Poker Run Is Fun, Profitable
The Jackson Lake Homeowners Association (JLHA) held its most recent “Poker Run 2016” on Jackson Lake Saturday, June 18 to rave reviews of the participants and volunteers.
Boaters from all over the northern part of Georgia came out to enjoy a beautiful day of fellowship, good food and great music and in doing so benefit the citizens of Butts, Jasper and Newton Counties. This charitable “Fun”d Raiser provides a venue for our local businesses to showcase their products and services as well as an opportunity to spend a day on the Lake.
Established in the early 1990s, the JLHA has long since expanded its impact beyond the lake. Unlike traditional associations, It does not have covenants related to homeowners’ properties. As a nonprofit corporation, it was formed as a service organization to improve life on the lake and continues to work closely with Georgia Power regarding lake cleanups and environmental issues affecting the lake.
The membership has spread beyond the Tri-County rRegion throughout the state and is open to anyone interested in Jackson Lake and the region. With a membership exceeding 500 households and businesses, the JLHA strives to protect our lake environment, extend to all the beauty of the watershed, and ensure its availability to future generations.
In this most recent rendition of the “Poker Run’” more than 290 participants rode the lake from the Tusahaw to the South to the Alcovy Rivers and finally to Lloyd Shoals Dam. The goal was to accumulate five playing cards sealed in envelopes until the final turn-in at Reasors Landing.
From these cards a playing hand was developed and the best hands won. In addition to winning the run participants also had opportunities to win door prizes provided by businesses throughout the tri-county area. More than 80 prizes were awarded.
Upon the completion of the Poker Run, all were treated to a box BBQ lunch and entertainment provided by Jason Lee and the Cyclones.
Not lost on the celebration was the fact that all three County populations benefit from the event. The Jasper County Community Food Bank was presented with $2,500 from the proceeds. This directly impacts our citizens in need. And, next Spring, graduating seniors will be able to compete for cash scholarships for their continuing education. In 2016 two of our seniors were each awarded $800.
