Good morning!
There is something special about life here at Lake Oconee. It is not just the water, the sunsets, or the slower pace. It is the people who show up for one another.
This week’s LO Down continues to lean into that spirit of generosity. From the arts to outreach, from the fairway to the Derby tent, we are highlighting the nonprofits and community leaders who are actively investing in Lake Oconee. These organizations are not just hosting events. They are strengthening families, expanding opportunity, and shaping the culture of where we live.
As you scroll, consider this your invitation to get involved, lend support, and celebrate the groups that make this place more than a destination. They make it home.
❤️ Holly
Chef Lane has been busy in the kitchen, cooking up something new at Cafe 44.
Now on the menu: a Build Your Own Grits Bowl made your way, a brunch worthy Avocado Toast, a classic done right Reuben, and the bold Santa Fe Turkey Burger.
No need to worry, your longtime favorites are still right where they belong.
Stop in, try one of the new additions, and let us know what you think. Snap a photo and share it with us. We love seeing what you are ordering.
📍 Just in case you are new here, set your GPS to 1051 Village Park Drive, Suite 101, Greensboro.
What’s Happening Around the Lake
Morgan Medical Center Blood Drive
Morgan Medical Center
In partnership with Shepeard Community Blood Center, Morgan Medical Center is hosting several Blood Drives in 2026.
Wish Night at Lake Oconee
The Pavilion at The Ritz
Make-A-Wish Georgia is hosting the third annual Wish Night on March 12 at The Pavilion at The Ritz-Carlton. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration and entertainment, uniting community leaders, and philanthropists to raise critical funds to support Make-A-Wish Georgia’s mission to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses in Georgia.
Honoring Our Heroes Fundraiser
Briarpatch Farm
Join friends for the inaugural Honoring Our Heroes fundraising event, an evening dedicated to celebrating the service, sacrifice, and commitment of our nation’s veterans and local heroes. This special night will also raise vital funds to support programs that directly benefit those who have given so much to our community and country.
LOFW Kickoff Event featuring Pine Ridge Vineyards
Table at the Lake
Table at the Lake launches the Lake Oconee Food and Wine Festival with an exclusive Pine Ridge Vineyards Meet and Greet on March 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Guests will sample five wines paired with chef crafted hors d’oeuvres and meet Head Winemaker Colleen Fitzgerald. Tickets are $85 per person and space is limited.
The Big Event
Lake Oconee Church
The Big Event brings together home and garden experts, local merchants, artists, nonprofits, boats, and recreational vehicles for a lively festival designed for all ages. Families can enjoy a free Kids Zone with games and activities, plus food vendors, live entertainment, and door prize giveaways throughout the day.
With free parking and a pet friendly atmosphere, this rain or shine Greensboro tradition promises a full day of shopping, discovery, and family fun.
OPAS Presents: Chris Funk
Lakeside Church
This Las Vegas headliner blends his musical talents with magic and illusion into a high-energy show that captivates audiences of all ages.
This Week’s Hotspot
Cafe du Papa is back for 2026 and ready to serve up their signature flavors at The Big Event. Be sure to stop by and welcome them back to the scene.
You can also find Cafe du Papa on Friday evenings at the Downtown Eatonton Farmers Market, bringing fresh favorites to the heart of the community each week.
We will add new dates and locations as we learn about them.
What’s New At Lake Oconee
New Enhancements Coming to
Southern Laser Medical Spa
One of our favorite destinations for advanced skin care and wellness is getting even better. Southern Laser Medical Spa has been serving the Lake Oconee region with medical grade skincare, laser treatments, massage, and body contouring since 1998, all backed by experienced professionals.
Now they are expanding the back of their building to add three new treatment rooms. The updated space will include a medical grade Trifecta Red Light Therapy Bed, the T Shape 2 system for body contouring, and body treatments featuring Farmhouse Fresh Organics and natural scrubs. These upgrades will broaden their offerings and give clients even more ways to look and feel their best. Online booking will also be launching soon, making it even easier to schedule your next visit.
Take a moment to stop by, explore what they’re offering, and show your support. And don’t forget to mention Lake Oconee Life when you visit!
Local Resources: Support What Strengthens Lake Oconee
Why OPAS Membership Matters
When you become a member of OPAS, you are doing more than securing great seats. You are helping bring exceptional performances to Lake Oconee and supporting arts education for local students. It is a simple way to enrich your own experience while strengthening the cultural fabric of our community.
Support the NHN Derby Party
Your sponsorship of the NHN Derby Party helps power a celebration that makes a real difference for families in need. This event brings the community together for fun, fellowship, and fundraising to support the mission of Helping Hands, providing essential resources to neighbors facing hardship.
PCO’s Caring Hearts Golf Tournament
The Caring Hearts Golf Tournament is more than a day on the course. It is a chance to rally around PCO and support neighbors who need a helping hand. Proceeds from this annual event directly fund vital assistance programs that serve families across our community.
Editor’s Pick
This week we’re highlighting a true local gem that brings exceptional food and thoughtful service to celebrations across our community. Lake Oconee Catering, led by Chef Lee Conway, crafts bespoke culinary experiences for everything from intimate private dinners to full-service weddings and corporate events. With nearly four decades of kitchen expertise behind every menu, their team blends gourmet flavor with Southern hospitality for events around Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair.
What sets them apart is the versatility they bring to your occasion. You can enjoy a private chef experience in your own home, or choose full catering support, complete with on-site chef service, bartenders and attentive staff, for larger gatherings and milestone celebrations. Their customizable menus and seamless event planning help hosts focus on the moment while guests savor every bite.
For details and to start planning your next memorable event, visit their website or connect with them in Greensboro, located within The 301 Wildflower. Whether it’s a lakeside soirée, a holiday gathering, or a wedding reception, Lake Oconee Catering knows how to make every occasion delicious and unforgettable.
View Entire Calendar Here: https://lakeoconeelife.com/calendar
We believe community does not build itself. It grows because people care enough to participate.
Whether you attend a performance, sponsor a tournament, raise a paddle at a fundraiser, or simply share an event with a friend, your engagement matters. The nonprofits featured this week are proof that generosity is alive and well at the lake.
Thank you for being part of a community that values care, culture, and connection.