News

Article by LBCA Board Member Jef Fincher

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” Plato

Doubtless, we are well blessed to enjoy the beauty that is Lake Burton. We all do our best to enjoy all the lake offers: time with family, boating, hiking, swimming, good meals, and friends, but what brings us together? That was the question at the heart of the genesis of the Summer Vibes music series. 

It began in 2020 with a wild idea to bring performers onto the water. Henry Stubbs played his cello on a pontoon boat amplified by a bullhorn. The rich, full sound of the cello echoing on the water was calming and sublime. That was the inspiration that led to the creation of a series of concerts on the lake. 

From that beginning, with the financial support of the Lake Burton Civic Association and production by the Clayton Rotary Club, we have created music that hastens memories, transporting us back to days filled with fond memories of times past.

Our goal, moving forward, is to bring various music genres showcasing our local talent and musicians from around Georgia and the Southeast. We serve all lake areas by scouting boat docks that offer calm water, good acoustics, and access. As with all things outdoors, the performances are at the mercy of the frequent summer showers that often pop up in the afternoon. 

Concerts begin at 7:00 pm and end around 8:45 pm (dusk) to allow our audience to navigate home safely. When we must cancel due to weather, we decide at 6:00 pm, so check lbca.net if the weather looks iffy.

Make plans to attend a show. The 2024 schedule will be released next spring. Keep honking those boat horns in appreciation of the talented musicians. We guarantee you will hear some music that touches your soul and enriches your time on Lake Burton.

About Jef Fincher

Jef Fincher is a LBCA Board Member and runs the Summer Vibes Concert (SVC) program for LBCA. Jef is at every SVC as he sets up the sound, works with the band and host, and makes it happen. LBCA is so grateful to Jef for all he does to make the SVC Series available each summer.

When Jef isn’t working on the SVC Series, he enjoys his time with friends and family at Lake Burton. He is active in the Rabun Community and with the Clayton Rotary. He and his wife, Kathy, are longtime residents of Lake Burton.

The Lake Burton Civic Association (LBCA) Foundation donated a $9,250 grant to Victory Home, a faith-based addiction recovery center in Tallulah Falls, Georgia. The grant purchased 30 new mattresses to provide adequate sleeping conditions for men in the residential program. The men were sleeping on 15-year-old shared mattresses.

Mark Beach, executive director at Victory Home, was overcome with gratitude due to the generosity of the LBCA Foundation and its donors.  “Please know that your generosity goes beyond financial assistance; you are actually giving a man hope,” said Beach. “Many of the men that come to Victory Home feel hopeless. While men are in the program, they can begin to dream of a future; they experience healing and reconciliation with family. These things are priceless.”

The comfort of a bed is often taken for granted. For men struggling with addiction, a night of comfort and restful sleep is not always guaranteed. Many addicts are burdened with the inability to sleep at night due to damage from alcohol or drug use. Sleeping on an inadequate mattress contributes to this inability to get restful sleep.

Providing a comfortable space for the men to sleep is crucial in their rehabilitation process because it increases the likelihood of restful sleep and productivity. 

LBCA Foundation Support

The support of the LBCA Foundation provides a physical place of comfort for the residents of Victory Home. It conveys that their community is rooting for their revitalization. 

The monetary donation from the LBCA Foundation and the kindness of its donors will significantly contribute to the rehabilitation of the men of Victory Home. The grant has replaced the old mattresses and provided a comfortable space for the residents to sleep while expressing support from the community towards all of the men at Victory Home who are working to heal from their addictions.

The generosity of the LBCA Foundation has given rest and hope to the devoted men of Victory Home as they continue on their journey to recovery. 

​About Victory Homes

Victory Home is a non-profit, non-denominational ministry offering biblical therapy and counseling to men battling drug and alcohol addiction. Victory Home has both residential and transitional programs. The programs aim to use biblical truth to educate and rehabilitate men struggling with addiction.

As the school doors swing open across the state, the vibrant energy of summer continues to thrive by the tranquil shores of the lake. This season has witnessed a harmonious medley of melody and camaraderie through a series of sensational concerts generously sponsored by the Lake Burton Civic Association (LBCA). The songs have soared across the water, culminating in last weekend’s euphonious gathering at Camp High Harbour, with gratitude to the camp for hosting our resounding celebration.

There’s a crescendo building amid the seasonal transition as the grand finale approaches. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend on September 2, when the sensational ensemble Common Ground takes center stage on the “north end.” This spectacular performance will accompany a dazzling fireworks display orchestrated by Hal Rhoad and presented courtesy of the gracious Waterfall Club.

While the sun-soaked days of summer gradually wane, the LBCA remains steadfast in its commitment to infusing life into the community. Two exhilarating events loom on the October horizon, beckoning you to engage and revel in the spirit of togetherness.

Upcoming Community Events

1. LBCA Golf Tournament: A Day of Play and Purpose – October 20, 2023, at the Waterfall Club

Prepare to tee off for a remarkable cause as the LBCA Golf Tournament emerges as this year’s paramount fundraising endeavor. We invite you to be a beacon of support by becoming a sponsor. Connect with Laura Seberg at golf@lbca.net to seize this remarkable opportunity to showcase your business.

• Registration for golfers opens on September 5.

2. LBCA Burton Bash: Starry Evening on Burton – October 21, 2023, at LaPrades Marina

Step into a starlit wonderland on Burton’s shores, where an exquisite evening awaits with delectable dining, enchanting dancing, and an artistic auction. Secure your tickets now to ensure your place in this captivating soirée that promises memories to last a lifetime.

• Register for this event here.

3. Venturing beyond the shores, the LBCA partners with the Savannah Riverkeeper and the Veterans for Clean Water to champion the cause of Lake Burton’s water quality. On Saturday, August 26, the first training session for Lake Burton’s water testing will occur at my home. With a capacity for 20 volunteers, we encourage your active participation. To secure your spot, connect with us at president@lbca.net.

4. The yearning to nurture the heart of our community extends beyond the calendar. The 2024 Tour of Homes, a captivating showcase of local charm, will unfold on June 22, 2024. This endeavor seeks willing hands, and we invite you to volunteer your time and passion. Reach out to us at president@lbca.net to make a meaningful contribution.

 

Inviting the Next Generation to Shape Tomorrow’s Legacy

Amidst the shared stories of cherished memories, a call resonates to inspire future generations. Embrace the opportunity to shape the future by stepping into leadership roles within the Lake Burton Civic Association. A diverse array of volunteer opportunities awaits you, from annual membership to government liaison, water safety, and vibrant events. Busy schedules are no deterrent; they fuel the momentum of achievement.

As the sun sets on another season of lakeside magic, let’s join hands and hearts to ensure that the tapestry of community flourishes for generations to come. Your passion, involvement, and dedication are the cornerstones that elevate our shared vision. Embrace the calling, lend your talents, and shape a legacy that spans the shores of time.

The LBCA partners with the Savannah Riverkeeper and the Veterans for Clean Water to champion the cause of Lake Burton’s water quality. 

• Saturday, August 26, 9 am – noon
• Box Lunch provided for volunteers
• Training held at Lake Burton local home
• Limited to 20 people–sign up to secure your spot!

Register by clicking here.

 

We had a record number of 350 Lake Burton Civic Association (LBCA) members attending our Annual Meeting last Saturday evening at the YMCA Camp High Harbour. Thank you to all who came out for this fun evening and all those who volunteered to make the evening a big success. Our Special Event team co-chairs, Paula Jones and Andrea Sorgeloos, outdid themselves with the fun theme of a Retro Beach Party.

Those of you who missed this meeting can view the slide presentation and placemat with the pertinent information we covered using the links below.

View Placemat

HB 121

• HB 121 became law on July 1. The LBCA has produced and sent out an educational video and other educational material but will not recommend where the 200-foot law applies on our lake. DNR will make those judgments. Sergeant Cody Jones was present and reported they had seen some violations thus far and given verbal warnings. Most of what they see is what they call “Rules of the Road” (eg. staying 100 feet away from the shore and driving on the right).

Voter Registration

• Matt Mitcham, Co-Chair of the Local Government Liaison Committee, spoke passionately on how important it is to vote in Rabun County. Members were encouraged to register at least one property owner in the upcoming election. It is a simple process to register. Go to https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/ to accomplish this. You have until April 22, 2024, to register for the Primary on May 21, 2024. It is the most important local election.
  • Three Rabun County Commissioners are up for reelection next year and have consistently voted for more construction close to Lake Burton. 
    • Greg James – Chairman
    • Tom Garrison – District 2  
    • Will Nichols – District 1

LBCA Foundation

• Lin Goen and Diane White, Co-Chairs of the LBCA Scholarship Committee, introduced 15 of the 30 students to whom we gave an LBCA Scholarship. Their shining faces are always a highlight when they share their plans for college and major selection. One student talked about how she was the first member of her family to go to college, and we made it possible. Chills and cheers ensued.  
• As you can see from the slide show and placemat, the LBCA and LBCA Foundation are in fiscal solid shape, and between the scholarships and grants, we are donating large amounts of money. 
  • Seventeen years ago, the Lake Rabun Association realized the same and went to a third party to help them. They selected an organization out of Gainesville called North Georgia Community Foundation to help them. We are currently interviewing this company.  
  • The current state of the Scholarship Committee needs to be revised. For individuals on this committee, it is a full-time volunteer job. 
  • Your LBCA Board has formed a new committee, led by Robin Gunn Parker,  to see if this might be a good solution for us. So, this fall, you will also see different asks when we send out our “asks” for the scholarship donation. We want to continue our generous scholarship program and possibly even enhance it. In our grant program, we want to make more significant, impactful grants to help our community. 
• Let’s dream.
  • How about an LBCA Pavilion where we can gather?
  • How about saving Billy Goat Island from falling into the lake?
  • It is all several years away, but we want to think big
  • If you want to serve on this critical committee to help us decide where to spend our money, please contact Robin Gunn Parker.

Water Quality

• Lake Burton is in the headwaters of the Savannah River. The LBCA Board has partnered with the Savannah Riverkeeper (SRK) to address concerns related to water quality and construction on and around Lake Burton. Tonya Bonitatibus, Executive Director of SRK, shared more about our partnership. This partnership will include setting up water quality testing for Lake Burton Water at Tallulah Falls Schools. Look for opportunities to participate in this water quality initiative soon.

Looking Forward

• As you can see from this information and the attachments, the LBCA is a strong, dynamic nonprofit organization. To continue to impact our community and be good stewards of this beautiful lake, we need the input and combined effort of all our 2,300 members. Please continue to connect with us through our website, email, and social channels. 
• Please don’t forget to add the following dates to your calendar:
  • ​Annual Golf Tournament | Friday, October 20
    • ​Sponsors and Volunteers are needed
    • Registration Opens on September 5
  • Burton Bash | Saturday, October 21
    • ​Registration Opens Later this week
  • 2024 Tour of Homes | June 22, 2024

We appreciate your continued support,

Elizabeth Gill
President
LBCA Association

 

Many thanks to the following for their generous contributions and for making it possible for LBCA to hand out the fun-filled buckets during the business part of the Annual Dinner and Meeting. Five individuals won these unique buckets filled with tasty snacks, goodies, and gift certificates as we danced to “Wipe Out”!

Many thanks to:
•David Allen at Lake Burton Grill
•Jim White at Bleu Canoe

Seeing the Ski Patriots Salute to America for the First time

By: Cassidy Gruber 

I observed the Ski Patriots Salute to America event for the first time this year. The Ski Patriots performed their 14th annual ski show on Sunday, July 2, 2023. 

When I arrived early Sunday morning, the preparations had already begun. Boats arrived at the dock adorned with American flags. Skiers dressed in patriotic swimsuits readied their equipment. The team gathered on the dock to discuss the game plan. Then, everyone boarded the boats and headed out for the show. 

The first set of Ski Patriots jumped into the water with American flags stuck in the backs of their lifejackets and positioned themselves for takeoff. Eight skiers were pulled by a red, white, and blue ski boat. The boat took off, and the Ski Patriots put on a show. They waved and saluted as they skied across the lake. Spectators enjoyed the show from boats, boat houses, and porches as the Ski Patriots passed by. Pickup boats accompanied the team from behind to collect any fallen skiers.

The treacherous waters of the busy lake were no match for the Ski Patriots. With impressive strength and skill, the skiers paraded across choppy waters as their supporters cheered them on. Each skier’s hard work and dedication to this event truly show with each performance. 

The Ski Patriots perform ten sets of skiing, lasting about eight minutes each. A new squad of eight skiers replaces the previous team to give the skiers a break between each set. This year, the first set consisted of all girls, the second set consisted of all boys, and the final set consisted of all dads. 

The show concluded when the final set of skiers returned to the dock where it all started. Team members assembled on the dock to celebrate their successful performance. 

The Ski Patriots were established in 2009 when the Penland family thought it would be fun to stick American flags in their lifejackets and put on a ski show for the Fourth of July weekend. A team of five skiers included Lee Penland, his daughters Lauren and Leah, and their boyfriends, Chandler and Alex. 

Spectators enjoyed the show so much that it became an annual event, and the team became known as the Ski Patriots. Chandler Van De Water and Leah Penland have participated in all fourteen events and are the longest-running Ski Patriots. The Ski Patriots are now a team of 40 skiers consisting of females and males, new and experienced.

LBCA board member Lee Penland has headed this event for all fourteen years. 

“I am always not surprised but pleased with how much this event means to the whole community. We have so many folks that work it and so many new folks that make it extra special,” said Lee Penland, LBCA board member. “We love that kids are getting involved and enjoying the thrill of the show. We hope to keep having more skiers and younger skiers join the Ski Patriots.”

Ten-year-old Molly Brackett is one of the youngest members of the Ski Patriots. Brackett skied in the event for the first time this year. 

“My first year as a Ski Patriot was really good,” said Brackett. “It was really fun to ski with my dad and sister beside me.”

Stephanie Yates, an LBCA member, has been a Ski Patriot for three years. 

“I joined the Ski Patriots because I loved watching the ski show so much that I wanted to be a part of it, said Yates. “I have really enjoyed my time as a Ski Patriot; it has been a great way to meet new people on the lake!”

Rebecca O’Connor, an LBCA member, participated in the Ski Patriots Salute to America for the first time this year. 

“It has been a total blast skiing with the Ski Patriots!” said O’Connor. “I have met so many enjoyable people on the lake. I especially love the multi-generational aspect of the group.” 

Over the years, the Ski Patriots Salute to America has become a treasured Lake Burton tradition. The event is cherished for how it brings the community together in celebration of our nation’s independence and will continue to do so for many years. 
 

View Cassidy’s article in The Clayton Tribune Here

View Photos Here

More Photos Here

You'll find many ways to celebrate the Fourth of July at Lake Burton. Make sure you don't miss a single one!

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LBCA Members, join us on Saturday, October 21, at LaPrade's Marina for a Starry Night Under the Stars to celebrate the 2nd Burton Bash! Proceeds from the event benefit LBCA's Safe Water/Clean Water efforts. October 5 is the deadline to register for the event, delay!

The summer season on Lake Burton is off to a great start! The Wooden Boat Show was a big success with a procession of 32 wooden boats and the fire boat. Seeing all those beautiful boats on the lake was an incredible sight. Despite the chilly weather, the first Summer Vibes Concert was fantastic. The next concert with a local favorite Banks and Shane is Saturday, June 24 in Magness Cove. It is a rock and roll show not to be missed.

Another notable upcoming event is the Annual Member Dinner and Meeting at Camp High Harbour on Saturday, July 15. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet more of your neighbors and stay informed about everything happening at Lake Burton. As a member, you’ll receive two complimentary meals at the meeting. Still, you must make reservations to allow the organizers to have enough food for everyone. Make sure to mark your calendars and be there for a fun and informative gathering.

Area Developments Update

Our member survey shows that development around the lake is important to you. With that in mind, here is a quick update:

• The Boat Shop vs. a Homeowner – Currently in litigation
• From Burton Development 
• Murray Cove Development – Developer received a permit, but there has been no further movement 
• Waterfall vs. Several Homeowners – Currently in litigation

By staying informed and engaged, we can work together to ensure the Lake Burton community’s continued harmony, preservation, and prosperity. 

See you on the lake!

Elizabeth Gill
President
LBCA