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February 2016

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

Vol. 22 Issue 2

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ‘Crazy Chicken’ a winner Dee Early holds a half-dozen world championship Superboat International Offshore Powerboat titles and tours the country with his hot pink boat “Crazy Chicken.” Page 35

Highest December lake level Parks and public areas covered when Lake Lanier rose to its highest December level ever were mostly cleaned up and open to the public by mid-January. Water submerged beaches, docks, parking areas, and picnic sites after nearly nine inches of rain fell to usher the lake to 1,075.48 feet above sea level on Dec. 31. Page 14

Eufaula, Alabama In a recent visit to Eufaula, Alabama, I pleasantly discovered that except for modern cars and different businesses, the historic center of this picturesque village with its stately antebellum mansions is still intact. Page 50 Also inside: Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Captain’s comments . . . . . . . .Page Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page COE column . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Curb Appeal . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Dining guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Fishing report . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Glenn Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lake Lanier Olympic Venue . . .Page Lake levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Lanier map . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Marinas information . . . . . . . .Page Outdoor activity calendar . . . .Page Safety guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Sailing calendar . . . . . . . . . . .Page Shore Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Steve Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Vanderford’s travel . . . . . . . . .Page US Coast Guard Auxiliary . . . . .Page

47 42 18 55 45 40 48 10 26 14 26 52 49 38 46 42 35 45 50 8

PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE

A couple of youngsters get up close and personal to the monster screen showing wakeboard action at the 2016 Atlanta Boat Show. Scott Cohen, Exhibitor Relationship Manager for the event, said more than 25,000 people attended the show, up four percent from the previous year. And it's never too early to pencil in next year's show dates: January 12-15, 2017.

For more info, see our ad on pages 4 & 5.

2 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Public comments on Glades Reservoir accepted until February 15 is published by Lanier Publishing, Inc., 3292 Thompson Bridge Rd. #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 287-1444 Publisher/Editor Alan Hope Production Susan Nish Susan Daniel Creative, Inc. Senior Writer Pamela A. Keene Contributing writers Jane Harrison, Millie Adcox Columnists Glenn Burns, Roy Crittenden, Steve Johnson, Mike Rudderham, Ken Sturdivant, 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 Those wishing to express their views on the proposed Glades Reservoir in northern Hall County have until Feb. 15 to do so. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is accepting comments online at www.gladesreservoir.com/submitcomments or by mail to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, Attention: Regulatory Division, SAS-2007-00388, 100 West Oglethorpe Ave., Savannah, Ga. 31401-3604.

The 1,000-plus page Environmental Impact Study and Hall County’s reservoir proposal appear in the Glades Reservoir website: www.gladesreservoir.com.

The county hopes to build an 850acre reservoir off Glade Farm Road to provide 11.7 billions gallons of storage and meet Hall County’s projected water demand through 2060.

Reservoir opponents said in a December public hearing that the reservoir is unnecessary due to lower than projected population counts for Hall County. They also cited environmental concerns, infringement on personal property, and high taxpayer costs they claim will go toward building an “amenity lake” that is not needed

for water supply.

County officials contend the state’s recent population estimate is much lower than their own for Hall and that the reservoir will provide an independent water storage source other than Lake Lanier.

State officials have indicated interest in Glades as a potential water supply the state could tap.

The public comment period on the potential future Corps’ operation of Buford Dam ended last month. The Corps ultimately

added about two months to the original deadline of Dec. 1 for public comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Water Control Manual for Buford Dam and the river system where it is the largest reservoir. The deadline was first amended to Jan. 15 and then set even later.

Corps Public Affairs Office E. Patrick Robbins said the Corps extended the deadlines “due to the complexity and size of the documents.” The agency allowed

extra time for interested individuals and organizations to review the multi-thousand page documents and submit comments.

After reviewing comments, the Corps plans to file the Final EIS this spring, sign the WCM plan next fall, and implement it in winter or spring 2017.

Lake Lanier is the largest of five Corps reservoirs on the Apalachicola-ChattahoocheeFlint River system that flows through portions of Georgia, Florida, and Alabama.

Gainesville plans public education program about stormwater management

By Jane Harrison The city of Gainesville hopes to better inform citizens about the need to update its stormwater management infrastructure in a public education program. City Manager Bryan Lackey said the educational campaign should include an open house in late March.

The council in November rejected a resolution that would create a fee to upgrade city drains, pipes and culverts to better handle run-off from rain. The resolution proposed an ordinance to bill city property owners $1 per 1,000 square feet of impervious surfaces

on their land beginning in 2017.

Impervious surfaces include driveways, parking lots, and any surface that does not allow water to be absorbed into the ground.

Gainesville’s Water Resources Department calculated 124,607,429 square feet of impervious surfaces within the city. Department officials proposed the fee to provide a dedicated funding source to pay for improvements they say are needed to prevent system clogging and slow stormwater runoff and pollutants into city drains and eventually into Lake Lanier and its tributaries.

Residents and a prominent

Gainesville realtor oppose the fee, which has been dubbed a “rain tax.” Frank Norton, Sr., chief officer of The Norton Agency, called the proposed fee “the biggest granddaddy” of all existing and potential regulations in the region. In his annual “Native Intelligence” economic forecast last month, Norton described it as “clearly a government solution for a problem we don’t have.”

Lackey said the council does not plan any action on stormwater management financing “in the near future.” He formerly told Lakeside News that staff has not See Stormwater, page 20

February 2016

LAKESIDE 3

VISIT LIVINGONLAKELANIER.SMARTHOMEPRICE.COM TYPE IN YOUR ADDRESS AND RECEIVE A FREE HOME MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT 2225 Nix Bridge Road, Dawsonville

R UNDE T! RAC CONT

5595 Chestatee Landing, Gainesville

5530 Southwinds Way, Oakwood

!

D L O S

A TRUE LAKE HOME! Plenty of room for all the kids and your friends. 3 finished levels w/OPEN floor plan. GREAT kitchen & sunroom that flows to vaulted ceiling great room. BR on main. 4 BR, 4 BA. Simple walk to SS dock w/party deck. Nice lake view. GREAT water. Mowing permit to lake.

Detached garage! REDUCED $525K (Dawson)

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME! Over 3/4 acre lot with gorgeous new single slip dock with party deck. Partially cleared and ready to build in wonderful Chestatee Landing Neighborhood where you can enjoy lake living in a swim/tennis community. Pathway to dock, located on Taylor Creek and never run out of water. REDUCED $249K (Forsyth)

IMPECCABLE one of a kind home in Pointe West! Bright and open concept w/casual/elegant touches throughout. Huge corner lot w/Pebble Tec pool and covered outdoor entertaining area.

Kitchen has Wolf and Subzero appliances. Great room w/coffered ceilings; Master on main has a spa like Master bath. $599K (Hall)

1976 Riverview Dr. • Gainesville

2621 Bridgewater Cir., Gainesville

6531 Arbor Point, Flowery Branch

TERESA SMITH Lake Lanier Specialist teresasmith@kw.com 770-654-4173

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

We sell lifestyles, not just homes.

LivingOnLakeLanier.com

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

REMARKABLE LAKE VIEWS from every room! 5BR/5 BA home w/single boat slip at community dock. 3 finished floors include a huge master suite w/sitting area, recreation rm, wet bar, sauna, media rm and more. Walk from your backyard to the dock slip. Coffered great rm, library & dining rm & 2 walk-out covered patio's. Close to downtown Gainesville. $850K (Hall)

For a free home market analysis, simply go to: Livingonlakelanier.Smarthomeprice.com and enter your address.

FANTASTIC DEEP WATER LOT with over 240 ft of Army Corp frontage. Over 3/4 acre.

Includes single slip covered dock. One of the last lots available in Chattahoochee Landing. $350K (Hall)

ENTERTAINER'S DREAM! The most UNBELIEVABLE kitchen dining and great room!

Must see to believe! 5BR/5.5 Baths. Full fin terrace level w workshop and storage galore! Keep you boat at Aqualand - only 5 minutes away! $525K (Hall)

97 Lakeview Point, Dawsonville

3633 Lake Ridge Ct., Gainesville

3015 Lanier Beach South, Cumming

GORGEOUS SUNSET LAKE VIEW! Ranch on fully finished terrace level w/2nd kitchen! 5 car garages, 3 sides brick. Open floor plan includes gourmet kitchen, HUGE great room w/14 ft ceilings and dining room. Master on main & 3 additional BR on main level. Storage galore in this beautiful home on a corner lot. $599K (Hall)

NEW LISTING! New double slip dock in GREAT water! LOW Corp line to maximize lake view. Asphalt path to lake, grassy level building site. Hurry before it's gone! $210K (Dawson)

STUNNING "STREET OF DREAMS" home.

Master on the main, 5 BD/4.5 BA, 3 finished levels including 5 fireplaces, custom wet bar, media room, and killer stone screened porch with spa, deck, upper screened porch, office, keeping room and so much more! REDUCED $995K (Hall)

ONE OF THE BEST LOTS remaining on the south end of the lake! Newer single slip dock just installed, gorgeous water and views! 2 lots totaling 1.80 acres. Unfinished A-frame is waiting for you to finish for summer fun! $475K (Forsyth)

6445 Grand Marina Cir., Gainesville

180 Longview Dr., Dawsonville

6885 Nantucket Cove, Cumming

8540 McBride Lane, Gainesville

5560 Point West Drive, Oakwood

!

D L SO VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS! Long range views of Lanier! It's like living on top of the world and o’looking the lake. Marina Bay, resort style amenities include, S/T, clubhouse, parks and more, boat slip option at marina. REDUCED $315K (Hall)

PERFECT WEEKENDER w/GREAT lake view and SHORT walk to the water! 1st time on the market. 3/2 ranch has water views from most rooms.

FANTASTIC screened porch o’looking Lake Lanier.

NICE single slip dock w/swim platform. BRAND NEW carpet and tile! Stone fireplace in great room is AMAZING for chilly nights. $399K (Dawson)

GREAT LOT IN LIGHTHOUSE HARBOR! LOW Corp line. Easy walk to deeded slip in community dock. Home site will have lake views. Culde-sac lot $239K (Forsyth)

BEST LAKE LOT DEAL ON THE LAKE! 1 acre lot w Corp line approx 20 ft from the lake.

Soils have been completed. Single Slip dock in Chestatee Bay! REDUCED $139K (Forsyth)

Two great lots on Lake Lanier!

5212 Laurel Terrace, Flowery Branch

Mark Trail, Gainesville

6830 South Bluff Ct., Gainesville

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 $70K-$199K. (Hall)

WALK IN THE DOOR AND ALL YOU SEE IS WATER! Wonderful floor plan with all of the upgrades! Gorgeous hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen, great covered deck, Master on main w/HUGE Master bath. 5 BR/4.5 BA w/2 unfinished basements! $849K (Hall)

3908 Harbor View Ct., Gainesville. Single slip dock on cul-de-sac. $139K (Hall)

2275 Boy Scout Camp Rd., Gainesville. 3/4 acre lot w/platform dock. REDUCED $89K (Hall)

!

D L O S OVER 3 ACRE RANCH MINUTES FROM LAKE LANIER! Minutes to I-985, lake & shopping? Private setting, shaded & wooded lot w/2 car attached garage & 1 car detached garage w/storage, master on main, covered outdoor patio and rocking chair front porch, full finished basement with family room, kitchen, bedroom, full & 1/2 bath, storage & 2nd laundry room. REDUCED $270K (Hall)

4 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Bev Knight Lead Agent

770-536-4416

#1

Dani Brown Luxury Coordinator

706-455-3076

on Lake Lanier since 2012

770-503-7070

***Featured Property*** South lake distinction Sprawling architectural home with year-round views of Lake Lanier. 5BR, 3.5BA, spacious rooms, terrace level in-law suite, vast floorplan for entertaining family and guests.

Drought-proof deep water cove.

Short commute to Atlanta. $749,000 Distinct home in sought-after location

Double slip dock for your boat and toys

Deep cove views Gracious chef’s kitchen

Eagle’s View Manor

Soaring ceiling and fireplace in great room

Award winning landmark

Pt lot, Lindal Cedar ACT CONTR UNDER

Over 25,000 sq ft, panoramic big wtr views, gated, 2 docks w/1 in place, imported FPs. $1.425m

Forsyth gem

3BR, nice views, easy walk, good water, open flr plan, granite/stainless/ hardwoods. $425K

Designer finishes, imported appls, sgl slip dock, stunning landscaping, beautiful pond & wtrfall. $1.29m

Sought-after Cumming

Year-round lake views, luxury styling, open floor plan, 2nd kitchen in bsmt, deck at water’s edge. $899.9k

Easy walk to wtr, drought-proof cove, boat house w/ prty deck, open flr plan, views. $1.2m

Pool and lake

Spacious luxury home, resort quality pool, party dock on good water, finished bsmt w/ bar, billiards, more. $650k

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

February 2016

LAKESIDE 5

Jackie Powalowski

Darlene Plavacan

Jamie Bishop

Multi-million producer

Investment Specialist

Mktg. Coord., Agent

678-852-5397

678-300-1275

404-803-3231

770-503-7070

Lake Lots! Build exactly what you want in time for next spring! !

ISTING NEW L

Luxe lots > 2 acres, gated comm, marina, views. Starting at $395k.

Fl Br, .79 ac, gated & prt cleared, $239k

Furnished cottage !

ISTING NEW L

Fully furnished updated cottage, front to back lake views, extra-long single slip dock. $350k

Affordable lake home

Convenient Cumming location, some recent renovations, 3BR, 3BA, sgl slip dock on good water. $249.9k

Deep water, view

Gville, 1+ ac, driveway cut, views, $189k

Gville Harbour Pt, huge views, $125k

Mega views

Lakefront ranch !

ISTING NEW L

Mtn/lake views, swim/tennis comm. $69.9k

ACT! CONTR UNDER

Move-in ready 3BR, 2BA ranch, single slip dock with party deck on good water. $349k

Breathtaking views, paved path, deep water.

Huge party dock. Recent renovations. $499K

Big views

Master on main

Cov. ss dock, 4 BR, master on main, fin terrace lvl, 2 story great room, gentle walk to wtr $415k

South lake

3/2, nice SS party dock, over 30 ft wtr at dock, amazing views, screened porch, lg deck. $425k

Gentle walk to water !

ISTING NEW L

Everything you could want in a lake home. 3BR, open flr plan, view, good water, nice party dock. $399k

Easy walk, lake views, SS dock, open flr pln, beamed beadboard ceiling, fin terrace lvl. $399k

Craftsman 3BR, 2.5BA ranch plan, gentle walk to good water. $299.9k

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

6 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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!

The Chambers Team 631 Dawsonville Hwy • Gainesville, GA 30501

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

$624,000

$775,000

$325,000

D L O S THIS LAKE HOME HAS IT ALL! 2 masters on the main, each with spa bathrooms.

Vaulted ceilings. Hardwood floors. Open views of the lake on both main and lower levels. Quiet cove with boat dock. Large great room on main. Finished basement with gameroom, entertainment area, office, bedroom laundry room.

Direct access to the backyard. Easy walk to the lake.

$595,000

D

E REDUC

CHATTAHOOCHEE COUNTRY CLUB lake front home. Main level offers large great rm w/FP, DR, spacious kitchen w/sub zero refrig, breakfast area, screened porch, master suite wi/generous bath, walk-in closet. Office, 2 or 3 BRs & family rm w/FPe all on terrace level. Great workshop and storage. Professionally landscaped yard. This charming home is nestled back from the street and offers full privacy on over an acre lot. Just steps to the lake and to the covered single slip boat dock. Great views!

NORTH HALL LAKE home in Cherokee Forrest. Gentle slope to dock.

Swim/Tennis amenities, house designed for multifamily living. Includes master & mini master BRs on the main floor, 2nd full kitchen downstairs, workout room, huge shop, hundreds of Sq ft of walk-in storage upstairs, 3 HVAC systems.

Upgrades include new roof, granite & quartz counter tops. Hdwd & tile flring in major high use areas. Home priced to sell as owners already have their lot in Florida. POSSIBLE LEASE/LEASE PURCHASE.

$338,500

$895,000

NEW G! LISTIN RELAX AND ENJOY panoramic views of Lake Lanier from this beautiful 5BR/4.5BA home. Great flow for entertainment. Granite counters, SS appliances, separate DR. Bfast opens to screened porch. Mstr ste on main, 3 or 4 BRs/bonus rm and 2 baths up. Terrace level w/perfect in-law or teen ste w/fully equipped kitchen, BR, bath and living area.

Private backyard w/steps leading to firepit at water's edge. You will fall in love with the porches and decks! The home is truly "move in ready."

THIS NANTUCKET IN-SPIRED HOME is a true master piece and located only minutes from the Chattahoochee Country Club & golf course.

Unbelievably gorgeous property w/lake on 3 sides. Lovely porches overlook Lake Lanier & the private enclosed boat dock. $30,000 redecorating and boat dock allowance.

$1,195,000

$469,900

$349,500

SPECTACULAR LODGE STYLE HOME w/panoramic views of the N Ga Mountains, situated on the edge of Lake Laceola. Special details include cathedral ceilings, timber beams, expansive windows, hand distressed 14" wide flooring throughout, 3 stacked stone fireplaces, infinity pool, gourmet kitchen opens to breakfast and family room. Each bedroom has a private porch. Gated subdivision in Cleveland Georgia.

WONDERFUL LAKE RETREAT IN NORTH HALL. This home will become the perfect weekender for anyone wanting deep water (40 ft) and terrific views year round. This 4BR/3BA home has beautiful updates throughout including custom tile baths, plantation shutters, hardwood floors & new roof. The Inviting screened porch and gorgeous fenced backyard are perfect for that morning cup of coffee or weekend cookout. You will love it!

DEEP WATER AT THIS CITY TRADITIONAL LAKE HOME. Gentle grassed lot to waters edge. 32x32 double slip dock. Master on main plus 3 gracious bedrooms upstairs. Rec room in basement plus work shop. Nice water view. Situated in quiet cul-de-sac.

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.

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 2016

LAKESIDE 7

SHEILA DAVIS & COMPANY The Norton Agency 770.536.1250

PRESENTS LAKE LANIER’S FINEST HOMES

Sheila Davis 770-235-6907 sdavis@gonorton.com www.LakeLaniersFinest.com WE SELL MORE LAKE!

www.gonorton.com

$995,000 • LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS WITHIN LUXURY CHESTATEE GOLF COMMUNITY! Outstanding custom lake home features an open floorplan for entertaining and an in-water Corps line, riprap shoreline, and large fenced backyard with lush landscaping. Spectacular terrace level with wine cellar, media room,bar,so much more! FMLS#5614540 www.514RiverSoundLane.info

$1,995,000 • THIS ONE WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY! Exquisite European elegance on the water. Make your home at one of Lake Lanier’s finest luxury destinations! Stunning 5BR home with a finished terrace level. This type of landmark property rarely hits the market. Elevator and pool ready. FMLS #5560287 Chattahoochee Country Club, Gainesville. www.2933PointeDrive.info

$1,550,000 • LAKE LANIER RESORT LIVING WITH THE VERY BEST VIEWS!! VACATION EVERY DAY from this picture perfect setting & home w/fantastic mid-lake location. Twin slip deep water dock and gorgeous salt water pool! This rustic elegant setting features an open plan, walls of glass, hardwood floors, study, covered porch w/stone FP, master on main plus 4 ensuites. Gainesville, FMLS # 5594778 www.3619CameronCircle.info

$849,000 • LAKEFRONT LUXURY LIVING IN HARBOUR POINT'S "PENINSULA" YEAR ROUND SUNRISE VIEWS! 5BR/4.5BA. Boat slip option. Enjoy carefree lake living with spacious, modern home, minimal lot size and HOA maintained! FMLS #5567054 3350 HARBOUR POINT PKWY, GAINESVILLE 30506

$835,000 • FANTASTIC RANCH FLOOR PLAN ON GORGEOUS LOT WITH GRASS TO WATER VIEWS! Cherokee Forrest - North Hall Schools, Gentle walk to single slip dock! Fenced and ready for future pool. The home features four sides brick, an open flowing plan, finished terrace level is open with a second kitchen.

FMLS #5632303 www.4245TallHickoryTrail.info

$1,165,000 • ENJOY LUXURY LAKE LIVING WITH GORGEOUS LONG RANGE LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS! 6 bedroom & 5 1/2 baths, elevator, located in gated Harbour Point neighborhood. Boat slip in Harbour Point Marina. Elevator. FMLS# 5534976 www.3657lakeridgedrive.info

GREATLY REDUCED-BEST BUY! $899,000 • 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. Gainesville.

FMLS#5288402 www.3155windinglakedr.info

G N I D N PE $780,000 • LAKE LANIER RESORT WITH EVERYTHING ON YOUR LIST! Perfect Lake Lanier lifestyle. Fabulous water views w/Corps line steps to the water! Twin-slip deep water party dock! FMLS# 5634839 www.105stonecliffcovedrive.info

$699,000 • AMAZING OPEN SUNSET VIEWS WITH CORPS LINE IN THE WATER! Deep water SS dock, ability to upgrade. Spacious 5BR/4B ranch on fin terrace level in North Hall School District.

MLS# 5588803 www.3386SmallwoodsLane.info

$1,150,000 • LAKE LANIER RESORT LIVING BEHIND GATES! Enjoy great views from 3 sides, deep water boathouse, plus sparkling pool and full beach sand volleyball court! 6BR/6.5B, Gainesville.

FMLS#5599136 www.3721ChattateePass.info

www.LakeLaniersFinest.com

$995,000 • GATED 12.7 ACRE EQUESTRIAN LAKE LANIER HOME WITH 8 STALL BARN, POOL, POND AND S-SLIP DOCK. GORGEOUS REMODELED HOME. Bring your boats, horses, RV or all terrain vehicles!

FMLS# 5510910 7115 BARKERS BEND, MURRAYVILLE

8 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Are PWCs really more dangerous than boats?

Most of us who cruise around Lake Lanier have had occasions when, seemingly out of nowhere, comes a PWC, measuring us for a wake jump or determining if they can cross our bow without getting run down. My opinion of these things has been that they are noise makers, scooting around like water bugs, interrupting what would otherwise be a nice day on the lake. However, we do use them in our Auxiliary safety and regatta patrols.

Each year, starting in May, we observe National Safe Boating Week, when a number of marine organizations join together in recognizing and promoting safe recreational boating practices and urging boaters to wear a life jacket while on the water. As Public Affairs Officer for Flotilla 29 Lake Lanier, I am supplied with countless statistics relating to boating accidents and deaths and what could be done to prevent some of this carnage on the water.

We see our share of this on Lake Lanier as our lake becomes more crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays.

One of the things that stands out when reviewing boating acci-

Roy Crittenden USCG Auxiliary

MORE INFO: 770-393-4382,

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

dent statistics is the large percentage of PWC accidents relative to the small percentage PWCs represent of the total number of boats.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, PWCs are involved in 30 percent of all reported boating accidents and 36 percent of all boating injuries take place on PWCs. The National Marine Manufacturers Association states that PWCs represent only nine percent of all registered vessels, making them appear to be more dangerous.

So what’s going on here? Are they a more dangerous vessel than other types of boats, or are there other factors? Well, maybe both. Certainly they handle dif-

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.

ferently. They are quick and agile and can turn on a dime. PWCs don’t have brakes (though some are now claiming to have a breaking system) and can take up to 300 feet to stop from 60 mph.

They have very limited slowspeed maneuverability and nearly no maneuverability at high speeds when the throttle is suddenly closed. Since these craft are able to turn much sharper and faster than a typical boat, the forces generated can and do throw the operator into the water. There has been some improvement in newer models that have devices that assist off-throttle steering.

When you look at other accident factors like PWC operators, startling information immediately surfaces. According to “Seaworthy,” the BOAT/US marine insurance and damage avoidance report, “a large percentage of PWC accidents involved inexperienced riders. USCG statistics bear this out as well. Most accidents involve operators in the 11-20 year old age group. According to the accident claim files, owners were involved in only 18 percent of the accidents, owner’s siblings (29 percent), and friends (53 per-

cent).”

It is apparent that these vessels are looked upon more as “toys,” that you might share, than as boats, subject to the same marine laws as other vessels. In addition, according to a National Transportation and Safety Board report,

“roughly 84 percent of PWC accidents involved operators who had no boating safety education or instruction. In fact, 73 percent had been riding less than an hour when their accident occurred.

Forty-eight percent of those inSee USCGA 51

Safe boating course set for Feb. 13 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 13, 2016.

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 $35.

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: Ricky Ashe, Public Education Officer, Flotilla 29 • 770 833-8935 • flotilla29pe@gmail.com

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

February 2016

LAKESIDE 9

10 LAKESIDE

February 2016

The Southern Fishing Report by Ken Sturdivant

A sampling of fishing information and tips from area guides Lake level: 1.6 ft above full pool Clarity: Creeks are stained, main lake is clear Temperature: High 40s Bass fishing Bass fishing is good. The Corps has continued to pull water, and the lake is coming down. The recent cold weather has dropped the surface temperature down to about 49 degrees in most places.

The lower main lake is clear in most areas, while the areas above Browns Bridge are fairly stained still. The backs of the creeks around the lake are also stained.

The ditches remain productive, but the recent cold snap has pushed a lot of the bait out deeper in many of those areas. Some fish have retreated with them, but some remain and are catchable, particularly in the mornings. A SuperSpin has been the ticket in these ditches. The first hour or so of daylight is key, especially on sunny days. When the weather is cloudy, the bite seems to continue later into the morning. The fish that remain in the ditches have been as shallow as 10 feet in the mornings and are spread out all the way out to 25 feet.

As the water continues to get

colder, you will still find the fish shallow in the backs of ditches in the morning, and then they will pull out to the deeper depths as the bait moves out. A jerkbait has been productive back in the ditches as well. Work the jerkbait with soft twitches between four to five second pauses. When the moving bait bite slows down, a worm and a Chattahoochee jig have picked up the slack nicely.

Toss these around in the same ditches after the SuperSpin and jerkbait bite slow down. Another pattern that has reemerged is the steep rock bite. Look for points that offer deeper water nearby.

Work a Chattahoochee Jig slowly on these areas with plenty of pauses. Use a larger trailer, like a Zoom Fat Albert Twin Tail, to help slow the fall of the bait.

In addition, there are still a certain group of fish have committed to deep water. A jig and a worm, along with a drop shot, have been good in the 40 to 60 foot sections of selected ditches.

Look on outside and inside channel bends with timber. If you want to learn ditch fishing and all it includes along with deep timber fishing, now is your time.

This Lake Lanier Bass report is from Jimbo Mathley, www.jimboonlanier.com, 770 542- 7764.

Stiper fishing Striper fishing is good. The lake is two feet above full pool with very heavy stain in the back of the north end creeks and a light stain on the South end. The water temperature is in the high 40s on the north end and a couple of degrees warmer on the south end.

The sea gulls continue to be a great tool in locating stripers.

Keep a Capt. Mack bucktail jig with a small fluke tied on and cast to any feeding stripers. The Umbrella rigs are working and you can use these to check out a specific area where you see birds in a search pattern. We use a four arm three ounce Umbrella frame with nine one ounce jigs with either white or chartreuse chad bodies.

Set your rigs at 70 to 80 feet behind the boat and vary your trolling speed from 2.8 to 3.4 mph. We have been pulling free lines with Blueback Herring early and switching to down rods later in the day. Pulling free lines on shallow flats with Herring is your best bet early. In late morning when the free line bite slows

move to the deeper water from 40 to 80 feet and use your Lowrance Structure Scan to find the fish. As always, fish the areas with the highest concentration of bait fish.

There are fish in the creeks lake wide but the south end creeks are your best bet. Flat Creek, Baldridge Creek, Six Mile Creek, Two Mile Creek and Orr Creek, are good places to start.

This Lake Lanier Striper report is from Captain Ken West and Captain Mike Maddalena of www.bigfishon.com.

Crappie fishing Crappie fishing is good.

Warning: floating debris on the northern parts of the the lake can become hazardous. The bait is between 20 and 30 feet deep, and the fish are holding on the deeper docks. Our dock shooting technique is producing well. We have been catching better quality fish on the Chattahoochee side of the lake, however if you want to catch greater numbers, the Chestatee side of the lake will be your best option. The bite is starting deeper at 15 to 20 feet, but it is amazing how quickly the entire school will shallow up if they decide to feed, sometimes up to

eight feet below the surface. The best advice is to pay attention to your Lowrance, noting the depth the fish are suspended and work the jig directly above their heads.

Jiffy jigs in a variety of colors and hair jigs are working well, but the soft body Bobby Garland jigs tend to skip the water easier.

This will assist you in getting your jig all the way to the back of the dock. My preference is, however, is still the darker color jigs right now. The fish are holding tight to the structure and it is very critical to keep the jig in their strike zone. With the colder temperatures, their metabolism has slowed and they are not willing to chase your jig. You will also notice that the color of the crappie has turned to pale white, which is an indication they have gone to deeper pockets.

The females have begun to develop eggs and you will see their bellies starting to become distended. Threadfins are the bait of choice for crappie.

This Lake Lanier Crappie report is from Dan Saknini, member of the Lanier Crappie Angler s Club. See our club’s website, www.laniercrappieanglers.net.

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 11

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February 2016

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 13

14 LAKESIDE

February 2016

LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC PARK Highest December lake level prompts debris clean-up

By Jane Harrison Parks and public areas covered when Lake Lanier rose to its highest December level ever were mostly cleaned up and open to the public by mid-January.

Water submerged beaches, docks, parking areas, and picnic sites after nearly nine inches of rain drenched the holidays from Dec. 24-29 to usher the lake to 1,075.48 feet above sea level on Dec. 31. Lanier rose more than five feet in a just over a week, surging from slightly above winter full pool of 1,071 feet to its December record New Year’s Eve. The all-time high for the 58-year-old lake is 1,077.14, recorded Apr.10, 1964. Water encroachment this time around caused mainly inconvenience and extensive clean-up, unlike the major difficulties reported in 1964 flooding that inundated roads, closed stores, and prompted subscription delivery by boat.

All U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas normally open in winter were ready for visitors

by Jan. 15, said Nick Baggett, Corps Resource Manager for Lake Lanier. He reported the Corps delayed drawdown of the lake until January because of high levels on the river system and other Corps’ lakes downstream from Lanier. Due to the slow release, Lanier remained high at 1,073 feet in mid-January.

The Corps used contract laborers to remove trash, logs and branches left behind after the water went down a couple of feet. A different kind of crew went to work at the Lake Lanier Olympic Park, where the lake surrounded the Olympic tower and surged over the docks and apron at the boathouse. The University

of Virginia men’s rowing crew made quick work of huge logs, branches, and junk that littered the launch area behind the boathouse.

Fifty-eight tall, muscular rowers filled trash bins and cleared the boathouse backyard in a day in exchange for a free ride for their winter training camp. Lake Lanier Rowing Club President Duane Schlereth and Past-President John Ferriss reported the rowers lifted massive logs and hoisted them easily into dumpsters. The crew, traditionally a top contender in national collegiate rowing championships, makes an annual pilgrimage for winter workouts on Lanier. LLRC dropped the Cavalier’s training fee for their sweat equity.

Other volunteers from the rowing club and Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club showed up with shovels and wheelbarrows to help.

Olympic Park Manager Morgan House said water seeped past sand bags, which kept silting to a minimum, all the way to the back of the boathouse.

Saturated training mats inside the boathouse caused mold to form on sheet rock, House said. Although water lapped at the second step of the grandstands and made an island out of the tower, he reported no damage on the other side of the park.

At Don Carter State Park, staff boarded a pontoon boat and lassoed five 400-pound picnic tables that floated off in the deluge. Park Manager Lamar Burns said workers roped in the tables after they strayed down the Chattahoochee River from the See Clean up, page 24

Polar bears plunge, chickens cluck on Feb. 6

By Jane Harrison Already broken those New Year resolutions? Start anew and plunge back in Feb. 6 at the rescheduled 19th Annual Polar Bear Plunge. The Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club postponed the traditional New Year’s Day dip into Lake Lanier after historic December rainfall flooded the docks where jumpers line up.

By mid-January, the water had receded and debris cleared for “polar bears” to make a cold, clean leap into the nearly new year. “Chickens” who don’t dare get their feathers wet can stand-by and cluck. Both jumpers and chickens can get a t-shirt and bowl of chili.

LCKC President Michael Braff expects turn-out to be comparable with traditional Jan. 1 participation.

“It’s always hard to predict … every year surprises us,” he said. “One of our best turnouts (about 200 participants) happened during a year when the weather was cold and rainy. It was cloudy and miserable, so go figure. This year with the change in dates, who knows?”

“We’d love to have a great turnout – and with the addition of the ‘chicken’ option, more people can participate than ever without getting wet!” Braff added, referring to a new category for bystanders and LCKC supporters who can’t attend. The 2016 theme, “Polar Bear if you Dare, Chicken if you Scare,” shares the love for all who care about LCKC. Spectating is always free, but now those who want to walk away with a yellow t-shirt declaring their cowardice (or wisdom) can register as a chicken and saunter down the boardwalk in the “Funniest Chicken” costume contest. Polar Bears may compete for Best Costume, Best Splash, Best Jump, Oldest

Polar Bear, Youngest Polar Bear, and get white shirts to match their favorite color.

The event raises funds for LCKC programs. “I’d love for folks to support Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club. This year you do not have to attend to support us – just register as a chicken and I’ll make sure you get your yellow t-shirt,” Braff said.

Jumping starts at noon. Participants can take up to two plunges, eat a bowl of chili and dessert, and down some warm drinks at the boathouse.

LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC PARK INFO Lake Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club Contact: Office Administrator, Brenda Miller; LCKC President, Terry Baker Phone: 770-287-7888 Fax: 770-287-3444 Email: info@lckc.org Website: www.lckc.org Address: Lake Lanier Olympic Park 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: March 26 - Lula Bridge Race April 23- Beginner Racing League Spring Practice Race April 29-30 - USACK Sprint National Team Trials

Lake Lanier Rowing Club Contact: LLRC President, Duane Schlereth Phone: 770-287-0077 Email: LLRC@mindspring.com Address: Lake Lanier Olympic Park 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: Thru March - Collegiate, Scholastic Training Camps March 19-20 - John Hunter Regatta Apr. 2-3 - Tri Rowing Regatta

Non-club events May 19-22 - Pan American Canoe/Kayak Sprint Championships, Olympic Qualifier Venue seats +/-2,000; parking capacity +/- 400 cars. The boathouse and tower are available to rent for meetings and special occasions.

CAUTION ZONE

Polar Bear Plunge Who: Anyone, any age. Children under the age of 12 must wear provided lifejackets.

What: Annual plunge into Lake Lanier to start the New Year off.

When: Noon, Feb. 6.Check-in/registration opens 10:45 a.m. Arrive by 11:30 a.m.

Where: Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club, Boathouse Apron (behind the boathouse), 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30506 How: Link to online registration at www.lckc.com. Online registration closes Feb. 4.

Onsite registration begins 10:45 a.m. Feb. 6.

Cost: $30 individuals, $90 up to four related family members.

Fun: Awards given for Best Costume, Best Splash, Best Jump, Oldest Polar Bear, Youngest Polar Bear, Funniest Chicken (a person not jumping but in costume!)

Bring: Family and friends to spectate (it’s free), a towel to dry off, a change of clothes and a great attitude!

N

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 15

16 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 17

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18 LAKESIDE

February 2016

News and notes from the boating world and beyond Bertram is introducing the Bertram 35’, which is the replacement for the much enamored 31’ “Moppie.” The Moppie was made famous in the ’60s and ’70s as one of the best all-around fishing boats as well as the hull being one of the best for offshore powerboat racing. The hull’s sea keeping abilities were renowned.

The new 35’ takes all the qualities of the 31’ Moppie and adds some new features. The fiberglass hull is now built with up to date techniques and materials. The 35’ fly bridge is a great improvement over the small F/B on the 31’. It has a 12’5” beam and a draft of 2’6” so you can go in those shallow gunkholes for a swim or relax at anchor. Top end speed is 40plus knots. No news as to the price, but it will be in the showrooms by May or June. Go to: www.bertram.com to view the photos. It looks like a real winner.

Bertram has changed hands recently and was purchased by Beniamino Gavio, who also owns Baelietto and CCN Yacht Builders. He is a successful entrepreneur and boat builder who promises nothing but the best in the Bertram’s future.

Bertram has always been one of my favorites. A 46’ was the queen of the Miami Boat Show in 1970, and I sold it to a client.

After that I sold and delivered quite a few Bertrams in various sizes. One of my last deliveries was a 46’ Bertram from Pompano Beach to St. Petersburg, a great two-day trip. Look for more new models out of Bertram in the near future.

Boat shows I hope everyone enjoyed the Atlanta Boat Show. Those of you who purchased a new boat and have not taken the boating safety course, you should do so before you hit the water. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary course dates are in this publication, for your convenience. You can also have your new boat inspected by them, it doesn’t cost anything, and you will feel safer.

The Miami International Boat Show will be February 11-15.

This is probably is the largest boat show of the year. There are 600,000 square feet of exhibitor space, and 1,200 boats on display.

Make sure you’ve got your best walking shoes on. This show has also taken over the Miami Marine Stadium Park and basin. We use to have heat races at the stadium, and the Miami-Key Largo-Miami marathon race started and ended

Mike Rudderham Captain’s Comments

at the stadium.

The show will have demo docks, so you can take your dream boat for a ride. You will probably view parts of the show online, check for details at: www.miamiboatshow.com. Remember, you need two or three days to see the whole show.

Young angler earns scholarship In previous columns I’ve reported how high school and college fishing teams have grown in popularity. Now there is a high school graduate who made good grades, but also did well on his schools fishing team. Cody Stahl a graduate of Crosspoint Christian Academy in Pike County, Georgia along with his fishing teammate Tate VanEgmond dominated the Georgia High School Fishing circuit the last few years.

They won first place trophies in Georgia Bass Nation High School Fishing Tournament action. The two also took their talents to the Bassmaster High School National Championship this past July and finished 10th in the nation.

Stahl’s scholarship at the Savannah College of Art and Design will help him in his major of industrial design and minor in marketing. In his spare time he’ll be fishing on SCAD’s college team.

Stahl will join local angler Noah Pescitelli of Buford on the SCAD fishing team. Pescitelli, 18, recently received an athletic and academic scholarship at the college as well. We wish them luck. I’m sure we’ll be hearing about them in Bassmaster Tournaments in the future.

Hey, high school students that want a fishing team, get a teacher to be a coach and start one.

New safety equipment It seems like it takes a tragedy like the loss of those two boys in Florida last July to create new and less expensive lifesaving electronic gear. One of the parents is working with Florida legislators to offer boat registration discounts to those who show proof that they carry registered EPIRBS and/or (depending on vessel size) PLBs onboard. ARC Electronics is already donating to the nonprofit foundation aimed at keep-

ing kids safe on the water.

There may come a day when all boats will be required to carry a U.S. Coast Guard approved EPIRB (emergency position indicating radio beacon). Ocean Signal has a new affordable unit if it becomes law. It’s ideal for boats up to 25’ in length. You activate it manually or it automatically activates when immersed in water to send an emergency signal to a rescue response center anywhere in the world. The 66 channel GPS helps responders home in on your location. It also has two high intensity strobes which maximize visibility at night or in a fog. The unit has a 10 year battery life, and will broadcast at 12 watts for 48 hours when activated. Cost is $399.95 at: www.gpsstore.com.

ACR offers a “ResQLink+” PLB (personal locator beacon) that is designed to secure onto your life jacket. In rough seas or a catastrophic situation people can become separated and the PLB will help locate them. They sell for $250 and it’s a good idea to have one on each PFD in use onboard.

I know from experience a lot of boaters will say, “I don’t need that, I just boat on a lake.” But they forget the one or two trips to the Gulf or the Atlantic shore.

Don’t be a statistic; if you are going off shore you need U.S. Coast Guard Approved devices such as these.

Here are a few more safety devices being offered this year: The Throw Raft TD 2401: Throwable flotation devices are essential to have onboard, especially for a man over board situation. Cost $130: www.throwraft.com.

Flares are included in most safety units onboard. Aurora flares are a waterproof hand held red flare and should help in a quick rescue or for assistance.

Cost is $30. Contact: www.acrartex.com.

The Spot Trace and Gen 3 are widely used by delivery captains and long distance cruisers to keep people informed of their locations when cell phones won’t work.

They also have an SOS button.

Cost is $150. Contact: www.findmespot.com.

When you go boating with these items onboard you and your crew will be much safer in case of an emergency which I hope you don’t have.

PWC update Bombardier’s Sea-Doo that started the PWC craze in 1968

used engines from their successful Ski-Doo snowmobiles. Both were in their trademark bright yellow which was recognizable on water or land as one of Bombardier’s successful recreation products. The new RXP-X model seems light years ahead of the 1968 models. It still has a Rotax engine, but most similarities end with the logo on the engine. The

new model has a 1600 cc engine rated at 300 H.P. - that’s 17 times the original model. The power is substantially boosted by the combination of a super charger and inter-cooler. Top speed is reached in 1.5 seconds when it tops out at an electronically limited 67 M.P.H. You know some owners will try to disconnect the elecSee Rudderham, page 54

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20 LAKESIDE

February 2016

New logo, new name approved for Olympic site

By Jane Harrison The remake of the site where 1996 rowers and paddlers competed now includes a name change and potential new logo.

Gainesville Hall ’96 board members approved a minor revision, renaming the venue “Lake Lanier Olympic Park.” The title change reflects a more accurate description of the site, which covers not only the rowing and kayaking venue, but also Clarks Bridge Park, a popular locale for beachgoers, picnickers and boaters.

Members voted in favor of dropping the old title “Lake Lanier Olympic Venue,” for a more inclusive moniker.

Site manager Morgan House recommended the change last month during board discussions of ongoing renovations in preparation for an Olympic qualifying canoe/kayak event in May. The Pan American Sprint Canoe/ Kayak Championships coincides with the 20th anniversary of Olympic competition on Lake Lanier. The board plans a birthday gala tentatively in August during the running of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil.

The re-branding of the park will include a potential new logo that depicts an arch of blue water with slanting bars rising out of it, reflecting the colors of the Olympic rings.

“Water makes our site special … we wanted to incorporate the feeling of water with the Olympic rings, without using the rings,” said board member Stacey Dickson, also president of the Lake Lanier Convention and Visitors Bureau. The CVB staff and The Times Gainesville newspaper personnel brainstormed the proposed design, which also includes an option with Olympic rings depicted inside the water section.

Dickson said international Olympic committee rules prohibit copying the Olympic symbol in former site logos; but she added it might be worth a try to propose including the rings in the Lanier logo.

A surge of investment into the park continued last month with a $35,000 contribution by 811 Call Before You Dig. The national safety organization snared the title sponsorship for the Pan American championship.

House shared how the 811 organization has a poignant link to the Olympic park. Current 811 spokesperson Cliff Meidl started kayaking after doctors told him he would likely never walk again after an electric shock burned his

legs when he hit electric lines using a jack hammer on a concrete slab. The former runner became one of the best kayakers in the world and competed on Lake Lanier in the 1996 Olympic Games and again in the 2000 Olympics in Australia, where he was the U.S. team flag bearer.

House said Meidl called him about sponsoring the Pan Am Games on Lanier. He expects 811 to launch a major marketing campaign around the competition.

The donation reaches nearly half the $75,000 private sponsorship goal for the May event. Total private investments for the Olympic qualifier and anniversary celebration have topped $335,000, including $250,000 from Springer Mountain Farms, which grants multi-year naming rights to the finish tower, $35,000 from an anonymous donor, and $15,000 from the Lake Lanier Islands Development Authority.

Public monies committed include a $300,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant, $800,000 from Gainesville and Hall County general funds and Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax budgets.

GH ’96 chairperson Mimi Collins said she believes the community will keep stepping up to support the venue. “There are so many community businesses I

think will be all over” the sponsorship effort, she said. The board also seeks smaller donations, from $10,000 to $2,500 with coordinating marketing opportunities on banners and buoys and perks such as free parking.

Physical improvements at the park tower began last month as local contractor Carroll Daniel Construction set to work on an ADA-approved ramp. The target completion date for renovations, which include a bridge from the tower to the plaza and improvements to the service building, is before March 19, when the John Hunter Regatta expects to bring thousands of rowers and spectators to the site. The Pan Am continental qualifier begins May 19.

Other changes will meet the eye in coming months as a Springer Mountain Farms LED sign lights up tower facing the Clarks Bridge and a smaller logo from the major sponsor is erected on the opposite side. In addition, board members reported a local art organization plans to erect a sculpture by a student public art winner and master gardeners anticipate planting butterfly gardens at gated entries.

The board also approved purchase of nine boat holding docks for the starting line on the Olympic channel, replacing worn out 20 year old docks.

Wolverines undaunted by high water

By Jane Harrison The University of Michigan women’s rowing crew weathered new heights on Lake Lanier last month when the lake rose out of its banks during their winter training camp. The Lady Wolverines “didn’t miss a beat,” Lake Lanier Rowing Club past-president John Ferriss said of the voyagers from the north who came down to practice in the LLRC training session.

Travelers as far as Thompson Bridge saw Michigan blue stroking down lake from the Lake Lanier Olympic Park, which was covered with shin-high water after heavy rain escorted Lanier to its highest December level ever.

Ferriss said that crew members

were undaunted by having to wade in to launch their boats.

“This is not a problem,” Ferris said they told him, adding that frigid Lake Superior, icy in December, is still uninvitingly cold in July.

About 2,000 collegiate and high school rowers were expected to train on Lanier by the end of March. Athletes rent a boathouse exercise room and coaches’ launch boats from LLRC, down grub at local cafeterias and restaurants, and bed down at area accommodations. Three crews weathered the storms of December and January. The remainder, mostly from ice-bound waters up north, will warm up on Lanier this month and next.

• Stormwater Continued from Page 2 shelved a potential fee on impervious surfaces and that it will remain among options to pay for stormwater infrastructure. He said last month that staff is analyzing available alternatives and com-

posing a credits program that would offset the fee in some circumstances.

Lackey said, in the meantime, the city “is working to develop a public education program.”

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 21

Time to sign up for youth birding competition It’s time for young birders to begin honing their bird-identifying skills as they prepare for the 11th annual Georgia Youth Birding Competition, set for April 2223.

Registration is open and, for the first time, online at www.georgiawildlife.com/YBC. This fun, free competition has been connecting young people with wildlife and having a positive impact on conservation for more than 10 years. The reach extends even beyond Georgia, with

Race 4 Birds Foundation (www.race4birds.org) using the event as a model for youth birding competitions nationwide, including in Illinois, North Carolina, Florida and Pennsylvania.

Coordinator Tim Keyes of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is enthusiastic about the future.

“We will continue growing an enduring passion for birds and the outdoors with every year’s event in Georgia, and inspire a growing

number of events around the U.S.,” said Keyes, a wildlife biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Nongame Conservation Section.

He noted that the Youth Birding Competition 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. The event has inspired a young birders club, a growing network of young bird-

2016 Georgia fishing regulations now online, in print This year’s fishing regulations are now ready for viewing both online and in print, announces the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “Anglers looking for new places to fish, changes to laws and regulations or other information can find it in the new 2016 Georgia Sport Fishing regulations,” said John Biagi, fisheries management chief. “Before heading to the water, it is always a good idea to review this publication each year.”

The guide provides helpful in-

formation, 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 at www.georgiawildlife.com/officecontact.

New information highlighted in this year’s guide includes: • All mountain trout water is now open to angling year round.

The WRD website, www.gofishgeorgia.com/fishing, is a great place to start when learning about fishing.

ers connected through social media and participation in American Birding Association and Audubon Society camps for youth.

The competition also continues to set state records for birding youth. The top team in 2015 identified 167 species, an all-time high for the event.

The fun gets going April 22-23 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 information, including online registration, is at www.georgiawildlife.com/YBC. The competition and an accompanying T-shirt Art Contest are sponsored by DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division, The Environmental Resources Network Inc. (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 23 at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center near Mansfield.

Rhonda Forbes

Teams register online in 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 designed for youth of all skill levels. Those new to birding can take advantage of mentoring opportunities offered through the competition.

As a voluntary part of the competition, teams also raise money for conservation. This year’s pledges pushed past $20,000 the total raised over the event’s 10 years.

The 2016 contest starts at 5 p.m. Friday, April 22, and ends at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 23. 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 Saturday.

While judges examine and score checklists, participants are treated to a live animal show followed by an awards banquet See Birding, page 54

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22 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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24 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Cavalier crew cleans up Olympic venue

By Jane Harrison When mud, debris and tree trunks littered the backyard of the Lake Lanier Olympic Park boathouse, an out-of state work crew pitched in to clean up. The strong shoulders and long arms of the 58-member University of Virginia men’s rowing crew heaved massive tree trunks and loads of debris into dumpsters as they helped volunteers clear the boathouse apron. In Gainesville for their annual winter training camp, the Cavaliers were happy to help out on land after a record December lake level left a mess outside the boathouse. The Lake Lanier Rowing Club dropped the camp fee in return for their labor.

Here’s what Head Coach Frank Biller wrote after Lakeside emailed him about photos of the cleanup: “We’ve been coming to Gainesville since Biller my first year as head coach, that was seven years ago. We joked that we thought we’ve seen it all; ice, snow, cold, wind … but the flooding was a new one!

“We are just glad to see that there were no major damages to the infrastructure because we’ve seen that at other places! We love Gainesville and the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue in particular – we’ve always felt welcome and appreciated, the boathouse becomes our home away from home, and every person I’ve ever encountered there was nothing but supportive and positive.

“We are excited to see the venue striving – this is very important to us, also because (the Lake Lanier venue) is the (location of choice) for our national championship in May, the ACRA Championship. Because of (the Lake Lanier Rowing Club) and the quality of the venue and race

course, I can honestly say that is the best regatta of the year for us; racing eight lanes across is unique and has become a trademark!

“In the light of all this, doing a little clean-up is peanuts for our guys. They are used to work hard and to take care of business themselves. Unlike a university-funded varsity program, we are a self-dependent/reliant club program. We have to upkeep our own facilities and guys do many hours of “renta-rower” work to fundraise for their annual dues of $2,000 per year. The team was glad to be able to give back to LLRC and thank them for the hospitality.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t take any pictures – we were busy working!”

• Clean up Continued from Page 14 boat ramp/fishing pier area.

“We lassoed them together and tied them to a tree” for safekeeping until water recedes, he said. They were still underwater in mid-January.

Burns reported the lake submerged the park beach, with

water reaching the bottom steps above the sand. The flow also covered approaches to the boat ramp and fishing pier. Park workers expected to continue picking up debris, including large pieces of Styrofoam, for some time, he said.

PHOTO BY JANE HARRISON

The tower at Lake Lanier Olympic Park was surrounded by floodwaters as the lake level topped the 1075 mark last month.

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LAKESIDE 25

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26 LAKESIDE

February 2016

El Nino is now upon us Happy El Nino everyone! Wow, that was some interesting latter half of January. This El Nino winter has brought some wild swings in weather across the globe.

I know on the news you see stories about floods, bitter cold, incredible mid-Atlantic snowstorms. However, you might be surprised at the actual benefits we are also seeing across North America.

Let’s begin in Canada, where temperatures, especially in western Canada, have been unseasonably warm this winter. Residents are very happy about the milder temperatures. As you know, California has been in an absolutely horrible drought over the past five years. Californians have seen storm after storm coming in off the Pacific Ocean, bringing good rainfall and heavy snow to the Sierra Mountains. This is exactly what they were praying for. Ski resorts in many Rocky Mountain states that have been in a snow drought for the last couple of years have seen incredible snowfall. Some ski areas have seen 10 to 15 feet of snow this winter!

There is also the other side of El Nino.

Florida has been getting hammered with severe storms and tornadoes. They have not been the kind of tornadoes Floridian’s usually deal with. These are the “big boys,” the kind you would see in the spring in Oklahoma, EF3s and EF4s. Damage has been in the millions of dollars. El Nino is also affecting the California seal popula-

tion. Normally, nutrient rich water with abundant populations of small fish Glenn populates the waters off Burns California. This year, the water has been warmer and deficient in Lanier nutrients. The large Outlook schools of baitfish have avoided the warm water and the seals are having a lot of trouble finding food. In fact, there were many seal strandings as they went ashore looking for food, as far inland as city streets. Many of the seals were returned to the ocean. Many quickly returned to strand themselves. When they couldn’t be returned to the sea, many aquariums around the world began to adopt them, including our own Georgia Aquarium. I have seen a couple of them and they are doing extremely well.

February is here and the climatologists across the country all agree that El Nino will continue into the spring. This does not bode well for us. I can remember the El Nino of 1997-98. There was a powerful tornado that ripped through an area near Flowery Branch. Several people were killed and there was enormous damage.

The tornadoes in Dunwoody were also related to El Nino. After meetings with our National Weather Service meteorologists, we are more than extremely concerned about the severe weather threat this spring.

Severe storms during El Nino come in two forms, the squall line and the supercells.

Both produce tornadoes, the most violent in the supercells.

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

LAKE LANIER WATER LEVELS JUN 1 1070.50 2 1070.54 3 1070.48 4 1070.42 5 1070.33 6 1070.36 7 1070.37 8 1070.30 9 1070.28 10 1070.24 11 1070.20 12 1070.15 13 1070.17 14 1070.18 15 1070.10 16 1070.02 17 1069.93 18 1069.86 19 1069.79 20 1069.74 21 1069.75 22 1069.66 23 1069.55 24 1069.46 25 1069.38 26 1069.31 27 1069.31 28 1069.30 29 1069.21 30 1069.12 31 AV 1069.93 MAX 1070.54 MI 1069.12

JUL

AUG

SEPT

OCT

1069.08 1069.08 1069.42 1069.41 1069.43 1069.38 1069.33 1069.26 1069.20 1069.12 1069.13 1069.06 1068.97 1068.98 1068.91 1068.83 1068.74 1068.74 1068.71 1068.64 1068.57 1068.48 1068.39 1068.40 1068.38 1068.33 1068.27 1068.20 1068.16 1068.13 1068.06 1068.80 1069.43 1068.06

1068.03 1067.97 1067.90 1067.83 1067.77 1067.79 1067.73 1067.65 1067.65 1067.63 1067.60 1067.55 1067.49 1067.42 1067.37 1067.34 1067.47 1067.59 1067.67 1067.65 1067.62 1067.65 1067.86 1067.84 1067.80 1067.75 1067.69 1067.62 1067.59 1067.59 1067.52 1067.67 1068.03 1067.34

1067.45 1067.39 1067.34 1067.32 1067.25 1067.23 1067.17 1067.18 1067.16 1067.12 1067.12 1066.99 1066.96 1066.91 1066.85 1066.78 1066.70 1066.64 1066.57 1066.55 1066.47 1066.41 1066.32 1066.41 1066.41 1066.44 1066.64 1066.36 1066.48 1066.43

1066.45 1066.48 1067.13 1067.89 1067.92 1067.91 1067.87 1067.84 1067.80 1067.97 1068.00 1067.98 1067.96 1067.85 1067.72 1067.59 1067.54 1067.54 1067.44 1067.41 1067.37 1067.31 1067.26 1067.27 1067.27 1067.35 1067.27 1067.25 1067.24 1067.22 1067.24 1066.84 1067.49 1067.45 1068.00 1066.32 1066.45

This month, as we begin to move from winter into spring, the tornado season will begin erupting along the Gulf Coast and then spread northward. Stay tuned and be

NOV

DEC

1067.51 1068.60 1068.86 1068.97 1069.04 1069.13 1069.54 1069.78 1070.17 1070.33 1070.42 1070.41 1070.34 1070.40 1070.44 1070.39 1070.27 1070.83 1071.38 1071.48 1071.43 1071.39 1071.21 1071.01 1070.80 1070.58 1070.36 1070.41 1070.47 1070.47

1070.58 1070.86 1070.76 1070.64 1070.71 1070.76 1070.66 1070.52 1070.36 1070.22 1070.08 1070.14 1070.20 1070.22 1070.21 1070.22 1070.33 1070.35 1070.40 1070.48 1070.45 1070.35 1071.00 1072.19 1072.80 1073.24 1073.47 1073.91 1074.59 1075.19 1075.48 1070.21 1071.33 1071.48 1075.48 1067.51 1070.08

JAN 1075.43 1075.32 1075.18 1075.07 1074.86 1074.64 1074.41 1074.24 1074.03 1073.83 1073.61 1073.37 1073.13 1072.90 1073.16 1073.38 1073.35 1073.12 1072.90 1072.67 1072.68 1073.23 1073.24 1073.07 1072.86 1072.87 1072.68

prepared. It is likely to be a very bad spring.

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

SOLUNAR TIMES FOR LAKE LANIER

February 2016

LAKESIDE 27

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28 LAKESIDE

February 2016

February 2016

LAKESIDE 29

30 LAKESIDE

February 2016

2015 Lake Lanier real estate recap and 2016 projections

By Bev Knight Last year was definitely a good one for Lanier homeowners.

Not only did sales remain robust, but the average sales price continued to rise steadily. Add that to the significant growth and prosperity in the communities surrounding the lake, and property owners can be confident that the future prospects for this area continue to look bright.

Thanks to the third wettest year on record in metro-Atlanta, the lake levels stayed high, sometimes too high! That was especially good news for home sellers with average or shallow water at their docks. To some extent, it calmed the fears of home buyers who remembered the media reports on the 100-year drought a few years ago, and allowed quite a few hard-to-sell homes find the right buyer. All-in-all, a lot went right this past year.

Average home price: In 2007, the average price for a Lake Lanier home was $634,000. At that time, there were very few lake houses for sale, so the home values were at a premium. Due to the negative impact of the 100year drought and the great recession, the average price dropped to

a low of $428,000 in 2010. That’s a 48 percent drop, and every homeowner on the lake was impacted by this. In 2015, the average price for a Lake Lanier home was $535,000, a 10 percent increase over 2014 and a significant improvement from just a few years ago. There are certain hot areas where the average price is much higher. For example, in the section of Buford that is in Gwinnett County, the average sales price is over $1 million. With only 11 sales in the statistics, two very high sales on Garrett Road and Ansel Court definitely raised that average. But without a doubt, lake property in Gwinnett County is red hot. Flowery Branch has also seen a nice resurgence in home values with an average price just under $600k. Here is a summary of average 2015 sales prices by city/county, number of sales: City/County Price Number Buford/Gwinn. $1,027,191 11 Buford/Hall $519,205 11 Cumming/Fors. $549,639 54 D’ville/Dawson $540,395 45 F. Branch/Hall $593,406 16 G’ville/Forsyth $500,320 57 Gainesville/Hall $506,556 152 Demand: The number of

Lanier homes sold in 2015 was only a few homes shy of the 2014 record-setting mark; but, it was still very high at 346. To put that in perspective, in the peak-value year of 2007, only 198 homes were sold in this lake market. It stands to reason that a lower average price will invite more buyers into this market. Plus, the prevalence of work-at-home jobs and improved infrastructure in the surrounding counties have made lake living viable as residences, not just as weekend homes. The accompanying graph shows the trends in home values and number of homes sold since 2007.

Source: FMLS Matrix sales data (lake homes with docks or marina slips) Other 2015 trends: Luxury homes, defined as the top 10 percent of that specific market, definitely saw an uptick in demand this past year. On Lake Lanier, a luxury property would be any home over $700k, and those sales increased by 13 percent in 2015.

That statistic has been steadily increasing over the past three years.

The 55-plus lakefront community of Cresswind on Lake Lanier was the hottest active adult community in Georgia. Their average

Average price of Lake Lanier homes sold 2007-2015.

home price is $375k, but that does not include a dock slip which adds $115k to that bottom line. Outside of Cresswind, there were a handful of newly constructed homes that sold, but more are expected in 2016.

Lake lots, which lost the most value during the recession, are trying to regain some of their worth. The average cost for a lake lot with some type of dock is approximately $204k per acre. In 2015, 49 lots were sold which, hopefully, means we will see new construction on the rise in the coming years. New subdivisions,

such as Summer Crest on Lanier in north Hall, are offering large lakefront lots (over two acres) in a gated, marina community.

These lots will support large luxury homes, so that should add to the number of high-end new-construction sales this year.

What to expect in 2016: There are several factors that will affect our demand in the coming year. You’ve probably heard that interest rates are rising. Although they have remained below 4 percent for a long time (30-year fixed), some experts project that See Real Estate, page 46

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32 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Name of ‘water wars’ mediator kept secret, special master stresses compromise

By Jane Harrison The name of the mediator tasked with settling a fierce and costly legal battle over water between Florida and Georgia remained a secret from the public in late January.

Special Master Ralph Lancaster, appointed by the Supreme Court to oversee preliminaries in the 2013 Florida V. Georgia Lancaster lawsuit, cautioned attorneys not to mention the name of the individual they chose over the Christmas holidays.

Prior to discussion of what he deemed his favorite topic, settlement, Lancaster warned attorneys to be discrete. “As you know, this transcript will be on the docket on our website. So please be careful; please don’t mention the name of the mediator, the location of the mediator, anything that would lead to further disclosures,” he said.

His words appeared in the transcript of the Jan. 12 teleconference, which also detailed major disagreements from both sides about subpoenas of state officials and emails and Lancaster’s emphasis on compromise to reach

an ultimate settlement. Additionally, the special master recommended a “required reading” about the natural environment for state officials.

Attorneys from both states indicated high level state officials with authority to act would attend settlement talks. Florida attorney Phil Perry said that the states set a date to discuss “logistics of the mediation,” but consistent with Lancaster’s request, did not reveal the date, place or potential attendees.

Georgia attorney Craig Primis declined to name a senior official he said “has been intimately in-

volved with this and has been for a while as well as other people who pay attention to this at a senior level within the state.”

Lancaster in April issued a confidentiality order, barring anyone involved with the lawsuit from communicating with the media. The latest public transcript indicates he intends to keep settlement efforts away from public scrutiny.

It appears the unnamed mediator may have a mountain of documents to review or at least to get briefed on. Both states have piled millions of pages and electronic files into the court record.

Georgia at one time employed 75 full time attorneys to pore over subpoena requests and evidence.

States have already wracked up tens of millions of dollars in legal costs, including $9 million Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal funneled from his Governor’s Emergency Fund months after an apparently unfruitful meeting with Florida Gov. Rick Scott.

Scott filed suit in Oct. 2013 alleging Georgia hoards water on the rivers that flow from the Peach State into Florida.

Lake Lanier is the largest reservoir on the ApalachicolaChattahoochee-Flint river system that ultimately sends freshwater into Apalachicola Bay, which is economically dependent on its

By Jane Harrison identity of this one from being Government officials trying to parties can agree on. While com- oyster fisheries.

Florida is seeking a cap on promise might eventually rule the The identity of the person cho- disclosed. sort out public policy disputes Georgia water consumption and day in mediation, a successful sen to calm the contentious legal Rosenbaum: Practice might tend to prefer facilitative mediaresolution of the case will still re- reparations for damages it claims waters between Georgia and vary from court to court. Cases tion. A facilitative mediator alGeorgia caused to the region’s enquire a definitive solution to the Florida remained a secret in late with original jurisdiction in the lows the sides to express their vironment and economy.

January. Although Special Master Supreme Court are rather rare. I positions, identify key issues, per- question of how to divvy up the The lawsuit followed droughts water – and that has proven to be Ralph Lancaster warned litigators don’t even know if there is an es- haps do join fact-finding to rethat withered lake- and riveran elusive formula thus far. not to utter the individual’s name tablished practice. But speaking solve issues of fact, and explore Both parties have a lot at stake based economies of both states in for public record, he possibly generally, mediation is shrouded creative options to solve prob2007 and 2011. dropped a hint about the mediain a degree of confidentiality, un- lems. Some facilitative mediators here and mediation is not easy.

In the January meeting, Lantor’s gender. He referred to the less the parties agree otherwise. (such as me) are senior attorneys, But it would be a shame for both caster, 85, a prominent Maine atsides not to attempt it in good mediator as “she.”

What are the qualities of an ef- but people from many backtorney and veteran Supreme Whoever has accepted the role fective mediator? grounds can fill the role. You need faith and with a high sense of Court special master, noted will wade into a roiling water war Morris: For a mediator to be some knowledge of court process commitment, if for no other realawyers uttered the word to try to broker a settlement that effective in this case, she will and subject matter, but it is more son than because the problem could send history-making politi- need to be fearless, confident, important to have training and ex- must be resolved – and by coming “drought” numerous times during the morning’s discourse. to a mediated agreement, both cal, environmental and economic knowledgeable, and able to com- perience in consensus-building He admonished state officials sides retain control over the outrepercussions over a resource mand control of high-ranking par- and dispute resolution. come. The alternative is to leave to read World on Fire, Saving an known as the 21st century’s “new ties and high-powered lawyers.

An evaluative process is alEndangered Earth, (1991) written the decision to the Justices, and oil.”

Patience and persistence will be most certainly going to happen by former Maine Sen. George J. Two legal professionals famil- absolute requirements, as will behind closed doors. A facilitative they aren’t talking – at least not Mitchell, a frequent sponsor of yet. iar with mediation responded to physical and mental stamina. process can happen between the anti-pollution legislation and critRosenbaum: Studies have Lakeside News questions about Those may be concepts that most two parties behind closed doors, how it works. Gainesville attorpeople don’t associate with medi- or it can turn into an open, public shown that mediation is a cheaper ical writer about the U.S. role in conservation strategies. alternative to trial. People are ney Clyde Morris is an attorney ators, but they are highly valuable process where all sorts of inter“George, of course, is a good generally more satisfied with mewith the Lake Lanier Association. and essential to success. ested stakeholders get an invitadiated settlements than with judg- friend; and he’s very prescient as Kenneth Rosenbaum, a senior atThere are a number of others, tion to join the discussion. well as well read,” Lancaster said. ments for two reasons. First, torney on the on the leadership including insightfulness, ability to What are your expectations mediation is a voluntary process, “I would recommend that you council of the Environment and listen, political astuteness, tact, about mediation? suggest to your principals in each Public Policy section of the Asso- and the ability to simplify many Morris: I expect mediation to so both parties will have a veto state that they read the book beover any possible settlement. ciation for Conflict Resolution, complex factors into a managebe very difficult in this case, for cause no matter what the ultimate works as a neutral in settlement able conceptual framework. If several obvious reasons. The first That’s not the case when a judge decides. Second, mediated settle- order is from the Court, Mother procedures. Both responded to that all sounds like a job for Suis the enormity of what is potenments can be much more creative Nature will play a role in the ultiLakeside queries by email. Folperman (or Supergirl, to use the tially at stake – United States lowing are edited responses: current vernacular), it may well Supreme Court cases are not to be than judicial rulings. The court in mate result.”

He concluded with a strong Is it unusual for a mediator’s be. taken lightly, and issues don’t get a water dispute often simply declares how much water each state recommendation that mediation identity to be withheld?

Rosenbaum: There are differ- much more fundamental that the attendees know the value of comis entitled to use in the basin, or Morris: Mediation regularly ent styles of mediation. Litigators future of neighboring states’ use promise. how many acre-feet of flow the occurs outside the records of a in federal court often like evalua- of water.

“And I emphasize the word court’s case file, other than pertive mediation. The mediator lisSecond, the parties have such a upstream states must leave for the haps an order requiring that medi- tens to each side and gives a long history of not resolving their downstream. In a mediated settle- ‘COMPROMISE’ in capital letters because if you go in with ment, the states might agree on ation occur or a report filed by the non-binding opinion about the differences over the ACF that lines in the sand, you’re wasting additional things like setting up mediator at the conclusion of me- strength of their positions. This their positions have become histhe mediator’s time; and you’re an interstate compact or having diation. The mediation sessions gives sides some perspective torically, politically, and instituone state help support water con- wasting your time … I want to be themselves are, of course, confiabout the case and makes settletionally entrenched. Extracting servation efforts in another state. sure that the state representatives dential. So, it would not be unment more likely. The best evalu- them from those positions will who are there understand it. If I’ve seen claims that the success usual for the mediator’s identity ative mediator is someone who likely be a tall order. rate of mediation in some types of they go in without the ability to not to appear in the record, but understands the law and subject Third, there may not be a compromise, this mediation is the Special Master has obviously matter well. Senior attorneys and palatable middle ground for either litigated disputes is over 80 perdoomed to failure.” cent. gone out of his way to prevent the retired judges often fill this role. state – or at least one that both

Questions – and answers – about mediation process

February 2016

LAKESIDE 33

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February 2016

February 2016

LAKESIDE 35

MAKE IT AN EVEN HALF-DOZEN

Another world championship for Crazy Chicken powerboat team 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 t all started with a 16-foot John boat when Dee Early was a teen. He and his best friend from high school bought the boat, equipped with a 75 hp motor to cruise around Bear Lake near their homes in Waynesville, N.C. Now, Early holds a half-dozen Early world championship Superboat International Offshore Powerboat titles and tours the country with his hot pink boat “Crazy Chicken.” That first John boat changed his life.

“I was playing golf every Saturday until we got the boat,” says Early as he reminisced about the beginning of his love affair with water and speed. “We started going boating spring, summer and fall, and it got me hooked.”

Early and Team Crazy Chicken travel during the Superboat International season and have racked up numerous titles over the years.

But Early’s route to the world stage didn’t spring full blown when he was a young adult.

After a year at the University of Tennessee, then earning an associate degree in business from Haywood Community College, he took a job with True Rest Mattresses, building and delivering mattresses. He worked his way up, eventually purchasing the company. Thirty-four years after his first day of work there, Early sold it to move to Lake Lanier.

By that time, he had some great boating stories to tell, like the time he bought a jet boat and promptly sank it a month later. He owned a Ski Nautique in the 1980s, and he and his friends spent their days water skiing.

Early snagged second place in a slalom competition at the McGinnis Water Ski School in Fort Lauderdale. “I still have my O’Brien slalom that I used; it’s at my mom’s.”

Early also owned a houseboat

I

PHOTO BY NIKONMIAMI.COM

The Crazy Chicken in action.

at Fontana Lake in those days.

One day he got the call from the marina that the boat had sunk. “I got my dive gear and met the insurance guy at the dock, where he, one of the dock guys and I went out to see what was going on,” he says. “that was some trip.

On the way out, we sank and no one had on life jackets. It turned out that neither the insurance guy, who had on his business suit, or the dock guy knew how to swim.”

Early ended up rescuing each of them from the near-freezing water.

“I know I have a guardian angel and I see it time after time,” he said. He decided to purchase another houseboat, and the one he liked was located on Lake Lanier.

The purchase price included two months of slip fees and he subsequently decided to relocate to Georgia in 2000.

Seeing speed on the water While on a trip to Lake Hartwell, Early noticed a really fast boat streak by. “I called the manufacturer to see if I could buy one and they invited me to come to the boat show in St. Claire, Michigan, and before long I had a black 25-foot Aggressor. That’s what got me into powerboating.”

That, and meeting powerboater and Lanier resident Bob

Mazikowski, an offshore racer who was a weekend neighbor at Holiday Marina and throttleman for Team Wild Rose. “Bob kept Team Wild Rose’s boat at Lanier when he wasn’t racing and he let me drive when he practiced,” Early said. “The owner of the boat Tom Barbatos decided he’d rather just be the owner of the Wild Rose team, so he let me start driving in races.”

Along the way, Early also became fast friends with Lanier Harbor’s Barkley Geib, who at the time was managing the country’s largest poker run, held annually on Lake Lanier.

“We just really hit it off from the beginning. Barkley was running the pace boat for the American Powerboat Association races and I’d go with him to events. He had to trailer the pace boat, so I offered to pull the trailer with the T-shirts he would sell at the races.”

One day he saw another fast boat on Lanier. It was Brian Hollis’ Joker boat, Hollis designed and manufactured the boat in Gainesville. “I bought it and for the first two years Brian was my throttle man. Then Bob became throttleman for our team, but we didn’t have a name, and that’s another story.”

Dee and Stella during her baptism in Jamaica a few years ago.

In 2006, Early’s friends and teammates were getting ready for the new team’s first race in Miami and often went out to eat after practicing. “I’ll never forget it: Doug Sibson was going all around the restaurant telling people about the team and our boat.

Someone said that he looked like a chicken with its head cut off, and besides that, he’s crazy. The next thing we knew Doug gave us a check and his Cumming company Signature Stair Products was our first major sponsor. We named the boat ‘Crazy Chicken.’

It was perfect.”

Meeting his mate The team snagged a world championship that season and that year, Early’s guardian angel, probably part cupid, was working overtime because he soon met his now-wife Stella at the docks at Holiday Marina. “She hated powerboats, so for one of our first dates, I took her out in my powerboat.”

They married one year later in Jamaica, and she’s continued to be a loyal supporter – and marketer – for Team Crazy Chicken.

She’s in charge of sponsorships, promotional activities and marketing team T-shirts, hats and souvenirs. The team won both a national and world championship in 2007 and again took home the world title in 2008.

By 2012, Early decided he needed something to do in retirement, so he applied for the job of harbormaster at Lanier Islands, where he still works today, managing 30 rental boats, five dinner boats and 20 slips.

He and his friend Geib together manage the marina at Lanier Islands. “He’s on one side of the Islands and I’m on the other,” Early said. “We’re on the same team.”

Early continued to race, but he contracted Lyme Disease in 2012.

It kept him out of the APBA race

in Key West that year, but the ever-positive Early saw it as a blessing. “That was the year that Stella got baptized,” he said. “We went back to Jamaica, contacted the same minister that married us, and he baptized her right there in the ocean. That was my world championship in 2012.”

He returned to the APBA circuit in 2013 and for the next three years he again earned world championships in his class with throttleman Tony Silveira, who owns CMS Marine and is responsible for keeping Crazy Chicken in world-class condition. “Tony is such an important part of our success; we couldn’t do it without him.” Early keeps the boat at CMS Marine in Baltimore, Maryland. The team has solid sponsorships, including Westrec Marinas, CMS Marine, and Babcock Service Center.

Early will bring out Joker to participate in the annual Pirates of Lanier Poker Run this summer.

It’s the world’s largest charitable poker run that raises funds for children’s charities.

By early February, the Crazy Chicken Team will know if it’s been selected as one of the top 15 sports teams in the Champion Spark Plugs “Searching for Champion” contest. Although the first phase of voting closes on February 2, the top 15 vote-getting teams across a wide array of sports will get another round of voting. The big prize is $50,000.

The team will post updates on its Facebook page.

“We are getting ready for the 2016 season, which will be very competitive,” Early said. “We hope to work our way through the circuit to bring home both national and world championships again.”

Lakeside will keep tabs on results for the Crazy Chicken team this season through periodic updates and postings.

36 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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Striper anglers aren’t the only ones trawling lake in the evening

By Jane Harrison They gently trawl the water, dipping in their tiny feet to gaff their prey. The nighttime foragers on Lake Lanier aren’t after the same catch as striper anglers.

Lanier’s masters of the night swoop in to get their fill of insects in stretches of calm water.

Seven species of bats dwell around Lanier, which dishes up swarms of aquatic bugs for them to eat, especially in warm months.

“They spend time flying and feeding on insects that hatch above lakes,” said Katrina Morris, non-game wildlife biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The rarely-seen predators are important dark-side characters in Lanier’s ecology as each can consume nearly its entire body weight – thousands of insects – in a summer night’s hunt.

A traveling exhibit at Gainesville’s Elachee Nature Science Center pays tribute to the bat world in an exhibit that runs through May 8. Grand Opening festivities are planned Feb. 6.

Morris, one of few “bat people” studying the flying mammals in Georgia, said DNR biologists find more Eastern red bats than other species around Lanier. They

hide under leaf litter and pine needles during the day and devour a variety of insects nightly. Lakegoers around dark-thirty might get spooked by a flash of orangey-red when the hungry bigeared critter swoops in to feed.

“They fly over large waters, streams, rivers and trails,” Morris said, and especially favor large expanses of still water. Researchers believe they detect prey through echoes reverberating from smooth aquatic surfaces.

Anglers lighting up surface water to attract insects, and therefore fish, might occasionally lure a big one: a hoary bat with a 16inch wing span. The biggest bat in Georgia “loves foraging above lakes,” Morris said. It especially craves large insects and will venture out for a cold night meal above the lake.

“Anything above the waters that attracts insects might also attract bats that want to eat the insects,” Morris said. “You will often see bats foraging around lights on warm, buggy nights.”

Other bat species around Lanier include: big brown (commonly seen hanging on attic eaves and shutters), silver-haired, evening, tri-colored, and Brazilian

free-tailed.

Bat exhibit turns myths upside-down Elachee Nature Science Center invites the public to the familyfriendly grand opening celebration of “Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats,” a traveling museum exhibition produced by Evergreen Exhibitions. The festivities are planned for Saturday, Feb.6, 1-4 p.m. and will include special presentations by a local

bat expert, live bat and other live animal demonstrations, batty children’s activities and a tour of the exhibit. Other First Saturday special events related to the bat exhibit will take place March 5, April 2 and May 7.

Elachee welcomes this bat extravaganza, its first traveling exhibition in more than a decade. The exhibit opened Jan. 16 and runs through May 8. Other First Saturday special events related to the bat exhibit will take place March 5, April 2 and May 7.

Based on the larger scale exhibition delighting audiences throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe, Elachee and annual corporate sponsor Murrayville Veterinary Clinic are excited to share this 2,500 square foot version of the exhibition with

the north Georgia community.

“I toured this exhibit while on vacation out of state and loved it, acting like a kid with the handson elements,” says Diana Fuller, Murrayville Veterinary Clinic office manager. “I learned a lot about bats that I didn’t know.”

From the special effects and multi-sensory interactive displays to environmentally life-like settings – including a Gothic castle – this exhibit walks visitors through centuries of mythic representations of bats by different cultures.

As well, photographic displays and video portray bats as diverse, beneficial mammals with fascinating skills and extraordinary abilities.

Dr. Merlin Tuttle, founder of Bat Conservation International See Bats, page 40

Masters of the Night Exhibit

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Bat models are among hands-on displays at the "Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats" traveling exhibit at Elachee Nature Science Center through May 8.

When: 1-5 p.m. Sunday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays through May 8. (Exhibit closed March 27) Where: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr., Gainesville Admission: $8, $4 Elachee Members. Special rates available for school field trips.

Grand Opening: Special festivities 1-4 p.m. Feb. 6 Information: 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org

Outdoor Activity Calendar Sunday N.H. Tech Rides, Gainesville. Base pace road bike rides averaging 40-60 miles roll out at 1:15 p.m. Sundays from North Hall Technology Center, 4175 Nopone Rd. or from other locations. Contact: velocraig@hotmail.com.

Wrenched Bicycle Shop Rides, Gainesville.

25, 40 and 60 mile rides, 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, 328 N. Bradford St. www.wrenchedbicycles. com.

ISI Cycling, Gainesville. Group road cycling for all speeds and levels in North Hall area, mountain biking at Chicopee Woods, www.isicycling.com.

Historic Dahlonega Ghost Walk. Two-hour guided tour of historic haunts includes local tales and countywide legends, 8-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, upstairs on porch, 19 E. Main St. $15 adults, $5 children. www.dahlonega.org, www.dahlonegawalkingtours.com.

Trail Crew Work, Gainesville. Work to improve nature center trails; tools and training provided; bring water, lunch and gloves, 10-3 p.m. Wednesdays, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Call to register. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

Masters of the Night: The True History of Bats, Gainesville. Traveling museum exhibit explores wonders of the bat world, 1-5 p.m.

Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays through May 3; grand opening special event 14 p.m. Feb. 6, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $8, $4 Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

Surf & Sun 5K, Cumming. Beach themed 5K 8:30 a.m. Feb. 6, West Bank Park, Buford Dam Rd. $25 early, $30 race day. www.fivestarntp.com.

Saturday Hike, Gainesville. Join Elachee

naturalist for a guided hike in Chicopee Woods, 10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 6, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $5 adults, $3 children 2-12, free to Elachee members and children younger than 2. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

Fun with Falconry, Helen. Short presentation and live hunt with falcons presented by Buster Brown, founder of Georgia Mountain Falconry, 2-5 p.m. Feb. 6, Buck Shoals at Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $45, $5 parking. Limit 15. Call to register, 706878-3087, www. gastateparks.org.

Brown Bag Lunch Series, Gainesville.

Bring a sack lunch for a talk about Trilliums of Georgia by Tom Patrick, State Botanist, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 12:30-2 p.m. Feb. 11, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Call for information or to reserve. $5 donation appreciated. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.

Second Saturday Guided Hike, Helen.

Hike at Smithgall Woods State Park, reservations required, 9-11 a.m. Feb. 13, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5 parking. 706-878-3087. www.gastateparks.org.

Suwanee Sweetheart 5K. 10 a.m. Feb. 13, Suwanee Town Center, 330 Town Center Ave. $28. www.runnersfit.com.

Hidden Gem Series, Tallulah Falls. Second in series of 12 unique hiking and paddling events at Tallulah Gorge State Park is .5 mile hike around Terrora Circle beginning at the old jail house, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 13, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Register in advance. $5. 706-7547981, www.gastateparks.org.

Stars Over Elachee at Chicopee Lake, Gainesville. View constellations, the moon, planets and stars, 6-8 p.m. Feb. 13, Elachee

Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Suggested for adults and children age 8 and older.

Bring flashlight and pencil. Register in advance, reserve a telescope. $10 adults, $5 children 2-12, free to Elachee members. www.elachee.org, 770- 535-1976.

Bird Hike, Gainesville. Elachee Nature Science Center education director Peter Gordon leads hike at Chicopee Lake to check off birds in the Great Back Yard Bird Count, 8-11 a.m.

Feb. 14, meet at lake parking area, 2080 Calvary Church Rd. Free. Bring binoculars; some binoculars provided. www.elachee.org, 770535-1976.

Embrace Race 5K Against Child Abuse, Gainesville. 5K 2 p.m., fun run 3 p.m., Feb. 14, Candler Field (behind City Park), 528 Prior St. $30. www.runnersfit.com.

Xterra Georgia Thrill in the Hills Half/Full Marathon, Winder. Trail races, 8 a.m. Feb. 20, Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S. Broad St. $40/$50 early, add $10 race day. www.dirtyspokes.com.

Kupcakes & Kandy 5K, Suwanee. 8 a.m.

Feb. 20, North Gwinnett Church, 4963 West Price Rd. $26. www.kupcake5K.com.

CASA Superhero 5K/1K, Cumming. 8/9 a.m. Feb. 20, Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way. $25/$10. www.active.com.

Currahee Mountain Relay for Life 10K, Toccoa. Race up and down gravel road on Currahee Mountain, 8 a.m. Feb. 20, Currahee Mountain, Hwy. 23. www.active.com.

Survival Preparation & Skills Class, Tallulah Falls. One day of classroom instruction, another of outside exercises focusing on psychology, equipment and planning for survival, includes information about edible plants,

venomous snakes and insects, shelter and fire building, and more, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Feb. 20 & 27, Buck Shoals at Tallulah Gorge State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $40 pre-registered by Feb. 13, $45 after. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org.

Little Heroes 1-mile, Dash, & 5K, Gainesville. 2:45/3:15/3:30 p.m. Feb. 21, American Legion, 2343 Riverside Dr. $25 early, $30 race day. www.runnersfit.com.

Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah Falls. Mile and a half night hike to suspension bridge over falls, 6:30-8:30 Feb. 22, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.

Cupcake Race, Cumming. Competitive 1mile 7:45 a.m., 5K 8 a.m. Feb. 26, Totally Running, 405 Peachtree Pkwy. $35 before Feb. 15, $40 after. www.totallyrunning.com.

Run Dahlonega 5K. 8:30 a.m. Feb. 27, University of North Georgia Drill Field, 82 College Circle. $25 by Feb. 12, $30 after. www.runnersfit.com.

Assault on Mt. Currahee, Cornelia. 36-mile “gravel grinder” mountain bike race from Cornelia up Mt. Currahee and back, finish with beer garden meal, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 27, Old Train Depot, 109 Grant Place. $70. www.chainbusterracing.com.

Run for Life 5K, Dahlonega. 10:30 a.m.

Feb. 27, GoMissionLife, 572 Miller Calhoun Rd. $25. www.active.com.

Athens 300K Brevet. 196.3 mile scenic bicycle ride on mostly quiet country roads from Athens to Georgia Guidestones in Elberton, 6 a.m. Feb. 27, Spring Hill Suites, 3500 Daniel Bridge Rd. $5. www.audaxatlanta.com.

- Compiled by Jane Harrison

February 2016

LAKESIDE 39

40 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Turn over a new leaf with challenging houseplants My friend Joe Lamp’l, aka joegardener.com, knows a thing or two about plants. His nationally syndicated “Growing a Greener World” is filled with plenty of useful information about all things green. His most recent newsletter struck a chord with me so I had to share it. I’m taking it to heart and I hope you will, too.

Entitled “Seven Ways to Kill a Houseplant,” his article hit a nerve with me. Plants outside are one thing, but growing them inside with challenging light conditions and indoor humidity, or lack thereof, can be daunting. I’m a self-confessed houseplant executioner. Joe’s taken the direct approach about what NOT to do with your indoor plants, so take heed: Over watering – the No. 1 killer of houseplants, it’s preventable by using your finger to test the moisture level of the soil before watering. If it’s damp, don’t water.

Low humidity – artificial heating and cooling robs plants of the 40 to 60 percent humidity plants need. Place plants on pebbles on a tray filled with water, but don’t let the pot sit directly in

thrive in warmer conditions.

However, direct heat and drafts Pamela A. can dry the soil. To protect your Keene plants, keep them away from drafty windows and heating vents.

Curb Ignore pests – bugs and bad Appeal things can live indoors too, coming in on your clothes or other plants. The most common are mealy bugs, aphids and white flies, which can be addressed MORE INFO: Email: using a mild soap-and-water bath pam@pamelakeene.com or a horticultural oil.

Let it become pot-bound – Roots can and probably will bewater or it may become watercome entwined in their containlogged. ers, even though the plant looks Insufficient light – A few houseplants can manage with low great above. Root-bound plants have a hard time getting water light, but generally plants prefer natural light. Choose a bright spot and nutrients, so it’s best to check PHOTO CREDIT: JORDAN CROSSINGHAM BRANNOCK the roots about once a year and near a window, preferably in a Joe Lamp'l at work in the garden. repot if necessary. Loosen the south-facing window, and rotate stuff. roots, add fresh soil and perhaps writer for Lakeside News and a the plant periodically to help all Pamela A. Keene is senior give it a slightly larger home.

Hall County Master Gardener. the leaves have light.

Don’t jump to many sizes when Over-fertilize it – Most you repot. houseplants don’t need a great Your plants will thank you for deal of fertilizer, and when you reading and following this advice.

Continued from Page 38 do fertilize, use a water-soluble type that’s more readily absorbed. And who knows, maybe you’ll (BCI), the recognized internahibitions.com) has created this turn over a new leaf as a houseMix and apply according to the tional leader in conservation and smaller exhibit in response to plant advocate. directions, fertilizing once or education initiatives protecting overwhelming demand from For more about Joe Lamp’l, twice a month. bats and their habitats, serves as smaller markets wishing to visit joegardener.com. By the Expose plants to drafts and scientific consultant. Evergreen bring this popular exhibit to way, he’s a North Georgia residirect heat – Because most Exhibitions (www.evergreenex- their communities. dent, and he really knows his houseplants are tropical, they

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Reserve Your Copy of Lake Lanier’s Early History Today!

Lake Lanier’s early history book is coming back! The history of the Buford Dam Project and Lake Sidney Lanier is now available as a pre-publication offer.* The current $59 pre-publication price is a 25% savings over the retail price of $79.

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This 9x12 hardback edition is beautifully packaged in its own multi-colored dust jacket. Inside you will find over 700 historical and contemporary photographs, many of which are new and were not part of the original prints. The history is also told through the use of diagrams, documents, interviews, letters, maps, newspaper articles and programs.

To order A Storybook Site: The Early History and Construction of Buford Dam and Lake Sidney Lanier, complete and mail the order form to the address listed below.

You can also purchase your advanced copy of Lake Lanier’s early history online at www.lakelanierhistory.com. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and order your copy today. *This advanced ordering offer could last up to 16 months; however ,the publisher expects to meet the goal much sooner than that. Should the pre-publication offer not raise the required money to print, then a full refund will be provided.

Name: __________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ City: ______________________ State: _______ Zip Code: ________ Number of Books Ordered: _________ Complete the pre-publication order form and mail it to the address below with a check or money order for $59 made payable to RDC Productions.

Mailing Address: RDC Productions 400 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 5 Box 113 Suwanee, GA 30024

42 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Solar lights to honor Lake Lanier stewards LLA wins award for programs

By Jane Harrison When David P. Day rallied his Lake Lanier and hiking friends to remember a deceased cohort with an illuminating tribute, he had no way of knowing he was only a few days from having the same honor bestowed upon him.

Lights honoring Day, 60, and Missy Leigh Anne Roseberry, 44, are planned to illumine the way for others on the lake they loved.

Friends of both, who died separately and unexpectedly last month, organized campaigns to remember them by donating to the Lake Lanier Association’s program to install solar lights on the lake.

Day, one of the first to donate in Roseberry’s honor, encouraged his Lanier and hiking buddies to remember her with shining beacons. A little more than a week later, they would do the same for him.

Both were boaters and lake advocates with many friends around Lake Lanier. Roseberry’s obituary said she was “enjoying living on the lake” prior to her death, which was unexplained. A condolence message from a donor to her light fund read: “It’s a wonderful way to honor her and makes our lake a safer place. May this effort bring some peace to her family and friends.”

Day, a leader in preserving Bolding Mill Park, died Jan. 16 while hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail near Dahlonega.

Hike Georgia sent members an email reporting he suffered an apparent heart attack on the hike he helped organize.

Donors to the gofundme account in his honor wrote of his passion for the lake, calling him a “true steward of the lake” and declaring “You will now be every boater’s shinning light.”

LLA executive director Joanna Cloud described the memorials as “a lovely way to remember” those who have special connections with the lake. She said Day and Roseberry were active stakeholders and well-known around the lake. Prior to their memorials, four other individuals had been honored posthumously with light installations for their dedication to Lanier.

LLA’s solar light sponsorship program helps purchase, install and maintain lights on hazard markers on the lake. It had installed 184 lights as of December, mainly south of Browns Bridge, and recently in the War Hill Park vicinity of Dawson County.

Those desiring to donate in Roseberry’s or Day’s honor may do so at: www.gofundme.com/xxtrfp37 or www.gofundme.com/zrjushh8.

The Lake Lanier Association was recently awarded first place in the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation’s statewide Community Greening contest. The award was related to the organization’s efforts with the annual Shore Sweep event on Lake Lanier as well as abandoned dock and vessel programs. Joanna Cloud (holding plaque) received the award during ceremonies on December 16th in Atlanta.

Also pictured is (l-r) Forsyth Commissioner Cindy Mills, Bonny Putney Lake Lanier Association Board Member, and Kevin Smith of Keep Forsyth County Beautiful.

Lakeside Calendar February 2016 Feb. 1-May 14 – Mastering Dance Moves offered at Holly Theater in Dahlonega: Feb. 2May 10 – Class for children ages 8-12, 5:306:30 p.m.; Feb. 4-May 12 – Class for children ages 13-18, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Feb. 1-May 9 – Principles of Ballet for children ages 8 and older, 5-6 p.m. on Mondays. Recitals for these classes will be held 2 p.m. on May 14. Feb. 1May 9 – Dance for Fitness for ages 8 and older, 6-7 p.m. on Mondays. Info: hollytheater.com.

Feb. 5-19 – ConnectAbility photo show: “A Thousand Words Photography Project,” displayed at Bowen Center for the Arts, 334 Ga. 9 N. Dawsonville. Info: dawsonarts.org; 706-2162787.

Feb. 16 – Veterans workshop held 1-3 p.m. at Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 2 Chattahoochee Srasse, Helen. Free. Info: helenarts.org; 706-878-3933.

Feb. 5-14 – “Harvey” presented by Habersham Community Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. Info: habershamtheater.org; 706-839-1315.

Mar. 12 – An Encore Evening with John McDermott at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. NW, Gainesville. Info: fbcgainesville.org.

Brenau University Thru Mar. 17 – The Prints of Jasper Johns displayed in Simmons Visual Arts Center, Sellars Gallery. Free.

Thru Apr. 21 – Postwar Modernists displayed in John S. Burd Center’s Leo Castelli Gallery. Free.

Info: www.brenau.edu.

Buford Community Center Feb. 11-28 – “The Savannah Sipping Society,” premieres for the first time in the Sylvia Beard Theatre. Tickets: $20-$25.

Info: 770 945-6762, www.bufordcommunitycenter.com.

Cumming Playhouse Feb. 12-14 – “Russo, Noe and Friends,” a wildly romantic valentine weekend.

Mar. 12, 13 – “Mayberry Moments,” The Mayberry Deputy/Patty & David Browning.

Info/times: 770-781-9178; www.playhousecumming.com.

Gainesville Theatre Alliance Thru Feb. 20 – “Once on this Island,” at Hosch Theatre, 429 Academy St., Gainesville.

Tickets: $12-$24.

Thru Feb. 20 – “Dracula,” at UNG Gainesville Ed Cabell Theatre, 3850 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood. Tickets: $12-$20.

Info: 678-717-3624; gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Mar. 5 – Josh Turner Apr. 9 – Zerbini Family Circus Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.

Interactive Neighborhood Kids Feb. 1-7 – Groundhog’s Day Week, make groundhog craft, learn about holiday.

Feb. 8-14 – Valentine’s Day Week, make valentines all week.

Feb. 15-21 – President’s Day Week, learn about presidents and create crafts.

Feb. 22-28 – Owl Craft Week, have fun learning about owls and make an owl puppet.

Info: www.inkfun.org.

North Atlanta Trade Center Feb. 6 – Atlanta Lovers Rock featuring Lyfe Jennings, Romain Virgo, Christopher Martin & Ghost.

Feb. 13-14 – Atlanta’s Exotic Bird Fair Feb. 20-21 – Eastman’s Gun Show Info: www.northatlantatradecenter.com Northeast Georgia History Center Feb. 9 – Veterans of Desert Storm at 7 p.m. features a panel of veterans of the 1990-91 war against Saddam Hussein during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Admission: $3, members, free.

Feb. 14 – Family Day: Revolution! Georgia and the War of Independence. Explore the reality of life during wartime for Georgians and the South in general with Museum Theatre per-

formances, hands-on activities, living history interpretation, and demonstrations of 18th century military arms. Time: 1 p.m.

Feb. 23 – Suffer and Grow Strong: A reading and book signing by Dr. Carolyn Curry held at 5:30 p.m. See and hear the story Dr. Curry tells of a remarkable Georgia woman who kept diaries from 1848 to 1889. Reception held 5:30-645 p.m. with presentation to follow in the John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts.

Info: www.negahc.org.

fresh from artist’s studios for the New Year.

Feb. 27-April 8 – Spring Juried Art Exhibit 2016. Opening reception and celebration on Feb. 27 from 5-8 p.m.

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

Quinlan Arts Center Mar. 5 – 38th Annual Gala Fine Art Auction, Artist Roseta Santiago will be the 2016 Artist Guest of Honor.

Mar. 18 – Kiwanis Visual Arts Showcase of Youth Art Month 2016 reception held 5:30-7 p.m., where all competing artwork will be displayed.

Thru Feb. 20 – Winter Exhibitions: UNG DoVA Faculty Exhibition, artists Ann Goble and Amanda Lovett “Ranchlands; Embracing the West,” artist Diane Speight “Reconstructed,” and The Georgia Art League Juried Exhibition.

Info: www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Club UYC LLSC LARC SSC LLSC UYC LLSC LARC LLSC SSC SSC LLSC UYC

University of North Georgia Thru Feb. 11 – “Tigerlilly” by Kent Knowles, displayed in Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, Oakwood campus.

Feb. 11-Mar. 11 – “Circle of Rivers” by Piedmont College Michi Meko, displayed in Bob Owens Art Feb. 4 – Ensemble Aubade performs at 7:30 Gallery, Dahlonega campus.Info: p.m. in the Center for Worship & Music www.ung.edu.

Feb. 11-14 – “The Invisible Man” is an upVoices of North Georgia dated version of the H.G. Wells classic pre Mar. 4 – “Let’s Go to the Hop!” a mid-seasented in the Swanson Center Mainstage son fund-raising event performed at 7 p.m. at Theater. Admission: $10, adults, $5, seniors Gainesville Civic Center Ballroom, 830 Green and students. Time: 7:30 p.m., Feb. 11-13; 2 St., Gainesville. p.m., Feb. 14.

Apr. 22, 23 – “Make His Praise Glorious” Feb. 16 – Faculty Recital: Andrea M. Price, performed at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Soprano; Philip Hayner, Pianist, perform at Church, 431 Washington St. NE, Gainesville.

7:30 p.m.

Info: 678-591-1545; Thru Feb. 29 – Gina Phillips, a mixed VoicesofNorthGeorgia.com. media, narrative artist, exhibits in the Mason Scharfenstein MOA FEBRUARY SAILING CALENDAR Info: 706-894-4201; piedmont.edu.

Tannery Row Artist Colony Thru Feb. 12 – Artist’s Studio Works, art

Event Day/Date Hot Ruddered Bum Sat 2/6 Laser Frostbite #6 Sun 2/7 Winter #4 - SSC Hosts Sat 2/13 Ice Breaker #5 Sat 2/13 Laser Frostbite #7 Sun 2/14 UYC Winter 3 Sun 2/14 Flying Tiger #2 S/S 2/20-21 Winter #5-BFSC Hosts Sat 2/20 Laser Frostbite #8 Sun 2/21 Nippert #1 Sun 2/21 Nippert #2 Sat 2/27 Laser Southerns Reg S/S 2/27-28 UYC Winter 4 Sun 2/28

For the complete 2016 sailing calender, visit our website at www.lakesidenews.com/sailing-calendar.

February 2016

LAKESIDE 43

Estrada and TowBoatUS win national honors

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By Pamela A. Keene There’s good news and a little disappointment. For only the second time in nearly 15 years, Robert Estrada and his Lake Lanier TowBoatUS operation has not been awarded the national Dispatcher of the Year from BoatUS. But never you mind, the award he received this year from the BoatUS Foundation is a keeper.

Estrada brought home the organization’s “Distinguished Tower (Tow-er, like towing) Award” in recognition of his community service and support of the industry.

“This award is given to one operator in the whole US fleet of between 250 and 300 fresh-water and coastal towers,” he said.

“It is really a great honor.”

The foundation cited Estrada for his ongoing work in the community, from working with the Lake Lanier Association to remove abandoned boats from the lake and the shoreline to teaching kindergartners about boating and water safety.

He’s been the driving force behind Lanier’s Life Jacket Loaner Program, housed at Hideaway Bay Marina, the lake’s only coop marina with BoatUS. “Anyone who has an infant or toddler and needs a life jacket before going out on the lake can borrow one by coming by Hideaway Bay,” he said. “It is so important that youngster’s life jacket fit properly and this part of a national program sponsored by BoatUS.” Last year was another year of growth

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“We found a great 25-foot Safe Boat and boat it from the US Coast Guard,” he said. “It’s got all kinds of great equipment, including a hybrid towing collar and an enclosed tower house. The aluminum hulls are more durable and have a longer life. It’s probably overkill for the lake, but it’s pretty neat to have one on Lake Lanier.”

TowBoatUS on Lake Lanier is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. “We’ll come get you on Christmas Day if you need us,” he said.

“It’s what we do.” TowBoatUS monitors VHF Channel 16 and is reachable via phone at (770) 945-2884.

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44 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 45

Timber Trespass: Clarification of rules on public lands Many people who live adjacent to the public lands surrounding Lake Lanier may have misconceptions about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ polices involving the vegetation modification and tree removal. Some of this comes from residents who have lived at other Corps’ lakes and think the rules are the same here, or they fail to fully read and understand the conditions on the Shoreline Use Permit application they sign during change of ownership or reissue.

To be clear, the Corps does not allow any removal, limbing, or underbrushing of any vegetation on public property unless permitted under special circumstances.

The determination of special circumstances must be made by a ranger, who during a site visit, determines that a tree or other vegetation is a threat to safety or property. In this case, a written permit is issued to allow removal, modification or underbrushing.

This is called a Shoreline Use Permit and must be approved by the Operations Project Manager.

Other issues that require Shoreline Use Permits include any type of work or installation of facilities on public lands. These

Corbin Martin US Army Corps of Engineers

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

items are prohibited: clearing trees or understory vegetation, planting of non-native plants or ornamental vegetation, grading or land-disturbing activities, or placing items such as swings, picnic tables, benches, storage sheds or boat trailers on public lands.

Lake Lanier rangers discover an average of three to four major timber trespasses, the deforestation of public lands, each year, typically during dock permit inspections or renewals. Additionally rangers identify between seven and 10 other issues that fall into this category, such as unpermitted underbrushing or removal of limbs. Add that to areas that were previously cut and have failed to re-establish naturally,

and the number grows to five to 10 per month.

Penalties for violating these rules can run upwards of tens of thousands of dollars in fines because of damage to public lands.

Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations Section 327 also allows for the issuance of a citation. The regulations require that the area affected be restored; the number of trees to be replanted depends on the number and sizes of trees removed. Fines are determined by rangers who use a nationally recognized tree-appraisal formula that takes into account the tree size, the location and the condition of the tree.

The area will also be designated as a “restoration area” and flagged with two yellow markers, one facing the lake and the other on the property line facing the residence. The Corps may also file a Notice of Encroachment with the permittee’s county of residence. The property owner may be required to remove their dock until the matter is appropriately resolved.

For questions about Shoreline Use regulations, please call the Lanier Project Office at 770-9659531.

New series begins focusing on actual training methods This month begins a series of actual training not only found on Steve US Coast Guard Mercator chartJohnson ing exams, but something that you need to be aware of when opBoating erating your vessel in all locaSafety tions. We would all agree that the main objective is for the boat to go the direction you are intending it to travel. That can be a tall order sometimes depending on MORE INFO: the variety of elements that could stevejohnson@navteach.com cause it to move from that path.

Blog: www.navteach.com Keeping in mind the three things a navigator has to do: 2. What they will see on the way 1. Know where they are going 3. What time they will get there.

Given the fact that a “picture is worth a thousand words” the accompanying diagram explains in simple and direct detail. Bottom line: most of the time you will never reach your initial destination without some type of correction in course, speed, or both. It is your responsibility to know how much change to supplement and get the desired results.

It’s all part of the science of navigation and is available for you to enjoy and learn in many formats and media. If you want to discover more about your vessel, how to identify hazards, improve collision avoidance then please contact me for more information.

Next month the training series will explain more in detail how to acquire this skill set and utilize basic methods to not only recognize Set and Drift, but use it to your advantage.

Steve Johnson, US Coast Guard (ret). is with CPO Johnson, Inc.

Fees increase for event and shoreline uses; rules may change for irrigation

By Pamela A. Keene The 1,708 dock permit holders who also have permits to use water from Lake Lanier for irrigation have a reprieve, thanks to actions by Georgia Congressman Doug Collins. In January, the Corps announced that it would not be renewing irrigation permits as they expired because of the need to bring Lanier and other Corps lakes into compliance with federal law.

Collins met with numerous constituents from his district, which includes Lanier and Lake Hartwell, after the announcement was made. He then contacted the Corps of Engineers for an explanation.

In a news release from his office, issued on January 20, Collins reports: “Immediately following news of the January 1 decision, I publically called on the Corps to explain their decision and release all legal documents pertaining to the announced change to shore line management plans,” the letter read.

“While the Corps initially failed to behave in a transparent manner, they’ve responded to our criticism and reversed the course. The Corps will now suspend implementation of changes to irrigation policy and has committed to instituting a public comment period prior to implementing additional policy changes. This is a win for property owners across Northeast Georgia.”

Other fees have increased at the Buford Dam project, including day-use admission for private vehicles, which was previously either $3 or $4 depending on the amenities at each park. The fee for 2016 and 2017 is $5. Bike and walk-in fees are now $2, up from $1.

Annual passes have increased from $30 to $40 that provide access to parks, swimming and boat launches.

“The changes are the result of a review by the Corps of its fee structure and are designed to be comparable to those charged by other local providers

with similar facilities,” said Lisa Parker, deputy of public affairs with the Mobile District office.

The fees have not changed since 2002.

Special Use Event and Activities fees have gone up and are based on the number of participants. Events with less than 50 participants will require a $50 fee; events with 50 or more participants have increased to $75. For instance, a fishing tournament with 50 or more boats will require a $75 permitting fee. The range for a Special Facility Use Permit for picnic shelters is now $50 to $90.

The Corps now sells the Interagency American the Beautiful Pass at its Buford office. At a cost of $80 for 12 months these passes cover entrance to a variety of parks and facilities managed by the following agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Fish & Wildlife Service, USDA Forest Service and National Park Service.

The good news is that the policy changes provide for the funds to remain with the project office instead of being deposited in the government’s general fund. “The new policy allows the fees collected from the Interagency Federal Lands Pass, that occur at this office, and the fees collected from all Special Use Permits to be returned to this office,” said Tim Rainey, Operations Project Manager with the Buford Dam Project office. “This will allow us to recover the costs for administering these programs.”

Receipts from the sale of the Interagency America the Beautiful Passes are available to maintain, repair and enhance recreation facilities at the project they are purchased, according to the Corps’ news release.

The Corps will again review the fee structure within the next year to determine whether changes will be made for 2018 and beyond.

MORE INFO: 770-945-9531

Visit Our Website: www.lakesidenews.com

46 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Norton: Full lake equals happy homeowners and visitors to Lanier

By Pamela A. Keene Full lake. These two words are music to real estate prognosticator Frank Norton’s ears. “I love a too-full lake,” he said. “It really makes you start to appreciate what this lake can be if it’s kept at 1072 all the time.”

Norton, who unveiled his 2016 Norton Forecast in mid-January at the Gainesville Civic Center, spent a little time with Lakeside after the event and elaborated on all things Lake Lanier. He addressed a number of issues, from dock permits to Corps’ policies regarding irrigation from the lake.

He also spoke of the merits of increasing the lake’s full pool from 1071 to 1073, an idea supported by the Lake Lanier Association for the past several years.

“I called for the lake level to be raised two feet long before the Lake Lanier Association called for it,” he said. “As we’ve seen in January with all the rains, when the lake has reached as high as 1074 – in even for a minute at close to 1075 – we’ve now learned the merits of two more feet of water and what needs to be fixed, things like electrical, positions of docks, marinas, activities, and such. 1074 may be over full, but this has been a good learning

experience.”

The recent announcement by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prohibiting the use of water from Lake Lanier for irrigation – and its subsequent rescission – also drew comments from Norton. “It, in many ways, shows us that the Corps owns this lake and can do whatever it wants with the lake,” he said. “The true control of Lanier is not with those who enjoy it, but the government and bureaucracy. The noise got the action overturned and delayed, but it’s still clear that we don’t control the lake.” Norton urged residents to be vigilant and participate in the public comment period that the Corps has committed to undertake about the issue.

“Be loud and noisy to be heard.”

The realization that the dock permit limit has most likely been reached lends itself to other comments from Norton. “It means that the haves have (a dock) and the have-nots won’t ever get one,” he said. “That’s the bottom line, isn’t it? The good news is that property values for the haves will increase faster.”

At his presentation, Norton took the audience back to a time before the lake and what the region would be like without it.

“There would be no Lake Lanier, no community aqua playground, no new hydro-electric source and no engine to stir community growth,” he said. Additionally, the region would continue to be farmland and the poultry industry would be a fraction of its size.

Gainesville would still have its 9-

hole Lake Warner Golf Course and there would not be the 60some-odd parks and campgrounds, the 10 marinas or the specialty recreation areas. He went on to explain that Atlanta’s growth and economy would have been adversely affected.

“Lake Lanier is energy; its vi-

tality is the glue that holds us together (economic, social, cultural and political) and at the same time Lake Lanier is a spark to ignite the human spirit over decades and generations to come,” he said.

“It drives jobs, builds community and creates connectivity. Lake Lanier is life – our life.”

• Real Estate Continued from page 30

they will be over 5 percent by the end of 2016.

Not only will that impact the price a homebuyer can afford, it may knock them out of the market altogether. Home prices continue to outpace wages, and there will continue to be a relative shortage in new construction for years to come. So many builders went out of business during the recession, they’ve either changed careers or still find it challenging to get financing for projects. The contentious presidential election, shaky global economy and disturbing news from the Middle East may also affect consumer confidence.

Experts are projecting a

modest increase in the U.S. real estate market in 2016. They cited a 1-3 percent growth estimate, depending on national and world events. The lake market is particularly susceptible to these factors.

After all, it is a luxury to live on the lake; and, in tough times, luxuries are the first thing to go. So, we are expecting the number of transactions and the average home price to grow modestly in 2016, around 1 percent. South lake will continue to be the hottest market; but, Gainesville’s recent growth in retail and restaurants may make that area more desirable and give that market a boost.

Bottom line: If you’re planning on selling a house, you’d be

well-advised to do it early in the year. When rates hit 5 percent, the demand will decrease, especially in higher price ranges. If you’re planning on buying a lake house, start looking now.

Lock in a low mortgage rate and try to close before summer. The Lake Lanier real estate market will continue to flourish in 2016, but it will face a number of challenges. Be sure to consider that as you make your plans for the coming year.

Bev Knight is lead agent for The Good Life Group, Lake Lanier specialists at Keller Williams Lanier Partners. You can email her at bevknig@bellsouth.net, or visit www.HousesOnLanier.net.

Lakeside’s Safety Page A GUIDE TO BOATING AND SWIMMING SAFETY RESOURCES PRESENTED BY LAKESIDE ON LANIER BOATING Boater Education Courses with Certification Exam Basics of Boating - America's Boating Course • Course: Meets Georgia DNR and NASBLA requirements for boater and PWC certification; covers boat handling, safety equipment/procedures, rules of the road, boat types/terminology.

• Instructors: Atlanta Sail and Power Squadron • When/Where: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; February 6 - Singleton Marine Group; May 21 - Lake Lanier Army Corps office; July 16 - Lake Allatoona Army Corps office; August 20 - Lake Lanier Army Corps office • Cost: $20 per student; Reference text is available for an additional $20 • Information/registration: www.atlantasboatingclub.com or Email - ABC@usps-atlanta.org Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification - USCGA • Course: NASBLA certified entry level classroom-only course with test for boater education and PWC certification. Covers basic boating terminology, “rules of the road,” navigation, operation, legal requirements, emergencies, water etiquette and more.

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

• When: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Bring sack lunch) Feb. 13 • Where: U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 29, 6595 Lights Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch • Cost: Individuals $35. Family discount - 2 or more members $25 each • Private lessons also available for groups or organizations outside normal schedule by calling Flotilla Commander Joe Edwards, 404-775-2608.

• Information/registration: http://a0700209.uscgaux.info/public_education.php. Pre-registration required. Contact Ricky Ashe, Public Education Officer, at 770 833-8935/ flotilla29pe@gmail.com.

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

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.

Other Boater Education Opportunities (Certification exam not included) • Professional Tutoring: Captain’s Training, 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, 770-3120989.

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

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.

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

February 2016

LAKESIDE 47

Here’s how you can give Georgia wildlife a chance Conserving wild creatures and wild places depends mainly on you, the Georgians who enjoy them.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Nongame Conservation Section is charged with conserving endangered and other native animals not legally fished for or hunted, as well as rare plants and natural habitats.

This vital work involves hundreds of species of conservation concern and is primarily funded by public contributions, fundraisers and grants.

Consider giving to conserve Georgia wildlife. Here are four easy ways: • Buy or renew an eagle or hummingbird license plate. Sales and renewals of these tags are the No. 1 fundraiser for the Georgia Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund, created to conserve nongame animals, plants and habitats. DNR wildlife plates cost only $25 more than a standard plate and most of that fee goes directly to help wildlife. Upgrade to an eagle or hummer plate for only $25 and show your support.

• Contribute directly to the Wildlife Fund. Donations are deductible to the extent allowed by law.

• Purchase a “Calls of the Wild: Vocalizations of Georgia’s Frogs” CD. The CD explores the sounds and life histories of the 32

frog and toad species found in our state. Included is 24-page booklet packed with species profiles, photographs and range maps.

• Join TERN, the Nongame Conservation Section’s friends group. The Environmental Resources Network (www.tern.homestead.com) has provided more than $1 million for nongame work.

From bog turtles in North Georgia to shorebirds on the coast, nongame wildlife and natural habitats enhance Georgians’ quality of life. More than 2.2 million state residents 16 or older spent time observing, photographing or feeding wildlife in 2011, according to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service survey.

Nongame Conservation Section Chief Jon Ambrose said conservation of nongame species and their habitats enjoyed by wildlife watchers “is made possible by the generosity of Georgia’s citizens.”

To order a frog CD, please send $14.84 to Ga. DNR Wildlife Resources Division, Nongame Conservation Section, 116 Rum Creek Drive, Forsyth, GA 31029, ATTN: Calls of the Wild CD. The price includes $.80 in sales tax (Georgia residents only) and $2.59 for shipping. Make checks payable to: Georgia Wildlife Conservation Fund. Sales proceeds go to the fund. Call (478) 994-1438 for details.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF: GA DNR

Eagle along the Altamaha, above.

Purchase a “Calls of the Wild: Vocalizations of Georgia’s Frogs” CD to help conserve Georgia wildlife.

48 LAKESIDE

February 2016

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. - Thurs, 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. B3, 678-482-1662.

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

This Southern Gastro Pub features re-imagined traditional Southern fare and variety of drink options from full-service bar. Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770-945-8787.

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille – Casual lakeside dining featuring grouper fingers, signature salads and much more. Full service indoor and outdoor bar with live music. Open Wed.-Sun. for lunch & dinner. 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.

Pig Tales - Casual lakeside dining featuring BBQ, burgers, wings and more. Great customer service, full service bar with draft beer, wine & mixed drinks, live music on weekends. Seasonal. Reopens Mar. 1. Aqualand Marina, Flowery Branch. C-3,678-828-7676, www.PigTales LakeLanier. com.

Sidney’s Restaurant (formerly Windows) – Located at Legacy Lodge & Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and overlooks Lake Lanier. Appetizers, entrees, and deserts using the finest ingredients from local and family owned farms from around the South Guests may arrive by boat or car. Buford. B-3, 770945-8787, www.lanierislands.com.

Skogies – Made from scratch seafood, BBQ and American fare with a great view served in a laid back pet friendly environment. 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: Fri, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun, 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Mon - Thurs, closed. 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 Apr.-Oct., Nightly 5-10 p.m. Dec.-Feb. 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. Boardwalk eateries: Dockside Bar & Sunset Cantina (Tex-Mex), Sweet Water Shrimp Shack, Paradise Fruit & Smoothies. By water, Sunset Cove is between buoys 7SC and 5SC. www.lanierislands.com. Buford. B-3, 770-9458787.

The Twisted Oar - Holiday Marina. Offering fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak; casual dining. Full bar service, tropical and frozen drinks. Live entertainment, trivia, indoor/out-

door flat screen TVs. www.facebook.com/ twistedoar, C-3, 678 714-7572 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. 5510 Church Street, 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 CooCoo’s Nest with an extended bar menu and drink specials. 1920 Freedom Pkwy., just off Ga. Hwy. 400, Cumming. A-3, 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. Take out available. 5466 McEver Rd., Flowery Branch, C-3, 678-828-8345 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. C3, www.coastalbreezega.com, 770-945-9181.

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

220 Main Street SW, Gainesville. C-2, 678-9892280.

Foster House – Restaurant and special events facility. Breakfast Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-10 a.m.; Lunch Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2, Sun. lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dinner - Country buffet and music, Fri. 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. 305 West Main St., 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. Casual.

365 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming. A-3, 770-8860100.

Two Dog Café – Classic small town diner with an emphasis on fresh food and fast service for lunch and dinner. 317 Spring St. Gainesville. C2, 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). 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. 1810 S. Chestatee St., 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.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 5 p.m. 10:30 p.m. Live piano music Thurs.-Sat. 15 East Main St., Buford. B-3, 678 754-0379.

Aqua Terra Bistro – European fusion cuisine

served daily. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; noon-2:30 p.m., Sat.; Dinner 5-10 p.m., Mon.-Sun. 55 East Main St., Buford. No reservations. B-3, 770-271-3000.

Blue Bicycle – Chef owned and operated bistro.

Open Tue.-Sat.; Lunch 11 a.m-4 p.m.; Dinner 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Reservations are suggested. Located on 30 Industrial Park Rd, Dawsonville, B1, 706-265-2153.

Corkscrew Café – Fine dining featuring varied menu choices, open lunch and dinner. Hours: Tues.-Fri.; 4 p.m.-11 p.m., Sat./Sun. Brunch11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner 4-11 p.m. 51 West Main St., Dahlonega. 706-867-8551.

Luna’s – Continental cuisine, romantic atmosphere. 200 Main St., Gainesville. C-2, 770-5310848.

Oar House in Dahlonega – Specialties: handcut steaks, seafood dishes and homemade desserts, “everything homemade from the bread to the pickles.” 3072 Hwy 52, 4 miles east of Dahlonega. D-1. Closed for renovations. 706864-9983.

Poor Richard’s – Specializing in Prime Rib, steaks, ribs and fresh seafood. Casual dining, dinner only. Full-service bar. 1702 Park Hill Dr., Gainesville. C-1, 770-532-0499.

Scott’s Downtown – Upscale casual ambience with specialty sandwiches for lunch and gourmet entrees for dinner. 131 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville. C-2. 770-536-1111.

Sperata - Continental fine dining in its 11th year. Private dining available. Lunch Mon.-Sun. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner 4:30 p.m. Mon.Sat., Sun. 2:30-9 p.m. Buford. B-4. 678 7657911, www.speratarestaurant.com.

Barbecue/Country/Home Cooking Johnny’s BBQ – Real Pit BBQ pork, chicken & ribs. Brunswick stew. Minutes from Clark’s Bridge rowing venue. 1710 Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. Casual. D-1, 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. 5774 Holiday Rd., Buford.

B-3, 770-945-8608.

Deli Common Grounds Coffee Shoppe – Light

breakfast, lunch and dinner and desserts followed by fresh roasted coffee. 5510 Main St., 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 Mon. nights, half-price appetizers from 5-7 p.m. on Tues. and endless pasta on Weds. Dominick’s is open Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch; Dinner : Sun.-Thur. 59 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5-10 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; Nightly 5-10 p.m. Dec-Feb. www.lanierislands. com. Buford.

B-3, 770-945-8787.

Piazza – Features traditional Italian dishes, homemade raviolis, pizza, chicken, veal and seafood specialities. Open 7 days a week: 11;30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun.-Thurs.; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri./Sat. Located on 24 East Main St., Dahlonega. B-1. 706-867-9881.

Vinny’s New York Pizza & Grill – New Yorkstyle 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, 678-482-9966.

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

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. 2096 Buford Dam Rd., Buford. B4, 770-945-3350.

February 2016

LAKESIDE 49

Lake Lanier Marinas Info

AQUALAND MARINA

GAINESVILLE MARINA

Hours of operation: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week 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., 7 days a week Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane Price of fuel: (as of 1/23/16) $3.69 On-site eatery: Pig Tales (Seasonal) Menu: BBQ, burgers, wings and more 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.

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 1/23/16) $3.89 ((Dock open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 7 days a week; pay at pump until dark) On-site eatery: Skogies Menu: BBQ, 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 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 1/23/16) $3.59 premium; $3.69 diesel Security: 24/7 surveillance monitoring Full Service Department: Barefoot Boating, 770-820-5949 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, in-slip 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 1/23/16) $3.64; $2.69 diesel (Dock open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tues., Thurs., Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat., Sun. Closed Mon./Wed.) On-site eatery: Lenny’s Sub Shop (Seasonal) Menu: Sub sandwiches, salads, party packs and more 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.

Hours of operation: , 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Closed Sun. (Winter Hours) Phone: 770-887-5432 Website: www.habershammarina.com Location: 2200 Habersham Marina Rd., Cumming Types of slips available: 600 slips for dry storage up to 28’ Store: Yes Types of fuel: 90 Recreational fuel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/23/16) $3.35 Security: Yes Additional amenities: Repair services, detailing and bottom cleaning. Also bathroom and shower facilities are available.

HIDEAWAY BAY MARINA Hours of operation: Office/Store/Dock, 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 Type of Fuel: 90 octane, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/23/16) $3.25 On-site eatery: Fish Tales Lakeside Grille Menu: Grouper fingers, sandwiches, salads and more Security: 24/7 manned security Showroom: Atlanta Marine Additional amenities: Full Maintenance, Repair and Service on site: Harbor Marine & Associates. Bathhouse w/ locked showers and AC, laundry, pump out, trailer storage.

talling 1238 Slips Store: Yes; Convenience items and basic boating supplies.

Types of fuel: Premium, unleaded & diesel, non-ethanol Price of fuel: (as of 1/23/16): $4.69 premium; $3.59 unleaded; $2.99 diesel (5 percent discount with Westrec advantage membership) On-site eatery: The Twisted Oar Menu: Fresh seafood to savory chicken and steak Phone: 678 714-7572 Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Boat rentals, repair service, pumpout station, boat sales, TowBoat US

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 1/23/16) $3.65 On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill (Seasonal) Menu: Burgers and more 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 Tuesday Phone: 770-536-8599 Website: www.sunrisecovermarina.com Location: 5725 Flat Creek Rd., Gainesville Types of slips available: Uncovered-20-70'; Covered-2450'; 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 1/23/16) $3.59 with 5 percent off with Westrec Advantage Membership On-site eatery: Rico’s (Seasonal) Menu: Trolly Cart style dining Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Club House, bath house, laundry facility and pump-out open 24/7.

SUNSET COVE MARINA

HOLIDAY MARINA Hours of operation:Office/Store/Dock, 8:30-5 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 to-

Hours of operation: Closed Oct. 1-April 1 Phone: 678 304-3157 Website: www.lanierislands.com Location: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy.

Types of slips available: 40’x16’ covered, floating concrete dock Store: Yes Types of fuel: 89 & 93 octane, w/Valvetech Price of fuel: Closed Oct. 1-April 1 On-site eatery: Various restaurants at Lanier Islands Security: 24/7 Additional amenities: Lanier Islands

50 LAKESIDE

February 2016

Eufaula has maintained its quaint, small town feel My first visit to Eufaula, Alabama to fish in a big bass tournament was over 45 years ago, and winning the competition had nothing to do with falling in love with both Lake Eufaula and this sleepy Southern town built on the high bluffs of the Chattahoochee River.

In a recent return, I pleasantly discovered that except for modern cars and different businesses, the historic center of this picturesque village with its stately antebellum mansions is still intact. Even the people tend to move to a slower beat that was more prevalent during my younger years.

This gorgeous old city was first settled in 1816 and built on the site of a former Creek Indian village. It is home to numerous structures that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places ... most being immaculately restored mansions of the Old South. The most famous of these is the Shorter Mansion that was constructed on the main highway through town in 1884 and completely renovated in 1906. The Classic Revival type house was bought by the Eufaula Heritage Association at auction in 1965, and now serves as the headquarters of the oldest tour of homes in Alabama.

Another of the famous homes in Eufaula is the antebellum Italianate mansion, Fendall Hall, which was built in 1860 by businessman E.B. Young and re-

Bill Vanderford Travel Editor

MORE INFO: 770-289-1543 JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com ALL PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD

mained in the family for five generations until 1973. It was purchased by the Alabama Historical Commission at that time to become a house museum to show period furnishings that include marble mantles and a black and white tiled entryway.

Historians love to wander through the grave stones in the old Fairview Cemetery that contain the remains of all of the notable families who settled this area. The huge marble statues with diverse designs not only show the wealth of these people, but display the artistic values of the Italian stone cutters who made them.

Because the cemetery is located on a high bluff overlooking Lake Eufaula, it is a reverent place to reflect and combine the wonders of nature as well. This old burial ground also has a sec-

Old downtown Eufaula, above.

Deer in Fairview Cemetary, right.

tion that is reserved for those of the Jewish faith, which is not found in many Southern cemeteries.

Since the dam was constructed on the Chattahoochee River in 1963, Lake Eufaula has been a huge attraction to bass fishermen from all over the world. It is a 45,000 acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundment that straddles the border between Georgia and Alabama. Also, the lock at Ft. Gaines, Georgia has the second highest drop east of the Mississippi River, and on the northern section of the lake the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge

is a birding paradise.

Not far from downtown Eufaula is the Lakepoint Resort State Park, a 1,220 acre park that has a lodge, convention center, modern campground, vacation cabins and lakeside cottages. It also offers a complete marina, launch ramps, boat slips and fishing guide services. Lakepoint is the site of numerous bass and crappie fishing tournaments and championships from the local to the national level.

Despite all these diverse opportunities, the highlight of any visit to Eufaula, Alabama, is be-

One of the many historic houses in Eufaula.

The Shorter Mansion.

Kendal Manor.

Fendall Hall.

Beauty along Lake Eufaula.

cause it is one of the most beautiful remaining examples of antebellum architecture in the Old South. So many of these preserved and restored homes are often open to the public, and the gracious people in this town are always happy to share their time with visitors. For more information, check their web site at: www.eufaulachamber.com.

Bill Vanderford has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide.

February 2016

LAKESIDE 51

Aqualand Marina gets new owners

By Pamela A. Keene One of the largest marinas anywhere has new owners. Aqualand Marina has been acquired by Safe Harbor Marinas, based in Dallas. The company owns 36 marinas across the country and is continuing to acquire others as part of its growth plan.

“The company was formed in 2015 and is backed by American Infrastructure MLP Funds,” said Patrick Kenney, who will remain at Aqualand as general manager.

“The organization is a blend of marine professional and the executive team has

more than 30-plus years of experience.”

The company purchased Aqualand last fall as part of a package that included buying all seven existing Flagship Marinas.

Kenney said that the marina will continue its improvement projects, including paving and replacing docks. “In all likelihood, we will be redoing our Master Plan and making more improvements.”

Aqualand is home to Pig Tales seasonal restaurant, Fish Tales Water Sports and Atlanta Yacht Sales, the brokerage and new boat sales division of Atlanta Marine.

• USCGA Continued from Page 8 jured had never operated a PWC or had done so only once.”

A new Georgia law originating on July 1, 2014, states that “any person born after January 1, 1998, must have completed a boat education course approved by the DNR before he or she may legally operate a motorized vessel on Georgia state waters.”

For those of you riding in a boat other than a PWC, keep a watch at all times while underway, for the PWC in

your vicinity may be operated by a limited experienced rider, or worse, a first time rider, on a “loaner”! For PWCs operators who may be reading this article, if you have not taken a safe boating course offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary, I urge you to get lined up with one as soon as possible by contacting: Flotilla 29 Lake Lanier at (770) 393-4382 or http://a0700204. uscgaux.info.

Roy Crittenden is the Public Affairs Officer for Flotilla 29.

View entire print edition online: www.laksidenews.com

NORMAN MOOLENAAR

PHIL BARTOE

Associate Vice President

Associate Broker

770-539-1994 Cell 770-718-5226 Office nmoolenaar@gonorton.com

770 536-1250

www.gonorton.com

770-757-7591 Cell 770-536-1250 Office pbartoe@gonorton.com

SELLING LAKE LANIER ONE DOCK AT A TIME Harbour Point Subdivision. Immaculate stepless ranch on a rare level lot. 4BR,3.5BA. Chefs kitchen

00

$649,0

NEW L

ISTING

!

Ranch with basement. Deep Water with Big water views, sought after Bald Ridge area

w/keeping rm & stone FP. Hdwd flrs

on south end of lake. Single

thru-out. 3BR on the main w/teen

slip dock with party deck.

suite up plus large bonus room. 3

Short level walk to dock. In

car garage. Gated/swim/tennis/

area of executive lake homes.

clubhouse/marina. Boat slip available.

00

$349,9

Spectacular Lake Views! Big water views and deep water access. Large, oversized S/S dock (32x32). Home has good bones, but needs some TLC. In an area of million $$ homes.

This is a great value!! A one plus acre lot with 100 ft of shoreline.

4BR/3BA, two masonry fireplaces.

00

$410,0

Rustic cottage on great water! Lots of potential for full time residence or week end fun.

Quiet neighborhood close to boat ramp. Single slip boat dock with party deck. Screened porch, large deck for entertaining with lake views.

00

$325,0

00

$189,9

Biscayne on Lanier - New upscale executive 8 lot subdivision in the confines of exclusive Lighthouse Harbour. A slip in the 35x35 covered dock w/party deck is included in the sale of the lot. What a great opportunity to be a part of a million dollar community.

Nice older brick home close to everything! On a very private level lot. 3BR/2BA on main. 2BR/1BA on terrace level. Hardwood floors, granite kitchen, screened porch, 2 masonry fireplaces, second kitchen, all new paint. Drive down to the single slip covered dock on open water. Great price!

00

$295,0

Holly Hill on Lake Lanier New upscale executive 11 lot neighborhood on Lanier's south lake sailing waters. 12 slip covered docks w/party deck, water & electricity. Paved cart path to dock. Estate sized los 1-2 plus acres. Only 3 left!!

GOT LAKE? WE LIST & SELL!

52 LAKESIDE

February 2016

EXIT 17 EXIT 16

11

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 11. Sunset Cove..............................678 304-3157

February 2016

LAKESIDE 53

Search All Lake Lanier Homes Here

Robin Gravitt

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Susan Moss ®

REALTOR susan@reladies.com 770-654-6661

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North Hall brick beauty on 2+/- acres. Great family home with 4BR/3.5BA, large bonus room. Wood floors on main level, open floor plan w/nice kitchen. Updated appliances, newer HVAC & roof. Finished terrace level & pre-wired for 2nd kitchen.

Perfect in-law/teen suite. Walking trail to lake. $3200 towards closing costs with preferred lender.

Always dreamed of living on Lake Lanier? This lake home, with single slip dock, is spacious enough for a primary residence or glorious weekend retreats. Features include 4 BR/4.5 bathrooms, master on main, open kitchen, front porch & exterior decks, finished terrace level, bonus room and double garage. Conveniently located to I-985, new Botanical Gardens, shopping, restaurants and Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Very easy walking path to dock. North side of lake close to Laurel Park with paved walking trails, picnic area, dog park and more.

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Gorgeous Lake Home on Point Lot with spectacular "take your breath away" views surrounding the property. This 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom home offers expansive, updated kitchen, vaulted grand great room, 2 fireplaces, 2 oversized screened porches, finished terrace level, professional landscaping, fenced back yard, hot tub and double slip dock with party deck located only a “stones throw away” from Gainesville Marina.

Ideal lake retreat located on big open water with double slip dock! Enjoy a stunning "A" frame, lodge style home sitting on Peninsula Point lot with short, easy footpath to private double dock, beachfront and water oasis! Home features detached garage; rock fireplace; hardwood floors; modern kitchen; back wall of windows; expansive wood deck for entertaining. Great location by land and water and at an unbeatable price.

00

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North Hall home located in prestigious North Gate Manor.

Custom built w/attention to detail throughout. Great home for growing family. Outdoor fireplace & patio & veranda. Paved dog pad w/side walk, 4 sides brick. Finished terrace level w/bar & ice maker. Many, many great features. Security.

,000

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This spacious home in Cresswinds offers upgrades galore...den/office (can be bedroom); large kitchen w/island & gas cooktop; great room; sunroom; wood floors & granite counters thru-out; dining room; unfinished bonus room & oversized concrete patio. Amenities: 3 story clubhouse; walking trails; marina; swim/tennis; pools; activities & more!

South Sailing Waters! Enjoy a charming South Lake Lanier cottage on highly desirable and much sought after lake lot with Army Corp line approx. 5ft from water’s edge! Features include, single slip covered dock w/party deck in deep water; big water views; 2 stone fireplaces; wood floors thru out; double decks; gas cooktop; stone countertops; sleeping loft and much more! Oozing with lots of lake charm & character and absolutely best “find” on Lake Lanier.

!

D L SO

Unique Lake Lanier Estate on 8 acres with 3500 sq ft detached garage/shop and double slip dock. Custom built home showcases expansive main floor living space with hardwood floors, library, furniture grade built-ins, grand master suite & bath featuring steam shower & dual shower heads. Beautifully detailed great room opens to covered veranda overlooking big open unobstructed views of water. Additional features include finished terrace level, “state of the art” 32x32 party deck dock and multi car garage/shop equipped with full kitchen and bath. A car collector and lake enthusiast’s dream home!

City of Gainesville Classic Brick Ranch - crafted to preserve the original character and design w/modern day flair. 1.39 acres.

Stately entrance hall; gracious size rms; gourmet kitchen w/antique island & stone c’tops; sun room w/ brick flrs; 3 FPs; keeping rm; Formal LR/DR; fin terrace lvl w/kitch; private front & back brick porch venues for entertaining.

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54 LAKESIDE

February 2016

• Rudderham Continued from Page 18 tronic limiter.

In my opinion I think PWCs are traveling too fast now. I look to see more accidents because of speed and unfamiliarity with the machine.

They now have what is called the intelligent brake and reverse system. It will rapidly slow the craft, ultimately bringing it to a stop in 160 feet which is a shorter distance than comparable makes. Electronic throttle gives more control, plus a cruise control lets you rest your throttle hand. Check with your dealer for a price and ride. Sounds like another reliable product from Bombardier.

Anglers Journal Anglers Journal, which I recommend

for all fishermen, will now be on television on Destination America, part of the Discovery Network. The show is hosted by respected angling personality and Editor John Brownlee. The first episode was filmed in Hopedale, Louisiana, home waters of big red fish. Viewers can expect strong story telling from a fast paced show that is really fun to watch. For more information: www.facebook/anglerjournal.com.

Be courteous, practice safe boating, wear your PFDs and I’ll see you on the water.

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

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

Do you know what questions to ask marine fabricators?

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

For your free “Make Sure” report, visit

• Birding

www.covergirl-marine-canvas-upholstery.com

Continued from Page 21 packed with prizes.

The Youth Birding Competition also includes a T-shirt Art Contest. Deadline to enter is March 4.

Participation in the birding competition is encouraged but not required to enter the T-shirt Art Contest.

There is no charge for either contest, aside from the optional cost of overnight

lodging at Charlie Elliott.

For details about the competition, including registering online, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/YBC. Tim Keyes can be reached at (912) 262-3191 or tim.keyes@dnr.ga.gov.

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

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February 2016

LAKESIDE 55

CLASSIFIEDS

Attention Antiques Lovers, Collectors & Dealers!

75,000 SQUARE FEET OF ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES, HOME, NAUTICAL, LAKE & MOUNTAIN DECOR Friday: 9-5, Saturday: 9-6, Sunday 10-5 Named one of the top 10 Markets by The Huffington Post and USA Today!

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NEXT SHOW February 19, 20 & 21

Admission: $3.00 Good all weekend, Children free

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www.lakewoodantiques.com L.E. Landscaping & Tree Removal, LLC BEFORE

DOCKS Dock repairs, dock moving, dock accessories installed. Over 30 years experience.

Hendrix Dock Service, 770 403-4899.

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

LAKE PROPERTY Ultimate south lake 3.3-plus acre estate lot, 150’-plus frontage, dock permit, yearround deep water, panoramic views. Lo-

cated off Buford Dam Rd. at Garrett Rd. Call (470) 266-0816, lakelanierland@ gmail.com.

PWC LIFT Drive on PWC lifts, new and used. Wave Armor brand. Hendrix Dock Service, 770 403-4899, 770 889-0929.

New and used boat lifts and dock accessories. AA Dock Supply, 678 807-7777.

Thanks for using Lakeside classifieds

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56 LAKESIDE

February 2016

PATSY BAILEY

Vice President/Partner

770 540-7752 pbailey@gonorton.com PatsyBailey.com LakeLanierProperty.com

Your Premier Agent for Lake Lanier’s Finest Properties 770.532.0022 GoNorton.com

$1,595,000 • 3967MountVernonRoad.com

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$99,900 6280 Bell Drive, Flowery Branch • Cute cottage with 3 storage buildings sitting on .82 ac across from Lake Lanier.

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11.69+/- acres on 8 acre tract on highSuwanee Dam Rd. ly traveled Lanier Potential commer- Islands Parkway cial.

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