REYNOLDSLIVING I S S U E I

3 Southern WelcomesHomes in Reynolds have a way of curling their index fingers and pulling us in

7 Culinary CreationsFrom the farm to the fork, here are several ways that produce is finding its way to the tables of Reynolds

11 Affinity ClubsBike clubs grow in size, popularity and mileage

13 Culinary CreationsChef Bill Greenwald puts a unique twist on the traditional tailgate

19 Children & FamiliesWhen it comes to adventure, the kids of Reynolds on Lake Oconee should look no further than what’s in their own backyard

What’s Happening at Reynolds Issue I

21 Everyday LivingWe give you seven reasons, covering 21 beautiful miles, to take a walk through Reynolds

25 Culinary CreationsThe National Tavern—the newest addition to the Reynolds’ palate

27 Member Profile2014 NFL Coach of the Year Bruce Arians and wife Christine call Reynolds their “Forever Home”

33 On Lake OconeeA growing trend has members grabbing paddles to power their way around Lake Oconee

35 Preferred PropertiesOur community offers homes that complement the lifestyle on Lake Oconee; explore two new model homes crafted to reinforce that commitment

39 Be a FanNo matter what colors you donned in your college days, Reynolds allows many ways to stay connected to the teams you love

43 Outside the GatesQuick and easy drives well worth your time

45 On the LinksMeet “Club Nerd” John Habegger and learn how his passion can add yards to your golf swing

49 Member ProfileThe rare collection of Jerry and June Smith is truly like taking a trip down memory lane

53 In the NeighborhoodLearn how The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee transforms into a magical winter wonderland for the holiday season

57 Member ProfileFormer New York Giant Bobby Duhon shares the Reynolds lifestyle with his teammates

61 Coming HomeA growing vibe at the lake is causing more and more people to exit here

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Real estate and other amenities are owned by Oconee Land Development Company LLC and/or other subsidiaries and affiliates of MetLife, Inc. (collectively, “OLDC” or “Sponsor”) and by unrelated third parties. Reynolds Plantation Properties, LLC (“RPP”) is the exclusive listing agent for OLDC-owned properties in Reynolds Plantation. RPP also represents buyers and sellers of properties in Reynolds Plantation which OLDC does not own (“Resale Properties”). OLDC is not involved in the marketing or sale of Resale Properties. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy OLDC-owned real estate in Reynolds Plantation by residents of HI, ID, OR, or any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. As to such states, any offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy applies only to Resale Properties. Access and rights to recreational amenities may be subject to fees, membership dues, or other limitations. Information provided is believed accurate as of the date printed but may be subject to change from time to time. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge is a private commercial enterprise and use of the facilities is subject to the applicable fees and policies of the operator.

For OLDC properties, obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Void where prohibited by law. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA

Reynolds Plantation Properties is the sole sponsor of Reynolds Living and is pleased to present this special glimpse into the lifestyle enjoyed every day at Reynolds on Lake Oconee. For more information on real estate opportunities and how to experience everything there is to offer, contact Reynolds Plantation Properties at 800-800-5250 or visit ReynoldsPlantation.com/Mag.

DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR DISQUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. An offering statement has been filed with the Iowa Real Estate Commission and a copy of such statement is available from OLDC upon request. OLDC properties have been registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen at 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, Massachusetts 02118-6100 and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection at 1700 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. Certain OLDC properties are registered with the Department of Law of the State of New York. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR. FILE NO. H14-0001.

All these touchstones tell us with certainty to walk through the door, sit down, and in the truest sense of the phrase, “make yourself at home.”Photography by Becky White

You can tell a lot about a home—as distinct from a house—by how it says “welcome.”

Southern Welcomes3 Southern Welcomes 4

ow does a house beckon you in? Along a path of stones or

worn grass? Through a bower of hanging trees or a canopy of

flowers? A swinging gate or a flagstone sidewalk? Perhaps it’s

an open screen door or a wrap-around porch. Whether or not

there’s a welcome mat out front, every home has its own special

way of inviting us across the threshold.

The homes in Reynolds find many ways to curl their index

fingers our way and pull us in. Here are just a few that do an

especially fine job of expressing true Southern hospitality by

how they reach out to the street and say “hello.”

Southern Welcomes 6

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Southern Welcomes5

WHAT’S TRENDINGon

The TableThe concept of “farm to table” has grown in popularity recently across the country, and for many has become a lifestyle change. People are eager to put on their work gloves, get dirty, and plant the seeds which will soon grow into fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs to enjoy at their own tables. If a green thumb wasn’t inherited, local farmers are excited to provide the ingredients for tonight’s dinner from the local farmers market. “Farm to table” has also found its way to Reynolds, and it is changing how many members and guests enjoy their food, thanks to the main cook in the kitchen. “I am not a can-opener chef,” says Derin Moore, executive chef at Reynolds on Lake Oconee and one of fewer than seventy certified master chefs in the world. “Food should be prepared this way, no question.” Having always believed in using only fresh and high quality ingredients when making dishes, Chef Moore says “this trend of ‘farm to table’ is not new for me, but I’m thrilled more people are eager to learn and implement a more healthy diet for themselves.” Chef Moore has plans to convert all the dining facilities at Reynolds to “farm to table” by adding more plant- and herb-based items to the menus.

By Ashley Jeffords | Photography by Terry Allen and Becky White

Culinary Creations7 Culinary Creations 8

“Consistency and quality are most important. From sugar levels of melons to the acidity of tomatoes; the sweetness of corn to the crispness of lettuce – I am always searching for the freshest products that taste the best for our members and guests.”

“Consistency and quality are most important. From sugar levels of melons to the acidity of tomatoes; the sweetness of corn to the crispness of lettuce–I am always searching for the freshest products that taste the best for our members and guests.” And many of the members of Reynolds are already implementing “farm to table” in their own homes by means of the Community Garden. What started with only eight raised beds just last April 2014 has nearly tripled in size to 21 raised beds. “We currently have 38 gardeners tending the garden,” says Carolyn Taylor, full-time resident and lead advocate and founder of the Community Garden. “We have about 15 members who are patiently waiting to join the enthusiasm of the garden, and with room for potentially seven more raised beds, I hope to welcome them soon.” Taylor, who is one of four master gardeners who maintain beds and educate others on gardening and horticulture, says the garden has evolved into a mixture of vegetable, herb, and flower beds. “Each plot is assigned and tended self-sufficiently by the residents. We encourage the garden

area to be treated with pride, and by managing it ourselves, one could say there’s a lot of ‘sweat equity’ inside the fences.” Like other amenities in Reynolds, the Community Garden serves a dual purpose—gardening and fellowship. Located adjacent to the main water tower on Plantation Lane, many gather to tend their beds while socializing and learning from fellow gardeners. “We like to plan ‘garden dates’ where we bring our favorite beverages and dishes made from the crops we grew, and just sit in the garden together.” With beds growing produce, including fresh herbs, beans, squash, eggplant, peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes, the dishes shared amongst the members are endless. So whether it’s eating the feature dish prepared by Chef Moore with the freshest ingredients at one of the clubhouses or having lunch made from this week’s pickings in the Community Garden, the “farm to table” movement is what’s trending at Reynolds. And by the looks of it, it’s here to stay.

Culinary Creations9 Culinary Creations 10

Community Garden at Reynolds

Ripe Thing Market, Greensboro

Affinity Clubs11 Affinity Clubs 12

im Carpenter’s original idea was simple: A group of

friends meeting at Lake Oconee Village for a weekly bike

ride. They’d start in the parking lot of a nearby bank;

three, four, maybe five of them pedaling through the

local countryside.

That was seven years ago. Work began to pull

Carpenter away from Lake Oconee so steering the bike

club fell to Lisa Baynes, who is now the big wheel of the

Lake Oconee Cycling Group, which has an email list of

nearly 100 riders, novice to advanced. From March to

mid-fall, 20 or so members take off on varied excursions

twice a week. On Tuesdays, they start on Walker Church

Road and ride a scenic stretch north toward the quaint

city of Greensboro. Thursday’s ride is a “Bike n’ Brew”

that covers the countryside and makes a frothy finish at a

favorite establishment offering a hearty selection of

after-ride rounds.

“There’s really a pretty large biking community here,”

explains Reynolds’ resident Barbara Mazza, who began

riding after meeting Bette Grotke, an avid cyclist with

more than 35 years in the saddle and a great track record

of introducing the sport to people who wouldn’t know a

derailleur from a drumstick. Grotke even convinced her

husband to start riding four years ago; now, he’s hooked.

“Barbara is our biggest success story,” says Grotke.

“She started as a novice with an older, used bike and is

now taking on 20-25 miles each excursion and using the

latest and greatest biking gear.” Grotke has her own email

list of avid wheelmen and women, which usually results

in 6 to 12 riders per outing. There’s no set calendar, but

the group rides pretty consistently throughout the year

as the weather permits. Besides covering local roads and

trails, Grotke’s group makes two or three farther-flung

trips a year, enjoying the Brag Ride in Madison and

Columbus, Augusta’s Canal Trail, and the Silver Comet

Trail in Atlanta.

“It’s amazing to see groups like these come together,”

says Jim Carpenter, who is again riding regularly each week

thanks to spending more time at his home at Reynolds.

“That’s really the special thing about this place. If you

have a hobby or interest, it’s pretty likely you’ll find several

others that are eager to jump in and share in it with you.”

It’s not the Tour de France, but cyclists are racking up the miles in and around Reynolds on Lake Oconee.

THE RIDEALONG FORBy Bryce McCuin | Photography by Terry Allen

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See more Reynolds’ members pedaling around Lake Oconee by visiting ReynoldsLiving.com/Biking.

Culinary Creations13 Culinary Creations 14

MOVABLEFEAST

A UNIQUE TWIST ON TAILGATING

For football fans in the South, the first hint of autumn air heralds the much-anticipated return of our favorite college teams—and of course, the long-awaited arrival of “Tailgate

Season.” Combining graciousness and hospitality with a deeply rooted passion for collegiate sports, tailgate parties have become a unique form of performance art.

By Chris Fedelem | Photography by Terry Allen

Gingerbread by the Numbers:

Culinary Creations15 Culinary Creations 16

From “The Grove” at Ole Miss, to

the “Cockaboose Railroad” at South

Carolina, to the annual takeover of

the Jacksonville riverfront by hordes

of Bulldog and Gator fans, these

Southern soirees occur in distinctive

locations and rely on sacred traditions.

But the one element common to

every respectable tailgate party is

a lavish spread of food and drink.

Quail and Shrimp Kabobs: Locally-raised Greensboro Quail have been a Reynolds

favorite for decades. The rich, succulent flavors of quail leg quarters are paired with fresh

shrimp from the Georgia coast and handpicked vegetables from Chef Bill’s own garden.

Grill four minutes per side and serve with bourbon and molasses dipping sauce for a tasteful

alternative to chicken wings.

Catfish Tacos: Here’s an easy, plate-optional delight from the lake directly to your

tailgate. Prepare toppings in advance, cook the fish on-site, and assemble ingredients to

taste. Fill a tortilla with grilled, blackened, or fried Lake Oconee catfish, garnish with fresh

lettuce, tomato, cilantro, and lime, then top with choice of peppery salsa, savory truffle

oil, or zesty aioli.

Grilled Peaches and Ice Cream: No tailgate buffet in the Peach State is complete

without its namesake. Lightly grilling the peach halves releases additional sugars, draws

out the right amount of mouth-watering tartness, and intensifies their enticing aroma.

Serve warm with a hearty scoop of Chef Bill’s vanilla ice cream, made with organic milk

from a local dairy, and be prepared when your guests ask for seconds.

Gazpacho: Soup at a tailgate party? Absolutely, when this Spanish favorite is so easy

and delicious. Prepare in advance and serve chilled from the ice chest for a refreshing

appetizer bursting with garden-fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers. Sprinkle

with chopped vegetables and herb relish; try croutons for extra crunch.

Bill Greenwald, chef de cuisine at Plantation Grille, has reimagined traditional tailgate fare, drawing his

inspiration from the products and cuisine of the Lake Oconee region. Using select home-grown ingredients,

Chef Bill prepared a menu of easy-to-make recipes that both reflect the casual elegance of the lake lifestyle and the spirited tailgate setting. Huddle up one or more of the following dishes at your next pregame gathering

and you’re sure to score big with your guests.

Quail and Shrimp Kabobs

Grilled Peaches and Ice Cream

Catfish Tacos

Gazpacho

Lake Oconee Punch: Microdistilleries may be the latest trend, but in Georgia, the hand crafting of small batch liquor has been perfected over hundreds of years. Now available legally, a combination of locally-produced rums made from Southern molasses lends heavy notes of vanilla and a hint of butterscotch to this refreshing tailgate treat. Blend with orange, cranberry, and pomegranate juices, garnish with slices of fresh citrus, and serve in chilled glasses packed with ice.

Ingredients1 ½ oz. light rum

1 ½ oz. dark rum

3 oz. orange juice

2 oz. cranberry juice

1 tbs. pomegranate juice

Garnish with lemon and lime slices.

Inspire your next tailgate by peeking at the full spread of images and recipes at ReynoldsLiving.com/Tailgate.

The Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival will return to The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee March 18-19, 2016. With a variety of culinary samplings, fine wines, and special events, you will not want to miss out on this delicious weekend! Visit OconeeFoodandWine.com for more information.

Save the Date: Lake Oconee

Food Wine Festival& 2016

Photography by Robin Bish

Children & Families19 Children & Families 20

PlaygroundBy Karen Moraghan Photography by Bryce McCuin, Heidi Kalpak, and Becky White

Backyard

onvincing kids at Reynolds on Lake Oconee to ditch

their tech gear and go outside to play is not the toughest job

in the world. When there is so much fun to be had—swimming

and diving, canoeing and tubing, hiking and biking, golf

and tennis, soccer and more—the real trick is to get kids to

take a timeout. This past summer, more than 1,400 children

unplugged long enough to experience it all, enjoying a few

thrills and learning new skills. Not to mention taking a few

selfies along the way.

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TAKE AHIKE!

A Walker’s Guide to the Trails of Reynolds on Lake Oconee

It’s hard to say why walking and hiking have become such popular pastimes in the U.S. Perhaps it’s because they are as simple as moving one foot then the other. Or maybe in this hectic, super-connected world they offer the chance to get outdoors, breathe the fresh air, and see the world with nothing but your own two feet as your guide. Within the approximately 10,000 acres of Reynolds are seven terrific reasons, covering 21 beautiful miles, to take a walk through the community. There are open water lake views, boardwalks, bridges, golf courses, and, according to Joe Sama, landscape director for the Reynolds Property Owners Association, plenty of natural beauty to take in along the way.

By Bryce McCuin

Everyday Living21 Oconee Trail

14 RP On Lake Oconee

ere’s a look at the seven magnificent trails, and

what you might expect to find along the way.

1) At the north end of property, the Angel Pond Trail

consists of 5.75 miles of path, mostly edging a scenic

cove of Lake Oconee (an incredible fishing spot, by the

way). The trail begins along a long boardwalk and gives

ample opportunity to catch an osprey nesting or an

egret coasting along the glasslike coves, searching for

the next meal. About halfway up the path, you’ll cross

the angel-wing-shaped pond that gives the trails their

name. Finish by strolling past the Jim Engh-designed

Creek Club golf course.

2) For braver hikers, the Armor’s Ford Trail is tucked

inside the north section of Reynolds and range up and

down some of the more dramatic elevation changes of

the Creek Club golf course. Be ready for a full workout

during this 3.5-mile walk, which finishes at the Lake

Club marina.

3) The centrally located Oconee Trail is a popular hike

for guests of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.

It’s a moderate trail that moves through towering

hardwoods and pines and passes several popular

attractions including The Reynolds Golf Academy,

The Kingdom at Reynolds, and multiple holes of the

Oconee and National golf courses.

4) The Saddle Ridge Trail is a 3-mile walk near the

first section of the property to be developed at the

Plantation golf course. White oaks, hickories, poplars,

dogwoods, and loblolly pines tower overhead. Listen

for birds calling from the canopy, feel the wind rustling

the trees, and enjoy the foliage adding perfume to the

air. Along the way is “Trillium Trail,” a half-mile loop

of mulched path along a native spring, with steep

elevation changes and plenty of natural beauty. Be on

the lookout for the Trillium plant, from which the

H

“There’s plenty to see out there,”says Sama, who knows just about every inch of Reynolds, having worked here for close to 15 years. “Depending on the season, you can see some amazing blooms, from the dogwoods and the cherry trees in the spring to the amazing bright red and orange leaves that cover the trails in the fall. There’s also an abundance of wildlife in the lake, on the ground, or up in the air.”

Everyday Living23 Everyday Living 24

trail takes its name: A member of the lily family that

grows low to the ground, it can be identified by its

whorl of three, leaf-like bracts, and blooms in May

and June with three-petaled white flowers. This trail is

perfect for practicing your birding, tree identification,

and tracking. Also take a special moment to wander

through the Reflection Garden, built by members to

memorialize loved ones within the community and

located behind the Commons building.

5) The Linger Longer Trail, starting at the Plantation

marina, is 4 miles of hikes that wanders through two

of Reynolds’ six golf courses (Plantation and National),

passes numerous creeks and ponds, and offers several

peeks at Lake Oconee. If you like to angle when you

amble, bring along a fishing rod and plan to stop at the

pier dock at Plantation Pavilion, Carolyn’s Pond, or the

pond or lake pavilion at either end of Curtwright Place.

It’s an especially scenic stroll when the dogwoods are

in bloom. There are other hardwoods and wild cherry

trees before the trail ends near historic Horseshoe

Bend. Named some 200 years ago for its bend in what

was then the Oconee River, this property was once

home to the Curtwright Factory and a surrounding

mill village that operated during the mid-1800s. Some

of the structures still remain, although many were

covered by the lake when it was filled in 1979.

6 & 7) The North and South Trails, in the Great

Waters neighborhood, cover 3 miles through this lovely

community. Walk under the limbs of towering trees

and alongside the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

The South Trail begins at the clubhouse and finishes

close to the community entrance, passing numerous

holes on the front nine. The North Trail also begins at

the clubhouse and finishes in the middle of the back

nine among some of the most scenic holes on Lake

Oconee—or anywhere else.

Saddle Ridge Trail

Angel Pond Trail

Culinary Creations25 Culinary Creations 26

othing says, “Stop in, relax and stay awhile …” better than

a big, comfortable front porch. The kind that looks out on

the Georgia countryside, reaching out with all its Southern

charm to make everybody feel welcome.

The Tavern is designed with just that in mind. The

restaurant’s most visible exterior feature is the large

wraparound porch inviting guests to enjoy the scenic golf

course views from several comfortable settings with casual

open-air dining options, overlooking a practice green area

and fire pit.

Located near the finishing hole of the Bluff nine on the

National golf course, the Tavern is the centerpiece of the

new National Village. The craftsman-style farmhouse design

creates a warm and friendly setting to gather for some

relaxation and conversation.

Polished concrete floors, brick columns and walls, along

with steel and glass windows define the interior space. Enjoy

the large island bar—perfect for dining, drinks and socializing

with views of the active chef ’s kitchen. A large stacked stone

fireplace enhances the experience, while a pair of French doors

leads to a screened-in porch.

Executive Chef Derin Moore promises some “unique twists

on the traditional pub menu.” Order your favorite beverage

from the specially trained “Liquid Chefs.” “Shareable Bites”

are a terrific starter or perhaps a hand-crafted artisan pizza.

Be sure to end the evening with a “Small Sweet Bite,” just a

sampling to satisfy your sweet tooth.

By Ed Vyeda | Photography by Terry Allen

Tastes of the

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Bruce and Christine Arians

By Ed VyedaPhotography by Terry Allen and Bryce McCuin

Owner of two Super Bowl rings as offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers and twice NFL Coach of the Year, Bruce Arians has made some pretty good calls during a career that includes working with NFL superstars Peyton Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, and Andrew Luck.

ut no call was more important than the one he made as a

freshman quarterback at Virginia Tech.

Right after Christmas break, Arians was back on campus a couple

of weeks when he realized he could no longer maintain a long-distance

relationship with his girlfriend at home in York, Pennsylvania.

So, Arians called her to explain. “He’s breaking up with me,” she

thought. Instead, he said, “I guess we have to get married.”

That was 44 years ago and Bruce and Christine Arians haven’t been

apart since. Granted, they have lived the somewhat nomadic life of a

football coach’s family, one that has taken them to 14 different jobs

in nine states, all four U.S. time zones, and countless houses.

Although he holds one of the most high-profile jobs in America,

Arians shines the spotlight elsewhere. “Christine is the hero in our

family,” he says of his wife, a family-law attorney who has handled

countless broken-home cases. “Football is a game. She helps save

kids’ lives.”

As part of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Christine

Arians helps ensure that children who are involved in the court

system, as a result of abuse or neglect by their families, receive the

help they need. The Arians Family Foundation supports CASA

through fundraising events like the annual Georgia Celebrity Golf

Classic, held June 28-29 at the Oconee course at Reynolds.

“The golf tournament is a large part of what we do,” Christine

said. “But even if we didn’t raise money, just the awareness for

CASA and what we do is invaluable.”

Owning a home in Great Waters since 2007, the couple is actually

moving again—but just a few blocks, down closer to the lake at

Great Waters. And while they split time between Phoenix and

Greensboro, its Reynolds that Christine calls “My forever home.”

We sat down with Bruce and Christine and asked about their love

and attachment to Reynolds.

When did you make your first visit to Reynolds on Lake Oconee?

Christine: It was in March eight years ago; we were living in

Pittsburgh at the time, and were at Reynolds five days, looking

at everything. We were getting close to retirement and thinking,

“Where do we want to spend the rest of our lives?”

Bruce: I got this flyer in the mail from Reynolds, so I got online and

when I saw it, I wanted to be there. I bought two plane tickets and

said, “Let’s go.”

B

Member Profile27 Member Profile 28

How would you analyze your golf game?

Bruce: Never lay up. It’s the same as calling plays. You can’t hit a great shot

unless you try a great shot. Of course I hit a lot of balls in the water. I am

an 8 handicap—but all that means is I am going to lose a lot of money in

February—and all the guys know it.

And how are you as a fisherman?

Bruce: I am the worst. If there are three of us on the boat, all using the same

bait, two will catch fish and I won’t get a bite. I have to learn how to fish.

Are you looking forward to future golf tournaments at Reynolds for the Arians Family Foundation?

Christine: The tournament in Arizona has been wonderful, with all the

support we get because Bruce is so recognizable there. But we just had to do

one at Reynolds. The family comes down and it is such a fun time. Normally

it takes time to be successful, but we have raised money each year.

Bruce: When we started the foundation, we wanted to have a golf tournament

on the East Coast, because so many of our friends and family are there. Now

they come down here to play in it. Everyone at Reynolds has been so generous in

helping us get it off the ground.

What were your first impressions of Reynolds?

Christine: I thought, “Wow, this is great.” It had the

great golf and gorgeous lake, and a nice quiet pace of life.

It is a country atmosphere, but sophisticated at the same time.

Bruce: Everyone is extremely friendly. We enjoyed the variety of

clubhouses, and as we were looking around, it was amazing how

friendly and vibrant the Great Waters clubhouse was.

What do you enjoy most about Reynolds?

Christine: The blue skies, the warm weather, and the water sports.

Both of us just love the water. We take the boat out, find a place to

anchor, and just float, have lunch. And the clubhouses are awesome.

Bruce: The amenities speak for themselves, but it’s the people who

make it. And when I am in Arizona, I miss the lake.

Why did you choose Reynolds on Lake Oconee as your home at this stage of your lives?

Christine: When we drove through the gates at Great

Waters, it felt like we had come home. It had everything we could have

possibly wanted.

Bruce: We had looked around in Mississippi, Alabama, and the Gulf

Coast of Florida. All the great golf courses, being on the water, a smaller

community; that made Reynolds very appealing to us.

Is your next move going to be a little easier, since you’re not building, but bought an existing house at Great Waters?

Christine: Moving is never easy, but this is our last one.

Bruce: We are real excited about moving out right on the lake, and

we are building a swimming pool and pool house. It will be a great

gathering place for our whole family.

“The amenities speak for

themselves, but it’s the people who

make it. And when I am in Arizona, I miss the lake.”

Member Profile29 Member Profile 30

L-R: Traci Arians, Presley Arians, Jake Arians, Bruce Arians, Christine Arians, Kristy Arians, and Blake Freeman

Take a look at all the excitement from this past year’s Georgia Celebrity Golf Classic at Reynolds by visiting ReynoldsLiving.com/Arians.

Reynolds Plantation Properties, LLC

The Reynolds Team. Offering exclusive, complete real estate services since 1987.New Homes and Homesites. Listings and Resales.

THE HOME TEAM

On Lake Oconee27 On Lake Oconee 34

increase flexibility and is an excellent way to break from the gym

for an afternoon,” he explains, careful not to take the ecstasy out of

the exercise. “It’s an every-age, every-season sport that you can do at

your own pace.” And easy for beginners: “The basic strokes require

minimal instruction and our marinas have rental kayaks available for

anybody who wants to try one without making a large investment.”

Kayaking also offers a unique take on socializing. Just ask Jude

Martincic, who moved to Reynolds from Annapolis, Maryland,

in 1997. Two years ago, a neighbor purchased two kayaks, invited

Martincic to give one a try, and she’s been hooked ever since. First

it was two ladies taking morning jaunts on the lake. The twosome

quickly became four, then six. The neighborhood crew now includes

seven women and their mascot, a Jack Russell Terrier named LuLu

Belle. “We go out early, talk, take pictures, and have coffee—all while

surrounded by this amazing beauty,” says Martincic. “What could

be better?”

Whether experiencing nature’s wonder, adding the outdoors to

your wellness regimen, or launching a water-borne kaffeeklatsch,

kayaking on Lake Oconee is sure to float your boat.

nd then it happens. The first brilliant rays of auburn sunlight

break over the horizon. The world awakens. And you have the best

seat in the house.

“It’s just a peaceful adventure,” says Sandy Evans. “When you’re in

a kayak, you see things you could not see any other way.” A member

and resident of Reynolds since 1993, Evans began kayaking four years

ago. Navigating the early-morning waters of Lake Oconee with a few

friends gives her the opportunity to relax and reconnect with the

tranquil beauty that only Reynolds affords.

“Nature is really something when you go slow and take the time

to observe it,” Evans says. The sleek contour, shallow draft, and

maneuverability of a kayak allow paddlers access to places that can’t

be seen from shore or reached with bigger boats. “There are nesting

bald eagles, great blue herons, and deer along the shoreline, and I’m

amazed by the flowering lily pads in the coves.”

For Andrew Huebner, the community’s recreation director,

kayaking is a terrific opportunity to integrate outdoor recreation into

members’ workout routines. “It’s a low-impact aerobic activity that

can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen major muscle groups,

POWERBy Chris Fedelem | Photography by Ralph Daniel

Paddle

A

Wisps of cool mist float leisurely off the lake as the predawn is illuminated by a sapphire glow. In the wind, songbirds limber up their voices. The air is crisp and

clean, with hints of sunscreen and hot coffee. Gliding across Lake Oconee’s mirrored surface, the silence is broken only by the delicate splashing of paddle into water.

On Lake Oconee33

Craft YOUR SIGNATURELiving at Reynolds on Lake Oconee is all about choices: six golf courses, countless other activities, nine restaurants. That same spirit of variety is true when it comes to the selection of homes, which are built in many different styles, by a trusted coterie of contractors, with the elements of interior design as personal as each owner.

By Laura Craft | Photography by Terry Allen and Ashley Jeffords

Preferred Properties35 Mill Creek Model Home Center

he community is committed to offering homes that complement

the lifestyle on Lake Oconee, marrying the latest technologies with

traditional architectural and aesthetic elements. Two new model

homes reinforce this commitment.

The Mill Creek Model Center overlooks the exclusive Creek Club golf

course with homes as distinctive as the dramatic split-fairway fifth hole

just outside their back doors. Both homes create sociable environments

with open floor plans, design features that emphasize comfort, and

gourmet kitchens sure to become the hub of family activity.

Both homes also take their stylistic cues from the great outdoors.

The interior designers use varying shades of blues and greens in

contrast with the more neutral hues of natural wood construction

and select pieces of furniture. Large windows provide an abundance

of natural light and effectively bring the beauty of nature inside.

After a day playing golf or tennis, paddle boarding, barbecuing

with friends, or attending one of the many cultural events that come

to Reynolds, these are homes that you want to come home to.

Whether your hobbies include boating on Lake Oconee, teeing off on a world-renowned golf course, or serving an ace at the tennis center, the heart of life at Reynolds is your home.

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1. The kitchen is the heart of your home, where you should spend the bulk of your money. From cooking to entertaining, the kitchen should set the tone for your entire home.

2. Light fixtures are “the jewelry” of your home, so put serious effort into choosing the right ones. Light fixtures should look like they come from the same catalogue, but they do not have to be all the same. Mix tones and metals for a look that is cohesive, yet fun.

3. When selecting upholstery, go for quality items that are aesthetically pleasing as well as comfortable. A house should look elegant, but livable.

Alicia Mooney, interior designer of one of the Reynolds model homes, attributes the natural setting surrounding the homes for her design motivation. Whether she is designing a model home or updating a current space, she stands firm to these three design principles:

Ask the Designer:THREE TIPSfrom Interior Designer Alicia Mooney

Preferred Properties37 Preferred Properties 38

The Mill Creek Model Home Center is open for tours daily. But take a virtual tour or read more any time at ReynoldsPlantation.com/MillCreek.

Be A Fan39 Be A Fan 40

WITH MEMBERS HAILING FROM ALMOST EVERY STATE AND MORE THAN A DOZEN FOREIGN COUNTRIES, REYNOLDS ON LAKE OCONEE IS A

MELTING POT OF COLLEGIATE FANDOM.

TO YOUR SCHOOL

The pomp and circumstance, pageantry and tradition

of college sports creates bonds between fans and

schools that endure a lifetime. And no matter where

members come from, Reynolds allows them many

ways to exhibit their passion and pride while staying

connected to the teams they love, even bringing some

of them “on campus” to compete in major golf events.

The Linger Longer Invitational at Reynolds—which

celebrated its 10th anniversary earlier this year—has

become one of the nation’s

premier NCAA men’s

collegiate golf events. The

tournament gives Reynolds’

members a chance to do

more than just root for

favorite schools; they can

host players and coaches in

their homes, as well.

“As soon as we found

out Texas was coming, we

immediately volunteered to house the team,” says Tom

Cornelia, a former Texas golf letterman who still shares

a special connection to the Longhorns. “It’s a bond like

a fraternity that you’ll never break.” Like numerous

other Reynolds’ families, Tom and wife Debbie opened

their home, providing accommodations and meals for

the players. Neighbors Richard and Connie Grossman

hosted the UT coaches. “They’re my brothers and we

wanted to make sure they were taken care of at our

home club,” says Cornelia.

For the coaches, the level of hospitality extended

by the community is nothing less than amazing. “It’s

just wonderful. They welcome us into their home like

family,” says Colin Sheehan, head golf coach at Yale,

whose team was hosted for two consecutive years by

Dave and Ginny Dornheggen.

“They didn’t have a team in the

tournament, so they adopted

my kids. Everyone here is so

accommodating—the staff,

the rules officials, and the

spectators; Reynolds just goes

above and beyond.”

Another chance for members

to fly their school colors is the

annual Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl

Challenge, which pairs NCAA head coaches with former

athletes and celebrities from their schools, competing

for $520,000 in scholarships. “The passion our members

have for their schools is wonderful and the players just

love it,” says Charles Finch, who has been coordinating

volunteers for the event since its inception in 2007.

By Chris Fedelem | Photography by by Terry Allen and Bryce McCuin

The intimacy of the event allows members the unique opportunity to

see college coaches in a relaxed, informal setting. “There are no ropes,”

says Finch. “It’s a small group of spectators; everyone respects the players’

space, so the coaches tend to be gracious and accommodating.” It’s

not unusual to see Urban Meyer sharing a laugh with spectators while

walking between holes, or three-time tournament champs Paul Johnson

and Jon Barry of Georgia Tech posing for photographs with members.

Catherine Clark remembers the 2007 tournament when her sons,

Hampton and Palmer, met Alabama’s Nick Saban. “Coach Saban was so

friendly to them,” recalls Clark. “And for two boys who would each go on

to play four years of high school football, it was particularly meaningful.”

School spirit has other ways of expressing itself among Reynolds’

members. Look in the bag room at any of the six clubhouses and you’ll

see mascot headcovers and logoed towels, while school-colored hats,

shirts, and even socks can be found in almost every foursome. But in one

case, fans of two schools took their passion that extra step, creating a

tournament of their own pitting partisans of Ohio State and Michigan.

Rick Von Haam moved to Reynolds full-time in 2001, one year after

ESPN ranked the Ohio State/Michigan football game North America’s

greatest sports rivalry. A proud Buckeye, it didn’t take Von Haam long to

realize that the community was filled with transplants from the Midwest—

many with ties to his alma mater and its Maize and Blue nemesis. He and

a few like-minded friends organized a match-play competition between

the two groups coinciding with the annual football rivalry complete with

a dinner, custom trophy, and the playing of both teams’ fight songs prior

to tee off. “It was a very spirited thing that everyone looked forward to,”

says Von Haam. After a decade of competition nearly as spirited as “The

Game” itself, the fans have taken the last few seasons off. But their fond

memories of past meetings still strengthen their ties to their respective Big

10 institutions—and to each other.

Reynolds’ members exhibit a range of passions. But there may be none

more deeply rooted than those for their favorite colleges and teams. They

may have changed homes, jobs, and cities to get here, but they’ll never

change their alma mater.

The intimacy of the event allows members the unique opportunity to see college coaches in a relaxed, informal setting. “There are no ropes.”

Be A Fan41 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Challenge

“The passion our members have for their schools is wonderful and the players just love it.”

Hampton and Palmer Clark with Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban.

Reynolds’ Member John Baird with North Carolina Coaches Roy Williams and Larry Fedora.

(Note: Mileages are one way and approximate.)

Greensboro: 10-mile driveClose to home, nearby Greensboro founded in 1786, offers a historic downtown downtown with artistic flair on display in the many galleries, shops, and artisan markets of local vendors. While there, stop by Holcomb’s for the best in Georgia barbeque or have a slice of buttermilk pie at The Yesterday Café. Photo Courtesy of Kara and Liam Davel

Eatonton: 13-mile drive Nestled between Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair, Eatonton is a small town with a rich literary past. The Georgia Writer’s Museum showcases the works and careers of local literary greats such as Alice Walker, Flannery O’Connor, Joel Chandler Harris, and many more. After satisfying your appetite for books, sit down for a sandwich or quiche at Sweet Kneads, or seafood with a view of Lake Oconee at Bone Island GrillHouse. Photo Courtesy of Georgia Department of Economic Development

Madison: 23-mile driveIn the heart of this charming picturesque village is a National Register Historic District, which features an outstanding collection of antebellum homes. You’ll also find more than 165 antique dealers, as well as several museums including the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, one of the first grade-school houses in the South. There’s also plenty of more contemporary shopping and a host of restaurants for every taste. Photo Courtesy of Madison-Morgan Convention and Visitors Bureau

Easy

DRIVESBy Laura Craft

Outside the Gates43 Outside the Gates 44

Milledgeville: 29-mile driveFrom 1804 to 1868, Milledgeville was the state capital—a past that’s still in view from the old capital building to the former Governor’s Mansion. There’s a convenient trolley tour of the historical hot spots. Grab a meal at Aubri Lanes, a restaurant housed in a converted, 19th-century bank. Photo Courtesy of Milledgeville Convention and Visitors Bureau

Athens: 45-mile driveMuch more than just tailgates and football games, Athens has become a foodie’s paradise with outstanding restaurants, such as Hugh Acheson’s 5&10 and The National, the newly opened Seabear Oyster Bar, The Branded Butcher, and more. Craft brewing also is popular: Visit Creature Comforts downtown or stop by Terrapin Beer Company for a tasting. Photo Courtesy of VisitAthensGA.com

Augusta: 80-mile driveWhile The Masters has given Augusta an international recognition, it’s this charming city’s Southern hospitality that enchants visitors. While you won’t be able to tour Augusta National, don’t miss the Surrey Center, which is a mall and more, from shopping for antiques to modern spa treatments. Photo Courtesy of Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau

With all that goes on within the gates of Reynolds on Lake Oconee, it’s easy to forget that there’s a fun, exciting world outside, too.

Here are six close-by excursions that will let you explore local history, enjoy a great meal, or discover the perfect curio for your home.

Old Capital Building, Milledgeville

THE KINGDOM CLUB BUILDER

John Habegger he golf shop at his local club near Winston-Salem, N.C. was John

Habegger’s favorite place to hang out as a teenager. He loved having a golf

club in his hands, and the self-described “club nerd” was able to turn that

passion into his career. For a few years, he traveled the country building clubs

for TaylorMade staff professionals. Today, he builds clubs for the rest of us at

The Kingdom at Reynolds, TaylorMade’s state-of-the-art high-tech

club-fitting facility.

“Club builders are golf ’s version of NASCAR pit crews,” said Habegger,

who “conservatively” estimates that he has built more than 100,000 golf

clubs. “I have always enjoyed the equipment side of golf and now I get to play

with golf clubs every day.”

Habegger has built clubs to the precise specifications of TaylorMade

staff pros like Sergio Garcia and Dustin Johnson, matching their clubs to

the specific needs and conditions of their course of choice while visiting

Reynolds; he’s no less happy fitting not-so-famous high-handicappers with a

new driver that instantly gives them 20 yards more off the tee.

TBy Ed Vyeda | Photography by Kara and Liam Davel and Terry Allen

On The Links45 On The Links 46

management, he became a technician for TaylorMade-Adidas Golf,

working in the Performance Tour Van that roams the country, week

to week, from one golf course to another and one motel to another.

In one respect, his job hasn’t changed: He still works out of a

trailer, the TaylorMade Golf Tour Trailer that traveled the PGA

Tour from 2001-2008 and now is parked permanently at Reynolds.

“I don’t miss the road at all,” says Habegger, 35, who lives in

Athens, Georgia, with his wife Katie and their daughter Sloane. “But

it was an awesome experience; two years traveling to 37 of 50 states.”

Since 2010, Habegger sticks close to home. But he still works at

one of the world’s elite equipment facilities with a dedicated team

of expert club fitters to cure the average golfer’s ills.

“Fitters are the doctors and I am the pharmacist who fills

the prescription.”

Sometimes in just 5 to 7 minutes.

While it isn’t Pebble Beach one week and Bay Hill the next,

Habegger says every day is still different at The Kingdom. “With the

new technology, things change so rapidly. It’s exciting. Golf always

is searching for that perfect thing. It never ends.”

And while his clients at The Kingdom might not need their clubs

in a hurry, he’s proud to say, “We can build a driver in 5 to 7 minutes.”

While Habegger may have lost count of exactly how many clubs

he has made, he remembers the first ones: his college roommate’s

irons were too long. “I cut them down and re-gripped them,” he

recalls. Coming full circle, Habegger’s old roommate recently visited

The Kingdom to be fitted for a new set.

“I never wanted to be a golf professional, or play the tour,” said

Habegger, who started working on golf clubs at age 17. “I didn’t

want to live out of hotels and be on the road all the time.”

But that’s what he did for two years. After graduating from

East Carolina University with a degree in sports and recreation

“I have always enjoyed the equipment side of golf and now I get to play with golf clubs every day.”

On The Links47 On The Links 48

TaylorMade Golf Tour Trailer

A Drive Down Memory LaneBy Ed Vyeda | Photography by Terry Allen

Member Profile49 Jerry and June Smith of Memory Lane Classic Cars, Eatonton

t started with a 1954 Ford that Jerry Smith restored in the early 1960s.

Now, more than 50 years later, that enthusiasm for vintage autos from the

’50s, ’60s, and ’70s—a passion he shares with wife June—is showcased at

Memory Lane Classic Cars, only minutes from The Landing at Reynolds,

where they have had a home since 1998.

With 138 restored gems in the collection—including a 1953 Buick

Skylark worth $600,000—the Smiths are carrying on a special connection

with automobiles that each inherited from their fathers, who were always

tinkering on cars.

Jerry was driving a car by age 12 on dirt roads in Stone Mountain,

Georgia. “My father put 2-by-4s on the pedals so I could reach them and

my mother made me a pillow to sit on so I could see through the steering

wheel,” Jerry recalls. Growing up in Atlanta, June would hand her father

tools. “I was 4 or 5 years old and sometimes my little hand would fit into

places where he couldn’t reach, so I was able to help him, too.”

Now their cars are helping the community, through the Lake Oconee

Elks Lodge 2849, which operates Memory Lane Classic Cars. The entire

$5.00 admission fee (kids under 12 are free) goes to charities in Greene and

Putnam counties.

“With all the cars and the memorabilia we have,” June says, “it really is a trip down

memory lane.”

I

Member Profile51 Member Profile 52Take a spin to the website to see more of this amazing car collection at ReynoldsLiving.com/MemoryLane.

HolidaysH ere for the

With a full season of cheer available on property, there’sno reason to go anywhere else during this special season.

By Julie Rollend | Photography by The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee and Terry Allen

In The Neighborhood53 In The Neighborhood 54

he glamour of the holidays officially begins at the annual Lighting

of the Lodge on Thanksgiving Eve. As fall turns to cool winter days,

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee transforms into a winter

wonderland. From ice skating and hot chocolate to festive train rides,

memorable moments will fill the resort—and visitors’ hearts—with

music, love, and laughter.

Children and children at heart will be captivated by the holiday

spirit throughout the resort this holiday season. From the moment

you pull up the drive, the sparkling lights illuminate the season’s

magic. Walk through the front door and smell the wood-burning

fireplace, hear the crackling of the burning logs, and ooh and aah

at the shimmering trees and glittering ornaments that decorate

the lobby. Look but don’t touch (or taste) the life-size gingerbread

house. Take a spin on the ice rink, get lost in holiday stories read by

Mrs. Claus, and sit down with the man in red at the weekly Breakfast

with Santa.

It might not be the North Pole, and there likely won’t be any snow

on the ground, but during the holidays Reynolds is covered with its

own layer of cheer. Seasons’ Greetings—and come greet and enjoy

the season right here.

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Gingerbread By the Numbers

The pastry team from

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake

Oconee turns Christmas fantasy

into reality by crafting a one-of-

a-kind, life-sized gingerbread

house in the hotel’s main lobby.

This holiday treat—comprised of

nearly half a ton of ingredients,

including 180 pounds of candy—is

sure to delight and dazzle all who

come pay a visit. Here are its

building blocks:

360 pounds of flour

12 pounds of gingerbread spice

144 pounds of honey

120 pounds of sugar

480 pounds of icing

15,000 pieces of candy

Ingredients• 3 scoops of caramel vanilla ice cream• 2 oz. of Woodford Reserve bourbon

• ½ cup of whole milk• caramel sauce

• 6 spiced pecans• whipped cream

DirectionsBlend the ice cream, bourbon, three spiced pecans,

and whole milk until thick. Pour mixture in a tall glass. Top with whipped creme, caramel sauce, and

three spiced pecans.

HolidayCheers The Bourbon

MilkshakeNothing against egg nog, but

maybe it’s time to start a new

holiday tradition with this delicious

drink from the Linger Longer

Steakhouse at The Ritz-Carlton

Reynolds, Lake Oconee. It combines

two American classics—an

ice-cream milkshake and authentic

Kentucky bourbon—to create a

sweet treat sure to delight family

and friends. Think of it as a little blast

of winter with a Southern splash.

Story Time with Mrs. Claus & Special Guests

The most lovable lady of the season will charm little ones

with classic Christmas tales throughout the holidays.

Santa’s helpers will also deliver seasonal surprises with the

help of the resort’s lovable lab, Dooley.

Breakfast with Santa

Want to be sure Santa hears your wish list personally?

Young guests will enjoy a breakfast buffet featuring

miniature pancakes, muffins, waffles, and other

breakfast items.

Gingerbread Workshop

Join Mrs. Claus and her elves in building a gingerbread

house of your own. She will supply the pre-built house,

candy, icing, and a box to take your creation home. Guests

also will enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, and cider.

Lakeside Ice Skating

For the fifth year, the beautiful 6,000-square-foot ice rink

at the Pavilion will be open every day, offering invigorating

exercise and fun to be topped off with hot cocoa or hot

apple cider.

CELEBRATETHE HOLIDAYS

In The Neighborhood55 In The Neighborhood 56Gingerbread House

THE REYNOLDSGIANT

When Bobby Duhon arrived in New York in 1968, he didn’t know what to expect. The preseason All-American

option-type quarterback out of Tulane University entered the New York Giants’ locker room a stranger to the Big Apple.

By Bryce McCuin | Photography by Terry Allen

Member Profile 58

28

L-R: #55 Ralph Heck, #27 Steve Thurlow, #23 Ernie Koy, #20 Scott Eaton, #71 Bob Lurtsema, #61 Charlie Harper, #53 Greg Larson, #28 Bobby Duhon, #38 Bob Tucker, and #29 Chuck Mercein

Member Profile59

a touchdown through the air. But he missed the 1969 season with a

knee injury, and after his third knee surgery, he hung up his cleats

for good following the 1972 season.

But he didn’t leave New York. During his second year in the league,

he started an offseason job on Wall Street that led to a very successful

career. “Back then, a lot of us worked second jobs when the season

came to a close,” says Duhon. “Nowadays, a single player makes the

equivalent of what the entire payroll was for the ‘67 Giants.”

Living in New York for 30 years, he was able to stay close with

several teammates, even working alongside several of them on the

trading floor. In 1994, he moved to Atlanta, and opened his own

financial management company, Peachtree Advisors. That’s where

he connected with friends Jere and Bebe Mills, who introduced him

to Reynolds, just 80 miles away.

“Moving to Reynolds was an easy transition for me,” says Duhon,

a resident for more than six years. “The best part about this place

is that no one cares who you are or where you are from. It’s just a

place where we all relax and we enjoy ourselves.”

ou can only imagine the feeling of a kid going from a small

town in Louisiana to the Big City,” says the now 68-year-old

Duhon. “It was both amazing and scary all at once. But the team

was made up of people from all across the U.S.—Texas, Seattle,

Minnesota, Connecticut. And the fans were completely supportive

of all of us.”

Initially, the Giants tried to convert their third-round pick to

safety, but after acquiring a defensive back in a trade, Duhon’s

coaches gave him a shot at running back. That’s when he began to

forge real friendships with his teammates.

Duhon arrived two years after the inception of New York’s “Baby

Bulls” backfield. Second-year running backs Steve Thurlow and

Ernie Wheelwright were joined by rookies Tucker Frederickson,

Chuck Mercein, and Ernie Koy in 1965. This fearsome fivesome got

its nickname for their similarity in size (6-foot-1 to 6-foot-3) and

weight (220 to 235 pounds). Considering the “running-back-by-

committee” approach, Duhon got the shot to make his own impact

right away. In his rookie season, Duhon ran for 363 yards and three

touchdowns, while hauling in 37 catches for another 373 yards and

“Y

Two years ago, Duhon invited some of his old pals from

New York down to Reynolds for a taste of Southern hospitality.

Thurlow, Frederickson, Mercein, and Koy came down to suit up

and play, only this time it was in collared shirts and with golf clubs.

Also joining the “Bulls” were one-time Giants including 1968 Pro

Bowler Greg Larson, former linebacker Ralph Heck, offensive guard

Charlie Harper, defensive end and former “Purple People Eater” Bob

Lurtsema, cornerback Scott Eaton, and tight end Bob Tucker.

The reunion was a success and looks likely to become an

annual event. This past April, the gridiron gang gathered again for

barbeque, a few rounds of golf, and personalized golf instruction

from Duhon’s neighbor Rob Bowser, lead instructor at The

Reynolds Golf Academy. On the last night, dinner at the Creek

Club Crow’s Nest featured a surprise visit from former teammate,

Hall of Fame quarterback Fran Tarkenton, who drove over from

Atlanta for an evening of reminiscing and storytelling.

The once-scared kid from Abbeville, Louisiana, has come a long

way. Nearly five decades later, Duhon values the memories made

living out his dreams as a big-time pro-football player in the Big

Apple. But what he values most are the lifelong friends he made

along the way, and the opportunity to bring them together each

year at Reynolds on Lake Oconee.

View more pictures from this reunion of New York’s gridiron gang by visiting ReynoldsLiving.com/Duhon.

here isn’t an iconic bridge connecting island to mainland. You don’t

need a chartered plane or a ferry to cross the river to get there. But as you

begin that final stretch of interstate before turning off to Lake Oconee,

you’re sure to feel as though you are leaving the rest of the world behind.

Turning onto Linger Longer Road encourages a different pace than

the one you struggle to keep up with “out there.” Life is laid back “in

here.” It’s a natural wonderland that allows for a type of innocent

playfulness most of us only remember as kids; a charm and peacefulness

that travel from neighborhood to neighborhood. Strangers offer a wave

and a smile. There’s a social vibrancy across a wide range of interests and

activities and a temperate climate allowing for celebration throughout

all four seasons of the year.

The community is convenient to Atlanta, Athens, Macon, and

Augusta, so the residents have ample opportunity to go to the city. But

it’s the sense of calm when they return home that reminds them why

they chose to live here in the first place.

“I was driving home from the airport once after a trip,” explains

Reynolds’ resident Barbara Mazza, who retired to the lake from

Marietta, Georgia after a career as a Delta flight attendant. “I was driving

on I-20 and got beyond Social Circle, and it was like somebody just let

the air out of the balloon. I had fought through the airport and Atlanta

traffic. I was exhausted. But when I got to that point on the interstate,

it was quiet and the traffic was almost nothing. At that point I had my

‘aha’ moment of thinking, ‘We have finally come home and this is where

we should be.’”

So what makes this oasis have such a calming effect on the nerves?

There are acres of lake, walking trails, tennis, golf, and even an

on-property Ritz-Carlton. But there’s also a full-time population that

radiates a sense of peacefulness and positively thrives on the laid-back

lifestyle. Their vibe has a lot to do with it.

“When you start getting close to being back home, you just start to

get a sense that your blood pressure is falling,” says Reynolds’ member

Larry Vaughan, who knows all about leaving and returning since he’s

often on the road in his job as Vice President of Global Sales for a

technology company based in California. “Everything is a lot more

relaxed and it’s just a nice feeling.”

Stories like Larry’s and Barbara’s are more and more common these

days. Probably as quickly as you can fly from our state capital to the

nation’s capital, you can drive from Atlanta to the lake with enough time

left to get your boat in the water and pop open a cooler full of beverages.

No, Reynolds isn’t a private island. In fact, getting here is really quite

easy. But no matter where you’re coming from, you’ll soon be calling

those last few miles, “Decompression Highway.” Exit here.

By Bryce McCuin | Photography by Terry Allen

HIGHWAYDecompression

T

Coming Home61 Coming Home 62

Reynolds Plantation Properties, LLCReynoldsPlantation.com/Mag | 800.800.5250