindspring.com

Vol. 21 Issue 2

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Lawsuit reply Georgia denied claims by Florida that its water use dried up the panhandle ecosystem and depressed its economy. The denials came in a reply to a Florida lawsuit filed in U.S. Supreme Court in Oct. 2013. Page 2

LCKC hires new coach Lake Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club appointed Jim O’Dell as the High Performance I coach for the LCKC Sprint team effective February 1. He replaces Morgan House, who announced his resignation last month. Page 34

Iceland: More than fire and ice Imagine a remote island inhabited by 300,000 friendly people who speak an ancient language that few in the world even try to understand. This is truly a land of constant fire and ice. Page 50 Also inside: Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Break from the lake . . . . . . . .Page Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Captain’s comments . . . . . . . .Page Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page COE column . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Cruising Wilsons . . . . . . . . . . .Page Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Dining guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Fishing report . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Fishing tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lake Lanier Olympic Venue . . .Page Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lanier map . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page Recreation guide . . . . . . . . . .Page Safety guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Sailing calendar . . . . . . . . . . .Page Shore Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Steve Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . .Page US Coast Guard Auxiliary . . . . .Page Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page

51 54 30 18 55 46 22 42 49 10 12 20 16 20 52 48 40 44 34 30 37 46 8 50

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

Lady Spartans from Michigan State University rowing team wade into near 45-degree water to launch from the beach at Don Carter State Park. The team rented all eight cottages at the park for their winter training session. Story page 16.

For more info, see our ad on pages 6 & 7.

2 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Georgia claims no fault in lawsuit reply 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 Millie Adcox, Jane Harrison Columnists Glenn Burns, Roy Crittenden, Steve Johnson, Mike Rudderham, Phillip Sartain, Ken Sturdivant, Bob & Carolyn Wilson 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 Jane Harrison Georgia denied claims by Florida that its water use dried up the panhandle ecosystem and depressed its economy. The denials came in a reply to a Florida lawsuit filed in U.S. Supreme Court in Oct. 2013 alleging Georgia hoarded water upstream from Apalachicola Bay and caused environmental harm and economic woe to the region largely dependent on oyster catches.

Georgia’s reply, delayed more than a year, came swiftly after Special Master Ralph I. Lancaster on Dec. 15 questioned the state’s slowness and requested a response by Feb. 2. Georgia filed its answer Jan. 8. The Supreme Court agreed the lawsuit was worthy of consideration last November and appointed the prominent Maine attorney to oversee preliminary proceedings and make recommendations. Lancaster, who has mastered two other state disputes over water, is known for moving cases along fairly quickly. In each of the other two water cases, Supreme Court judgments followed his recommendations.

Lancaster, in a telephone con-

ference and follow-up correspondence with states’ attorneys, urged the states to work collaboratively and aggressively pursue settlement. Georgia’s answer to the lawsuit did not show any will to budge.

Not only did Georgia deny causing Florida harm, it claimed that Florida is not entitled to equitable apportionment of the Apalachicola-Flint-Chattahoochee river basin. Lake Lanier is the largest reservoir on the system and is the major water supplier for metro Atlanta. The Chattahoochee River heads up near Helen, in North Georgia, and flows into Lake Lanier and out at Buford Dam. The Flint River springs forth below the Atlanta airport. Both flow into Lake Seminole formed by Woodruff Dam, which releases water into the Apalachicola River.

Georgia’s answer, signed by Attorney General Sam Olens and a litigation team headed by Craig S. Primis, disputed Florida’s geographical description of the river basin, including the exact location of the Chattahoochee River.

“While a portion of the Chattahoochee River forms the border

between Alabama and Georgia, the river itself is in Georgia,” it says. Additionally, it alleged that Florida erred in its depiction of the Apalachicola River’s formation. Georgia denied that the Flint River and Chattahoochee converge to form the Apalachicola, as Florida’s lawsuit states. Instead Georgia claims both rivers “flow into Lake Seminole and that the

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases water from the Woodruff Dam into the Apalachicola River.”

Georgia disputed not only Florida’s geographical presentation of the river basin, it also argued that Florida’s lawsuit targets Georgia, but not Alabama, which also withdraws water from the ACF basin.

See Lawsuit, page 12

NEED QUICK CASH FOR HOLIDAY BILLS?

ALL JEWELRY LOANS ARE

50% OFF

BRING THIS AD! PARKWAY PAWN & GOLD

www.ParkwayGold.com 334 Dahlonega St. • Cumming

770-757-8654

LET US MAKE YOU SMILE!

February 2015

LAKESIDE 3

VISIT WWW.LIVINGONLAKELANIER.COM • WE SELL LIFESTYLES, NOT JUST HOMES! 3574 Ridgewood Point, Gainesville, GA

6445 Grand Marina Cir, Gainesville, GA

9085 Lisa Circle, Gainesville, GA

Each Keller Williams office is independently owned and operated.

BRING ALL OFFERS! Great lake home w/renovated kitchen & Master on Main. Open floor plan, nice sunset lake views, great neighborhood! Single Slip dock in deep water. Please call today for an immediate showing! $529K (Hall)

6417 Arborwood Dr, Flowery Branch

VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS! Long range views of Lake Lanier! It's like living on top of the world and o’looking the lake. Marina Bay, resort style amenities include, swim, tennis, clubhouse, parks and more, boat slip option at community dock. $349K (Hall)

5610 Pointe West Drive, Oakwood, GA

JUST LISTED! FANTASTIC VIEWS! Walk in the front door and all you see is water! Super easy walk to SS dock w/party deck. This great home has updated interiors, daylight basement, screened porch, open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, 5 BR/3BA, INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY~ CALL FOR DETAILS. $550K (Forsyth)

Teresa Smith Lake Lanier Specialist • Lake Lanier Resident

770-654-4173 • 678-318-5026 teresakw@live.com We sell lifestyles...not just homes.

COMING SOON - Gainesville

Visit Our Websites at: www.LivingOnLakeLanier.com www.LanierAreaRealEstate.com

SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER JUST LISTED! Gorgeous lake views and grassed yard, awesome outdoor living areas from both levels, screened porch, 1/2 acre lot, 4BD/3BA, full finished terrace, single slip dock with party deck. $649K (Hall)

4216 Bayridge Dr, Gainesville, GA

LIVE IN GATED POINT WEST: This bank owned gem features dramatic windows across the entire house, overlooking the gunite pool and lake, Master on Main, Finished terrace, 5 BD, 4.2 BA, nearly 1 acre lot, very private, upgrades galore, 3 car garage, & dbl slip dock permit. REDUCED $825K (Hall)

424 Brookwood Dr. W, Dawsonville, GA

FABULOUS LOT with wonderful lake views AND deep water year round. This is the perfect weekender! You'll love the charming cottage and easy walk to the SS dock with party deck. Perfect to enjoy now and build your 'forever home' later.

3BD/2BA. Call for details.

6506 Vista View Ct., Flowery Branch, GA

FANTASTIC LOT in Rogers Bay Subdivision325 feet of water frontage-Deeded slip in covered community dock with party deck at NO additional charge! Close to hospital and GREAT shopping~ $90 K (Hall)

COMING SOON - Gainesville

South Lake Income Producing Duplex!

AMAZING LAKE HOME w/long range views has a PRIVATE boat ramp & 2 docks! HUGE home with gourmet kitchen & dining room table that can seat 12 easily! THE home for entertaining on Lake Lanier!

Double master bedrooms as well as a 3rd bedroom on the main level. You'll LOVE the killer theater room and game room w/wet bar and 2 additional bedrooms on the terrace level. DONT MISS THIS ONE OF A KIND LAKE LANIER HOME!!

4BR/2BA LOG CABIN w/fantastic Lake Views! Cabin includes deeded slip in community dock in beautiful cove.

Perfect for a lake weekender or investment. Cabin includes 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms, 2 FPs. Please call for more info. $289K

CALL FOR A CONSULTATION 4008 Hill Ct., Gainesville, GA LAKE VIEWS, Cul-de-sac location, no dock permit. $90K (Hall)

R UNDE T! AC R T N CO

MOTIVATED SELLER, 2006 custom energy efficient home that practically sits on the water's edge, great views from every room, master on main, 4 BD/4.2 BA, finished terrace, great outdoor living spaces and move in ready, $749K (Dawson)

NOW IS THE TIME TO LIST

0 Apache Trail, Gainesville NEAR LAKE, 1/2 acre corner lot in great location near the lake. $29K (Forsyth)

FOUR SEASONS RANCH on 3/4 acre lot, excellent condition, 3 sides brick, 3 BD/2.5 BA on main, full unfinished basement with boat door, 2 car side entry garage. $285K (Hall)

6764 Hedge Row Lane, Gainesville, GA

LAKE AND VISTA VIEWS FROM EVERY ROOM! Causally Elegant, Custom Estate Home with exquisite touches throughout and multiple outdoor living spaces. 4 BD/4.2 BA. YOU MUST SEE THIS ONE OF A KIND HOME TO BELIEVE IT! Gourmet kitchen flows to great room for entertaining with a WIDE OPEN floorplan. Dreamy Master suite! You'll love the country club lifestyle with a private setting. A boat slip option at the Private Marina in Marina Bay is optional. $1.2M (Hall)

Lot Listing on Lanier

Lot Listing on Lanier

Lot Listing on Lanier

Lot Listing on Lanier

3908/3914 Harbour View Ct, Gainesville, GA

6313 Old Shadburn Ferry Rd, Buford, GA

4 Lake Lots with Dock permits

6474 Julian Rd, Gainesville, GA

4 WATERFRONT LOTS with WONDERFUL Lake Lanier views and docks/permits. Corp line is very close to the water. Please call for plat and soil tests. Lots range from $99K-$199K. (Hall)

1 ACRE LEVEL WATERFRONT LOT w/low Corp line. Build your dream home. Soil tests, plat and dock permit available. REDUCED, $215K (Forsyth)

2 LOTS IN OAK HARBOUR SUBDIVISION. Cul-de-sac lots come w/single slip docks. Ready to build your new Lake Lanier home. $139K$169K. Close to NE GA Medical Center. (Hall)

1.71 ACRE SOUTH LAKE LOT!! Nice Corp line and double slip dock permit in deep water.

Shoreline has rip rap in place. Call agent for plat~$299K (Short Sale) (Gwinnett)

4 LAKESIDE

February 2015

THE PATTI CHAMBERS TEAM Experience isn't expensive, it's priceless!

THE LAKE HOME YOU'VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF MAY NOW BE AFFORDABLE ... CALL US! $895,000

The Chambers Team 631 Dawsonville Hwy • Gainesville, GA 30501

www.PattiChambers.com • Office 770-503-7070

$1,195,000

NEW G! N I T S I L LAKEFRONT LIVING AT IT'S BEST. This fabulous 4 sided brick home is privately situated at the end of culdesac in an upscale lake s/d. The main level offers 3 BRs & 2 1/2 BAs. Finished terrace level offers 2 add'l BR's & 2BAs, den, theatre room, full kitchen. A wonderful in-law or teen suite. 4 car garage, basketball court. Beautiful sparkling pool. A stunning teak custom built dock w/party deck. Call for a list of amenities and for appt to view this fabulous lake property. 5 min. to hospital, shopping, restaurants and schools.

$925,000

CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE: Nothing compares to this exquisite home & view. Open entertaining floor plan, gourmet kitch, breakfast kitch, formal dining rm, elevator, 2 FP, resort style bath, dressing rm, master suite on main, upper level loft, entertainment center, terrace lvl 3 BR/2.5 w/guest kitchen, large great rm, exercise rm, enchanting stone pool, Jacuzzi, waterfall oasis, outdoor living area, boat slip & n’hood pool.

$649,000

$449,500

D E C U RED THIS NANTUCKET INSPIRED HOME is a true master piece and located only minutes from the Chattahoochee Country Club & golf course. Unbelievably gorgeous 3.25 acres w/lake on 3 sides. Lovely porches overlook Lake Lanier & the private enclosed boat dock.

TRULY A MUST SEE LAKE PROPERTY! Deep long range panoramic views from every room. Spacious gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances and granite countertops. 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths and 2 half, 4 fireplaces. Master plus a large guest suite on main level. Full finished terrace level. Lots of privacy. Only 32 steps to the covered single slip boat dock. Convenient to shopping, restaurants, schools, hospital and I-985.

3.178 ACRES ON LAKE LANIER! Small weekend home on property which could be refurbished. Lots of privacy. Boat dock. Located in North Hall off Highland Road.

$389,500

$625,000

$380,000

D E C U D RE LEVEL LOT GRASSED TO WATER'S EDGE. Year round views. Everything a family would want. 4/5 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, gourmet kitchen, screened porch, finished terrace level. 2 fireplaces, gorgeous setting, single slip boat dock with party deck. Convenient to I-85.

FALL IN LOVE WITH THIS CHARMING RETREAT ON LAKE LANIER. You must see this refurbished home! Master on Main, a total of 4 BRs & 3 baths, stone fireplace in family room, finished terrace level. Covered single slip boat dock with swim platform. The perfect lake home and so affordable!

BEAUTIFUL LAKE LOT IN POINTE OLYMPUS subdivision near Chattahoochee Country Club. Can't beat this view. Approx 140 feet on Corps line.

WE LIVE AND PLAY ON LAKE LANIER Patti Chambers c 770.287.4879 • Bobby Chambers c 770.654.0533 • Office 770.538.4010 Sally Chambers Kirchner c 770.538.5626 • Patsy Mercer c 770.540.6507 • Renae Ackerman c 678.316.8596

WWW.PATTICHAMBERS.COM

February 2015

LAKESIDE 5

Sheila Davis

www.LakeLaniersFinest.com The Norton Agency 434 Green Street, Gainesville, GA 30501

770.536.1250 We Sell More Lake Property

$2,300,000 • “POINT SOUTH” GORGEOUS SUNSET VIEWS WITH CORPS LINE IN THE WATER! 5BR/5.5BA home w/screened porch, theatre rm & second kitchen. Pool, spa and firepit for entertaining. 5364 POINT SOUTH DRIVE, GAINESVILLE 30504 www.5364PointSouthDrive.info

WE SELL MORE LAKE! List your home now for an early spring sale!

$1,550,000 • STUNNING CUSTOM SOUTH LAKE HOME ON PENINSULA WITH PANORAMIC WATER VIEWS AND DEEP WATER DOCK! 6BR’s/4.5B’s with elevator, two master suites, multiple living areas and covered porches, bar, office/study and more! www.4180Sinclairshoresroad.info, CUMMING, FMLS# 5372142

770-235-6907 sdavis@gonorton.com www.davisrenfroe.com

$1,799,000 • BREATHTAKING PRIVATE 3 ACRE GATED ESTATE, GUEST HOUSE AND TWO DOCKS! AMAZING LONG RANGE VIEWS AND 380 FEET OF SHORELINE! 5 Car garage. 9055 KNOLL DR, GAINESVILLE 30506 (Forsyth) FMLS#5148615

G

N PENDI REDUCED! $1,375,000 • YOU WILL LOVE THIS OUTSTANDING HOME WITH DEEP WATER AND BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF CHESTATEE BAY! PRIVACY BEHIND GATES. THIS OPEN PLAN FEATURES RUSTIC ELEGANCE FMLS#5306097 www.9250ArbourlacLane.info. (Forsyth)

$899,000 • BEST VALUE! FOUR SIDES BRICK LUXURY LAKE HOME WITH THREE FINISHED LEVELS! DEEP WATER TWIN SLIP DOCK. www.8585anchoronlanier.info.

Forsyth County.

GREATLY REDUCED-BEST BUY! $998,500 • EXECUTIVE BEAUTY AND ELEGANCE WITH THIS ALL BRICK THREE STORY HOME WITH POOL OVERLOOKING SCENIC LAKE LANIER! Beautiful lake views and upgradable to twin slip dock. FMLS#5288402 www.3155WindingLakeDrive.info.

$569,000 • LOVELY 5BR/3B RANCH PLAN ON FINISHED TERRACE LEVEL. Convenient to central lake, shopping & Gainesville, many recent upgrades and deep water single slip dock. www.3558MillRoad.info, GAINESVILLE FMLS#5363806

$1,100,000 • SOUTH LAKE LUXURY LIVING IN EXCLUSIVE GATED “POINTE WEST”! Enjoy fabulous deep water views just 50 feet to water’s edge.

FMLS#5310026 www.5660Pointwestdrive.info GAINESVILLE

$1,399,000 • HUGE REDUCTION FROM $2,000,000! AMAZING DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY ON 9.5 ACRES! Approved for 18 lots and 18 boat slips. www.1799Cleveland Hwy.info.

FMLS# 7046198

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

$899,000 • ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM DESIGNED LOG HOME ON POINT LOT! WOULD MAKE A GREAT CORP RETREAT OR GET-A-WAY LODGE. Gated, spacious 5BR4B. (REDUCED FROM $1,299,000!)

6438 CHESLA DR., GAINESVILLE 30506 FMLS# 5150233

$595,000 • PRICED RIGHT! ENJOY PRIVACY AND SECLUSION AT THE LAKE! Gorgeous four sided brick lake home on level lot. Twin slip party dock. www.6331PointTwentyTwo.info GAINESVILLE FMLS#5328615

$549,000 • WHAT A VIEW! STUNNING YEAR ROUND LAKE VIEWS. 4BR/4.5BA. Not dockable, but walk to lake from backyard! www.2939ThompsonMillRd.info FMLS#5319260

$2,250,000 • SOUTH LAKE LUXURY GATED ESTATE IN SOUGHT AFTER FORSYTH COUNTY. Enjoy fabulous open lake views from this custom home w/heated salt water infinity edge pool & spa, deep water twin slip aluminum dock. Separate apartment over 5 car garage. www.9085BethelRoad.info.

6 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Lead Agent The Good Life Group

Bev Knight #1 Agent on Lake Lanier

Luxury estate in Cumming

Dbl slp dock, easy walk to great wtr, multi-lvl pool, tennis cts, media rm, gym, scr porch. $1.685m

Exec's dream in Buford ACT! CONTR UNDER

Deep water, amazing views, at water's edge.

Place for pool. Great south lake loc. $900K

Custom-built EEK! IN A W D L O S

Easy walk to deep wtr, SS party dock, open flr pln, fin terrace lvl, apt over garage. $625K

Private setting

4BR lake home w/ rm for pool. Close to GA 400, party dock on secluded cove. Renovated. $425K

770-536-4416 www.housesonlanier.net

Mediterranean showcase

Designer saline infinity pool, easy walk to wtr, modern dock, yr-rnd vws, Cumming. $1.485m

Chattahoochee Country Club !

ISTING NEW L

Big wtr views, cart path w/cart, SS dock on deep wtr, hand-laid stone FP, 3 mstrs. $750K

South lake w/views

Lindal cedar @ wtr's edge

Easy walk to wtr, droughtproof cove, boat house w/party deck, open flr pln, views. $1.2m

Luxury at water’s edge LD! LD! SO O S !

D SOL

2 kitchens, sought-after Buford, 4 FP, double slip boathouse, high-end fixtures. $725K

Marina Bay beauty

!

ISTING NEW L

Dbl slip dock, deep wtr, master on main, media rm, log siding, sought-after Buford. $625K

Big water views

Much of reno done for you. Home right beside lake, sgl slip dock on great water. $425k

Craftsman 4BR, gourmet kitchen, 2 FP's, soaring ceilings, slip available, full bsmt. $525K

Beautifully renovated

4 BR/3 BA, SS pty dock, dp wtr, updated kit, new deck, HW flrs, fin. terrace lvl. $399K

w w w. H o u s e s O n L a n i e r. n e t

February 2015

LAKESIDE 7

Dani Brown

706-455-3076

Luxury Coordinator

Jackie Powalowski Heather Skoglind

678-852-5397

678-612-8310

Buyer’s Agent

Buyer’s Agent

Darlene Plavacan

Kelli Fowler

678-300-1275

770-503-7070

770-561-9006

Investment Property Marketing Coordinator

***Featured Listing*** Like-new home on south lake Lakefront home perfectly up to date. Master on main, HW floors, open floor plan, granite counters, stainless appliances, friendly neighborhood - all on the south end of Lake Lanier. Cavernous bonus room can be used as bunk room plus office. Rocking chair front porch and party deck in back.

Drive-through 4-car garage. Good water at the dock. Dbl slip dock permit applied for. $499K

Proven income producer

Million dollar views !

ISTING NEW L

3 BR/3.5 BA, craftsman style, short walk to wtr, screened porch, 4 decks. $399K

Lake lot on Forsyth

Forsyth Cty., steps to wtr, easy walk, SS dock, beach at back door, huge scr porch. $399K

Lot in Buford

!

TRACT R CON E D N U NEW -

Easy walk to lake, deep water, double slip dock, house next door also for sale. $250K

What a steal

ACT! CONTR R E D N U NEW -

Great value, nice view!

3BR, 2BA, Forsyth, easy walk to lake, sgl slip dock. $325K

Very flat lake lot !

ISTING NEW L

Next door to lake house, .5 acres, close to I-985 & Holiday marina. $45K

Flat lakefront lot.

Driveway, septic tank, and well already in place.

Great views! $37,500

...when you’re ready for the good life!

8 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary: an important relationship During 2014, the Coast Guard Auxiliary represented the Coast Guard in a number of patriotic celebrations throughout the Atlanta area. We had Auxiliary vessels and crew in four parades, participated in six special services at area churches, participated in two city sponsored celebrations where representatives of the various military services were present. These activities typically occur during Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veteran’s Day in November. We are frequently asked about the relationship between the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The United States Coast Guard is the nation’s oldest continuous seagoing service, now over 200 years old. When our nation was born almost all trade was done by ship. Immediately there became a need for an organization to ensure safe transportation and enforce U.S. law. The roots of the Coast Guard date back to 1790. Over the years the duties of the Coast Guard have expanded. Today they include search and rescue, national security (patrolling 95,000 miles of coastline), marine boating safety, aids to navigation, bridge administration and ice op-

Roy Crittenden USCG Auxiliary

MORE INFO: 770-393-4382,

alcrit@mindspring.com, Flotilla 29 Lake Lanier, http://a0700209.uscgaux.info

erations.

The Coast Guard promotes safety on, over and under the high seas and navigable waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. The Coast Guard is authorized by law to develop, establish, maintain and operate search and rescue facilities (vessels and aircraft).

The Coast Guard is authorized to perform any and all acts necessary to rescue and aid persons and save property at any time and at any place where its facilities and personnel are available and can be effectively used. However, there is no legal duty for the CG to undertake any particular rescue mission. They are the world’s

leading maritime humanitarian safety service and are viewed as a strong contributor to our nation’s security. National security is woven through all its missions, especially maritime law enforcement and its role as one of the five armed forces of the United States.

The Coast Guard is a professional organization whose 43,000 personnel are proud of their traditions as lifesavers, guardians of the sea and a military service.

Further, the CG contributes significantly to our national economy, as marine transportation remains the primary method of trade movement today. Effective March 1, 2003, the Coast Guard moved from the Department of Transportation to the Department of National Security.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary traces its beginnings back to June 23, 1939, when Congress enacted “The Coast Guard Reserve Act of 1939.” In February, 1941, a new act created the Military Reserve and renamed the original reserve the “Coast Guard Auxiliary.” The act provided that the Auxiliary shall be composed of citizens of the U.S. and that the purpose of the Auxiliary is to as-

AQUAMARINA LAZY DAYS

sist the Coast Guard, to further interest of safety of life at sea and upon navigable waters, to promote efficiency in operation of motorboats and yachts, to foster a wide knowledge of and better compliance with the laws, rules and regulations governing the operation of motorboats and yachts

and to facilitate other operations of the U.S. Coast Guard.

By conducting a wide variety of patrols and search and rescue missions, lives and property are saved. Operations are a demanding activity where qualified Auxiliarists may use their knowledge, See USCGA, page 12

Safe boating course set for Feb. 21 Flotilla 29 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Lake Lanier, announces a one-day, seven-lesson “About Boating Safely” course. The course is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2015.

This course also serves as a PWC certified course for children under the age of 16. This course will be given at the Coast Guard Auxiliary Operations Center, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch, Ga., on the left just before the entrance to Aqualand Marina.

Classes run from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and cost is $40.

Discounts available for additional family members.

Course contents include:

• Know your boat • Before getting underway • Navigating the waterways • Operating your vessel safely • Boating’s legal requirements • Boating emergencies • Enjoying watersports • State of Georgia regulations State law now requires any person born after January 1, 1998, must have completed a boater education course approved by the Ga. DNR before he or she may legally operate a motorized vessel on Georgia state waters.

Successful completion of this course may result in a reduction in your boat’s insurance premium.

MORE INFO: Sara Snyder, Public Education Officer, Flotilla 29 • 770-841-8388 • asbs10@comcast.net

GOT LAKE? www.HomesLakeLanier.com Easyy andd FREEE homess searchh

VIEWW ALLL LAKEE LANIERR ANDD SURROUNDING REALL ESTATE Covered Dry Stack Space Available

Great for Winter Storage Ask Us About Our 100 ft Open Wet Slip Special

770-628-1019 • www.ilovemymarina.com

www.HomesLakeLanier.com Anythingg & Everythingg Aboutt Lakee Lanierr Reall Estate!

February 2015

LAKESIDE 9

10 LAKESIDE

February 2015

The Southern Fishing Report by Ken Sturdivant

A sampling of fishing information and tips from area guides Lanier level: Just under one foot below full pool.

Clarity: Main lake and creeks are clear.

Temp: High 40s.

is from Jimbo Mathley. Contact: www.jimboonlanier.com, 770 642 7764.

Striper report Striper fishing is good. The typical winter fishing technique Bass report during the winter months of Bass fishing is fair. There have pulling live bait on free lines and been fish shallow as well as in the planner boards is working when mid depth and deep ranges. The pulled in areas with large concenditches with standing timber in 45 trations of bait. This technique is feet or more should be your first clearly the most fun way to fish in check. Check for bait in these the winter. There is nothing like areas. If there is no bait, move to watching a planner board screamthe next ditch. Start in more shal- ing across the water with a big low depths – 15 feet or less – with striper on. Herring has been the a Spro McStick or a 1/4 ounce most productive bait with small SuperSpin. Maybe a spoon, a trout with gizzard placing second.

Chattahoochee Jig, a Shaky Head If you are pulling baits always try worm, and a drop shot are all to keep someone on the front good potentials out deep. Focus deck casting a 1/2 ounce buck tail on timber edges and work your jig with a fluke. The umbrella rig baits slowly! is still working when pulled As the water continues to get across points and flats. colder, the slower your presentaStripers are scattered all over tion should be. This is a great the lake from Shoal Creek to Littime to learn how to fish the deep tle River. Stripers can be found in timber on Lanier. How and where pockets and on points from the to find the most productive timback of the creeks to the mouth. ber, how to fish it, and with what They should be more concenlures. trated in the back of the creeks This Lake Lanier Bass report this time of year but that’s one of

the challenges of striper fishing.

They are not always where you think they should be. However, there is one key that seldom fails; find the bait and fish at that spot.

One of the questions we often get asked is “When is the best time to go striper fishing?” Being guides we always respond with, “Anytime you can!” The reality is this is true. There are many conditions that affect the fish biting or not biting and you cannot rely on any one condition. Lake conditions, including temperature, dissolved oxygen content, moon phase, and barometric pressure are the factors most often discussed.

We have posted an article explaining the effects of barometric pressure on our web site. Our website is listed below.

This striper report is from Captain Ken West and Captain Mike Maddalena of Big Fish On Service, 404 561 2564, www.bigfishonguide.com.

Crappie report Crappie fishing is good. The water temperatures are ranging

Call Now For: Transporting Detailing & Maintenance “the connection between boat buyers and sellers”

www.boatsplusga.com

between 46 and 48 degrees. On a sunny day, you will see a mild jump in the temperature later in the day, but as night falls it begins to dip. The pattern is simple: locate the bait, and it will lead you to the fish. Shooting docks is one of the best methods to put fish in the boat. Target docks at the mouths to the middle of creeks in 18 to 30 foot depths, with the bite occurring at five to 10 feet below the surface.

Docks in river channels at the same depths are also holding fish.

After locating fish at docks, your biggest challenge will be dealing with all the debris from rain that has gotten wedged between boats and docks. You may have to pass on fish to find docks with less debris. The more docks you target, the better your chance of catching fish. We have been using darker color jigs, taking into consideration the water stain.

Four pound high visibility test line is important. This is not important for the fish, but for you to see the movement of your line to immediately respond to the bite.

Soft body jigs are definitely

working best for us. This also makes it easier to shoot your jig in the dock, as it skips the water better than a hair jig. Historically, the water temperatures dip down to the lowest points during this month. This will make catching fish more challenging, but always remember that fish have to eat, and the females are fattening up in preparation for the spring spawn. So don’t hesitate to bundle up and go wet a line! Be safe on the water and wear your life jacket, it can save your life!

This crappie report is from Dan Saknini, member of the Lanier Crappie Angler’s Club, www. laniercrappieanglers.com.

Note: Call Ken Sturdivant about the “On the Water Schools” for Sonar or the Rods, Reels and Lures for Bass or a full day striper school.

MORE INFO: 770 889-2654, ken@southernfishing.com

Hendrix Dock Service

The best choice if you want to sell or trade your boat

30 Years Experience

2007 Sea Pro 270 2003 Cruisers 3275 EXPRESS 2007 Rinker 262 Bowrider Center Console w/Twin 200 HP Volvo 8.1 Duo-Prop w/27 hrs Loaded 36’ Cruiser Price $59,995 Price $59,995 Price $36,500

All Types of Dock Repair & Accessories Dock Moving

1992 Sea Ray 350 Express Bridge Loaded and Priced to Sell Price $26,900

2006 Bayliner 219 Deckboat 1998 Sea Ray 215 Express Cruiser 22’ Cuddy with Trailer V-8 with a Swim Platform Price $14,900 Price $14,900

Other listings on our website: www.boatsplusga.com Consignment Program • Boat Locator Service Financing Available • Trades Considered Phone: 770-965-4215 • Fax: 770-967-4561 • Email: jim@boatsplusga.com 6470 Lanier Islands Parkway • Buford, GA 30518

770-403-4899 or

770-889-0929

February 2015

LAKESIDE 11

Georgia’s youth birding competition turns 10 Registration now open for popular conservation event Georgia’s Youth Birding Competition turns 10 this spring, marking a decade of connecting young people with wildlife and positively impacting conservation in our state.

Coordinator Tim Keyes of the state Department of Natural Resources is enthusiastic about the future of the competition, including its reach beyond state lines as a model for the national youth birding foundation, Race 4 Birds.

Formed in 2014, Race 4 Birds already has about five events scheduled.

“The exciting thing is the Race 4 Birds startup and how the Georgia YBC is multiplying,” said Keyes, a wildlife biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Nongame Conservation Section.

He noted that the Youth Birding Competition also has developed “amazing competitors” who have gone on to study biology in college. Some former birding novices are now veterans, and bringing younger children under

their wing in birding.

Keyes said it is this effect that makes him is hopeful for another 10 years. “We’ve really moved a whole group of kids from the ground level up through expert birders. And I’d love to keep that going.”

The fun gets going April 2526, when the 24-hour statewide birdathon for teams varying in ages from kindergarteners to high school seniors returns. The deadline to register is March 31. Complete details are at www.georgiawildlife.com/youthbirdingcompetition.

The competition and an accompanying T-shirt Art Contest are sponsored by DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division; The Environmental Resources Network Inc., or TERN, friends group of the Nongame Conservation Section; and, others including the Georgia Ornithological Society and the Atlanta and Albany Audubon societies.

A banquet and awards ceremony will be held April 26 at

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center near Mansfield.

Teams register by one of four age divisions and compete against other groups their age. Participants can also volunteer to raise money for conservation organizations.

The Youth Birding Competition is free and designed for youth of all skill levels. Those new to birding can take advantage of mentoring opportunities offered through the competition.

Contestants spotted some 200 bird species and raised more than $2,600 for conservation last year.

Fundraising by this year’s teams could push the total since the competition’s start past $20,000, another milestone. Fundraising is a voluntary component of the event.

The 2015 competition begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 25, and ends at 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26.

Groups may use as much or as little of that time to count as many birds as possible throughout Georgia.

Although teams can start birding anywhere in the state, they must turn in their checklists at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center by 5 p.m. that Sunday. While judges examine and score checklists, participants are treated to a live animal show followed by an awards banquet packed with prizes.

The Youth Birding Competition also includes a T-shirt Art Contest. Deadline to enter is 4 p.m. March 9. Participation in the birding competition is encouraged but not required to enter the Tshirt Art Contest.

There is no charge for either contest, aside from the optional See Birding, page 22

Youth Birding Competition • What: Free bird-a-thon and fundraiser for youth from kindergarten through high school.

• When: April 25-26, 2015. Registration is open. Deadline to enter: March 31.

• Where: Teams can bird anywhere in the state, but must arrive at the finish line at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield by 5 p.m. April 26.

• T-shirt Art Contest: Deadline to enter is March 9. Details at www.georgiawildlife.org/YBCTshirtArtContest or contact art contest coordinator Linda May at (706) 557-3226 or linda.may@dnr.state.ga.us.

• Registration: Amy Glass, Charlie Elliott Conference Center, (770) 784-3122 • Birding competition contact: Tim Keyes, (912) 262-3191 or tim.keyes@dnr.state.ga.us • Online: www.georgiawildlife.com/youthbirdingcompetition.

Become a SAFER Boater Sign up Now for America’s Boating Course

by Atlanta’s Boating Club® Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron® is a unit of the United States Power Squadrons®

Come for the Boating Education…Stay for the Friends

A Boaters One-Stop Bow Light to Prop Specialist!

Stock & Custom Marine Engines & Drives Hi-Performance Up-grades including: Superchargers • Whipples • Custom Headers Custom Blue Printed Performance Drives (Imco - Teague) Upholstery • Canvas We forge partnerships with original manufacturers which allow us to locate your hard-to-find marine parts.

• Commitment & dedication • More than 30 years of technical experience

MerCruiser

Call us for prices!

770-932-6694 Check us out on Facebook

Lake Lanier, GA www.merlinmarine.net

Learn the Fundamentals of Good Boating!

Boat Handling - Docking and Trailering - Safety Equipment and Procedures - Navigation Basics Rules of the Road - Boat Types and Terminology This state approved boating safety course fulfills GA requirements for boater safety education, which is now mandatory for any person born after January 1, 1998 to legally operate a motorized vessel in GA waters.

America’s Boating Feb 21 - Bald Ridge Marina Course* Meets: May 2 - Army Corps Project Office FREE annual day pass to USACE parks at Lake Lanier upon completion of the course (Age 18+).

2015 Advanced Classes: Sail, Cruising & Cruise Planning, Seamanship, Piloting, Weather, Marine Communications Request a FREE Vessel Safety Examination - a courtesy examination of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of safety equipment required by State and Federal Regulations.

For more Information, Visit our Website www.atlantasboatingclub.com or Email - ABC@usps-atlanta.org *The class is approved by the State of Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

12 LAKESIDE

February 2015

• Lawsuit Continued from Page 2 The brunt of Georgia’s reply denies Georgia water use caused alleged injuries to Florida. It references alleged inconsistencies that compromise Florida’s assertion that Georgia was at fault.

Among those mentioned is a letter Florida Governor Rick Scott sent to a federal agency citing drought conditions and over-harvesting as cause for oyster fishery failure at Apalachicola Bay. “Governor Scott did not claim that Georgia’s alleged inequitable use of water caused a decline in oyster populations,” it states.

Advance Marine Services, Inc. Georgia also alleged that Florida is responsible for its own water-related ills by allowing over-fishing and environmentally harmful practices and by not adopting conservation measures.

Additionally, the reply states that the Corps of Engineers controls water flow from the ACF dams and that Georgia has no control of the volume of water released from those dams into the river system and ultimately into Florida. “The Corps control of Woodruff Dam is thus an intervening and superseding cause of

any injury to Florida. That, in turn, means Florida cannot attribute its alleged harm to conduct by Georgia and thus is not entitled to an equitable apportionment,” the state posits.

The Special Master’s case management plan schedules written discovery between Jan. 12 and July 13, 2015 and witness depositions between June 1 and Nov. 25. It schedules progress reports from both parties the first Friday each month. And it allows for a motion to dismiss the lawsuit until Feb. 15, 2016.

iary and the Coast Guard are in close proximity.

The Auxiliary operational facilities are excellent resources, which can, within their capacities, enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to respond to maritime emergencies. Auxiliary members wear the Coast Guard Uniform and are under CG orders while performing safety and regatta patrols and while performing air missions for

the Coast Guard. “The purpose and future mission of the Coast Guard Auxiliary is to assist the Coast Guard as authorized by the Commandant of the Coast Guard in performing any Coast Guard function, power, duty, role, mission or operation authorized by law,” (From the Coast Guard Act of 1995/1996).

• USCGA Continued from Page 8 skills and facilities, both surface and air, in an active and satisfying manner.

The CG Auxiliary is a volunteer civilian organization under the direction of the Coast Guard.

It is also the largest of the civilian service organizations. The functions of the Auxiliary include promotion of recreational boating safety and support to active duty units, especially where the Auxil-

Roy Crittenden is the Public Affairs Officer for Flotilla 29.

Use small baits when going for big fish The full moons during the early spring months draw almost all the game fish shallow to feed and spawn. At this time of the year fish feed on a lot of bait fish.

Matching the sizes of the bait fish can make or break a fishing trip at this time. One of the common mistakes anglers make is to use a lure that is too large.

Bait fish are blue back herring, thread fin and gizzard shad. These forage fish spawn on full moons as soon as the water temperatures break the mid 50s. They spawn on sandy banks and around rocks and will stay in the warmest water they can find for several weeks.

In many instances anglers over size lures trying to catch that next larger size of fish. This can make for a long day when other anglers are catching limits of fish.

Small live shiners, small all white buck tails, small shad and Shad Raps and even tiny tube baits will catch a lot more fish in a days fishing. And the quality of the fish taken on these tiny baits can be quite surprising. Since the

Keep line sizes as small as possible. Line sizes from 4 to 6 pound test will allow the baits to Ken swim freely and the light tackle is Sturdivant quiet when presented to shallow and sometimes spooky fish. One Fishing overlooked bait that is deadly all Tips year and especially in the early spring is the all white buck tail jig.

Locally Guide Mack Farr bait fish are small these small makes a Super jig with silver tinbaits look and swim exactly like the food they are already feeding sel in the bait. These little baits on light 6 or 8 pound test line on a on.

Another good bait in the early spinning reel are deadly. Add a trailer and the bait will fall slower spring is the spot tail minnow.

Many lakes are full of these little and this makes the bait look bigfish catchers. But getting this bait ger as well as making it easier to cast. Just cast them to the points can be a challenge because of and reel them back. Down size their body size and shape. Spot tail minnows are too thin and too baits to up size the fish. Another fast to catch in a cast net. Minnow bonus on small baits will numbers of fish on every trip. . jars and tiny No. 10 hooks and Ken Sturdivant produces the some bread is the ticket. Spot tail statewide Southern Fishing Reminnows live around docks and ramps anywhere on the lakes. Use port and is operator of Southern Fishing Schools. small Kahle hooks and 6 pound test line and a small float will MORE INFO: 770 889-2654, take their share of numbers and www.southernfishing.com sizes of fish.

Member of American Marine Technicians

Computer Diagnostics for Most Models Parts Repairs Maintenance Pontoon Refurbish

Same Location, New Address 4760 Cap Martin Dr. • Gainesville, GA 30506

Hours: Monday - Friday 8 - 5 • Saturday 8 - 12 • Closed on Sundays

(770) 356-3024 Cell David Daniel (770) 887-6942 Shop

February 2015

LAKESIDE 13

Dick Runstadler ASSOCIATE BROKER

C 678-707-1767 E-FAX 678-609-4299 drunstadler@mindspring.com

24/7 INFO CALL 888-252-5535 & ADD PROPERTY CODE CRESSWIND AT LANIER

G!

NEW LISTIN

Newer 2BR/2BA on full partially finished basement. Many quality upgrades. Covered deck & oversized patio. Backs up to wooded area.

Dynamite amenities. Only $344,850

CODE 2772

ING! NEW LIST

BRING OFFERS!

1 acre lot. 20x20 barn. Sunroom with heat & air, dining room, finished basement, 2 driveways, 2 fireplaces. Impeccable. ONLY $244,850 Will go fast!

CODE 2775

BRING OFFERS!

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

M!

R BEDROO

MASTE 1ST FLOOR

DAWSONVILLE RANCH - LOADED

CUSTOM BUILT CAPE COD Lanier’s finest! Great lake views, deep water dock.

1st floor master bedroom w/fireplace, finished basement, 3-car garage & more. Vacant.

Only $634,850.

CODE 2777

E! NEW PRIC

5 ACRES

BRING OFFERS!

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com HORSE RANCH IN GAINESVILLE

E! NEW PRIC

5 acres, covered bridge entrance, 2 homes, 6-stall stable & covered shed, 8-car carport, 5000 sf building, attached car museum & more! Owner retiring. Only $449,850

CODE 2773

BRING OFFERS!

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

E! NEW PRIC

LAKE LANIER LOT .719 ac lake lot w/dock. Exclusive high end comm.

Gentle slope bsmt. lot. Beautiful, quiet, uncrowded, deep water cove. Dock w/party deck. Home in comm. from high $300s to over $1 million. Call for info.

Only $258,850.

BRING OFFERS!

CODE 2776

E!

NEW PRIC

!

D L S O S TO O !

Super primary or weekender. Approx 2100 SF. Finished bsmt, 3 FP, huge screen porch. Dock w/ pontoon boat stays. Quiet, big cove. Move-in condition. Lots of extras. Only $317,850.

CellR 678-707-1767 YTourO@U L L E S www.dickrunstadler.com I CAN

.85 ac lot w/views and 32 x 32 dock. Ready to build today. 3600 SF bsmt home. Septic field in. Approx $200K in stone retaining wall for drive entrance & back lot fill. Well & city water. Quiet & private deep water cove.

A bargain @ $294,850.

BRING OFFERS!

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

LANIER FORSYTH CO - LOW TAXES

FORSYTH COUNTY/LANIER LOT

CODE 2771

ASEMENT!

B FINISHED

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

HALL CO NEAR LANIER 4 bd,3 ba, ranch. Finished bsmt w/ bdrm, bath, full kitchen, media room, rec room, screen porch & more. Corner over-sized lot. Move in condition. ONLY $219,850

CODE 2770

BRING OFFERS!

Cell 678-707-1767 Tour @ www.dickrunstadler.com

MY LISTINGS ARE SELLING FAST! • CALL ME TODAY SO I CAN SELL YOUR HOME TOO!!

DICK RUNSTADLER CELL: 678-707-1767 • TOUR ALL LISTINGS @ WWW.DICKRUNSTADLER.COM

14 LAKESIDE

February 2015

To Benefit Special Olympics Georgia

Saturday, February 21, 2015 LanierWorld at Sunset Cove 11:00 am Gates Open • 1:30 pm Plunge For complete event information and to register, go to: www.plungega.org

Plunge and Support the 26,000+ Athletes of SOGA! More Info: lucy.faxon@specialolympicsga.org

February 2015

LAKESIDE 15

16 LAKESIDE

February 2015

LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC VENUE Lady Spartans base winter practice at Don Carter State Park

By Jane Harrison After cold workouts on Lake Lanier, the Michigan State University Lady Spartans found comfort in the cozy cottages at Don Carter State Park. The rowing crew began their new year at the park, where they transformed the sandy beach into a wet launch for winter training.

The 27 member squad and coaches rented all eight cottages at the state park on the Chattahoochee River arm of the lake. The bookings for a full week in January brightened the off-season when reservations are generally slow at Georgia state parks.

The crew is one of about 20 who travel down south from northern states between January and March to train on warmer waters of Lanier. Many stay in area hotels and headquarter practices at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. The Michigan crew is the first to stay at the park which opened in July 2013.

Their visit wasn’t exactly an escape from the cold.

North Georgia temperatures plummeted into single digits one night and rowers got a reprieve from wading into frigid water the next morning. But, most mornings and afternoons the athletes jogged down the trail from the cottages to their boats set up on the beach. They slipped on their insulated, waterproof booties, waded calf deep into near 45 degree water and gingerly slid into narrow 2-8 seat rowing shells.

Prior to picking up oars, they dried off and changed into warm socks. Coaches, who launched motor boats from a ramp near the cottages, waited just around the bend with practice plans.

Crew Captain Sarah Kovacs said the chilly water “was not too bad” for wet launches. At least it was warmer than the Grand River in Lansing, where they would likely encounter ice. She and teammates raved about the nearly new 2-bedroom cottages, where they cooked all their meals and relaxed between practices.

“This is the nicest lake place we’ve stayed,” said Captain Jewell Calzonetti. She described the fully furnished, smartly decorated cottages as “beautiful, very nice and warm” and equipped with essentials like dishwasher detergent and soap.

Four or five crew members stayed in each cottage.

Coaches bought groceries for them to prepare healthy meals in full kitchens stocked with pots, pans, dishes and utensils. “We cook all our meals ... chicken, spaghetti, quinoa with vegetables,” Kovacs said.

LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC VENUE INFO Here's a profile and calendar for the two clubs operating at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue:

Lake Lanier Rowing Club

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

Lady Spartans begin an afternoon practice on Lake Lanier after launching from Don Carter State Park.

Head Coach Matt Weise already had a good impression of Georgia state parks from previous spring training at George T. Bagby State Park in Fort Gaines. So, when he looked south for winter training waters, he chose Don Carter State Park for his crew’s first January practice session on Lanier.

“It’s been great. It’s beautiful. The park and facilities are wonderful,” he said. Athletes ran on the trails, huddled around a campfire, and gazed upon a near empty lake from the hillside cottages. The Spartans appeared to be the only things stirring on most cold days in a setting they seemed to have to themselves. “After the bus dropped us off from the airport, we’ve not been anywhere” or hardly seen anyone, said freshman Sam Hahn. Coaches drove boat trailers down from Michigan.

Aside from travel to grocery stores, there was no other transport from accommodations to the lake. That appealed to Coach Weise. “We don’t have to get on a bus and travel” to practice, he said.

That leaves more time for training. “We got a lot of miles in on really good water,” Weise said.

Kovacs agreed. “The river is long, with a lot of inlets. We rowed to the course where Olympic athletes rowed. You can go for hours,” she said.

Despite the cold, which Weise said they’re used to, the Spartans left with warm thoughts of Lake Lanier and Don Carter State Park. “I highly recommend it … we’ll look at coming back next January,” he said.

The University of Pennsylvania crew will be the next wave of rowers to visit the park. They also reserved all eight cottages a week in March.

Contact: John Ferriss Phone: 770-287-0077 Email: LLRC@mindspring.com Address: Lake Lanier Olympic Venue 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd., Gainesville, GA 30506 Website: www.LakeLanierRowing.org Club offerings: Recreational and competitive rowing for ages 13 to 80+. Beginner to elite offered through regularly scheduled practices, classes, and camps hosting of local, regional, national and international rowing regattas.

Calendar of events: Jan.-March - Collegiate and Club Training Mar. 28 - John Hunter Regatta

Lake Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club Contact: Office Administrator, Brenda Miller; LCKC President, Lee Cole Phone: 770-287-7888 Fax: 770-287-3444 Email: info@lckc.org Website: www.lckc.org Address: Lake Lanier Olympic Venue 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd., Gainesville, GA 30506 Club offerings: Recreational and competitive canoe and kayaking for ages 12 and up. Beginner to masters programs offered through regularly scheduled practices, classes, and summer camps. Also hosts local, regional, national and international competitions.

Calendar of events: Mar. 13-15 - Dragon Boat Training Camp Mar. 21 - Lula Bridge Race Mar. 23 - Jr. Olympic Open House/Parent Meeting Venue seats +/-2,000; parking capacity +/- 400 cars. The boathouse and tower are available to rent for meetings and special occasions.

CAUTION ZONE

LLOV expanding its culture: real estate seminar, weddings, drama camp

By Jane Harrison The governing board of the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue is seeking to expand the culture of the Clarks Bridge Park known primarily as a rowing and paddling center. A real estate seminar late last month, potential weddings, a drama camp, and concert are among non-traditional events the Gainesville Hall ’96 board discussed at its January meeting.

Six members authorized to vote on board actions were present; two short of the eight needed for a quorum.

Venue Manager Morgan House reported that a company specializing in quick home sales planned to rent the venue for a seminar entitled “The Flipping Formula.” In addition, he expected to pitch LLOV as a wedding site at last month’s bridal show at the Gainesville Civic Center. Wild Air Playhouse, a theatre group spawned from the Gainesville Theatre Alliance, proposed hosting a theatre camp and

production in July. On May 30, the grandstands will transform into a music amphitheatre for a concert featuring folk/rock singer/songwriter Shawn Mullins. Local bands A-1A, Riverstreet, and the Alan Nivens Band are also slated to perform in the John Jarrard Foundation concert.

LLOV stands to reap substantial revenues from rental fees, with daily fees ranging from $500 for boathouse meeting rooms to $1,000 for the grandstand plaza, according to the rental policy. However, the board and House have talked about negotiating fees higher or lower based on concession sales and other considerations.

For instance, House proposed accepting the theatre group’s quote for $750 per week rental, plus 16 percent of ticket sales. The projected revenue would be “way below (the stated policy amount) for use of the venue,” House said, but it would net extra expoSee GH ‘96, page 17

N

For more LLOV coverage, see pages 30 & 34.

February 2015

LAKESIDE 17

• GH ‘96 Continued from Page 16 sure for the venue to the community.

The extra-curricular activities, some already scheduled and others on the drawing board, trickling in show broadening community interest in the lakeside facility; but it was clear from the meeting that the board expects to expend much time, energy and money preparing for a prestigious 2016 canoe/kayak competition.

Board chairperson Mimi Collins reported that a strategic planning meeting Jan. 10 focused on preparations for the Pan American Canoe/Kayak Sprint Championship May 19-22, 2016. The competition is expected to be the final canoe/kayak qualifier for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil. Though small in numbers, with about 250 athletes and 1,000 spectators expected, the regatta will focus international attention on LLOV as it nears the 20th anniversary of 1996 Olympic canoe/kayak and rowing contests at the site.

The strategic planning and facilities committees also reviewed design plans submitted by a Robin Millard, a local architect

and Lake Lanier Rowing Club member, for a LLOV makeover including tower and boathouse renovations, construction of a rental pavilion, installation of a jogging/activity path, and relocating the boathouse driveway.

“There was a lot of discussion about how to make it a unique facility, different from what’s available in town,” said Mimi Collins, board chairperson.

Collins said the board would be setting priorities for renovations needed for the Pan American championship. New docks, not included in Millard’s concept, will need to be built, she said.

Two new docks, costing $108,000, were installed in September. The remaining five docks, harkening back to the 1996 Olympics, are rotting, splintered, and slippery.

Collins said she sent letters to the governor’s office and local legislators informing them of progress at the venue and the high profile regatta, but not specifically requesting state funds. She reported in an email after the meeting that “there has been no response other than verbal ac-

knowledgement of the recipient and interest” in the master plan for the venue.

Hall County and Gainesville governments budgeted $150,000 each for GH ’96 in fiscal years 2014 and 2015, but those funds are not guaranteed in the future.

GH ’96 is preparing its budget requests to submit to both governments for FY 2016. The organization got unanimous approval for funding from the city this year; however two of five county commissioners voted not to continue the county contract with GH ’96.

The board anticipates it will need to raise $40,000 to put on a successful Pan American competition. As of last month, it was seeking leaders and membership for a sponsorship/fundraising committee to drum up financial support.

Collins said the board also needed someone to plan the event’s opening and closing ceremonies. “We need to nail down who’s going to head up those groups,” Collins said. Board member Kit Dunlap suggested consulting with Gainesville Theatre Alliance about the ceremonies.

Dunlap also questioned how the Millard, Inc. architectural and design firm was chosen to design venue enhancements and whether bids were taken prior to selection.

She commented that governments being asked to help fund the venue will want to know how the architect was chosen. Collins replied that the board approved Robin Millard for design consultation because of his involvement with the 1996 Olympics, his history with LLRC and work on an earlier master plan for the park.

She explained in a follow-up email that the board considered the need for additional proposals, but chose not to pursue them after learning of a city of Gainesville policy that exempted requirements for multiple bids for professional services to accomplish a specific study project or task.

She said that the board did not have an estimate on the amount needed for the renovations he has proposed. As of last month, the board had not yet paid architectural fees, according to House. He explained that fees would depend on which phases of a multi-step renovation plan the board chooses

to implement. The board planned to meet and set renovation priorities needed for the 2016 Pan Am Championship, he said.

In other GH ’96 discussion: • House announced he was resigning his coaching position with the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club at the end of January. “I found House I do not have enough time to do everything, that I could not be superman,” he said. The former Olympic hopeful kayaker had accepted the management job in March 2014 on condition that he be allowed to continue coaching. However, the 27-year-old indicated that balancing the demands of coaching young high performance athletes, managing the venue, and family responsibilities forced him to surrender coaching.

• House announced that a Brenau University student majoring in broadcast will be interning without pay at the venue to assist with marketing and Internet communications.

18 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Water wars continue with Georgia and its neighbors The Georgia-Tennessee northwestern border has been in the news often since the 2008 drought when Lake Lanier and surrounding areas were seriously affected. This controversy was started in 1818 when surveyors (three-man teams from both Tennessee and Georgia) met at Nickajack to find the 35th latitude north and plainly mark and designate the same for Georgia’s northwest border.

The Georgia team member James Camak, a mathematician and astrologist calculated that the line was south of Nickajack, when in fact the 35 latitude north was in fact a mile north in the middle of the Tennessee River.

Camak not only made this mistake the first time, but in 1819 went back to survey the area again and made more mistakes.

No mention as to where Tennessee surveyors calculated where their line was. The original border was written as the 35th latitude north on the books, but the mistakes are on the border line today.

Governor Sonny Perdue signed a law strongly urging negotiations with the governors of Tennessee and North Carolina to correct Camak’s flawed survey; nothing happened. The 2013 legislature tried to do the same, with no action.

Florida is suing Georgia to release more water from Lake Lanier to aid the oyster industry.

As stated in last month’s Lakeside a special master has been appointed to pursue a settlement.

Common sense would say that all states involved should meet to solve this problem, but common sense is lacking in government these days. If the border line is corrected to 35 latitude north where it was stated to be in 1818 and Georgia gets to tap into the Tennessee River, the main problem would be resolved.

The water would enter the Chattahoochee River, which would keep Lake Lanier at 1071 even with the additional releases to aid those down river where it would eventually aid the Apalachicola River and the oyster industry and Florida. The extra water could power two hydroelectric generators which would pay for themselves. The Tennessee River would have an outlet for spring flood control which is a problem when the snow melts and Atlanta would also have ample water supply.

Entry fees are under $300 and with all the prizes you could recoup much of the cost. Contact Mike www.sealyoutdoors.com or call Rudderham 1-888-698-2591 for information.

This is a great family opportunity.

Let Lakeside share your story and Captain’s Comments photos if you go.

Fast ride Looking over the brokerage pages of one of my recent boating magazines my eyes hit on the Waterfront businesses and cruising speed of one boat; 104 those related would thrive and continue to pay taxes. You would knots and in a 50’ boat. Then I think the powers to be would rec- saw 139 knots top speed.

“Whoa,” I thought. The boat is a ognize this.

50’x12’ beam Nor-tech CatamaSo how about it governors, ran with four Mercruiser 1125 hp let’s get Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, and North Car- engines. Fuel capacity is 560 gallons, which probably won’t last olina together and work long. But your cruising speed is something out with the federal probably four or five times faster government. Common sense than most boats. Cost is 695K. would answer all existing probShe has a professional crew lems. headed by Al Copeland’s “PopBoat show results The Atlanta Boat show was the eye’s” racing team which was a six time National Champion and best in quite a few years. Other shows I’ve read about were also a three time World Champion. The crew is willing to work with the great success. Boat sales and accessories have provided renewed new owner. The boat, named “Gold Rush,” would be great for fascination for boaters. poker runs, or running offshore.

There’s a new boating term: the CCY (Center Console Yacht) For more information contact: www.atlanticyacht&ship.com.

35’ plus center consoles like InLucky to be alive trepid, Boston Whaler, Cobia and Former Miami Dolphins fullmany others. All have what the back Rob Konrad was going to fisherman want, plus a head, take his 36’ Grady-White “Comsmall galley, and berth beneath the console, thus the yacht desig- pass Square” from Hillsboro inlet nation. Electronics are more com- to Mariner Marine in Rivers Beach for servicing. He thought pact for mounting at the helm he’d do a little fishing on the way. along with more bells and whisHe put his boat on auto-pilot, tles. rigged his lines for trolling and PWCs enthusiasts had the lower cost “Spark” last year. This waited for some action. One of year there will be more models to his lines hooked a fish, then a large wave rocked the boat, flipchoose from as competitors are ping him overboard. The boat, offering models in this lower price class. Remember if you just being on auto-pilot, continued its course. He realized he was in real bought a boat take a boating trouble. He was nine miles off safety class and you might save shore treading water with no 10 percent on boat insurance.

P.F.D. He started thinking of hyBass money Sealy Outdoors is again having pothermia. So he began swimming. During the night jellyfish bass fishing tournaments which stung him and a shark circled offer great prizes. Two of these him. A search helicopter hovered would be close enough for Lake over him and shined a light, but Lanier fishermen to travel for a did not see him. He finally chance at winning for your efforts. Lake Guntersville in Scotts- washed ashore at 4:30 a.m. on Palm Beach and found he couldboro Alabama tournament is n’t walk. He said thinking of his March 27-29. Kentucky Lake in Buchanan, Tn., has a tournament wife and two daughters kept his faith and helped him stay alive.

Aug. 15-16. The Guntersville This story had a happy ending tournament has $215,000 in cash with no lives lost, but it is a reand prizes, with hourly payouts, and heaviest bass. Kentucky Lake minder to wear your PFD. P.F.D’s can also have locater beahas similar prizes. Both offer a cons attached, which would have Triton Bass boat with a Mercury made for a quick rescue in this motor as part of the winner’s case. Also file a float plan if you prize.

are going offshore or a trip on inland waters. If something happens you know someone will be looking for you.

Fuel As you all know gas is now $2 or a bit less, marinas are a bit more, but most are ethanol free, which is good. I’m sure marina gas prices will continue to follow gas prices and go down. Meanwhile, boaters that commute to the lake by trailering their boat

will stop at the $2 a gallon gas station and fill up with ethanol tainted fuel. You think you are saving money, but if you don’t use an additive like “Stabil” you can end up with fuel and engine problems.

Be safe and courteous and I will see you on the water.

Mike Rudderham is a veteran marine surveyor with more than 40 years experience in the marine industry.

LANIER PRESSURE WASHING & DECK CLEANING

“The Deck, Dock, Clean & Seal Specialists” Complete Exterior Home Cleaning Services Serving Lake Lanier & Surrounding Areas Since 1995

• Deck & Dock Cleaning & Sealing • Lake Home & Cabin Cleaning & Sealing • Ask About Our Other Services • Licensed/Insured OFF-SEASON MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS AVAILABLE

CALL TODAY FOR FREE ESTIMATE!

(770) 325-1255

Luke Heaps Owner/Operator

Email: lanierpressurewashing@gmail.com

In & Out Dock Watch Dock Moving Specialist Dock moves as low as $75.00!

Buy one contract & get your neighbor’s for 30% off.

• Refloat, repaint, redeck • Pressure wash, stain or seal • Shoreline steps • Party decks • General repairs • Ramp wheels, anchor poles • Shoreline winches & cables

Must be a yr. contract.

Call for details!

“We’ll move your dock anywhere and will watch it all year long”

Jeff Thomson • Cell: 770-310-9337 Email: inandoutdocks@yahoo.com

BE SAFE ON THE LAKE THIS WINTER!

February 2015

LAKESIDE 19

WORLD'S MOST RESPECTED COMPANY Barron's Annual Ranking FREE HOME SEARCH PHONE AP Text "Blessings" to 404-620-2300 CT! CONTRACT! UNDER CONTRA UNDER CONTRACT! UNDER

IER! NG" EVERY DAY ON LAKE LAN WAKE UP TO "RESORT LIVI

NEW PRICE $499,900!

CHARACTER & CHARM W/CRAFTSMAN FLAIR...Wrap-Around Covered Porch Welcomes you Home to Lake Living!

Huge Vaulted Great Room with Stone Fireplace is Open to Gourmet Kitchen w/Beautiful Stained Cabinets, Granite Counter & Tile Floor - Owner Suite w/Private Bath has Whirlpool Tub-Finished Basement with 2nd Stone Fireplace + Lakeside Patio-Top-of-the-Line Wahoo Slip-Dock in Great Water!

! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD

! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD

$749,000

$545,000

GORGEOUS HOME, AMAZING LAKE VIEWS + CHARMING COTTAGE! Get Away from it All, Without Leaving ... This Beautiful Estate Home has AMAZING Lake Views-So Close to the Water, You can Hear the Fish Jump + Double Slip-Dock with Party Deck in DEEP Water. Your Own Private Guest Cottage, Filled with Charm, is Also Included for Guests, In-Laws, Office, Art Studio or Writing Getaway... Enter into Your Home for True Lake Living - Spacious Vaulted Great Room with Tongue & Groove Wood Ceiling & Fireplace, Hardwood Floors, Elegant Dining Room with Coffered Ceiling, TRUE Gourmet Kitchen with Custom Built Butler's Pantry, Gathering/Music Room, Owner Suite w/Luxurious Bath, Lakeside Balcony & Large Loft Library - Get Ready to Play

$1,395,000

in Your Finished Terrace Level with Inside and Outside Custom Bar, Pool Room, Dancing Floor, Secret Indoor Shooting Range + Outdoor Kitchen by Amazing Pool with Hot-Tub & Fire-Pit!

1.87 PRIVATE ACRES W/AWESOME LAKE VIEWS & DEEP WATER! Enjoy your 5BR/4BA "Lodge" on the Lake-Beautiful Wood Floors & Walls - AMAZING Sunroom/Game Room, GR w/Stone FP, Granite & SS Appl in Kitchen-Two “Lakeside” Owner Stes-Fin Bsmt w/Stone FP-2 Expansive Lakeside Decks w/Hot-Tub+Room w/Bath-2.5 Car Grg+Slip-Dock w/Party Deck+MORE!

LOOKING FOR PRIVACY IN UPSCALE N'HOOD? AMAZING POINT LOT with Membership to Chestatee Golf Club Available! Architect's Dream Home with Leaded Glass Double Entry, Hardwood Flrs, Curved Walls, Stone FP in GR w/Wall of Windows, Vltd Owner Ste w/FP, 2 Lofts, Fin Bsmt-GORGEOUS Landscaping Created w/Love. COVERED "WAHOO" SLIP-DOCK IN DEEP WATER ALWAYS!!!

K! START ENJOYING LIFE WAHOO DOUBLE SLIP-DOC LAKE LOT-GATED N'HOOD+

IN 2015 ON LAKE LANIER!

$259,500 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME IN THIS UPSCALE N'HOOD ON LANIER! Premium Point Lot on Cul-de-sac with TOP-OFTHE-LINE Wahoo Double Slip-Dock, Rip-Rap, Shoreline Steps & Gangplank Wheels Already in Place! Find Peace & Tranquility in this Wonderful Quaint Gated Community. EXCELLENT NEW PRICE!

AY W/SLIP-DOCK! PEACEFUL 4BR GET-AW

LAKE LANIER UNTRY ESTATE - SOUTH EXQUISITE FRENCH CO

$309,000 GET AWAY FROM IT ALL ON LAKE LANIER...4BR/2.5 BA w/Finished Basement & Covered Slip-Dock in Charming Lake Neighborhood, GR w/Hardwood Floors, Updated Kitchen w/Granite, Owner Suite w/Remodeled Bath+Large WalkIn, Expansive Lakeside Deck & Patio. Covered Slip-Dock! ENJOY LAKE LIVING WITH MOUNTAINS CLOSE BY!

! SOLD! SOLD! ! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! SOLD EXQUISITE LAKE FRONT ESTATE ON SOUTH END OF LAKE LANIER - Private & Gated Sanctuary on Four Lots with C.O.E. on Two Sides - 186' of Shoreline with Double Slip-Dock, 100' "Grandfathered" Ramp & Boat Launch + Sandy Beach. Enjoy Sunset Views from this Gorgeous Craftsman Home with over 12,000 Square Feet of Architectural Grandeur including 9

$375,000 SPACIOUS 5BR/3 FULL BATHS FILLED W/CHARM & CHARACTER-B'fully Updated!Gourmet Kitch w/Granite, Viking Stove, Sub-Zero Frig,SS Appl & Hickory Cabinets-Vlt GR w/Stone FP & Grass-to-Water Views! Owner Ste has Private Balcony, Bath, Large Loft w/Hardwood Flrs+Sep Office/Studio-Finished Terrace Level w/Huge Lakeside Deck+Main Level Wrap-Around Deck! Slip-Dockw/Party Deck & Boat Lift.

Fireplaces, Elevator, 2 Offices with Fireplaces, Wine Cellar, 2nd Kitchen in Terrace Level Apartment, Bonus Suite, Owner Suite

$3,895,000

with Snoring Bedroom, 3rd Level Observation Turret + Much More. Please Call for Your Personal Viewing.

WORK WITH THE TEAM THAT NOT ONLY SELLS ON LAKE LANIER, BUT LIVES ON LAKE LANIER!

20 LAKESIDE

February 2015

February could bring coldest temps this winter The dire predictions from some about this winter being cold and harsh have yet to materialize. In December, the average temperature for the month was two degrees above the 30-year norm. Although we had a couple of bouts of cold weather in January, those mid-60 degree days in the middle of the month balanced that out. At press time, we did not yet have the average for January.

This brings us to February. The Climate Prediction Center gives us a 50/50 chance of having above or below average temperatures and precipitation. There may be too many variables to nail it down one way or another. Nevertheless, I have been looking through the coldest winter temperatures ever recorded in the Atlanta and north Georgia areas. Eight of the coldest temperatures ever recorded were during the month of January, as you might expect.

The coldest during that month occurred on January 21st, 1985. On that day the temperature dropped to minus 8 degrees. On the list of the coldest Atlanta temperatures was the day we dropped to zero. That was Christmas Day, 1983.

Do you know when the coldest temperature to ever be recorded in Atlanta was? It was in February. On February 13th, 1899 the temperature fell to 9 degrees below zero! In the north Georgia mountains, both Blue Ridge and Blairsville saw the temperature drop to 18 degrees below zero. Both

records stand to this day.

I am telling you this because I do see signs that Glenn we could be in store for Burns a very cold first half of the month. I don’t see Lanier anything close to those Outlook long standing records so don’t worry!

So, with my humble opinion that we are going to see what may be the coldest weather of the winter this month, it won’t be as cold as it could be. The reason is the lack of snow cover on the ground to our north. Unlike last year, we have just not seen the kind of systems that produce a lot of snow. With the lack of snow to our north, the cold air moving south may get a chance to warm up a little before reaching us. Air warms by conduction. The sun heats the ground and then the ground heats the air above it. Let’s hope this less-snowy winter holds this month.

I know what you’re thinking. If it’s going to be cold, what would be our chances for snow? That’s the question of the day and a little more difficult to nail down. Pretty much all winter we’ve had a split jet stream. The colder polar jet has remained to our north for the most part, occasionally bringing down shots of cold arctic air to the south. Traveling from west to east we have the sub-tropical branch of the jet stream.

This southern branch can sometimes promote storm growth in the Gulf of Mexico. That’s where the “big boys” come

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS JUN 1 1071.12 2 1071.07 3 1071.03 4 1070.97 5 1070.94 6 1070.92 7 1070.95 8 1070.99 9 1070.94 10 1070.95 11 1070.93 12 1070.90 13 1070.89 14 1070.94 15 1070.95 16 1070.96 17 1070.92 18 1070.91 19 1070.86 20 1070.81 21 1070.83 22 1070.84 23 1070.84 24 1070.81 25 1070.79 26 1070.78 27 1070.75 28 1070.79 29 1070.82 30 1070.91 31 AV 1070.90 MAX 1071.12 MI 1070.75

JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN 1070.91 1070.31 1068.87 1067.88 1067.81 1067.33 1068.11 1070.91 1070.28 1068.79 1067.84 1067.80 1067.31 1068.13 1070.85 1070.28 1068.91 1067.86 1067.80 1067.25 1068.28 1070.86 1070.24 1068.88 1067.84 1067.63 1067.23 1069.48 1070.82 1070.17 1068.82 1067.78 1067.58 1067.13 1069.71 1070.81 1070.09 1068.79 1067.72 1067.50 1067.25 1069.83 1070.79 1070.03 1068.79 1067.68 1067.45 1067.31 1069.87 1070.75 1070.03 1068.76 1067.68 1067.44 1067.21 1069.84 1070.71 1070.13 1068.72 1067.68 1067.39 1067.20 1069.83 1070.70 1070.18 1068.68 1067.64 1067.34 1067.17 1069.89 1070.65 1070.14 1068.65 1067.71 1067.27 1067.16 1069.94 1070.65 1070.10 1068.63 1067.78 1067.22 1067.13 1069.92 1070.65 1070.02 1068.64 1067.76 1067.12 1067.13 1069.92 1070.61 1069.97 1068.64 1068.23 1067.07 1067.14 1069.93 1070.57 1069.90 1068.60 1068.40 1067.05 1067.16 1069.94 1070.53 1069.89 1068.53 1068.40 1067.05 1067.11 1069.93 1070.47 1069.87 1068.50 1068.42 1067.25 1067.10 1069.96 1070.45 1069.83 1068.47 1068.42 1067.21 1067.07 1069.98 1070.77 1069.82 1068.42 1068.44 1067.18 1067.07 1069.97 1070.83 1069.76 1068.39 1068.36 1067.14 1067.08 1069.96 1070.82 1069.64 1068.36 1068.31 1067.12 1067.08 1069.96 1070.77 1069.50 1068.33 1068.27 1067.11 1067.12 1069.96 1070.71 1069.48 1068.29 1068.20 1067.33 1067.31 1070.07 1070.68 1069.47 1068.21 1068.15 1067.46 1067.60 1070.12 1070.63 1069.34 1068.16 1068.12 1067.48 1067.73 1070.19 1070.63 1069.21 1068.12 1068.12 1067.45 1067.80 1070.19 1070.63 1069.06 1068.06 1068.07 1067.41 1067.87 1070.10 1070.55 1068.96 1068.02 1068.01 1067.37 1067.98 1070.04 1070.48 1068.88 1067.96 1067.95 1067.38 1068.05 1070.43 1068.88 1067.92 1067.93 1067.41 1068.07 1070.38 1068.90 1067.81 1068.07 1070.68 1069.75 1068.50 1068.01 1067.36 1067.36 1070.91 1070.31 1068.91 1068.44 1067.81 1068.07 1070.38 1068.88 1067.92 1067.64 1067.05 1067.07

from, the ones that can bring us accumulating snows. Needless to say, we will be watching intently this month for the gulf storm and a dip in the polar jet stream.

When they meet, it can be very interesting. Stay tuned!

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

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

February 2015

LAKESIDE 21

Rhonda Forbes 678-438-0344 cell • rhondaforbes@kw.com www.GoLakeLanier.com PERFECT LAKE LIFESTYLE!

HUGE OPEN WATER - TRANQUIL SETTING

Create lifetime memories with family in this open floorplan expansive ranch with HUGE kitchen and keeping room for get togethers! Finished terrace level includes recreation room, bar, office, amazing workshop. Great location just north of Browns Bridge. $500,000 www.3687CameronCircle.info

Park-like setting on peninsula cul-de-sac located at end of Duckett Mill Road.

Huge lake home, You will never want to leave this sanctuary. Tons of floor length windows and 1200 feet of decking, fenced yard. Only $525,000. www.3725TimberlakeDrive.info

LAKE RANCH LODGE

TWO ACRE PRIVATE ESTATE LOT

678-425-1988 Call or Text 678-438-0344 For Immediate Response

PERFECT BUILDING SITE! TUSCANY ON LANIER private lot with 233 feet of waterfront with expansive views. Long level private drive to perfect building site on main channel of Chestatee River section of Lake Lanier.

Community dock is available to keep boat tied. $199,000 www.TuscanyOnLanier.info

LAKE CABIN UNDER $300,000

UNDER !

ACT CONTR Lake Ranch Lodge is an authentic, mid-century modern, lake house. Hand-built decades ago by craftsmen, it features custom-milled paneling of pecky cypress – one of the rarest and most beautiful kinds of wood – and exudes a relaxing get-away feel that will make it hard to want to leave. All Season perfect getaway or corporate retreat. $699,000 www.3184LakeRanchLodge.info

Once in a lifetime something like this comes along at this price. Lakefront w/dock in deep water cove in south end sailing waters. Creek, large pond w/fountain. Porches wrap around home. All rooms are spacious, kitch w/granite, island, SS. Steam shower & spa tub. Finished terrace level. Executive office joins grt rm. Views of Lake Lanier from everywhere. Just a stones throw from veranda to dock. $600,000 www.5918RoselightLane.info

North Ga Mountains, Chattahoochee River meets Lake Lanier, Canoe, Kayak, peaceful, nature, yet just minutes to Gainesville and I-985. 3bd/2ba updated, screened porch/deck. Drive right up to the single slip dock located just around the shoreline from the Olympic Kayak Center. Only $299,000. www.LakeLanierCabin.info

22 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Recalling the memories from past boating adventures Bob and Carolyn Wilson, aboard Sea Island Girl, continue Lakeside's long running series of cruising adventures which began in the mid-1990s. To date we've had the Johnston family, Jean and Bill Bayman, and Mechelle and Bill Cooksey all contribute to the series. Bob and Carolyn boated on Lake Lanier until leaving for their adventure in 2002.

The Atlanta Boat Show presented an excellent opportunity to reinvigorate everyone’s enthusiasm for boating. Whether you found the next boat, or purchased some accessory items for the boat or home, the show organizers certainly delivered.

Carolyn and I enjoyed visiting with those stopping by the Lakeside booth during the show. It appeared to us that no matter your interest – fishing, skiing, cruising or just puttering around – everyone seemed to have a positive outlook for the boating season ahead. If you were unable to attend, there are a host of other shows sponsored by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) throughout the Southeast to quench your thirst.

Much of the enthusiasm ex-

boating friends in the Bahamas, we hear from them quite often and can reflect back on the fun Bob & times we shared together and anCarolyn ticipate that this will only be a Wilson respite, not a conclusion.

We have also spent some time Cruising with those that were our boating Wilsons friends on Lake Lanier. At the boat show we reminisced with our close friend Janice Wagner from Sunrise Cove. There was a pressed centered on the drop in lot of catching up with stories and fuel prices. Prices have dropped pictures to share remembering the significantly from the past two 17 years we maintained a boat on years and those who may have the lake. To this day we maintain parked their boats are making that those were some of our best plans to return to area lakes and times on the water. waterways, which is good for A lot has changed since 2002 boating families and the local when we were last on the lake – economies. newer and bigger homes, new The New Year has been quite different for us. Normally we are marinas, old friends moving on on Sea Island Girl cruising. But, a and new ones arriving. New businesses are spring up and despite too good to pass up business opthe wintry weather there is the exportunity has had us land-locked pectation of continued prosperity. since May. And while it may seem to be a hardship after cruis- While we continue to enjoy subing each winter, there is a positive urban living many of our former weekend boating friends purside to it all. chased lakeside homes and are Making money is far better than spending it and having more enjoying that lifestyle year-round.

At some point we expect to retime with neighbors, family and friends has certainly been a bless- arrange our priorities. Not sure ing. However, while we miss our where we may end up but as long

as we have our health and continue to enjoy the cruising lifestyle it will probably continue as time and business permits.

Several of our cruising partners have moved on, relocating to a new home in Florida. Some are traveling by RVs. Others have decided to stay put, entertain the grand children and find a hobby to occupy their time.

No matter where you may find

yourself now, it seems that once you have enjoyed boating it will always be in your system. Each of the pictures that we have shared with family and friends have a story to tell, and. despite the years that may have passed, those memories appear as if it were yesterday and will remain forever with us.

- Until next time, Bob & Carolyn Wilson

MORE INFO: cruiswils@gmail.com or www.cruisingwilson.blogspot.com

• Birding Continued from Page 11 cost of overnight lodging at Charlie Elliott.

Also, teams can share photos and updates on what birds they’re seeing or hearing on Twitter and Instagram. Simply tweet your photos or post them on Instagram with the hashtag #YBC2015. Tag us on Twitter @GeorgiaWild and on Instagram @GeorgiaWildlife.

For details about the competition, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/youth-

birdingcompetition or contact Tim Keyes at (912) 262-3191 or tim.keyes@dnr.state.ga.us.

Information about the Charlie Elliott Conference Center is available by calling Amy Glass at (770) 784-3122.

For more information on the T-shirt Art Contest, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/YBC TshirtArtContest or contact art contest coordinator Linda May at (706) 557-3226 or linda.may@dnr.state.ga.us.

NORTH GEORGIA OUTDOORS Before

For All Your Outdoor Needs!

TONE

After

PAVES & WALLS !

PATIOS

ALL CORPS APPROVED MATERIALS & WORKMANSHIP! Thinning • Grading • Clearing • Paths • Trenching Path Lighting & Dressing • Drainage • Erosion Control Retaining Walls (Timber or Block) • Steps • Patios

TREE,

OR

BRUSH ING CLEAR WORK

PATHS

RETAINING WALLS Before

Before

Make your woods look like a park!

Clear out all the undergrowth in your woods!

Tree Work Includes: Large Tree Removal, Topping, Chipper Work, Stump Grinding

ALL KINDS OF GRADING, GRAVEL & FILL WORK ONLY $200 MINIMUM!* Small Jobs OK • Semi Retired • Affordable Hundreds of References! • Licensed • Insured

ARY

FEBRU L: A SPECI OFF

20%

After

After

E

UOT ANY Qbe completed must *Work ruary in Feb

Call Mike: 678-410-1375 • www.ngabeds.com *Within 10 mile radius of shop

Member of The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

February 2015

LAKESIDE 23

CALL ABOUT OU R SHORELIN E STABILIZA TION SPECIALS!

Let Boat Dock Works serve all your marine needs.

• CUSTOM BOAT DOCKS • COMMERCIAL & COMMUNITY DOCKS • DOCK REPAIR & REFURBISHMENT • BOAT LIFTS & JET SKI PORTS • CONCRETE WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAYS AND CART PATHS • SHORELINE RESTORATION • RIP RAP EROSION CONTROL • SHORELINE STEPS & PATHWAYS • DREDGING • ALL TYPES OF BOAT LIFTS SERVICED/REPAIRED

Corps approved

River Stone & Steps Also Available!

770-540-1775

www.boatdockworks.com

24 LAKESIDE

February 2015

• Boat Dock Electrical Work & Inspection • Landscape Lighting • Home Inspections • New Installation & Remodel Repairs • All Work Covered Under 1 Year Warranty • Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Call For FREE Estimates

770-889-1760

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL Locally Owned & Operated

Fax: 770-781-9205

Ken Peterman, President

3111 Glen Wallace Drive • Cumming, GA 30040

February 2015

LAKESIDE 25

AMAYSING SERVICES, INC. 3764 Browns Bridge Road - Gainesville, GA 30504 The Quality You Expect, The Service You Deserve - Since 1981

Providing custom designed solutions for all your boat dock needs Authorized Dealer for Econo Lift Boat and PWC Lifts Dock Watch Program Accessories, Repairs Ramp Wheels and Stairs

Introducing the new EZ Port Max 2i

Before

After

Let Us Refurbish Your Boat Dock Tired of splinters and hot feet?

Enjoy carefree outdoor living with EverNew vinyl decking.

Reduced prices on EZ Port 3 and EZ Port Max! Call us for quotes.

678-450-4212 - www.amaysingdocks.com

26 LAKESIDE

February 2015

H

appenin’ asis

L I D A Y

egendary

conic estination wesome

our marina

The First, The Finest, and The Friendliest Marina on Lake Lanier!

6900 Lanier Islands Parkway • Buford, GA 30518 • 770-945-7201

Closest Marina to Lake Lanier Islands and Sunset Cove

February 2015

LAKESIDE 27

Visit Our Website and Join Our Facebook Page!

www.holidaylakelanier.com Facebook: Holiday on Lake Lanier

HOLIDAY MARINA

A Westrec Marina

Where Every Day is a Holiday on Lake Lanier!

6900 Holiday Road • Buford, GA 30518 • 770-945-7201

28 LAKESIDE

February 2015

BUILT FOR EXTREME CONDITIONS

TRADE IN YOUR OLD BOAT LIFT TODAY!

PWC DOCKING PLATFORM

AUTHORIZED HYDROHOIST DEALER

February 2015

LAKESIDE 29

Celebratingg 255 Yearss in n Business

MARINE SPECIALTIES 4105 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30504 770-531-7735 • www.marinespecialties.net

Rip Rap - Erosion Control by Barge 255 Yearss off Experiencee • Professionally y Installed ICE R P T S LOWE TEED N GUARA TON! R TON FO

THE LA K IS DRO E LEVEL NOW I PPING. S THE TIM FOR R IP RAP E AND S TEPS!

Lett MSII Protectt Yourr Investment Pathway Stepss wi th Mulch

Riverr R o ck

Shorelinee Steps

Georgia’ss Largestt Repairr Fleet

30 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Lakeside Calendar February 2015 Feb. 2 – “A Long Winter’s Night of Stories” presented at 6 p.m. in the community hall of Sautee Nachoochee Center, along with a free dinner. All are welcome to tell stories, listen and then sit down for a delicious meal at 283 Ga. 255 in Sautee Nacoochee. Reservations are suggested. Info or reservations: 706-8783300.

Feb. 6 – Images of New Orleans displayed at Inman Perk, 102 Washington St. NW in Gainesville. Reception from 7-9 p.m. Free. Info: 678-971-8091.

Feb. 5 – Chocolate walk, shop and eat chocolate in downtown Braselton from 4-7 p.m.

Free. Info: 706-684-0369.

Thru Feb. 20 – Great Outdoors Art Show featured at Bowen Center for Arts, 334 Ga. 9N, Dawsonville. Free. Info: 706-216-2787, info@dawsonarts.org.

Feb. 20-22, 26-March 1 – “Driving Miss Daisy,” performed by Habersham Community Theatre. Tickets: $15, adults; $8, children/students. Info: 706-839-1315; habershamtheater.org

Feb. 20-March 8 – “The Nerd” presented by historic Holly Theater, 69 Main St., Dahlonega. Tickets: $12, children/students; $18, adults. Info: 706-864-3759; hollytheater.com.

Thru March 1 – Sparkle and Shine Exhibit displayed at Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. Sautee Nacoochee. Free. Info: 706-878-3300; snca.org.

March 14-28 – Oil Painting Workshop offered from 1-5 pm. on Saturdays. Register by Feb. 23. Cost: $165. Info: email jthomas@snca.org.

Brenau University Feb. 10 – Faculty Recital: Leaptrott Trio held in Pearce Auditorium, features a Romantic Evening of Chamber Music with Ben Leaptrott, piano, Charae Krueger, cello, and Kenn Wagner, violin. Tickets: $15 (proceeds support the All-Steinway Initiative in honor of Dr. Wayne W. Dempsey; free to all Brenau University students. Info: 770-538-4764; brenau.edu/fineartshumanities/music.

March 3 – Doc Holliday’s Lady: An

Sailing Club Events Club

Event

Day Date Club

Event

Day Date

AISC AISC Summer 1- #1 Wed 4/15 BFSC Sunset #1 Sat 4/18 UYC UYC Makeup 1 Sun 4/19 LLSC Laser Frostbite #5 Sun 2/01 AISC AISC Summer 1#2 Wed 4/22 SSC Ice Breaker #4 Sun 2/01 Sat 4/25 UYC Hot Ruddered Bum Sat 2/07 UYC UYC Makeup 2 BFSC Dorton 2 Sat 4/25 LLSC Laser Frostbite #6 Sun 2/08 LLSC MC Rebel Rouser Regatta S/S 4/25-26 LARC Winter #4-SSC Hosts Sun 2/08 SSC Masters (Skippers over 50) Sun 4/26 SSC Ice Breaker #5 Sat 2/14 AISC AISC Summer 1#3 Wed 4/29 LLSC Flying Tiger #2 S/S 2/14-15 LLSC Laser Frostbite #7 Sun 2/15 UYC UYC Spring 3 Sun 2/15 MAY 2015 LARC Winter #5-BFSC Hosts Sat 2/21 Sat 5/2 LLSC Laser Frostbite #8 Sun 2/22 SSC Lormand Cup LLSC Multihull Sat/Sun 5/2-3 SSC Nippert #1 Sat 2/28 AISC AISC Summer 1-#4 Wed 5/6 LLSC Laser Southerns Regatta Sat 2/28 AISC AISC Summer 1-#5 Wed 5/13 BFSC Sunset #2 Sat 5/16 MARCH 2015 LLSC Thistle S Atl Dist C’ship S/S 5/16-17 LLSC Laser Southerns Regatta Sun 3/01 BFSC Women Skippers-Open Sun 5/17 LLSC PHRF Championship Sat 3/07 AISC AISC Summer 1-#6 Wed 5/20 SSC Nippert #2 Sun 3/08 AISC AISC Summer 1-#7 Wed 5/27 UYC UYC Spring 4 Sun 3/08 LLSC Junior Week #1 Tue-F 5/26-29 BFSC Dorton 1 Sat 3/14 BFSC Dorton 3 Sat 5/30 LLSC Flying Tiger #3 S/S 3/14-15 LLSC GA Tech Collegiate Regatta Sat 3/14 These races are open to non-club members SSC Nippert #3 Sun 3/15 interested in connecting with the racing UYC Comm Cup/UYC Spring 5 Sat 3/21 scene on Lake Lanier. For more informaSSC Nipper #4 Sat 3/21 tion, visit www.SailLanier.com and click on LLSC Atlanta Cup J24/J22 S/S 3/21-22 the club that's hosting the race.

AISC Dogwood Regatta S/S 3/28-29 FEBRUARY 2015

APRIL 2015 BFSC LLSC LLSC SSC

Around Alone Flying Tiger #4 Commissioning Nippert #5

Sat 4/11 S/S 4/11-12 S/S 4/11-12 Sat 4/12

LARC - Lanier Auxiliary Racing Committee AISC - Atlanta Inland Sailing Club BFSC - Barefoot Sailing Club LLSC - Lake Lanier Sailing Club UYC - University Yacht Club

For the complete 2015 sailing calender, visit our website at www.lakesidenews.com/sailing-calendar.

evening with Victoria Wilcox presented in Pearce Auditorium. Wilcox penned a three volume novel “Southern Son: The Saga of Doc Holliday” which will be on sale. Info: 770-534-6160; brenau.edu/doc-holliday.

Thru March 19 – Brenau University Faculty Exhibition displayed in Simmons Visual Arts Center, Presidents Gallery. Features artwork by members of Brenau University Art & Design Department. Opening reception held 5:30-7 p.m., Feb. 5. Info: 770-534-6263; brenau.edu/about/galleries.

opportunities with Bucky in front of Lake Lanier’s iconic stone fireplace. Reservation times: 9-11:30 a.m. Cost: $21.95, adults; $18.95, seniors; $9.95, children 6-12.

Info/reservations: 770-945-8787.

Buford Community Center Feb. 27 – Faye Lane’s Beauty Shop Stories, the memories of a Green Bean Queen in story and song. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $12-25.

March 14 – Della’s Diner, the musical about the sassy, big-hearted café owner who dispenses love, wisdom and moral advice to the parade of odd balls who come and go from her cozy diner on Morning Glory Mountain. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $12-25.

Info: www.bufordcommunitycenter.com.

Northeast Georgia History Center Feb. 8 – Family Day: Georgia’s Revolutionary War Info: 770 297-5900, www.negahc.org.

Cumming Playhouse Feb. 12-March 8 – “Love Letters,” Gypsy Theatre Co. March 14 – “Quebe Sisters,” winner of the Western Swing Album of the Year Info/times: 770-781-9178; www.playhousecumming.com.

Interactive Neighborhood Kids Feb. 2-7 – Groundhog’s Day Week, make groundhog craft, learn about holiday Feb. 9-14 – Valentine’s Day Week, make own special valentine Feb. 16-21 – President’s Day Week, learn about U.S. presidents, create some presidential crafts Feb. 23-28 – Polar Bear Craft Week, learn about polar bears with fun craft Info: www.inkfun.org Lanier Islands Feb. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 – Breakfast with Bucky Beaver includes a buffet and photo

North Atlanta Trade Center Feb. 1 – Atlanta’s Exotic Bird Fair Feb. 21-22 – Eastman’s Gun Show March 6-8 – The Woodworking Show March 22 – Georgia Beauty Trade Show Info: www.northatlantatradecenter.com.

Piedmont College Feb. 12-17 – “Macbeth,” one of Shakespeare’s darkest and most powerful works, dramatizes the psychological and political effects produced when evil is chosen as a way to fulfill the ambition for power. Ticket: $10, adults; $5, students and seniors.

Info: 706-778-8500, x1355, www.piedmont.edu.

Quinlan Arts Center Feb. 26 – “The essentials of paper,” presented by Nancy Spielman at 4-7:30 p.m.

Info: www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Tannery Row Artist Colony Feb. 7-March 20 – “Selfie,” 11th anniversary show, and an expression of self, celebrating the art inside the artist. Opening reception Feb. 7, 5-8 p.m.

Info: 770-904-0572; www.tanneryrowartistcolony.com.

University of North Georgia Thru Feb. 6 – UNG’s Faculty Biennial displayed noon to 4 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday; noon to 7 p.m., Thursday, and noon to 3 p.m., Friday, at the Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd. in Oakwood. Free.

Info: ung.edu/art-galleries.

News briefs LLRC hosts annual ergatta Lake Lanier Rowing Club members and non-rowing fitness buffs can get a winter workout Feb. 28 in the Mark Williams Ergatta. The annual competition on stationary rowing machines will heat up the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue boathouse from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Participants row up to 2,000 meters while their progress is projected on screens as supporters cheer them on.

The top men and women in open, collegiate, masters, and youth categories receive awards. Proceeds go toward the Mark Williams Rowing Scholarship Fund.

The ergatta is named for the much loved- LLRC member known as an “incredible erg hammer.” Williams helped organize the local rowing club and was instrumental in bringing Olympic rowing to Lake Lanier. He passed away in 2012 after battling leukemia.

ACF canoers’ documentary screens in Gainesville “Who Owns Water,” a documentary film by two brothers who canoed the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system, will be shown Feb. 11 at the University of North Georgia Gainesville/Oakwood Campus. Michael and David Hanson canoed the river system from its source in the North Georgia mountains to the Gulf of Mexico.

They were featured in a Lakeside News story in April 2013. The Hansons, Chattahoochee Riverkeeper Jason Ulseth, and Headwaters Outreach Director Duncan Hughes will be on hand to discuss the film and answer questions.

The screening, hosted by Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, will be in the Continuing Education Building 10 Theater. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with a reception serving Sweetwater beer.

Showtime is 7 p.m.

February 2015

LAKESIDE 31

Norton Forecast: Mixed bag for lake homeowners in 2015

By Pamela A. Keene You know it’s a new year when you receive your notification of the annual Native Intelligence Forecast from Frank Norton.

While the format and content of the report has been modified over the past 27 years, the information the Northeast Georgia president of the Norton Agency imparts to the hundreds of professionals and business people who turn out loyally each January is right on the money.

This year’s event at the Gainesville Civic Center focused on the complex analysis of home sales and the economy. Based on what Norton called “a stellar year for home sales and consumer confidence in 2014,” the outlook continues to be strong for job growth and other economic factors. He is predicting the addition of 2.5 million jobs across the country, and a consumer confidence level approaching 95 percent.

Bringing his forecast closer to home, Norton has labeled Northeast Georgia and Lake Lanier as a second-home Mecca with homes listed under $500,000 in high demand.

“With a lower inventory in this

price range, we will see this segment of the market increase by 8 to 9 percent,” he said. “People listing homes in the $1.5 million price range and above are facing a 24-month supply and will need to be patient.”

He suggested upgrades for current sellers to help their homes move more quickly, especially in the $500,000 to $1 million range and above. “Make subtle changes, like converting to flat-screen televisions, because the old big boxes make a home look dated,” he said.

“Most people want surround sound ... that’s another quick easy update that’s not as expensive as it used to be.”

He also urged sellers to update their landscapes by installing outdoor fire pits and the like to provide current owners with additional perks to enjoy while they’re waiting to sell. “These features add more curb appeal to

Features: • Available in 3, 4, 5 & 6 step models • Pontoon boat and swim platform models available • Superior craftsmanship • High quality aluminum construction • Textured plate aluminum steps to prevent slipping • Fixed mounting or flip up mounts (included) to allow the unit to be rotated out of the water for storage • Easy to install • Lightweight • Lifetime limited warranty The Aqua-Stairs® dock ladder is great for people and pets. These steps actually enable some people to get in and out of the water where they were prvenioulsy unable with conventional dock ladders. They are just like a staircase! Why

climb out when you can walk out? Patented.

a home.”

As for second-home purchases, he said that in the residential real estate peak in 2005 and 2006 nearly 25 percent of all sales in north Georgia were for second homes. “When you purchase a home on Lanier, you get the lake, too, and recreation is a strong draw for the Generation X and Generation Y buyers. They can enjoy a second home and still be close enough to take the kids to soccer games and other activities.”

He also predicted that in five to 10 years, development around Lanier will be more “lock-andgo” condos and townhomes for buyers who want to replicate their living environment in Atlanta.

“They will be looking for smaller units with less maintenance so that they can enjoy their second homes.”

As for water issues and Lake Lanier, Norton was matter of fact in his comments. “New buyers today are more environmentally conscious about water quality, erosion and water levels, even more so than the Baby Boomers,” he said. “Back in the ’60s and ’70s after it rained, the lake

would look like liquid milk chocolate from all the erosion, but that’s no longer the case.”

Norton was also vocal about the move by the Lake Lanier Association and other groups to increase the lake’s full-pool level to

1073. “Adding two feet will significantly increase the lake’s storage capacity and give us another 85 billion gallons of drinkable water,” he said. “That’s all the water we’d ever need to drink in Georgia.”

Donate to conservation with Georgia’s wildlife tax checkoff Do you love Georgia wildlife? Are you looking for a hassle-free way to support the conservation of our state’s rare plants and animals, from Georgia aster to bald eagles?

If so, consider making a donation to the Georgia Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund tax checkoff when filing your income tax return this year.

Here’s why your contribution to what’s also called the Give Wildlife a Chance tax checkoff is so important: The conservation of Georgia’s nongame wildlife – native animals not legally hunted or fished for – as well as rare and endangered species and their habitats is supported largely by

the Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund. This source of revenue is, in turn, sustained by public support.

Contributions to the Give Wildlife a Chance checkoff account for about 10 percent of the support for the fund and have been instrumental in accomplishing a number of conservation goals statewide.

Successes include the rebound of bald eagles, which are nesting in the state at record high levels, and the continued protection of Georgia aster, work that has kept the rare wildflower off the Endangered Species list, despite being a candidate for 15 years.

See Donate, page 39

678-296-2957 brownboatdetailing@gmail.com • Mobile Boat Detailing • Boat Brokerage • On-site at Select Storage Centers • Fiberglass Restoration Check out our reviews online!

Lowest Prices, Best Outcomes, Guaranteed!

32 LAKESIDE

February 2015

February 2015

LAKESIDE 33

Power Squadron’s virtual trainer recreates real-life experiences

By Pamela A. Keene A hit on the Atlanta Boat Show floor, the new Boating Skills Virtual Trainer developed by the US Power Squadrons and Virtual Driver Interactive gives boaters of all levels a safe place to practice docking, emergency stops and boating maneuverability without even setting foot on a boat.

The simulator, one of 10 in the United States, made its inaugural appearance in Atlanta at the boat show.

“The BSVT is not a video game,” said Margaret Sherrod, who worked the Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron’s booth at January’s Atlanta Boat Show. “The simulator offers a pretty realistic experience without any serious repercussions. It was amazing to see how people reacted to various situations – some who were novices and others who had been boating for years.”

Built with the same technology that’s used in training for big-boat piloting, tractor-trailer driving and aircraft handling education, the simulator was created as a result of a grant from the U.S. Coast Guard. Built a module at a

time, the simulator will be further developed to add more boating skills.

“It mirrors some of the same on-the-water activities that we teach to new boaters,” she said.

“It replicates boating conditions, including dealing with glare on the water, approaching other vessels, and going into marina fairways and slips. It’s a very good way to build confidence on the water and help boaters test their skills. Plus it’s really fun.”

Boat show attendees tried their hand on the simulator, which has a real boat steering wheel and a Mercury Marine throttle and gear shift. With three 20-inch display screens, trim tabs, a horn and navigation lights, users have an interactive experience. It can simulate current, wind and nighttime exercises.

“The Boating Skills Virtual Trainer is the first simulator of its kind for recreational boating public education and the U.S. Power Squadrons will be continuing to develop this tool for cutting edge training,” said Lisa Herndon, ASPS member and national project manager for the simulator project.

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

The Boating Skills Virtual Trainer was a big hit at the Atlanta Boat Show.

The BSVT used at the boat show has returned to home base, but Sherrod said that Power Squadron groups across the coun-

try can request one for special events and public activities and units are now available commercially from partner Virtual Driver

Interactive. Look for additional public boating classes and activities on www.Atlantasboatingclub.com.

34 LAKESIDE

February 2015

LCKC hires new sprint team coach

By Jane Harrison Lake Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club appointed Jim O’Dell as the High Performance I coach for the LCKC Sprint team effective February 1. He replaces Morgan House, who publicly announced O’Dell his resignation at the Gainesville-Hall ’96 meeting last month. (See related story.)

O’Dell has been a member of LCKC as a Masters Paddler since 2002. He served as LCKC Interim Coach for several months in 2006 and is an accomplished paddler.

He has competed in many USA

Canoe/Kayak Masters National Championships over the years, earning several gold medals.

O’Dell has served as the Regional Coach for Dragon Boat USA and competed in the Dragon Boat World Championships in 2010 and 2014. He has also worked as a running and wellness Coach.

He joins LCKC coaching staff of Claudiu Ciur and Kalen Scholz as they continue to train athletes in High Performance 2 and Developmental programs.

“We welcome Jim to our staff and believe he will be a great asset to our team and a mentor to our young athletes,” said LCKC President Terry Baker.

Jumping into the new year with the annual Polar Bear Swim

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

About 150 people began 2015 by jumping into Lake Lanier in the annual Polar Bear Swim, organized by the Lake Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club. Many, like the group above, took the plunge with family and friends.

Lakeside’s Safety Page A GUIDE TO BOATING AND SWIMMING SAFETY RESOURCES PRESENTED BY LAKESIDE ON LANIER BOATING Boater Education Courses with Certification Exam Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification • Course: NASBLA certified entry level classroom-only course with test for boater education and PWC certification. Covers basic boating terminology, “rules of the road,” navigation, operation, legal requirements, emergencies, water etiquette and more.

• Instructors: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers • Minimum age: 12, students 12-15 receive PWC certification.

• When: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Bring sack lunch) Feb. 21 • Where: U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 29, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch • Cost: Individuals $40, family discount 2 or more members $25 each • Private lessons also available for groups or organizations outside normal schedule. Contact Sara Snyder, 770-841-8388 • Information/registration: http://a0700209.uscgaux.info/public_education.php, 770-841-8388.

Pre-registration required. Send email to asbs10@comcast.net.

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

• Instructors: Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron • When: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Feb. 21, May 2, Aug. 15, Oct. 17 • Where: Feb. 21 - Bald Ridge Marina, 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Cumming; All other dates - Army Corps Project Office, 1050 Buford Dam Road, Buford • Cost: $35, families may share book. Add’l family members sharing book, $15 each • Information/registration: www.atlantasboatingclub.com or Email - ABC@usps-atlanta.org On-Line Courses • www.boat-ed.com and http://www.boaterexam.com/usa/georgia include study guide and Georgia Certification Exam with unlimited exam attempts; cost is $29.50 payable upon exam passage. Temporary certificate printed upon passage; permanent card mailed.

• http://www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/Georgia.asp offers free course, exam and print your own certificate; mailed certificate $5.

• Other certification courses offered at www.boatcourse.com, www.boatingbasicsonline.com, and www.pwcsafetyschool.com.

Sailing Classes • Windsong Sailing Academy: Basic and advanced sailing training and certifications including engine maintenance, marine electrical systems, coastal and celestial navigation as well as marine meteorology offered by Windsong Sailing Academy through the DeKalb County Parks and Recreation Service. Public and private week evening and weekend classes available. Fees vary. www.WindsongSail.com. (770) 967-1515.

SWIMMING Swim Lessons/ Aquatics Programs Frances Meadows Aquatics and Community Center • Location: 1545 Community Way, Gainesville.

• Information/registration: (770) 533-5850, www.gainesville.org/swim-lessons www.gainesville.org/online-registration.

• Lessons: Swimming and water safety program for all ages and levels, age 6 months to masters, basic aquatics safety to skill proficiency for competitive swimmers.

• Splash Aquatic Club: Competitive swimming groups for Rookie (age 4) through Masters (age 18 and older to improve fitness, develop better technique, or train for competition.

Gainesville/Hall residents $30-$60, non residents $40-$80.

Cumming Aquatic Center • Location: 201 Aquatic Circle, Cumming • Information/registration: (770) 781-1781 www.cummingaquaticcenter.com (register online) • Lessons: Swimming and water safety program ranges from toddler-age in Parent Child Aquatics Program to teens and adults in Learn to Swim and Adult Aquatics Program. Private or semiprivate lessons available. Fees and schedules vary. Competitive swimming and diving programs, Masters Swim Team also available. Lifeguard certification offered.

Brenau University • Location: Brenau Fitness Center, 500 Washington St., SE, Gainesville • Information/registration: www.brenautigers.com, Blaire Bachman, (770) 534-6279, bbachman@brenau.edu.

• Lessons: Custom private swim lessons for all ages and abilities. Four 30-min. lessons $100; advanced level-four one-hour lessons $150. Brenau Masters Swim Team offers practice and competitive program for swimmers of all levels, high school age and older. $60/month.

University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus

Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included) • Professional Tutoring: On-line or in person tutoring designed to prepare individuals for exams required for certification and licensure for maritime jobs by instructor Steve Johnson, retired US Coast Guard, experienced ship navigator, deck officer, and USCG license instructor for Sea School. www.navteach.com, stevejohnson@navteach.com, (770) 312-0989.

• Advanced Boating Classes in piloting, marine communications, and other boating skills offered periodically by the Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron. www.atlantasboatingclub.com.

Vessel Safety Checks • Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron offers vessel safety check-ups by appointment. http://atlantasboatingclub.com/vessel-safety-check/vessel-safety-check-signup.

• Location: 3820 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood • Information/registration: https://aceweb.ung.edu/ShowSchedule.awp?~~GROUP~REC~ Recreation+&+Safety, (678) 717-3605 • Swim lessons: For ages 3 (must be potty trained) and older range from introduction to water skills to swimming and skill proficiency. Check website for dates.

Georgia Mountain YMCA • Location: 2455 Howard Rd., Gainesville • Information/registration: http://www.hallcountyymca.org/programs/youth/swim-sportsplay/swim-lessons/ 770-297-9622.

• Swim lessons: For all ages and levels, parent-child swim, Masters Swim Program, water fitness, water safety, life guard certification. Fees and times vary.

NOTE: Please contact Lakeside on Lanier News to list additional boating and water safety classes. lakesidenews@mindspring.com.

February 2015

LAKESIDE 35

36 LAKESIDE

February 2015

February 2015

LAKESIDE 37

Retirement is just a change of pace for Chattahoochee’s top advocate Shore Lines From the fascinating to the remarkable, Lake Lanier harbors many personalities and places along its shores. Lakeside presents “Shore Lines” – stories about people who live, work and play around the lake and the places that make the area special.

By Pamela A. Keene rom the time she was a little girl, Sally Bethea was drawn to water. As the founding director and riverkeeper for Chattahoochee River, her career was born in those early childhood days. It became her heart and her passion, and anyone who knows her can sense her

F

Sally Bethea.

bone-deep commitment.

“Some of myearliest memories are of playing in the creek that ran behind our house in north Atlanta,” Bethea said shortly after her retirement from the organization. “In college I was involved in social justice issues at the University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill. When I came to Atlanta I volunteered with the Sierra Club.

I’ve always been an environmental advocate. It’s in my blood.”

Whether by design or happenstance, each step of Bethea’s career prepared her for her 20-year tenure as the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. Working as a paralegal for an Atlanta law firm soon after graduation helped lay the groundwork for her knowledge of law and negotiation. She also interned at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for a time.

Bethea earned a Masters in Environmental Planning from Georgia Tech’s School of City and Regional Planning. In 1980 she joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Atlanta as a Presidential Management In-

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper accomplishments Over the years, the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper has been the driving force in all things conservation and protection for the Chattahoochee River.

1994 – 1999 • Turner Foundation start-up grant helped create UCR, now CRK • Chattahoochee named a “most endangered” river in the nation for sewage overflows • Lawsuit filed against Atlanta for chronic pollution, and settled • Satellite office opened in Gainesville to focus on Lanier watershed • River corridor below Atlanta protected by state legislation 1999 – 2004 • 568 tons of trash removed from Atlanta streams • Tristate Conservation Coalition created • Floating Classroom created on Lake Lanier • Georgia Water Coalition created, CRK a founding partner • Water rights protected from legislative attack • Georgia’s erosion control law strengthened 2004 – 2009 • Landmark decision to protect quality waters in Lanier celebrated • Lanier pollution problems identified, cleanup project initiated • Upper Chattahoochee water trail study completed 2009 – 2014 • ACF Stakeholders Group established • Neighborhood Water Watch program created • Middle Chattahoochee satellite office opened • Annual Sweep the Hooch cleanup launched • Floating Classroom created on West Point Lake.

For more information about the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, visit Chattahoochee.org.

Sally Bethea paddling at Cumberland Island.

tern, where she worked for several years before taking time off to raise her two sons.

“Once the boys were old enough, I wanted to do non-profit and environmental work again, so I joined the Georgia Conservancy part-time for several years. During that time, the waterkeeper movement was taking hold across the country, especially in the Northeast. In 1993 Rutherford and Laura Turner Seydel, always strong supporters of the environment, approached Carolyn Hatcher at the Conservancy about creating a strong watchdog organization to advocate for the Chattahoochee – for the environment, water quality and quantity issues – and Carolyn asked me to work with them as they founded the group.”

With her federal environmental experience, her master’s degree, and her work in the legal field and for non-profit groups, Bethea was the perfect choice to build the

Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper organization in Georgia; it was one of only 11 in the nation at that time. With a significant grant from the Turner Foundation, Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper was created. Initially, she was the sole full-time staff member.

Bethea explained that the organization first focused on the Upper Chattahoochee watershed from the headwaters of the river to West Point Lake. “A group in Columbus had come together in 1992 to focus on the lower part of the river to the Georgia/Florida state line, so we frequently worked together in the interests of the whole river basin,” she said.

When that organization dissolved in 2012, UCR changed its mission to encompass the entire 8,770-square-mile Chattahoochee watershed, dropping the “Upper” from its name and branding and becoming CRK. Over the years, funding from

Sally Bethea leading a hike to the Chattahoochee River headwaters.

foundation, corporate and private donors, including 7,000 members, has helped the organization grow into one of the four biggest waterkeeper organizations in the international Waterkeeper Alliance.

The current annual budget exceeds $1.5 million and supports a dozen employees, including a staff attorney and various environmental experts and program managers, plus extensive educational programs, legal and legislative actions and community campaigns.

Successful programs and partnerships with community groups reach all ages, from school children to adults for educational activities, water testing, water clean-up and advocacy.

“One of our most important and best partnerships we have maintained over the years is with Elachee Nature Science Center,” Bethea said. “We have similar cultures and our focus is the same – to help youngsters and teachers understand the need to protect the environment.” In 2000, CRK purchased the Chota Princess, an onthe-water classroom that has exposed more than 40,000 students and teachers to the wonders of water ecology and the necessity of protecting nature’s resources. In 2007, the group upgraded to a 40-foot catamaran to expand the program. A scholarship component assists in building participation from underserved youth. Nearly a quarter of the 4,500 annual participants use the classroom free of charge.

“This is one of the things I’m most proud of – the creation of the floating classrooms,” she said.

The riverkeeper CRK is currently creating a second on-the-water See Shore Lines, page 38

38 LAKESIDE

February 2015

• Shore Lines Continued from Page 37 classroom program on West Point Lake.

Throughout the year, activities like water-quality testing, neighborhood water-watch programs for urban streams, the Upper Chattahoochee Water Trail for paddlers, hikes along the headwaters provide opportunities for the public to become involved.

Bethea and members of her staff spend time at the state Capitol during the year, particularly during the legislative session, monitoring bills and advocating for legislation to further protect the river and its watershed from contamination, encroachment and harm. She’s been a familiar face there over the years.

Definitely Southern-born, Bethea is proud of her determination and will to make things happen when it comes to water and the environment. She readily admits that sometimes her dedication to CRK’s mission can rub people the wrong way.

Getting Bethea to talk about her personal life outside of her advocacy work is challenging.

Everything seems to circle back to the good of the Chattahoochee River. She does allow a glimpse,

Sally Bethea, center, has turned over the reins of the CRK to Jason Ulseth, left, and Juliet Cohen, right.

mostly about her two adult sons: Charles, 33, an accomplished freelance outdoor writer for national publications who hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2003; and Robert, 29, a teacher in Napa, Calif., who last year solo cycled 4,500 miles from Vermont to California. “Both of them take many more risks than I would ever take,” she said. “They are the lights of my life.”

Late in 2014, Bethea turned over the reins of the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper to a pair of environmental advocates: Jason Ulseth, riverkeeper, and Juliet

Bethea teaching students about water conservation.

Cohen, executive director. “They have fire in their bellies and are both extremely competent to carry the organization forward,” she said. “The rest of the staff is top-notch, too.”

Bethea is officially retired, but in reality it’s all relative. While she said she plans to hike, paddle and travel more, she will remain in an advisory capacity to CRK. “I’ll keep my hand in environmental issues to support and mentor. My hope is to teach on the college level as well. I’m certainly not done yet; I’m just takBethea during a river cleanup. ing life at a slower pace.”

14 Must-Know Questions That “Make Sure” You Get a Boat Cover That is Built Right.

Martin Docks, Inc. Serving Lanier ‘In the Spirit of Excellence’ Since 1956

Do you know what questions to ask marine fabricators?

Our free checklist helps you gather information that will get you quality results!

Boat Lift, PWC Lift, Custom Lift Designs for Watercraft of All Kinds For your free “Make Sure” report, visit

www.covergirl-marine-canvas-upholstery.com

Cover Girl Marine Canvas & Upholstery Built for durability, strength and style, with an unparallel craftsmanship guarantee!

Tammy Hampton - Owner - Master Craftsperson 3607 Shoreland Dr. • Buford, GA 30518

770-271-9093 Email: covergirlcanvas@gmail.com

Exclusive Dealer for Boat Floater on Lake Lanier and Hartwell

2070 Old Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501

www.martindocksinc.com 770 536-0189 Fax: 770 536-4444 Toll-Free: 1-888-536-0189

• Year-Round Maintenance & Repair Service • Dockwatch - Year Long Maintenance Plan • Repairs, Re-decks, Adjustments, Refloats, Additions • Electrical Packages Available • Custom Built Boat Docks Aluminum & Steel • Residential, Commercial & Community Docks • Cellofoam & Formex Floats • Ramps and Gangways • Shoreline Steps • Rip Rap • Dredging • Dock Accessories • Used Docks, Consignments & Trade-Ins Welcome • Serving Lanier, Allatoona, Hartwell & Surrounding Lakes

February 2015

LAKESIDE 39

• Donate

Antiques Show Antiques, Collectibles, Home Decor & More!

NEXT SHOW

FEBRUARY 20, 21, 22 Friday: 9-5, Saturday: 9-6, Sunday 10-5

ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES, HOME DECOR Admission: $3.00 Good all weekend, Children free Directions: GA 400 N to Exit 13, go west, next right on GA 9 (Atlanta Highway)

1321 Atlanta Hwy. • Cumming, GA 30040

770-889-3400

www.lakewoodantiques.com

Continued from page 31 However, there has been an overall decline in contributions to the checkoff in recent years.

The continued success of nongame conservation efforts depends on reversing this decline.

The impact of contributions is magnified through efficient management. By leveraging Wildlife Conservation Fund revenues to obtain and match grants, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Nongame Conservation Section receives about $2 to $3 for every $1 spent from the fund.

Nongame Conservation Section Chief Jon Ambrose said this ability to match funds is what makes every contribution so valuable, no matter the amount.

“Donations to the tax checkoff are critical for getting additional funding from other sources,” Ambrose said. “Even by

giving just a little, Georgians can provide critical support and make a big impact.”

There are more than 1,000 plant and animal species of conservation concern in Georgia. The Nongame Conservation Section, which is charged with conserving nongame wildlife statewide, receives no state appropriations for this work and depends on public support – largely through the tax checkoff and the sale and renewal of DNR’s eagle and hummingbird license plates.

By donating through the wildlife checkoff this tax season, you will be supporting work that protects the wild creatures and wild places that Georgians enjoy, now and future generations.

Simply fill in any amount more than $1 on line 26 of the long tax form (Form 500) or line 10 of the short form (Form 500EZ), and kick in for conservation.

MORE INFO: www.georgiawildlife.com/conservation/support

Our Advertisers make Lakeside on Lanier Possible!

Please let them know you saw their ad here!

DECKS • STAIRS • PAINTING • REPAIRS • Custom Build and Rebuild Decks, Porches and Stairs • Pathway Steps With Mulch • Low Voltage Lighting Installed • Complete Exterior and Interior Painting • Water Damage and Drywall Repair • Deck, Dock and Driveway Pressure Washing and Staining • All Home Improvements, Repair and Maintenance

Wit Service Corp.

Call Dave Whitaker • 404-277-0345 All Work Performed by Owner Small Jobs Welcome • Free Estimates • Many References Serving Lake Lanier and the Surrounding Areas Since 1998

40 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Bowmans Island hike shows river’s transition

By Jane Harrison The first section of the Chattahoochee River freed from Buford Dam is already well known by trout anglers who cast in the cold current that flows from the bottom of Lake Lanier. Lesser known is the Bowmans Island Trail at the northern end of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The loop trail heads up the national recreation area that follows 48 miles of the river en route from the dam into Fulton County. The northernmost footpath provides a glimpse of the river’s emergence into the metropolitan area that siphons her water, builds near her shores, and journeys to the wooded riverbank hoping to get away from it all.

The Bowmans Island Trail, a moderate 4.5 mile perimeter route with two smaller inner loops, is accessible from the north on Lower Pool Road off Buford Dam Road and from the south at Trout Place Road. Additionally, there are access points inside the Chattahoochee River Club subdivision through which a portion of the trail runs.

Entering the North Bowmans Island Trail from the Lower Pool gravel parking lot, the perimeter trail gradually rises above the

river on an unblazed treadway. A narrow “social trail” closer to the riverbank and frequented by anglers forks off from the main path. Hikers who get sidetracked into walking in anglers’ footsteps find themselves scaling steep ravines cut by small inlet creeks.

A word of advice: stick to the main trail, where wooden footbridges make for safer crossings (and no bushwhacking)!

About 1/10 mile in, hikers can view the namesake island. There is no bridge or trail access to the oblong lump of rough forested land. The gently shoaling river passes Bowmans Island just as history seems to have bypassed it with barely a footnote. A search of internet and library histories from the area failed to turn up any reference about how it got its name.

The trail continues above the river through hardwood forest about two miles toward the Buford Fish Hatchery and the South Bowmans Island approach trail.

The perimeter route curves right, up some wood steps and then heads into what initially feels like a Georgia mountain forest. But, soon, there’s an abrupt change as the path turns up a hill between two houses in an upscale subdivi-

PHOTOS BY JANE HARRISON

sion. The half-mile stroll on thick pine bark mulch in the Chattahoochee River Club isn’t the trail’s only shared corridor with civilization. The trail poses as a juxtaposition of wild and suburban: large homes with lots backing up to the national recreation area, a great blue heron fishing the island shoals and a dog chasing a hiker in the river club, a doe springing effortlessly through the woods and a domestic cat on a romp from home, a packed lunch on a rock outcrop with views of a

MORE INFO: Bowmans Island Mapwww.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/upload/TrailMapBowmans.pdf; Chattahoochee River National Recreation Areahttp://www.nps.gov/chat/index.htm

The Bowmans Island Trail runs along the Chattahoochee River between Buford Dam and the Buford Trout Hatchery. Footbridges over streams make it easier for hikers.

fish hatchery below.

After departing the subdivision, the perimeter trail meanders through the woods about 1.5 miles and heads back down to the river. National recreation area signs with maps are helpful at several junctures; but most of the trail is unmarked and may be dif-

ficult for inexperienced hikers to follow. Hikers expecting the scenic beauty of clear mountain streams rushing over rocks in the wilderness won’t find that on the Bowmans Island Trail. Instead, they see the transition of a river held back by a dam and let to flow by human demand.

Outdoor Activity Calendar See Lake Lanier Olympic Venue Calendar for canoe/kayak and rowing activities.

8:30/9:30 a.m. Feb. 7, West Bank Park, 3400 Buford Dam Rd. $20-$25. www.fivestarntp.com, www.active.com.

Wrenched Bicycle Shop Rides, Gainesville.

Ride With Ryan, Gainesville. 15, 25, 30 25, 40 and 60 mile rides, 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, mile bicycle rides in North Hall, 2:30 p.m. Feb. 328 N. Bradford St. 7, Mount Vernon Elementary School, 4844 Jim www.wrenchedbicycles.com.

Hood Rd. Free; all abilities welcome.

Sunday Kroger Rides, Gainesville. Base www.fpcga.org, 770-532-0136. pace road bike rides averaging 40-60 miles roll Race for the Goal 5K/Fun Run, Cumming. out at 1:15 p.m. Sundays from Kroger parking 2/3 p.m. Feb. 8, Polo Fields, 6040 Majors Rd. lot on Thompson Bridge Rd. or from other loca$15-$20. www.fivestarntp.com, tions. Contact: velocraig@hotmail.com. www.active.com.

ISI Cycling, Gainesville. Group road cycling Lanier Running Club, Gainesville. Club for all speeds and levels in North Hall area, meeting, 7 p.m. Feb. 9, Re-cess Southern Gasmountain biking at Chicopee Woods, see tro Pub, 118 Bradford St., NW. www.lanierrunwww.isicycling.com. ningclub.org.

Trail Crew Work, Gainesville. Work to im Brown Bag Lunch Series, Gainesville. prove nature center trails; tools and training proLocal astronomer Robert Webb presents vided; bring water, lunch and gloves, 10 a.m-3 “Something Astronomical” in lunch/lecture sep.m. Wednesdays, Elachee Nature Science Cenries, 12:30-2 p.m. Feb. 12, Elachee Nature Sciter, 2125 Elachee Dr. Call to register. ence Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10 donation www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976. appreciated. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallu- Cupcake Road Race 15/5K, Baby Cake lah Falls. Mile and a half night hike to suspenEvent, Cumming. 7:30/7:45/9 a.m. Feb. 14, Tosion bridge over falls, 6:15-8:15 p.m. Feb. 3, tally Running, 405 Peachtree Pkwy. $15-$45.

Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn www.totallyrunning.com, www.active.com Dr. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking.

Don Carter State Park Work Day, www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

Gainesville. Volunteers help with various projects; wear work clothes and gloves, 9 a.m. Surf & Sun 5K/Fun Run, Cumming.

noon Feb. 14, 5000 N. Browning Bridge Rd. 678-450-7726.

Xterra Georgia Trill in the Hills 21K/42K Trail Run, Winder. 8 a.m. Feb. 21, Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S. Broad St. $40-$55. www.dirtyspokes.net, www.active.com.

CASA Superhero 5K/1K Run/Walk, Cumming. 5K 8 a.m., 1K 9 a.m. Feb. 21, Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way. $10-$30. www.active.com.

In Her Shoes 5K, Dahlonega. 8:30 a.m. Feb. 21, Rainbow Children’s Home, 246 East Main St. $25-$30. www.fivestarntp.com.

Chocolate Rush 5K/Kids’ Fun Run, Dahlonega. 5K trail run 9 a.m. Feb. 21, 527 Miller Calhoun Rd. $25-$30. www.active.com.

Southern Cross Ultra Gravel Grind, Dahlonega. 50 mile mountain bike race, 10 a.m.

Feb. 21, Montaluce Winery, 946 Via Montaluce. $90. www.mountaingoatadventures.com.

Frosty Fun Run & 5K Trail Race, Jefferson.

10:30/11 a.m. Feb. 21, Crow’s Lake, 155 Crows Lake Rd. $25-$30. www.runersfit.com, www.active.com.

Fireside Arts & Crafts Show, Helen. 40th annual event features more than 50 artisans inside the lodge, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 21 & 22, Unicoi State Park, 1788 Hwy. 356. $5 parking.

706-878-4738.

Little Heroes Fun Run/Tot Trot/ 5K, Gainesville. 2:45/3:20/3:30 p.m. Feb. 22, American Legion, 2343 Riverside Dr. $10-$30. www.active.com.

Chasing Away Winter 5K/Fun Run/Tot Trot, Dahlonega. 8/8:45/9 a.m. Feb. 28, Lumpkin County High School, 2001 Indian Dr. $15$25. fivestarntp.com, www.active.com.

Kings Hawaiian Fun Run/5K, Oakwood.

9:30/10 a.m. Feb. 28, Lanier Technical College, 2990 Landrum Education Dr. $25-$30. www.active.com.

Assault on Mt. Currahee Gravel Grind, Mount Airy. Solo/team mountain bike race, 10 a.m. Feb. 28, Lake Russell Recreation Area, Old Lake Russell Rd. $70/$140. www.chainbusterracing.com, www.active.com.

Glo with the Flow 5K, Suwanee. 6 p.m.

Feb. 28, Johns Creek Pkwy. $25. www.fivestarntp.com., www.active.com.

Challenged Child & Friends Fun Run/5K, Gainesville. 2/2:30 p.m. March 1, Riverside Military Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. $25$30. www.runnersfit.com.

- Compiled by Jane Harrison MORE INFO: Additions/corrections lakesidenews@mindspring.com

February 2015

LAKESIDE 41

THERE IS SOMETHING NEW AT SUNRISE

• Secluded Protected Cove • Premium Parking • Free Pumpout

42’ High Roof Covered Concrete Decked Slips

1 Quarter Free* $450/mo. or $5200 Yearly *Annual basis must be paid up front

• Beautiful Clubhouse & Deck • Convenient to Marina Entrance and Bath House • Fun Filled Activities All Year Around • Westrec Advantage Benefits Sunrise Cove Marina 5725 Flat Creek Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 536-8599 (770)532-7667 fax E-Mail: info@sunrisecove.com www.sunrisecovemarina.com

42 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Light up your life for a welcoming and dramatic landscape

By Pamela A. Keene Right now, most of the trees are bare and there’s probably not much to look at in your landscape. But all that can change if you’re interested in creating a four-season approach to outdoor lighting.

From architectural lighting to emphasize interesting features of your home’s exterior to landscape enhancements with up- and down-lighting, you can design as much “wow” factor as you want by talking with an outdoor lighting professional.

Chris Wakefield with The Outdoor Lights based in Cumming has been designing lighting for home exteriors, outdoor living spaces and landscapes for more than 20 years across the Southeast. He has seen the outdoor lighting trends change over the years, from design concepts to new technology. For instance, with the transition to longer-life, low-energy bulbs and lighting instruments, LEDs are the go-to choice for outdoor lighting projects. Manufacturers have responded to demand and are now producing a variety of LED styles, designs and tones (warm or cool lighting).

landscape, elegantly highlight interesting architectural elements of Pamela A. your home’s facade, or install Keene lighting to enhance your home’s safety and security?

Curb • Picture your outdoor lighting Appeal from several perspectives – from the street, from windows in frequently used rooms in your home and as you walk through your yard. A professional designer can MORE INFO: Email: help create just the right atmospam@pamelakeene.com phere by considering these points.

Much of the outdoor landscape • Consider using a system of lighting today uses low-voltage timers to get the maximum effect wiring. It’s important to work from your lights. This way you with a professional who is certiwon’t need to remember to turn fied and licensed in low-voltage them on, and they will also prowiring. However, some projects, vide a sense that you’re home, such as lighting a deck or an out- even when you’re away. door kitchen, will require an elec- • Work with a licensed profestrician with high-voltage sional and verify insurance, incredentials as well. cluding workers compensation Wakefield offers some food for coverage. thought before embarking on an • Contract the project in writing outdoor lighting project: with all terms, expectations, tim• Less can be more – unless ing of completion and costs you’re planning to fully illumispelled out clearly. nate your yard, be selective about • Check references by phone what areas you want to light. A and/or by visiting completed projfew well-placed lights can go a ects in person. long way to create a custom look. • Capitalize on the slow season • What’s your purpose – do you for a quicker turn-around. If you want to light a path, showcase in- wait until spring and summer, teresting plants or shrubs in your contractors’ schedules become

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OUTDOOR LIGHTS

Well-placed lighting can enhance curb appeal and safety to your outdoor space.

filled early and when there’s a high demand for a service, it may also cost a bit more.

Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener.

A-1 Driveway Replacement Company Specializing in: Driveway Replacement Retaining Walls Slabs Sidewalks Patios Insured Free Estimates Since 1974

$100 OFF with a completed referral job

770-532-4714 (Gainesville/Lake) • 770-493-6222 (Tucker) • www.A1driveway.com • info@a1driveway.com

February 2015

LAKESIDE 43

Atlanta Boat Show: A great start for the 2015 boating season

By Pamela A. Keene The snow and ice stayed up north and the weather was much more cooperative this year for the 53rd Atlanta Boat Show at the World Congress Center in midJanuary, and that was good news for consumers and boat dealers from across the Southeast.

“Atlanta Marine had its best boat show ever in the 20 years we’ve been participating,” said Kurt Backus, owner of Atlanta Marine with locations at Lake Lanier, Allatoona Lake and Lake Burton. “We sold more boats across all our lines – runabouts, pontoons, watersport boats and center consoles – and everything was really hitting on all cylinders.

From our perspective, attendees were lake lovers and everyone wants to get out on the water.”

Nearly 25,000 people attended the four-day show, with Thursday’s attendance a bit higher than in previous years. “Our Thursday night family event, sponsored by the Marine Trade Association, was the most successful yet,” said Philip Burton, president of the Atlanta-based boating organization.

“All our members, dealers and marinas, did an excellent job of promoting it to their customers

and we really got out our message to buy local and get your service local.”

Statistics analyzed after the show said that 65 percent of the attendees attended the show as part of their boat-buying experience. Seventy-one percent of attendees reported a household income in excess of $75,000. The audience skewed heavily toward Millenials; 51 percent were ages 25 to 49. And 65 percent of all attendees said there were more likely to purchase accessories and gear they saw at a show.

“Both the quality and the quantity of attendees was excellent this year,” said Larry Berryman with the National Marine Manufacturers Association, which manages the show on behalf of the Metropolitan Atlanta Marine Trade Association. “This led to an amazing number of sales for our exhibitors.”

The show is the major fundraiser for the Marine Trade Association to support the group’s communications, lobbying, water safety and scholarship programs throughout the year.

Activities for all ages helped drive attendance, including two new features: the RoboSurfer in-

teractive surfing simulator and the nautical-themed children’s play area. Other popular attractions included the Let’s Go Fishing booth and the Trout Pond, a catch-and-

release fishing experience stocked with 500 trout. This year’s show featured more than 170 exhibitors who filled 25 percent more floor space than last year’s show,

Berryman said. “We had many more boats on the show floor than last year. It was everything you’d expect from the Atlanta Boat Show, just bigger this year.”

Proposal means mountain trout streams could open yearround The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is proposing changes to fishing regulations.

The proposed changes would remove the ‘mountain’ trout season and open all trout water to year-round angling.

“Previously, the ‘mountain’ trout season was kept from late March through the end of October each year, making streams designated as seasonal unavailable during that period of time,” says John Biagi, chief of the Fisheries Management Section.

“This change would allow that ‘seasonal’ regulation to be removed, opening up these streams to trout angling all year.”

The department has scheduled two public hearings to provide an opportunity to offer input on these proposed changes. Those interested are

encouraged to bring these meetings to the attention of others that also may be interesting in participating. Hearings will begin at 7 p.m.

Here are details for the hearings: • Tuesday, Feb. 10 – Fair Street Neighborhood Center, 715 Fair Street, Gainesville, GA • Thursday, Feb. 12 – Red Top Mountain State Park, Conference Center/Park Office, 50 Lodge Road, SE, Acworth, GA. These meetings sites are accessible to people with physical disabilities. To request sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids, contact Thomas Litts at (770) 918-6406 no later than February 5. For more information about the meeting locations, call the Gainesville fisheries management office at 770-535-5498.

Anyone attending the meeting is welcome to provide statements

or comments, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to speak. Participants should register upon arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement.

Those unable to attend a meeting may submit input electronically or in writing by February 28. Written statements should be mailed to: GA DNR, Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Management Section; Attn: Thomas Litts; 2065 U.S. Highway 278, S.E.; Social Circle, GA 30025.

To submit comments electronically or view the proposed changes and additional information, visit www.gofishgeorgiacom/fishing/proposedregulation s or contact the Fisheries Management Section at (770) 9186406.

10 Acres on Chattahoochee River Little Hawk Road • Sautee Nacoochee

Lake Lanier Homeowners-Call Us Now! It Is The Time To Sell Inventory Is Low! We Need Homes If You Have Considered Selling, Please Call Us ASAP! We Have A Multitude Of Buyers Ready To Purchase On Lake Lanier

712 feet of Chattahoochee River frontage near Helen. 8,000 sf home on 10 beautiful acres. 5 bedrooms, 4 baths. 64 feet screened deck overlooking river. Hear and see the river from every room. $1,250,000 RT Realty Group, LLC Contact: Tommy Arnold at 404 933-6100

Contact Teresa Smith 770-654-4173 678-318-5000 www.livingonlakelanier.com www.lanierarearealestate.com

44 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Lakeside’s Recreation Guide

CORPS OF ENGINEERS CAMPGROUNDS & DAY USE PARKS

Campsites w/ Hookups Campsites w/o Hookups Showers Dump Station Laundry Restrooms Picnic Tables Picnic Shelter Boat Ramp Swim Area User Fee No Pets

Provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers The Corps of Engineers welcomes you to beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier. Located just 35 miles northeast of Atlanta, the lake offers some of the finest camping opportunities in the South. The Corps operates 7 campgrounds at Lake Lanier. Camping enthusiasts may enjoy the luxuries of fully developed areas with water and electrical hookups or “rough it” at designated primitive areas. Most campgrounds have park attendants on duty to assist our visitors. Camping in undesignated areas such as on the lake’s shoreline and islands is prohibited.

99

CAMPGROUNDS 13 VAN PUGH SOUTH 17 OLD FEDERAL 45 DUCKETT MILL 50 BOLDING MILL 53 TOTO CREEK 77 BALD RIDGE 81 SAWNEE

X X X X

X X X X X X X X X

X X X X

Exit 17

XX XX XX XX

X X X XX XXX X XXX XX X XXX XX XX XXX XX X XXX X XXXX X XXX X XXXX X XXX

DAY USE PARKS 1 LOWER POOL EAST 2 LOWER OVERLOOK 3 UPPER OVERLOOK 4 BUFORD DAM PARK 12 BURTON MILL 15 VAN PUGH NORTH 18 OLD FEDERAL DAY USE 19 BALUS CREEK 20 MOUNTAIN VIEW 30 BELTON BRIDGE 31 LULA 36 LITTLE RIVER 38 WAHOO CREEK 39 THOMPSON BRIDGE 41 SARDIS CREEK 42 SIMPSON 43 ROBINSON 45 DUCKETT MILL 46 LITTLE HALL 50 BOLDING MILL 53 TOTO CREEK 54 NIX BRIDGE 55 THOMPSON CREEK 59 KEITH’S BRIDGE 60 LONG HOLLOW 64 VANN’S TAVERN 67 TWO MILE 70 SIX MILE 76 TIDWELL 80 LITTLE RIDGE 82 WEST BANK 83 WEST BANK O’LOOK 84 LOWER POOL WEST 93 EAST BANK 94 LANIER PARK

XX X

XX

XX X X XX XX XX XX XX X X XXX X X XXX X X X X X XX X X X X XX X X X X X XX X X X XX X XX X X X X XX X XX X X X XX X X X X X XX X

X

XX X

X X X X X X X

X XX X XX X XX XX X XX XX X X XXX

Day Use Parks The Corps operates 35 day use parks at Lake Lanier. Facilities range from parks with boat ramps to those with designated swimming areas, picnic tables, shelters and playgrounds.

All day use parks close daily at 10 p.m.

Boat launching is allowed at all hours unless otherwise posted. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all parks.

Picnic Shelters Picnic shelters are available at several Corps’ parks around the lake. They can be reserved for a fee. Call the Lake Lanier Management Office at 770-9459531.

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

Fees (per day): Boat launching $3/$4 Vehicles $3/$4 Pedestrian/bicycle $1 Annual pass $30 Rules, Regulations and More Guidelines are not intended as restraints to the enjoyment of park visitors, but as aids for orderly operation, visitor safety and for the protection of the environment and public property.

Complete rules and regulations are posted at the entrances to all campgrounds and copies are available at entry stations. To view annual opening and closing dates and rates for campgrounds and picnic shelters, visit www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civ ilWorks/Recreation/LakeSidneyLanier/ recreation/Schedules

STATE, COUNTY & CITY PARKS 7 SHOAL CREEK 11 BIG CREEK 14 CHESTNUT RIDGE 33 CLARK’S BRIDGE 79 MARY ALICE PARK 86 FLOWERY BRANCH PARK 52 LUMPKIN COUNTY PARK 56 WAR HILL 71 CHARLESTON 74 SHADY GROVE 75 YOUNG DEER 87 LANIER POINT 88 LONGWOOD PARK 89 HOLLY PARK 90 LAUREL PARK 91 RIVER FORKS 96 LAKE LANIER ISLANDS 99 DON CARTER STATE PARK

770-945-8787 770-945-8787 770-945-8787 770-535-8280 770-781-2010 770-967-6371 706-864-3622 706-344-3600 770-781-2215 770-205-6849 770-781-2215 770-535-8280 770-531-2680 770-531-2680 770-535-8280 770-531-3952 770-945-8787 404-656-3530

T MORE INFO: Water release schedules - 770 945-1466 Lake information - 770 945-1467 Corps of Engineers - 770 945-9531 http://www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/ CivilWorks/Recreation/LakeSidneyLanier.aspx

February 2015

LAKESIDE 45

Lake Lanier’s premier audio, video and electronics dealer.

C

Marine & Mobile Electronics specialists

• Audio System Design

• LED Lighting

• Satellite & TV Systems

• Security Systems

• GPS & Navigation

• Custom Installation

MARINE • AUTOMOTIVE • MOTORCYCLE • ATV/POWERSPORTS

We Make Your Toys Fun! 3 2 9 2 M c E v e r Ro a d | B u f o r d , G A | 3 0 5 1 8

770.906.7331 avcmarine.com

yM

nd

Mu

UNG G’ville

ill Rd

17

Oakwood

kw

y

17 16

Ta n

ne

rP

Blackshear Place

on rm

y

Hw

Th u

der

I-985

Win

Oakwood Package Store

Exit 16N or 17S Off I-985

Beer • Wine • Liquor

Great Everyday Prices

Plus Weekly ‘Super Specials’ Your Friendly Neighborhood Package Store Owner/Manager - Rusty Williams Owner - Jimmy Trotman • Owner - Jim Cornett All owners & employees are local to your community.

***Check Out Our Beer Cave!***

Mention this ad and let us thank you!

Hours: M-Th 8 am-10 pm; F-Sa 8 am-11:30 pm; Su12:30-8 pm Serving the Community for Over 22 Years Like Us on Facebook!

770-535-8802 3469 Mundy Mill Road • Oakwood, GA

Residential & Commercial Moving Specialists • No Hidden Charges • Experienced Employees Only • Expert packing and Unpacking • No Move Too Small or Too Big • Licensed & Insured Mention This Ad & Receive

10% OFF Any Move Exceeding $500

(404) 352-CHOP (2467) www.tomahawkmoving.com

46 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Beware of hypothermia when you visit the lake this winter With the colder temperatures this winter – not only air temperatures but the lake’s water temperature as well – be aware of the risks of hypothermia. From accidentally slipping on an icy patch on the dock or your boat, to simply being exposed to extreme cold without skin protection for an extended time, hypothermia is a dangerous and possibly lifethreatening condition.

Most people think that hypothermia can only happen in extremely cold water, but it can happen any time your body is losing heat faster than your body can produce heat, and your body temperature drops to below 95 degrees.

Be sure to dress properly when headed outside, especially if you’re going to be outside for more than a few minutes. It’s also a good idea to prepare yourself for the unexpected; wearing additional layers can provide protection in case you find yourself in the cold longer than you had planned. Gloves and hats are recommended as well.

Runners and others who are exercising in the cold also need to

Joe Fulcher US Army Corps of Engineers

MORE INFO: 770-945-9531 www.sam.usace.army.mil/ Missions/CivilWorks/Recreation/ LakeSidneyLanier.aspx

take precautions to prevent sudden loss of body heat. When you perspire from intense activity, that’s your body losing heat. At first you may feel warm, but be aware of a sudden chill. It could be the first step toward hypothermia.

Symptoms of hypothermia Most often the first signs are feeling chilled and shivering. This is the body’s defense mechanism to try to re-warm itself. Other common symptoms include dizziness, nausea, faster breathing, trouble speaking, confusion, drowsiness, lack of coordination, fatigue and increased heart rate.

2015 fishing regulations online, in print Anglers can find the new 2015 Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations Guide online and in print, announces the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

“Whether you want to find great places to fish or are just seeking guidance on laws and regulations, the 2015 guide can provide you with information,” explains John Biagi, fisheries management chief.

“We suggest that all anglers, new and experienced, take a look at the publication each year before casting a line.”

The guide provides helpful information, including color fish identification charts for both freshwater and saltwater fish, license purchasing information, contact information for Wildlife Resources Division and Coastal Resources Division fisheries management offices and DNR law enforcement offices, trout stream listings, public fishing area information,

state record fish listings and complete fishing regulations for Georgia.

You may view, download and print the guide at www.gofishgeorgia.com/fishing/regulations.

Pick up a printed copy at any Wildlife Resources Division fisheries management office or DNR law enforcement office or at fishing license vendors throughout Georgia.

Office address listings can be found at: www.georgiawildlife. com/OfficeContact.

New information highlighted in this year’s guide includes: • 14-inch minimum length limit for largemouth bass from Lake Oconee.

• 12-inch minimum length limit for largemouth bass from the Ocmulgee River (Macon’s Spring Street bridge crossing to confluence with Oconee River).

• 15-inch minimum length limit for shoal bass from the Flint River and its tributaries upstream of Warwick Dam. For more information about Georgia’s fishing regulations or for information about where and when to go fishing, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com/fishing.

Your lips may turn blue; your skin may even feel somewhat clammy.

If not addressed quickly, the symptoms will often worsen. In more severe cases, your pulse will become weak, breathing will be slow and shallow. Increased confusion, slurring of speech and eventually loss of consciousness will soon follow.

If you fall into the lake, slowly make your way toward shore, a dock or boat nearby. Flailing around will cause you to lose body heat more quickly. It’s a good idea to use the buddy system when you’re coming to the lake in the winter; make sure your phone is charged and keep it in a waterproof pouch and that you are keeping an eye on each other at all times.

Tips to prevent hypothermia Remember to dress appropri-

ately for the conditions. If it’s cold and wet, make sure to wear at least one layer of water-resistant clothing. Be sure to wear gloves and a hat. Your body loses a significant amount of heat from the top of your head, so a closed hat is better.

Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages that may mask the symptoms or give a false sense of warmth. Don’t over exert yourself to the point of perspiring if you don’t have somewhere you can go to warm yourself. Consider using commercially available products that can help warm the body artificially. These types of items include air/chemical-activated pocket warmers, electric and fuel heaters, and garments that wick perspiration away from the body.

What to do If you or someone else dis-

plays any of these symptoms, move to a warm, dry environment. replace wet clothes with warm dry clothes or blankets.

However, if you can’t get to a warm place, leave the wet clothes on to create a barrier and hold in convective heat. Cover the person with blankets or other available coverings.

In severe cases it may be necessary to use a technique called body warming where the affected individual can be warmed by the body heat of others. Be very cautious about exposing the person to warm/hot water or direct heat; this could complicate the problem.

Hypothermia is a dangerous condition that can become serious in a very short time. It’s better to seek medical attention or call 911 because severe hypothermia can be life threatening.

A new port of call on the horizon: Cuba Normal relations with Cuba and the United States appear to be closer to reality and so the race begins with tourism and trade. This remarkable, significant event signals the start of something amazing in boating; a change in the destination of countless yachters and boaters that will cross the Florida Straits in search of the not-so-distant shore, the beautiful island of Cuba.

From the Southernmost Point (at Key West, Fla.), it’s 90 miles ninety miles between the two countries. On a clear day as you draw near the northern face of Cuba from sea the tropical shoreline glimmers and shines, a sharp contrast to the view from the approach south of the island where majestic shades of green mountains strike high above the horizon. It’s a vast visual difference compared to the Bahamas with the diverse range of topography and skyline.

There are plenty of marinas and resorts to visit, enjoy the culture, meet new friends and I am sure there will be many more to come in the future. All the years as a professional mariner, Cuba has constantly been my No. 1 destination to visit, outside of the duties while in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Crossing the Straits of Florida is not always an uneventful experience primarily because of the influence of one major, extremely large, rapidly moving, very warm current that flows through called

mous body of water during patrol including search and rescue misSteve sions, with a clear sky and very Johnson heavy, pounding surface.

This upcoming change of relaBoating tionship between the countries is Safety an opportunity of a lifetime to explore new boating destinations, a place of extreme tropical beauty that has been hidden in full view for many years. There are very ef MORE INFO: fective ways to get ready for a stevejohnson@navteach.com voyage and port of call such as the Gulf Stream. It is sometimes this if you decide you want to referred as a “river within the make the journey. Get trained by sea.” Depending on the prevailing a professional mariner, hire a winds, season of year and traffic USCG Licensed Captain or Mate moving through the Straits, the as pilot, to name a few. short voyage can become a Getting there safely involves tremendous challenge in a very crossing a busy maritime roadway short period of time. filled with big, fast moving ships As this energized water navigating courses generally courses rapidly northeast from the northeast or southwest not countYucatan Peninsula, any wind that ing the numerous other smaller is counter, or opposes the direcvessels, traveling in all directions, tion of flow can almost instantly fishing, cruising – even smugcreate short interval, very steep, gling contraband – that cover this violent waves. Moving through area. Understanding and applicathis gauntlet takes skill and know- tion regarding the Rules of the ing how to handle your vessel. We Road is vital to safe boating and all know the risk of tropical shipping. Additional knowledge storms and hurricanes with techof international communications, nology providing advance warnsecurity awareness, and weather ing and preparation. Most boaters also helps ensure you arrive to would not venture out in this sea your tropical destination safely. state. It’s the clear day, wind The new port of call, Cuba, abruptly changes direction, and awaits. Contact me if you would waves begin to pound occurlike to know more and discover rences I refer to. Some of the how to safely prepare and voyage roughest seas compared to anyplan for a yachting adventure at where on the planet can be sea. brought on by the Gulf Stream.

Steve Johnson, US Coast I’ve personally witnessed Guard (ret). is with CPO Johncountless tough days on this fason, Inc.

February 2015

LAKESIDE 47

New year signals changing of the guard at lake boating clubs

By Pamela A. Keene As the calendar changes, so it is with the leadership of Lake Lanier’s boating clubs. Some of the clubs have an organized method to bringing in new leadership; others hold general elections from a nominated slate of candidates.

Organizations such as the US Sail and Power Squadron, University Yacht Club and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary typical do their leadership development by moving officers through the ranks in a multi-year commitment. In the sailing clubs, a mix of veterans and new members, many of whom have served on committees, makes up the new leadership.

Here’s a rundown of new officers for this year, along with each group’s website. Many of these groups are welcome new members.

Atlanta Inland Sailing Club – aiscracing.com – Commodore,

Mike Stewart; Fleet Captain, Paul Stout; Treasurer, Frank Glenn.

Barefoot Sailing Club – barefootsailing.org – Commodore, Alex Mazurek; Vice Commodore, Will Carraway; Membership, David Schenck; Education, Tom Graham; Cruising Captain, Peter Maurer; Racing Captain, Ken Russell; Purser, Tom Seibold; Social Captain, Joyce McIntosh; Yeoman, Terry Morse; Boatswain, Gordon Barton.

Lake Lanier Sailing Club – llsc.org – Commodore, Warren Collier; Vice Commodore, Debbie Stewart; Rear Commodore, James Beauchamp; Secretary, Mike Cassidy; Treasurer, Jim Olson.

Southern Sailing Club – southernsailing.org – Commodore, David Bloome; Vice Commodore, Chris Henesy; Race Commodore, Jonathan Stewart; Cruising Commodore, Paul Handy; Purser, Jennifer Sifuentes; Yeowoman, Jennifer Daniell; Masthead Editor, Jeff Andrews; Webmaster, Chris Henesy.

Vornholt; Materials, Donald Hunt; Marine Safety, Matthew Cooper; Navigation Services, John Lomonaco; Operations, Kerry Eakins; Public Affairs, Roy Crittenden; Public Education, Sara Snyder; Program Visitation, Eddie Montero; Secretary/Records, Robert Quigley; Vessel Examination, Daniel Vaccaro.

University Yacht Club – universityyachtclub.org – Commodore, Ken Odum; Vice Commodore, Rick Smith; Rear Commodore, Bill Brunetti; Secretary, Rob Capell; Treasurer, Bill Mueller; Fleet Captain/Sail, Russ Marshall; Fleet Captain/Power, Tony Feliciano.

For more information about these organizations and their activities on Lake Lanier, please visit their websites.

REMINDER: ALWAYS WEAR

US Coast Guard Auxiliary – a0700209.uscgaux.info – Flotilla Commander, Joe Edwards; Vice Flotilla Commander, Sara Snyder; Communications, Bradley Smith; Communication Services, Shawn Sentelle; Diversity, Bronaugh Bridges; Finance, Mike Williams; Human Resources, Joseph Corrigan; Information Services, Dawn

US Sail and Power Squadron – atlantasboatingclub.com – Commander, Elwood “Woody” Williams; Executive Officer, John Holland; Administrative Officer, Mary Larsen; Secretary, Beth Guler; Treasurer, Margaret Sherrod.

A LIFE JACKET WHEN BOATING ON THE LAKE!

ONE STOP MARINE SERVICE AND REPAIR FOR INBOARD AND OUTBOARD BOATS AND JET SKIS CERTIFIED MARINE TECHNICIAN Mercruiser & Volvo Certified Your Dock or Our Shop

CALL

STUAR T

Jet Ski Maintenance and Performance Applications SBT Engine Replacements

INSURED

CALL 678 617-6137 Prompt, Reliable, Competent, Courteous Service

SHOP - 4545 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville, GA

48 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Lake Lanier Marinas Info AQUALAND MARINA Hours of operation: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m., Sun. Phone: 770-967-6811 Website: www.aqualandmarina.com Location: 6800 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Houseboats, covered cruisers, & all types of open slips plus covered & open dry slips, totaling 1,725 wet docks and 460 dry docks Store: Yes Store/Dock hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m., Sun. Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $4.74 Security: 24/7, gated Additional amenities: Self service work yard with deep draft well & marine travel lift, houseboat launching ramp, pump-out station, bathhouses with showers, laundry facilities, wet slips with private gated parking. Sales of new boats by Coast to Coast Yacht Sales, brokerage services by Marine Max, rental boats & cabins by Lanier Aqua Rentals.

AQUAMARINA LAZY DAYS Hours of operation: Office/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Phone: 770-945-1991 Website: www.ILoveMyMarina.com Location: 6700 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford Types of slips available: Concrete Wet Slips from 50 125 foot covered & 100 foot open slips; 554 covered dry stack spaces up to 36 feet Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol marine fuel treated with ValvTect; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $4.99 non-ethanol; $4.39 diesel Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring Full Service Department: Barefoot Boating, 770-8205949 Boat Club: Carefree Boat Club, 770-361-5501 Additional Amenities: Free pump out for customers, trailer storage, dock carts, ice available, boat detailing service; Dry Stack - smartphone app to control launch/retrieval of boat, Pre-Fueling service, wash racks; Wet Slips - gated/private parking, golf cart valet service, inslip pump out, weekend newspaper delivery BALD RIDGE MARINA Hours of operation: Office, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., marina has 24/7 access.

Phone: 770-887-5309 Website: www.baldridgemarina.com Location: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: Covered & uncovered.

Store: Sandwich shop; some boating supplies Store hours: Seasonal Types of fuel: 90 Non-ethanol; diesel Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $3.99; $3.69 diesel (Dock open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon., Thurs., Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat./Sun.; Closed Tues./Wed.) On-site eatery: Lenny’s Sub Shop Eatery hours: Seasonal Menu: Sub sandwiches, salads and more; Party Packs (deli sandwich, chips and deluxe cookie) Restaurant description: Casual Phone: 770-888-6473 Security: 24/7 security, gated

Additional amenities: Full-service department, parts department, boat body work, yacht repair & Marine Max Stovall sales dock. Boating supplies/commissary/dry goods/retail clothing items.

GAINESVILLE MARINA Hours of operation: Office, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days week Phone: 770-536-2171 Website: www.gainesvillemarina.com Location: 2145 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville Types of slips available: 600 slips, dry stack covered up to 25', wet covered & uncovered up to 80'.

Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $4.29 ((Dock open 9 a.m.5 p.m., 7 days a week; pay at pump until dark) On-site eatery: Skogies Menu: Barbecue, seafood and American fare.

Phone: 678-450-1310 Security: 7 days a week Additional amenities: Parts department, land service shop, recreational room, bath house, pumpout stations.

Sales of new, used and brokerage boats, South Bay and Berkshire Pontoon Boats, Four Winns Deck/Sport Boats/Cruisers and Yamaha Outboard.

HABERSHAM MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; closed Sun. Phone: 770-887-5432 Website: www.habershammarina.com Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: 650 slips for dry storage up to 27’ Store: Yes Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $3.29 Security: Yes Additional amenities: Repair services, detailing and bottom cleaning. Also bathroom and shower facilities are available.

HIDEAWAY BAY MARINA Hours of operation: Office - 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 7 days a week; Marina: 24/7 Phone: 770-967-5500 Website: www.hideawaybaymarina.com Location: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch Types of slips available: Wet (510) Dry (150) Showroom: Atlanta Marine Store/Gas Dock hours: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 7 days a week Types of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $3.20 On-site eatery: Fish Tales Security: 24/7 manned security Additional amenities: Restaurant-Seasonal, complete boat/motor repair, new bathhouse w/ locked showers and AC, laundry, pump out, trailer storage.

HOLIDAY MARINA Hours of operation:Office/Store/Dock, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Phone: 770-945-7201

Website: www.holidaylakelanier.com Location: 6900 Holiday Rd., Buford Types of slips available: 22-100' Uncovered including 80, 90, and 100' Breakwater Slips; 26-85' Covered Slips totalling 1238 Slips Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies.

Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15): $4.99 premium; $4.59 unleaded; $3.89 diesel (5 percent discount with Westrec advantage membership) On-site eatery: Mallory’s Castaways Menu: Fish, chicken and burger baskets Phone: 678 765-0424 Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Boat rentals, repair service, pumpout station, boat sales, TowBoat US LANIER HARBOR MARINA Lanier Harbor Marina has permanently closed effective 2/4/14.

PORT ROYALE MARINA Hours of operation: Office, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Phone: 770-887-5715 Website: www.bestinboating.com/port_royale Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered, 20' to 80'; covered, 24' to 106' totaling 514 slips & dry stack storage (470) for up to 39'.

Store/Dock hours: : 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week Store: Service Store & Ship Store Types of fuel: 90-octane Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $4.49 On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill Security: Gated, 24/7 Additional amenities: Climate controlled bath house with showers, 24/7 self-service pump out, rental boats, Courtesy dock for dry stack, two ship stores, full-service center, largest floating gas dock in Ga., 16 gas pumps.

SUNRISE COVE MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Mon.; Closed on Tuesday Phone: 770-536-8599 Website: www.sunrisecovermarina.com Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered-20-70'; Covered24-50'; to include an exclusive 44' Sailboat Breakwater Dock. Total Wet Slips 688 and nine (9) Dry Storage Spaces (boats on trailer).

Store: Yes Types of fuel: 90 recreational, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/22/15) $4.59 with 5 percent off with Westrec Advantage Membership Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Club House, bath house, laundry facility and pump-out open 24/7.

February 2015

LAKESIDE 49

Lakeside’s Dining Guide Lakeview Dining Big Creek Tavern – lunch, dinner seven days a week; breakfast at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays.

Open year around. Featuring the “Best” Angus Beef, a step up from old-fashioned American food. Billiards, video games, beer, wine, liquor.

Mon. - Thurss, 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Fri. and Sat. from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sun. from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. 8050 Big Creek Rd., Buford. B-3, 678-482-1662.

Bullfrogs Bar & Grille – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

Dine poolside or indoors. Selections include salads, sandwiches, entrees, desserts and a variety of drink options from full-service bar.

Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787.

Dockside Sandwich Company – Offering sandwiches, lahvosh, salads, chips and snacks.

Baldridge Marina, Cumming. Seasonal. 770889-2185.

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Thur.-Sun. for lunch & dinner in February. Hideaway Bay Marina. C-3, 770-967-3775.

Lenny’s sub shop at Bald Ridge Marina subs and salads. Party packs perfect for lake outings. Seasonal. A-3, Cumming, 770-8886473. www.lennys.com Pelican Pete’s – Picturesque dining right on the water at Port Royale in an open-air thatchedroof building. Selection of sandwiches, burgers, fish and more. Call for hours. B-2, 770-887-5715 ext 5.

Skogies – Made from scratch seafood, BBQ and American fare with a great view served in a laid back pet friendly environment. We serve the best breakfast on Lake Lanier! Menu items include eggs benedict served five ways, Omelettes, shrimp & grits, cathead biscuits & gravy, breakfast sandwiches & more. Call from your boat & they will pick you up. Hours: Wed & Thurs, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Gainesville Marina. C-1 678 450-1310; www.skogies.net.

Sunset Cove Beach Club – An open-air eatery on a quiet stretch of beach near LanierWorld at Lanier Islands Resort. Open for lunch and dinner daily April-October. View the lake during the day or dine under the stars in the glow of firelight from the fireplace. Come by car or by boat. Also at Sunset Cove, Dog and Draft features 12 beers on draft, plus hot dogs, brats and sausage in pretzel buns. Fire and Ice kiosk offers smoked barbecue and burgers. On the Boardwalk, Sunset Cantina serves Tex-Mex food featuring tacos, quesadillas, and burritos; a fusion of food truck food fare and culinary concoctions with our own special flair! By water, Sunset Cove is between buoys 7SC and 5SC. www.lanierislands.com. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787.

Windows Restaurant – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Provides breakfast buffet and menu options daily, and special dining events every Saturday night throughout the season. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787 www.lanierislands.com.

American Antebellum – Southern contemporary cuisine

including fried catfish with pimento dumplings, grilled wild salmon, thyme roasted pork chop, ribeye with buttermilk mashed potatoes and more. Weekend brunch features biscuits and gravy, ham steak and eggs, buttermilk pancakes, shrimp and grits, and more. Downtown Flowery Branch, C-3, 770-965-8100. www.antebellumrestaurant.com.

Braise – Open for lunch and dinner, Tues.-Sun. Also features fried green tomatoes, BBQ shrimp, oyster po’boys, braised short ribs and pot roast. Dessert for two features apple cobbler and brownie a la mode. Comfort food redefined. Live weekly entertainment downstairs at Coo-Coo’s Nest with an extended bar menu and drink specials. Located at 1920 Freedom Pkwy., just off Ga. Hwy. 400. A-3, Cumming, 678-456-8932.

Branch House Tavern - The ultimate sports restaurant in Hall County offers a selection of hamburgers, wings, hearty salads, southwestern grill fare, and a huge selection of appetizers and desserts. Big screen sports action on 50 HD TVs, and live entertainment. Also featuring a full bar and dancing all night long. 678-8288345, 5466 McEver Rd. C-3 Flowery Branch, GA. 30542. Take Out Available Coastal Breeze Seafood Grill – Offering seafood, steaks, ribs, oysters on the half shell, salads, burgers and more. Lunch and dinner, full bar. Sun.-Thur 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight. 5390 Lanier Island Parkway.

C-3, www.coastalbreezega.com, 770-945-9181.

Collegiate – Old-fashioned hamburgers, hot dogs and milk shakes served in 1940s setting.

Gainesville. C-2, 678-989-2280.

Foster House – Lunch and dinner served family-style featuring casual dining at lunch and fine dining in evening. Lunch served 11 a.m.2:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Dinner served 5-8:30 p.m., Thurs.; 5-9:30 p.m., Fri./Sat. Cumming. A-3, 770-887-9905.

Norman’s Landing – Specializing in fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, Canadian baby-back ribs with Kansas City barbecue sauce. Cumming. Casual. A-3, 770-886-0100.

Silver Bay Seafood – Specializing in seafood dishes like fried grouper, snapper, baby shrimp, oysters, scallops, broiled swordfish, mahi, and much more. Located at 2415 Browns Bridge Rd., Gainesville, C-2. 678 450-4900.

Two Dog Café – Classic small town diner with an emphasis on fresh food and fast service for lunch and dinner. Located at 317 Spring St. Gainesville. C-2, 770-287-8384.

Wild Wing Café – Offers casual dining, live music, special Monday Trivia Night and 2 Fer Tuesday nights (buy a dozen, get a dozen wings free). Located at 311 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Gainesville. C-2, 770-536-9177.

Yahoola Creek Grill – Features Southern-inspired, made-from-scratch cooking from our outdoor deck, cozy dining room and loft. Full beer and wine list. Open for lunch and dinner, Wed.-Sat. Open for brunch and supper on Sunday. Closed Mon./Tues. Located on S. Chestatee Street, Dahlonega. 706-482-2200; www.yahoolacreekgrill.com.

Continental/Fine Dining Adam’s – American Mediterranean cuisine including Rack of Lamb, Calf’s Liver Anglaise, Mediterranean Chicken Penne, Oysters Rockefeller and Seafood Pastilla Rolls. Full bar. Dinner Mon.-Sat., 5-10:30 p.m. Located at 15 East Main St., Buford. B-3, 678 754-0379.

Aqua Terra Bistro – European fusion cuisine

served daily. Open for lunch, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; noon-2:30 p.m., Sat.; dinner hours are 5-10 p.m., Mon.-Sun. Located on Buford’s historic Main Street. No reservations. B3, 770-271-3000.

Blue Bicycle – a bistro touting “great food in a place not to feel rushed.” Open for lunch Thurs./Fri.; open for dinner Tues.-Sat. Reservations are suggested. Located at 671 Lumpkin Campground Road, behind the Outlet Mall on GA. Hwy. 400. Dawsonville, B-1. 706-2652153.

Corkscrew Café – Fine dining featuring varied menu choices, open lunch and dinner.

Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs.; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri./Sat.; noon-9 p.m., Sun. Reservations suggested. Located on 51 West Main St., Dahlonega. 706-867-8551.

Luna’s – Continental cuisine, romantic atmosphere. Gainesville. C-2, 770-531-0848.

Oar House in Dahlonega – Specialties: handcut steaks, seafood dishes and homemade desserts, “everything homemade from the bread to the pickles.” Located Hwy 52E, 4 miles east of Dahlonega. D-1. Reservations suggested.

706-864-9983.

Poor Richard’s – Specializing in Prime Rib, steaks, ribs and fresh seafood. Casual dining, dinner only. Full-service bar. Gainesville. C-1, 770-532-0499.

Scott’s Downtown – Upscale casual ambience with specialty sandwiches for lunch and gourmet entrees for dinner. Gainesville. C-2. 770536-1111.

Barbecue/Country/Home Cooking Johnny’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ pork, chicken & ribs. Brunswick stew. Minutes from Clark’s Bridge rowing venue. Gainesville. Casual. D1, 770-536-2100.

Old McDonald’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ, Brunswick stew, ribs. Minutes from Lake Lanier. Casual. Tues. - Thurs., 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Buford. B-3, 770945-8608.

Deli Common Grounds Coffee Shoppe – Light breakfast, lunch and dinner and desserts fol-

lowed by fresh roasted coffee. Flowery Branch.

C-3, 770-967-4080.

Italian Dominick’s Italian Restaurant – Features cuisine from the north of Italy, with veal, chicken and seafood dishes. Favorites include chicken saltimbocca and garlic bread appetizer. Halfprice bottles of wine on Monday nights, halfprice appetizers from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and endless pasta and salad on Wednesdays.

Dominick’s is open Monday thru Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch and dinner from 59:30 p.m. Located at the corner of Buford Hwy. and Hamilton Mill Rd in the Buford Village Shopping Center., Buford. B-3, 770-614-0019.

Gianni’s Italian Bistro – serves pizza, subs and pasta. Located at LanierWorld at Lanier Islands Resort. Open daily May-October. www.lanierislands. com. Buford. B-3, 770-9458787.

Piazza – Features traditional Italian dishes, homemade raviolis, pizza, chicken, veal and seafood specialities. Open 7 days a week: 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri./Sat. Located on 24 East Main St., Dahlonega. B-1. 706-867-9881.

Vinny’s New York Pizza & Italian Grill – New York-style pizzeria known for generous portions and reasonable pricing. Specialties include Philly Chicken and Cheese sub, New York Pizza, Chicken Caesar Salad, Sausage & Pepper plate, baked pasta and Lasagna.

Desserts include Cannoli, Tiramisu, Italian Funnel Cakes or cheesecake. Wine and beer available. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun, 5-10 p.m. Located at 4977 Lanier Island Pkwy, Buford. C-4, 678482-9966.

Mexican La Cazuela – An Atlanta area landmark that’s expanded to two locations around Lanier. Features fajitas, selection of combination platters and more. Cumming, 678-947-0718, Buford, 770-614-6871.

Oriental Little Tokyo – Japanese dining - hibachi grill, sushi. Dine in, take out. Open Tues.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-10 p.m.; Closed Mon. Buford. B-4, 770-945-3350.

50 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Iceland: A country of more than just fire and ice Imagine a remote island inhabited by 300,000 friendly people who speak an ancient language that few in the world even try to understand. This is truly a land of constant fire and ice, where your house can be destroyed by earthquakes, a massive wind burst can blow you down, the smell of sulfur from the water faucet signals the invisible fire flowing not far below your feet, the northern lights can change the sky into the largest light show in the world and hot springs and glaciers abound throughout the fogshrouded lava fields. It’s a spooky, barren landscape in which anything might lurk, and tales of the “hidden people,” who are said to make their homes in this wilderness, are a huge part of Icelandic lore.

Despite these perceived and real horrors, Icelanders enjoy an unlimited supply of the purest water in the world that flows from every stream, river and waterfall; they have free geothermal heating throughout the country. Therefore, sitting on a crack in the Earth’s crust that pushed through the surface to form an island some eight million years ago with constantly flowing molten rocks within reach of the surface and glaciers throughout the island has made Iceland a unique and wonderful home to these descendants of war mongering Vikings!

Oddities like believing in elves and trolls, or electing a comedian to be mayor of the capital city, Reykjavik – after a financial disaster and being proud of their volcano that managed to break down the European air traffic – make Icelanders very different. Unlike the rest of the world, who would run when a volcano erupts, the Icelanders look for long sticks to roast hot dogs over the lava flows!

Iceland is not simply a diverse and beautiful place to visit any-

The harbor at Reykjavik.

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

MORE INFO: 770-289-1543 JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com more. The cultural life has come alive with festivals celebrating everything imaginable, and they boast great native cuisine and a multitude of fantastic local beers.

Most of the men and women on this island are tall and very handsome, but the women have Celtic DNA and the men show DNA from the original Nordic tribes of the Vikings who began landing here in the late 9th century.

Because of the nearby Gulf Stream that brings warm waters all the way from Florida, many types of fish and shellfish are plentiful. Also, in different seasons, thousands of geese, ducks, sea birds and upland game birds like rock ptarmigan make Iceland a bird hunter’s paradise. Nevertheless, one only has to look around anywhere on the island and see thousands of sheep, which are the main food source.

The most fascinating animals I encountered during my visit were the hundreds of beautiful and friendly Icelandic horses. They are a unique breed of rather small but quite thick horses that came over with the early settlers from Norway more than 1,100 years ago. These gorgeous creatures are the descendants of an ancient breed that is now extinct beyond the shores of Iceland.

It would take several books to describe all that is possible to see

ALL PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

An Icelandic panorama, above.

Great fishing opportunities abound in Iceland, right.

and experience in Iceland, so to make a visit to this remote area of the North Atlantic enjoyable, you need local help. I was extremely lucky and found the right people, which made my trip magical. All you have to do is contact Harpa and Stefan of Iceland Outfitters (www.icelandoutfitters.com), and they can take care of your every need. Stefan can arrange everything for those who want to partake of the fabulous Atlantic Salmon, Trout or Arctic Char fishing as well as exciting duck, goose or bird hunting. Harpa can arrange interesting tours for the ladies, couples or families, find them the best geothermal spas, direct anyone to the best shopping venues or anything else they might desire in Iceland. Contact her at: harpa@icelandoutfitters .com.

A common misconception about Iceland is that it’s a hard place to reach. Not so! Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a fivehour direct flight from Boston, Washington, DC and New York on Icelandair. The airline has direct flights from Iceland to seven major airports in North America including Seattle, Orlando, Toronto, Minneapolis and Denver.

Flights are normally less expensive than you might imagine, and Icelandair allows passengers to stop in Iceland at no extra cost en route to over 18 cities in Europe and Scandinavia including London, Paris, Madrid, Milan, and Copenhagen.

The unique geological beauty of Iceland is akin to looking in a kaleidoscope that changes multi-

Icelandic horses grazing. A rare blue-eyed Icelandic horse, inset.

ple times with every mile traveled. Icelanders are a friendly and physically beautiful people who speak English as a second language, include tips in all purchases and offer free Wi-Fi throughout the country. They have the Northern Lights, Icelandic horses, millions of sheep, fantastic seafood and great hunt-

ing, fishing and touring. So, if you haven’t added this magnificent place to your “Bucket List” it’s high time that you do!

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.

For more photos, visit www.lakesidenews.com/vanderfords-travel-column

February 2015

LAKESIDE 51

52 LAKESIDE

February 2015

EXIT 17 EXIT 16

General U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ........770 945-9531 Water Release Schedules................770 945-1466 Recreation/Water level Info .............770 945-1467 DNR, Law Enforcement Division .....800 241-4113 Lake Lanier Association Inc. ...........770 503-7757 Boating Safety Courses US Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla 29 ......770 891-6362 Atlanta Sail & Power Squadron .......770 734-6412 Marinas 1. Aqualand...................................770 967-6811 2. Bald Ridge ................................770 887-5309 3. Gainesville ................................770 536-2171 4. Habersham ...............................770 887-5432 5. Holiday .....................................770 945-7201 6. Port Royale...............................770 887-5715 7. Lanier Harbor...............CLOSED AS OF 2/4/14 8. Aquamarina Lazy Days .............770-628-1019 9. Hideaway Bay ...........................770 967-5500 10. Sunrise Cove ............................770 536-8599

February 2015

LAKESIDE 53

REPRESENTING BUYERS AND SELLERS IN ALL 5 LAKE LANIER COUNTIES CALL US TO BUY OR SELL ON LAKE LANIER!

www.georgiahomegroup.com SUSAN MOSS 770-654-6661 Cell • 770-718-5217 Office susan@georgiahomegroup.com

770 536-1250

00

00

$450,0

$899,0

Classic Lake Lanier cottage so close to water's edge and located on spectacular point lot w/double slip, 32x32 dock & party sun deck! Unobstructed big water views, vaulted wood beamed ceiling, brick floors, fireplace, gourmet kitchen with brick pizza oven, oversized screened porch overlooking lake side, sleeps 6 or more, extensive stone work featuring summer kitchen, fire pit and patio. Very private retreat adjoins COE point property. FMLS#5218814

0

0 $300,0

NORMAN MOOLENAAR 770-539-1994 Cell • 770-718-5226 Office nmoolenaar@nortonnorthga.com

Point property with panoramic views, on South Lake! Private, surrounded by deep water & approx. 256 ft of shoreline. Estate property with party deck dock . Main ranch home & detached guest house offer 5 BRs & 4 BAs. Main home features 2 mstr suites; spacious living areas w/ sweeping water views; built-ins thru-out; heart of pine floors & partially finished basement. ment.

FEATURED PROPERTY

00

,0 $1,250

t Starting a

$125K

North Hall Lake Beauty! 4 sided brick with big water views.

Double slip covered Martin dock w/hoist. Updated kitchen, hardwood floors, tile and carpet. Unbelievable landscaping,

New upscale 11 lot lake neighborhood on Lanier’s south lake sailing waters.12-slip covered dock in place w/party deck, water & electricity. Estate sized lots 1-2+ acres.

Paved golf cart path to dock.

retaining walls, and free-standing deck overlooking lake. Four season sunroom, full apt in basement. A must see at this new reduced price!

00

$450,0

00

$450,0

Absolutely breathtaking gated custom European lake estate. Unparalleled setting offers stunning lake views & an easy stroll to the dbl slp cov boat dock w/party deck. This 6BR/5.5BA offers a luxurious main floor master suite w/2 FPs and a formal sitting room. The grand two story great rm boasts a wall of windows w/stunning lake views. Outdoor lakeside gazebo completes this palatial lake estate.

00

$625,0 View...View...and More View! Situated so close to water’s edge, this 3BR/2BA cozy “turn key” cottage offers, up close, awesome water views; deep water access; cov dock w/party deck, boat lift & electricity; detached 2 car garage; wrap around deck; vaulted gr rm w/skylight & home furnishings. Enjoy a genuine “lake themed’ cottage w/all the simple luxuries, necessities & many conveniences of a “priceless” Lake Lanier property. In Forsyth County close to GA. 400. FMLS#5208091

Tastefully appointed North Hall lake home. 5BR. 4/5BA. Easy access to deep water, single slip dock. 5BR/4.5BA, in-ground pool, finished terrace level, covered back porch. Lots of home for a large family. Call Robin 770-361-0815.

REDUCED! Large lake home in N Hall n’hood. Open floor plan, master on main, large kitchen & breakfast area, sep dining rm, finished terrace level w/in-law suite, hdwd & tile flrs, screen porch & large deck. Easy walk to SS dock.

Additional 1.45 ac that backs up to Corp also available. Seller offering potential buyers $5000 for renovations or upgrades.

SELLER OPEN TO OFFERS! Call Robin 770-361-0815.

54 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Asking the authorities to punish my unruly car I like my car. Nothing special about it, but just enough predictability to get me where I need to go – wherever that is. And that is why I was hurt when my car turned on me out of the blue. It’s no small matter when your car goes off the grid and you have to call the law.

In all fairness, I am partly to blame. I cranked up the car in the first place. I was at home at the time, about to head out to spend eight hours inventing ways to avoid work until just before quitting time.

I was not looking forward to the first seven hours, and I was oblivious as to what my car had in mind for me.

The weather was just a little nippy as I slid into the driver seat and cranked the engine, and then pushed the button to close the the remote control on the garage door.

I should point out that the garage door hates me, always has.

At least 50 percent of the time, it balks, gags and reverses direction and opens back up for no good reason. I can only assume that it feels unappreciated (it’s a female

Not surprisingly, I have had very little to no training in the area of a Phillip car without a driver. Moreover, it Sartain seemed like the car was making a determined dash for the pool Break under the mistaken perception from the that the pool was an oasis of sorts Lake for cars.

As such, I fell back upon thousands of years of evolution to imremote we’re talking about here.) mediately formulate my course of And, true to form, the garage action which amounted to me jogwas almost closed when it flipped ging beside the moving car, me off and began rolling up. With shouting “stop the car, stop the the car idling, I stepped out of the car,” apparently under the misdriver’s side in hopes of cajoling taken impression that either the the beast into taking a downward car would immediately acquiesce approach to closure and to my to my request, or that my backsurprise, it did, in fact, reverse yard was filled with helpful bycourse. standers patiently waiting to lasso Unbeknownst to me, however, the car on the brink of a gigantic I discovered that my car was not belly buster. where I had left it, but was, inActually, neither option was stead, making a beeline toward feasible, nor necessary. At the last the backyard and the pool. minute, the car deemed it was (Full Disclosure: There has more judicious to careen sidebeen speculation that the car may ways into the path of a truly unrehave been thirsty, but to my recol- markable shrub which in turn lection, my youngest daughter steered the car into a truly solid was responsible for watering the pillar of rock work with the recar periodically.) sult of causing the pillar to fall But anyway, the car was on the over and die straight away, apparloose without a license or a driver. ently as a result of a sudden rock

Onsite sales, installation, maintenance and repair for all of your marine electronic equipment needs. ~ Serving all of North Georgia ~ ~ Licensed and Insured ~ • Accessories • Communication • Power Supply • Entertainment • Fishing • Navigation • Safety Equipment ~ We Strive to Exceed our Clients Expectations ~

attack.

Needless to say, I was quite perturbed by the whole affair, and determined to take appropriate action. I called the police immediately, and an officer arrived in a matter of minutes.

He asked what the problem was, and I pointed to the car, the garage door, the shrub, and the dead pillar. “I want this car arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

He looked at me, then at the debris, and he asked me how long I had owned the car and if I was taking medication. Then, he said, “We don’t get involved in cases where people have a complaint about their car going rogue. And

besides, you should be thankful you were not hurt.”

I realized later that he was right. And I also realized that I would be able to wiggle some time off from work based on my traumatic experience. In the spirit of moving forward, and laying out of work, every one is invited to the wake for the pillar. Every one but my car that is.

By the way, can someone give me a ride?

Phillip Bond Sartain is a Gainesville, GA lawyer and freelance writer.

MORE INFO: Email: attypbs@mindspring.com

Visit our website at:

www.LakesideNews.com View the entire print edition online!

SHIPWRIGHT’S A COMPLETE YACHT RESTORATION FACILITY

FACILITIES FEATURE: •ENCLOSED SPRAY PAINTING FOR BOATS UP TO 38’ (LARGER BOATS PAINTED OUTSIDE)

•FULLY EQUIPPED WOODWORKING SHOP SERVICES INCLUDE: PROFESSIONAL SPRAY PAINTING AWLGRIP & IMRON MARINE COATING SYSTEMS REWIRING, REPOWERING, INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION AND UPGRADING, PLANKING & FRAMING OF WOODEN BOATS All work “hands-on” supervised by Leonard T. Kirkham, M.B.A., D.M.S., M.B.I.M. a time-served registered master yacht builder from Britain with 35 years of international yacht building& restoration experience — both sail & power.

Omega2009@bellsouth.net

2999 Beards Rd. off Holiday Road

MEMBER

(770) 932-6474

February 2015

LAKESIDE 55

A A Dock Supply See Us For All Your Dock Needs!!

Wholesale & Retail

CLASSIFIEDS BOATS 2004 Colgate 26’ sailboat: $32,900 Bristol condition. New bottom paint.

Loaded options, unique boat design. Great daysailor, performance boat. Info and photos at: http://tinyurl.com/ColgateForSale 770-967-1515.

2005 SeaRay 320, pristine, always covered, one owner, fresh water, 270 hours, all equipment, $5K below recent appraisal, dawnab10@gmail.com, 404-451-2273

COMPUTER TUTOR

Eagle Floats By Hendren Plastics Inc.

Computer tutoring available. Stay in touch with your family and friends via email, texting, video chat, facebook and more. Offering personalized and patient one-on-one computer training. All devices … Macs, PC’s, iPhones, iPads, etc. Jenny Papevies 404-405-2754, jennypapevies@ mac.com.

DOCKS

678-807-7777 • 770-403-4899 Hwy. 306 & 369 (Hammond’s Crossing) • 4295 B Browns Bridge Road • Cumming, GA

L.E. Landscaping & Tree Removal, LLC BEFORE

Used boat docks. Check out our news page on our web site at www.amaysingdocks. com or call 678 450-4212.

New and used boat lifts and PWC lifts. Call Hendrix Dock Service, 770-403-4899.

MISCELLANEOUS Lake Lanier Gear.com for Lake Map Tshirts & Souvenirs. LLG offers custom em-

broidery, screen printing & logo souvenirs with your logo. Call for a free quote 678662-9227/www.lakelaniergear.com.

SERVICES Dock and deck cleaning, staining, metal painting. Since 1995. Lanier Pressure Washing, Luke Heaps, Owner/Operator.

Licensed/insured. lanierpressurewashing@gmail.com, 770 325-1255.

MODock Electrical Service, Shoreline Use Permit “Exhibit C” Electrical Certification and electrical repairs. Georgia licensed electrician. Just ask for Mo. modockelectrical@gmail.com, 706-482-8167.

Thanks for using Lakeside classifieds.

LIST YOUR CLASSIFIED AD Lakeside on Lanier Classifieds Only $15 per Month!

Up to 20 words, then only 25 cents per word after that!

Call 770-287-1444 or Online: www.lakesidenews.com

Vesper’s Marine Service “Quality and Service You Can Depend On”

AFTER

Marine Repair at Your Location!

• Expert Marine Repair • Over 25 Years Experience • Factory Trained Service on: Mercruiser, Mercury, OMC and Volvo Penta • Service on Most Makes and Models

• Complete tree service & removal • Landscape installation • Grading • Hauling • Lot clearing • Concrete removal • Lake view enhancement (tree trimming) • Timber or allan block retaining walls • Pathway clearing & maintenance • Timber or block pathway steps • Mulching (red, brown, cypress) • Fill dirt, topsoil, screened topsoil available Licensed & Insured • References Available

Call for your free estimate today • 678-414-9187

Vesper’s Marine Service 548 Station Trail Dawsonville, GA 30534 Phone: 678-557-4468 Fax: 770-887-4468

56 LAKESIDE

February 2015

Patsy Bailey

Vice President/Partner

770 540-7752

Lake Lanier Specialist

www.patsybailey.com pbailey@nortonnorthga.com

770 532-0022

Invites You to Preview S ome of Lake Lanier’s Premier Properties View! Deep Water! South Lake!

Charming Custom Rustic Craftsman Design

!

D L O S

4 BR, 3.5 BA Immaculate, Red Oak Flooring, Lots of Windows, Close to Water!

View of Chestatee Bay, 2 Slip Dock

Martha’s Vineyard Nantucket Inspired Design on Lake Lanier! Situated on a point lot with 600’ of shoreline, amazing panoramic sunset VIEWS & very deep water..custom design by noted Atlanta architectural firm Spitzmiller & Morris, this home showcases 5 BR, 5 BA, 4-half BA’s, DR, LR, Family Rm, Media Rm, Library, Rec Rm, Screened Porch, Veranda, Porte Cochere, separate Guest Quarters, 3 car large garage and wide parking area, dble slip dock..Most Beautiful Views of Miles of the Lake and Mountains!

Great Buy on South Lake

!

D L O S Call Patsy.

3 $299,900

Deep Water SS Enclosed Dock Large Spacious Home

Call Patsy.

3 $749,000

Exclusive Estate in Cherokee Forrest

Summer Crest at Four Seasons

This Magnificent Lake Front all Brick MASTERPIECE features 5 BR, 5.5 BA, LR, DR, enormous Kitchen with island, wonderful Master Suite, Library, Family room, covered Deck, Screened Porch, 5 FP’s, sitting at water’s edge, lush professional gardens, stone wall accents, incredible VIEWS of Lake & Mountains of Northeast Georgia plus so much more!

6 BR, 8 BA. Spacious, Light and Airy With Highest Quality Custom Amenities. Panoramic Views, Year Round Deep Water 2 Slip Dock, 5 Car Garage, Professionally Landscaped to Waters Edge.

THE BEST South Lake Location.

Call Patsy. 3 $1,585,000

Call Patsy. 3 $3,250,000

Grassed to water Priced to sell!

Beautiful Custom Built Brick Home High Quality Finishes View, Deep Water Dock Permit

Call Patsy. 3 $539,000

Pointe South Magnificent Premier Estate

Stunning Year ‘Round Views

Custom Home on Lake Lanier Call Patsy.

3 $599,900

Call Patsy.

3 $648,000

Serenity Abounds in this Private Gated, Fenced Retreat! 5 BR, 4 BA, Recently Remodeled & Updated. Gentle Slope, close to Water, paved Drive to Dbl Slip Dock, with Sun Deck

434 Green Street Gainesville, GA 30501

Lots w/Lake Views, Docks Easy slope, beautiful lake views, has unlivable old house on property.

SS dock.

3 $249,000

LOTS/ACREAGE • Lake front deep water lot with dock and LD SODr, VIEW! Lakeview Buford. $279,900 • Lake front deep water lot wide open VIEW, dock, off Cochran Rd. $249,000 • Lake front deep water lot, dock, off Cochran RD $199,000 • 1 acre lake front lot off Garrett Road in Buford. Enclosed boat house, deep water always. $299,000

SOLD

Great building site with lake views, has garage/ shed on property. SS dock, deep water.

3 $199,000

• 28.759 acres in Flowery Branch, OWNER FINANCING, 2 creeks, beautiful land. $350,000 • Commercial lot fronting on Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. $199,900

Executive Mansion

Call Patsy. 3 REDUCED TO $1,975,000

SOLD • SOLD • SOLD • SOLD • SOLD Walnut River

South Lanier

Deep Water

!

D L O S

3 $499,900

3 $699,000

3 $545,000

Holly Hill on Lanier

Fox Tail Cove

3 $1,745,000

3 $599,000

33 YEARS EXPERIENCE • $300 MILLION CAREER SALES CALL PATSY TODAY - PUT THIS EXPERIENCE AND SUCCESS TO WORK FOR YOU! WWW.LAKELANIERPROPERTY.COM