A large group photo of friends, family and employees of Marine Specialties, Inc. on the patio of The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park.Tom and Michelle Child of Marine Specialties, Inc. were honored with a surprise retirement party last month. Family and friends kept the party, held at The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, secret until the October 18th event.

Tom started the company more than 30 years ago on Lake Lanier. During those years, Tom and wife Michelle ran the business together and grew the company to include multiple locations in Georgia and South Carolina, specializing in boat docks and lifts. Tom has already officially retired and Michelle will follow at the end of this year. The company remains open for business.

Photo: by Maddy Child