Lake Lanier Association awards good samaritans

GAINESVILLE - The Lake Lanier Association Friday presented its Good Samaritan Award to a couple who rescued a family from their capsized jon boat on Lanier last Sunday.

According to the association, Steven and Sophia Clanton were fishing when they noticed the family's capsized boat.

That family, according to the association, included a couple, their five year old son and seven month old baby girl. The jon boat was swamped by waves from passing boats and wind. It capsized into the 47 degree water.

Association officials said the Clantons got the family to safety, helped them with clothing and called 911. They drove the family to a boat ramp to meet first responders.

"The Lake Lanier Association emphasizes that all children on a boat should be wearing a lifejacket at all times. The LLA also encourages all boaters to be aware of the wake they are creating for others and consider options to minimize their wake," a LLA news release stated.