Longer days, warmer nights, and the unmistakable buzz of boat motors across glassy water — summer has arrived in the Piedmont, and we’re thrilled to welcome you aboard another issue of Piedmont Lakes Pilot.
Whether you’re launching from High Rock, cruising Badin, or finding your rhythm on Lake Norman, there’s no better time to explore all that our lakes have to offer. This issue is packed with stories that celebrate not only the water but the vibrant community that lives around it.
We start by dropping anchor at Scallywag’s Bar and Grill on Badin Lake — a local gem that lives up to its name in the best way possible. Equal parts good food, good music, and good times, it’s the kind of dock-and-dine spot you’ll want to return to again and again this season. Grab a cold drink, kick back to the sound of live music, and maybe even hop on stage for a little karaoke — all part of the experience.
Our Pilot Feature this issue takes us to Race City Marine in Mooresville, where faith and family values guide more than just boat sales. Owners Matt and Lynette Santomenna share a powerful story of purpose-driven service — to customers and the wider community — as they celebrate 17 years as a Nautique dealership and continue expanding their mission well beyond the waterline.
We also take a look back in time with a haunting, heartfelt story of the Badin Bomber, a WWII aircraft that vanished into the depths of Badin Lake in 1944. It’s a tale that blends history and mystery, and reminds us that every shoreline has stories to tell.
Finally, for our anglers out there — novice or pro — we’ve reeled in some of the best fishing apps that make planning your next cast easier than ever. From tracking your catches to scouting new spots, these tools are a digital tacklebox you’ll be glad to have.
So whether you’re out for an early morning bite or cruising into a sunset dinner, this issue of Piedmont Lakes Pilot is your companion on the water.
See you out there — boat flags flying and music in the air.
Words: Ryan Pitkin, Justin LaFrancois, Annie Keough, Dezanii Lewis
Art: Justin LaFrancois
Cartography: Keith Karr
Advertising Sales: Jamie Bluto
Distribution: Piedmont Lakes Pilot team
Piedmont Lakes Pilot is published six times a year by Nerve Pilot Productions LLC
417 East Boulevard, Suite 206
Charlotte, NC 28203
Appearance and publication of any advertisement, editorial or literary content in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products and services offered. Piedmont Lakes Pilot and its distributors will not be held liable for any misinformation herein contained nor the responsibility of any advertiser for failing to perform as herein stated.
Maps are not to scale and are to be used solely as a reference and not for navigation. Check your charts or refer to additional sources available from US Government publications.
Nerve Pilot Productions LLC (704) 817-8996
info@piedmontlakespilot.com
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On our cover: Race City Marine owners Matt and Lynette Santomenna’s faith journey is evident in how they serve — both in their dealership and outside in the community, fulfilling their God-given purpose to give back!
It all started for Matt growing up in Fair Haven, NJ, where boats and water were just a way of life. That led to a job as a marine technician and was the start of something bigger than he ever expected
Learn more about the work of Race CIty Marine on pages 40 & 41.
Service Index
Piedmont
[PORT]
The left side of the boat as you face the forward bow.
[GUNWALE]
The top surface of the boat’s side: GUNNEL
[FREEBOARD]
Distance from the waterline to the gunwale.
[BEAM]
The width of the boat at it’s widest point
[MIDSHIP]
Approximately the center of the boat.
[KEEL]
The backbone of the hull, extending the full center-line.
[DECK]
Structural Surface that covers the hull from gunwale to gunwale.
[CHINE]
The angle in the hull where the running surface meets the sides of the hull.
[STERN]
The rear of the boat: AFT
[BOW]
The front end of the boat: FORWARD
[STARBOARD]
The right side of the boat as you face the forward bow.
[SOLE]
Floor of the cockpit, bow area or cabin.
[HELM]
Where the captain steers the boat
[HATCH]
Cover that encloses a storage compartment.
[COCKPIT]
The interior of the boat, not including the cuddy or cabin.
[HULL]
Sides, bottom, bow and transom of the boat from keel to gunwale.
[RUB RAIL]
Protective molding with a stainlesssteel or plastic insert around the boat’s outermost edge.
[LENGTH]
The measurement of the boat from bow to stern
The Beaufort Wind Scale
In 1805, Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort of the British Royal Navy developed a 13° scale to measure the strength of wind at sea. Updated and modernized, the scale is still used for approximating wind speed. Speed at sea is measured in knots, with one knot equal to 1.15 miles-per-hour. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June thru November.
2
1 3 5 11
Large wavelets. Crests break. Glassy foam, scattered whitecaps.
Moderate, long waves (1.25 – 2.5). Many whitecaps; some spray.
(2.5 – 4
Sea heaps up; waves (4 – 6 meters); White foam from breaking waves blows in streaks with the wind.
Moderately high waves (4 – 6 meters) of greater length. Crests break into spin drift, blowing foam in well marked streaks.
Waves high (6 meters) with wave crests that tumble, dense streaks of foam in winds, poor visibility from spray.
Very high waves (6 – 9 meters) with long, curling crests. Sea surface appears white from blowing foam. Heavy tumbling of sea. Poor visibility.
Exceptionally high waves (9 – 14 meters) with overhanging crests. Sea covered with patches of white foam. Edges of wave crests blown into froth. Poorer visibility.
Air filled with foam; waves over 14 meters; sea completely white with driving spray; visibility greatly reduced.
Charlotte Ski Boats
1206 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
AK McCallum Co.
715 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28302
910-483-6804 or 800-682-2628; AKMcCallumCo.com
DLR – Jon Boats, Creek Boats, Bass Hunters MOT – Evinrude, Tohatsu, Yamaha
ACC-SER-OB
American Marine Liquidators 4879 NC Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-8144; AMLBoats.com
Angler’s Choice Marine
4343 Old US 52 Hwy, Lexington, NC 27295
336-619-4235
291 Oakland Rd, Spindale NC 28160
828-286-2290; AnglersChoiceMarine.com
DLR – Ranger, Triton, Nitro, Tracker, Sun Tracker, Mako, Tahoe MOT – Mercury
SER-ACC-HDW-OB
Angler’s Choice Marine
6611 AL Philpott Hwy, Martinsville, VA 24112 276-632-5600; AnglersChoiceMarine.com
DLR – Ranger, Triton, Mako, Tahoe MOT – Mercury
SER-ACC-HDW-OB
Anchor Marine Inc
1851 East Dixon Blvd, Shelby, NC 28152
704-487-7666
DLR – Tracker, War Eagle, Polar Kraft MOT – Mercury, Yamaha, OMC
Pontoon rentals on Badin Lake 700 Lake Forest Dr, New London, NC 28127 336-461-2565
Carefree Boat Club
Lake Norman & Lake Wylie 704-557-0848; CarefreeBoats.com
Carolina Boat Rentals
We Deliver to Lake Norman, Mtn Island & Wylie Access Ramps 704-614-2118; CarolinaBoatRentals.net
Charlotte Cycleboat
Book your individual tickets on a Party Mixer Cruise, or book the whole boat up to 15 ppl. Reservation required. 17505 W Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 704-360-3030; CharlotteCycleboats.com
CS Rentals of Lake Norman PWCs, Pontoons 1177 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117 704-662-9551; CSPerformance.com
Charlotte Ski Boats 1206 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-525-6006; CharlotteSkiBoats.com
Commodore Yacht Club On-Yard Storage 4010 Kingfisher Rd, York, SC 803-981-4546; CommodoreYachtClub.net
What you’ll find here is a compendium of lakefront and lake-access eateries we recommend to our closest friends. This list will change and we’re always looking for your input. Call us at 704-817-8996 or visit us online at www.piedmontlakespilot.com with your comments and suggestions.
Boss Hog BBQ
7564 Highway 150 E., Sherrill’s Ford.
Crossroads Grill
5585 Rink Dam Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681 828-632-5656; TinyURL.com/CrossroadsGrill
Cheeseburgers, homemade chili, barbeque, country-style steaks and fried pies, Southern cooking, mentioned in Our State magazine. Open Mon. – Sat., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; closed Sun. Casual. $
Hot dogs and meatball subs. Beer, wine and sodas. Just above the gas dock at Lake Hickory Boat Rental & Marina. Available for private parties. May-September. Open Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11a.m.-7 p.m.; Mon., noon-5 p.m.; closed Tues. Casual. $
SandBar Marina & Grill
3210 Rink Dam Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681
828-632-7937; SandBarMarinaGrill.com
Great lakeside hangout with a grill and bar where you can dock and dine, wine shop, fuel service and events. Open Wed., 4-9 p.m.; Mon. & Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed Tues. Casual, private bar. $
Apps & Taps
River City Marina
155 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-677-7648; AppsnTapsLKN.com
704-478-3600; Facebook.com/BossHogBBQofLKN
Hickory-smoked pork barbecue, ribs and chicken cooked fresh daily. Buffalo wings. Served with homemade baked beans, slaw, Brunswick stew. Open Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m. Closed Sun.-Mon.Casual. $
Eddie's Seafood & Raw Bar
643 Williamson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-2090; EddiesLKN.com
Local favorite with an extensive menu featuring seafood, burgers, Italian specialties and Sunday brunch. On the water, but no slips. You can, however, beach your boat on the sandy strip — but you might get your feet wet! Open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Hello, Sailor
20210 Henderson Road, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-997-5365; HelloSailorNC.com
At Holiday Marina. Sophisticated, retro-inspired restaurant with a waterfront deck and tiki bar. Slips available. Open Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon.-Tues.
Jeffrey’s Restaurant
117 Trade Ct, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1110; jeffreyslkn.com
Extensive menu with plenty of apps, salads and heavier fare including Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza. Open Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m.; Sun., noon-2:30 a.m. Slips available. Casual. $-$$ Big Daddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar 1162 River Highway, Mooresville, NC 28117 704-663-4242; BigDaddysOfLakeNorman.com
Roomy 500-seat restaurant with oyster bar and salad bar. Seafood at its best since 1974. Open Sun.-Thurs., 5 p.m.–9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5 p.m.–10 p.m. Casual. $$
Menu includes steaks and seafood as well as a full bar. The patio is complete with curtains, so you can enjoy being outside even when it's raining. BPG is lakeside with slips, and there's a gas dock so you can fuel yourself and your boat (and the family dog, too!) in one stop. Open 7 days a week, 11 a.m. until... Casual. $-$$
Inspired by his late father, Bud, Jeff Lancaster created a restaurant that filled the area’s need for a higher quality restaurant that wasn’t another lifeless franchise. Jeff’s passion for people pushed him to strive for the best while embracing an approachable southern charm; this idea is still woven into our essence today. Slick but easy-going hangout featuring New American eats with a Southern bent, cocktails and a patio. Open Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Mon., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m., Casual; $$ Lancaster’s BBQ
From humble beginnings in a small former gas station, Lancaster’s BBQ was born in Race City, USA (otherwise known as Mooresville, NC). The year was 1986 and their slow-smoked, real eastern NC barbecue and race memorabilia quickly became legendary. Generous plates of barbecue and Southern comfort grub are the draw at this time-tested, casual restaurant. Huntersville location is open Sun. & Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mooresville location is open Sun.-Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Casual; $-$$
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Anntony’s at the Landing
4491 Slanting Bridge Road, Sherrill’s Ford 828-478-5944; anntonys.com; landingatthelake.com
Located within the Lake Norman Landing Hotel & Marina, Anntony’s offers waterfront dining, a sandy beach area for the kids to play and live entertainment. Traditional Caribbean cuisine with Southern influence. Enjoy a plate of flavorful ribs, shrimp, island wings marinated in Anntony’s sauces and seasonings, or a seafood platter with classic mac and cheese or coleslaw on the side. Full bar. Open Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Closed Mon.-Tues. The Landing hosts 20 slips, a dock, and a ramp. Casual. $-$$
North Harbor Club
100 North Harbor Place, Davidson 704-896-5559; NorthHarborClub.com
American fare ranging from sandwiches to full dinners. Indoor, outdoor dining. Live music four nights a week, 7-10 p.m.. Come by boat, 18 slips available. Open Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun.Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Casual. $$-$$$
Classy restaurant with dinner entrees in the $17-$29 range featuring a climate-controlled deck, outdoor patio and sandy lounge area on the water. Slips available. Open Tues.-Thurs, 4-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon.
Toucan’s Lakefront
River City Marina
167 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville, NC
704-360-2001; TinyURL.com/ToucansLakefront
A 6,000-square-foot venue overlooking Lake Norman, from the same folks who brought you the Blue Parrot. Open for lunch and dinner, Toucan’s menu includes sandwiches, burgers, wraps, seafood and steaks. Oyster bar and full-service bar. Familyfriendly. There are 16 slips, so come in off the water. Open Tues.Sun., 11 a.m.-18 p.m.; closed Mon. Casual. $$-$$$
Great selection of lake food from burgers and dogs to salads — but you’ll want to try the cheesesteak. Kid’s menu. Gas dock. Open Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Mon-Tues., 11 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Wed.-Thurs. 11 am.-11 p.m.; Fri,-Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight. Very casual. $
Shuffletown Grill
10220 Rozzelles Ferry Road, Charlotte 28214 704-399-1968; ShuffletownGrill.com
Great neighborhood spot, open since 1957 for breakfast and lunch. Extensive menu with daily specials. Breakfast includes steak & eggs, omelets, country plates. Lunch includes burgers, sandwiches, subs and salads, among other items. Open Tues.Sat., 6am-2 p.m.; closed Sun.-Mon. $
Drift on Lake Wylie
315-M Lanyard Lane, Belmont, NC 28012
980-351-0111; DriftLKW.com
Chef-inspired lakeside chophouse. Heavy on beef, pork and seafood. Fine dining by the lake. Located at the Morningstar McLean Marina, just south of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. There are slips with a gas dock close at hand. Not the kind of place to come in your wet boardshorts. Open Sun., 10:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. & 4-9 p.m.; Tues.-Thurs., 4-9:30 p.m.; Fri. 4-10 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 4-10 p.m. $$$
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Tailrace Marina 1000 Marina Village Drive, Mt. Holly, NC 28120
704-601-5541; JRCashs.com
Waterfront, Lake Wylie at Tailrace Marina (#62 on Lake Wylie map). Menu includes apps, soups, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, ribs, seafood, chicken and pasta. What else is there? Oh desserts and the bar, of course. There are slips, so come by boat. Open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Casual. $$
Pier 88 Yacht Club
River Mills Marina
165 Heritage Drive, Lake Wylie
803-831-0088
Closed in the offseason. Hot dogs, burgers, BBQ, chicken wings, French fries, onion rings and much more. Beer and wine to go. On the lake in Joe’s Cove just two coves south of Buster Boyd Bridge. Ship’s store, boat slips and gas dock. Open 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Very casual. $
Papa Doc's Shore Club
3990 Charlotte Highway, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
803-831-0043; PapaDocsLKW.com
What was once the Hungry Fisherman then, for many years, T-Bones, is just off the South Carolina side of the Buster Boyd Bridge. The renovated space includes four bars and seating for hundreds, plus 38 boat slips. Adjacent to Lake Wylie Marina & the Buster Boyd Public Access. The menu features steamed and fried seafood platters, oysters, burgers, salads, sandwiches, tacos and bar appetizers. Tiki bar. Carry-out service for boaters. Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight. Casual. $$
Creekside Grill & Ale
3482 John G. Richards Road, Camden, SC 29020 803-273-3448; TinyURL.com/CreeksideGrill
Across Beaver Creek from Wateree Marina. Dutchman’s Creek Marina & Grill
5546 River Road, Winnsboro, SC 803-482-3067; Facebook.com/DutchmanCreek
Marina servicing the Lake Wateree area. Gas, fishing tackle, restaurant, snacks, beverages, boat rentals. Open Wed.-Mon., 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Casual. $ Riverdeck at Beaver Creek Grill
3473 John G. Richards Road, Liberty Hill, SC 29074
803-273-3757; Facebook.com/RiverdeckStoreandGrill
Store and grill with hamburgers, chicken wings, shrimp po-boys, pancakes, omelets, sausage gravy and biscuits, hash browns, homemade biscuits. Gas for cars & boats, live bait, all fishing supplies, beer, wine. Open Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Beaver’s Den at Beaver Creek Bar & Grille
3482 John G. Richards Road, Camden, SC 29020
803-475-2289; BeaversDenAtBeaverCreek.com
Ribeyes, flounder, chicken, quesadillas, wings. Open Mon.-Thus., 4-9 p.m.; Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Bar stays open ‘til midnight most nights. Casual. $$ Mill Pond Steakhouse
84 Boykin Mill Road, Rembert, SC 29128
803-425-8825; MillPondSteakhouse.com
High-end steakhouse with prime and choice Angus beef, shrimp and grits, crab cakes. Originally built in the mid-1860’s. Open Tues.-Sat., 5 p.m.-until; closed Sun.-Mon. $$-$ Olde Town Hall
Oldest Italian eatery in Ridgeway. Brick-oven pizzas, quesadillas, wings, calzones, pasta, grinders and more. Full bar. Open Tues.Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; second Sun., 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; closed Monday. Bar stays open late for sports events. Casual.
High Rock Marina & Campground 1013 Wafford Circle, Lexington, NC 27292 336-798-1196; HighRockLakeCampground.com
Fresh, made-to-order snacks and dinners. Eat on the deck or get a to-go order to spend more time on the water. 20 Slips. Casual. $
Lakeview Family Restaurant
9185 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-637-3699
Down-home family dining. At the public access ramp and across Bringle Ferry from Tamarac Marina (see 51 on High Rock map), so you can come by boat. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open Wed.-Sat., 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; closed Mon.Tues. Very casual. $ Tamarac Marina
9120 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-636-1918; TamaracMarina.weebly.com
Full-service restaurant with daily specials. Tackle and grocery store, other amenities. Located at the bridge on Bringle Ferry Road, 15-minute access off I-85. Come by boat, there are slips, a gas dock and ramp (see 51 on High Rock Lake map). Open Sun.Thurs., 5 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5 a.m.-11 p.m. Very casual. $
Waters Edge Dock & Grill
257 Boat Club Lane, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-603-8056; WatersEdgeHighRock.com
Awesome entrees, creative appetizers, pizza, sandwiches, craft burgers, wings, and late-night bar food as well as weekend brunch. Wed.-Fri., 5 p.m.-late; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-late. Come by boat, there are slips. Casual. $-$$
Badin Lake Family Restaurant
2507 Blaine Road, New London, NC 28127
336-461-2660
Great jumping off point for that Badin fishing trip. Above Uwharrie Point Marinas and Badin Shores Resort. Southern breakfast and lunch menu items. Seafood and steaks available on weekends. Open Tues.-Sat. 6 a.m.-2 p.m.; closed Sun.-Mon. Very casual. $
Old North State Club Marina
139 Marina Lane, New London, NC, 28127
336-461-4456; OldNorthStateClub.com
The menu caters to a wide variety of tastes, from comfort classics to the latest creations. Open Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Scallywag's Bar & Grill
Badin Lake Marina
700 Lake Forest Drive, New London, NC 28127 336-461-2565; ScallywagsBarAndGrill.com
Waterfront at Badin Lake Marina & Watersports. Lake-front dining inside or outside on a large, covered patio. Great food, hand-dipped ice cream. Beer and wine. Parking areas and boat slips, gas dock and boat ramp, store, pontoon rentals. Lunch, dinner, breakfast on weekends. Dine in or take out. Open Wed.Thurs., 5-9 p.m.; Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., noon-11 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Casual. $
Lefler’s Place Cafe
6423 NC Highway 73 W., Mt. Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-5451; LeflersPlace.com
Operating continuously since 1922, Lefler's does smoked barbeque the right way. Hand-pattied burgers, homemade chili and slaw, famous hot dogs. This place is complete with a country store. Open Tues.-Wed., 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thurs.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; Closed Sun.-Mon. Casual. $
Harbor Café
197 Holly Harbor Trail, Mount Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-0043; Facebook.com/TheTwinHarborCafe
Full breakfast and lunch menu during the week, flounder and shrimp dinners on Friday and Saturday evenings. Breakfast includes French toast and pancakes. Lunch features salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps. Just off Lillys Bridge Road in the Twin Harbor community. Open daily, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat., 4-8 p.m. Casual. $ River Wild 1185 Lillys Bridge Road, Mt Gilead, NC 27306 910-439-2022; RiverWildNC.com
Bison burgers along with other fresh, hand-crafted burgers and sandwiches. Dockage available at Lilly's Bridge Marina (#51 on Lake Tillery map) or parking if you come by car. Deck seating overlooking the marina. Carpet golf. Full bar, live music. Open Tues.-Thurs., 4-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; closed Mon. Casual. $$
The Boat House at Lake Tillery 712 Berry Hill Drive, Norwood, NC 28128
A lakeside restaurant and bar serving pizza, wings, burgers, and sandwiches, not to mention gas if you pull up in your boat. Lots of live music on the back patio. Dine-in, carry-out and curbside pick-up available. Open Wed.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Mon.-Tues. Casual. $
Scallywag’s Bar & Grill Welcomes the Mischievous Crowd on Badin Lake
By Annie Keough
According to the website for Scallywag’s Bar and Grill, located on Badin Lake in New London, North Carolina, a scallywag is “a person who behaves badly but in an amusingly mischievous, rather than harmful, way.”
Since its opening in 2018, the restaurant has lured its share of scallywags by way of its lakeside views, live music and mouthwatering menu variety. They wouldn’t have it any other way. In fact, scallywags are their favorite type of guests. Why else would they name the restaurant after them?
“When you become a Scallywag, be prepared for good food, fun, and great times with good friends!” goes the eatery’s motto.
The bar serves quality food amid a relaxed atmosphere that’s welcoming to the whole family. Grab a drink from the full bar and take a seat, with indoor and outdoor options available. Start the meal with a few satisfying appetizers like fried chicken wings, homemade crab cakes, dynamite shrimp before moving onto your main course.
Scallywag’s offers classic lakeday meals like salads, sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, tenders and pizzas. Served after 5 p.m. on any given day, dinner entrees include the crab cake dinner, shrimp & grits, a 10-ounce hamburger steak or 14-ounce ribeye, all served with two sides.
During the busy season, Scallywag’s also offers live music and karaoke on its outdoor
deck and patio stage. As a five-time Carolina Beach Music Award nominee for Best Live Music Venue, this location is a certifiable venue.
As of the time of this writing, Scallywag’s has shows booked every weekend through August, with more bookings promised. on their Facebook page.
And when there aren’t bands playing, there’s music bingo, line dancing and karaoke nights offered most evenings.
Come by land or lake as the bar and grill boasts a sizable parking lot, boat docking and a refuel station.
“When you think of the word Scallywag, you think of a little rascal, a little devil who isn’t perfect, but makes you smile. This describes Scallywag’s perfectly,” one Yelp review said. “[It] had a great rustic, vacation feel. Wear your bathing suit, we drove up to the dock and were seated immediately, along with the other boaters. Convenient and fun, plus the band was pretty good too!”
Scallywag’s Bar and Grill is located at the Badin Lake Marina, 700 Lake Forest Drive, New London, NC. It’s open Thursdays and Fridays from 5-10 p.m., Saturdays from 5-11 p.m., and Sundays from noon-5 p.m. Check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/scallywagsonbadin for an updated music schedule.
[PHOTO] An event at Scallywag’s Bar & Grill, courtesy of Scallywag’s
Federal Requirements & Safety Tips for Recreational Boats
Quick Reference Chart
Vessel Length Equipment Requirement (in feet)
<16 16<26 26<40 40<65
X X X X Certificate of Number
All undocumented vessels equipped with propulsion machinery (State Registration) must be State registered. Certificate of Number must be on board when vessel is in use. Note: some States require all vessels to be registered.
X X X X State Numbering (a) Plain Block letters/numbers not less than 3 inches in height must be affixed on each side of the forward half of the vessel (Contrasting color to boat exterior).
(b) State validation sticker must be affixed within six inches of the registration number
X X X Certificate of Applies only to “Documented” vessels: Documentation (a) Original and currencertificate must be on board (b) Vessel name/hailing port marked on exterior part of hull-letters not less than 4 inches in height.
(c) Official Number permanently affixed on interior structure-numbers not less than 3 inches in height.
X X X X Life Jackets (PFDs) (a) One Type I, II, III, or V wearable PFD for each person on board. (must be USCG approved)
X X X (b) In addition to paragraph (a), must carry One Type IV (throwable) PFD.
X Visual Distress Signal (a) One electric distress light or Three combination (VDS) (day/night) red flares. Note: only required to be carried on board when operating between sunset and sunrise.
X X X (b) One orange distress flag and One electric distress lightor -Three hand-held or floating orange smoke signals and One electric distress light - or - Three combination (day/night) red flares: hand-held, meteor or parachute type.
X X Fire Extinguishers (a) One B-I (when enclosed compartment)
X (b) One B-II or Two B-I. Note: fixed system equals One B-I X (c) One B-II and One B-I or Three B-I. Note: fixed system equals One B-I or Two B-II
X X X X Ventilation
(a) All vessels built after 25 April 1940 that use gasoline as their fuel with enclosed engine and /or fuel tank compartments must have natural ventilation (at least two ducts fitted with cowls). (b) In addition to paragraph (a), a vessel built after 31 July 1980 must have rated power exhaust blower.
X X X Sound Producing (a) A vessel 39.4 ft must, at a minimum, have some means of Devices making an “efficient” sound signal - (i.e. handheld air horn, athletic whistle - Human voice/ sound not acceptable).
X X (b) A vessel 39.4 ft (12 meters) or greater, must have a sound signaling appliance capable of producing an efficient sound signaI, audible for 1/2 mile with a 4 to 6 seconds duration. In addition, must carry on board a bell with a clapper (bell size not less than 7.9 inches - based on the diameter of the mouth)
X X X X Backfire Flame
Required on gasoline engines installed after 25 April 1940, Arrestor except outboard motors
X X X X Navigational Lights
Required to be displayed from sunset to sunrise and in or near areas of reduced visibility.
X X Oil Pollution Placard (a) Placard must be at least 5 by 8 inches, made of durable material.
(b) Placard must be posted in the machinery space or at the bilge station.
X X Garbage Placard (a) Placard must be at least 4 by 9 inches, made of durable material.
(b) Displayed in a conspicuous place notifying all on board the discharge restrictions.
X X X X Marine Sanitation If installed toilet: Vessel must have an operable MSD Device Type I, II, or III.
X X Navigation Rules
The operator of a vessel 39.4 ft (12 meters) or greater must (Inland Only) have on board a copy of these rules.
(continued from page 24)
Harbortowne Marina
On-Yard Dry Storage
220 Commodore Ct, Belmont, NC 28012
HarbortowneMarina.com
Holiday Marina
20139 Henderson Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-892-0561
Lake Norman Marina – Dry Storage 6965 Hwy 150 E, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 704-483-5142; LakeNormanMarina.com
3 Indicates private club with limited public access.
828-495-8833
828-495-8181
828-632-7649
828-632-7937
828-855-2916
803-432-5315
803-432-0073
803-482-3067
803-482-6443
803-273-3013
803-475-1224
336-357-5906
704-636-1918
336-798-1196
704-827-0000
704-633-025
336-461-4456
336-461-0296
336-461-2565
704-983-4211
704-982-4402
704-474-0312
910-573-0629
MATT & LYNETTE SANTOMENNA’S JOURNEY WITH NAUTIQUE BYRYANPITKIN
Race City Marine owners Matt and Lynette Santomenna’s faith journey is evident in how they serve — both in their dealership and outside in the community, fulfilling their God-given purpose to give back!
It all started for Matt growing up in Fair Haven, NJ, where boats and water were just a way of life. That led to a job as a marine technician and was the start of something bigger than he ever expected.
After graduation at the University of South Carolina, he got his first job with Pleasurecraft Marine Engine Company, now PCM Engine Group, the engine supplier for Nautique Boats. Matt also built boats for Malibu Boats in Tennessee before moving to Charlotte and entering the corporate world.
In 2008, when he quit his office job after 20 years and returned to the boating world, he and Lynette opened a small boat repair shop using a borrowed service bay on Doolie Road in Mooresville. Matt never dreamed he would soon partner with Nautique. They did have faith that if they both continued to work hard and follow his calling, the Lord would point them in the right direction.
Faith is the guiding principle that had led him and his wife Lynette up to that point in life, and it continues to guide them as the owners of Race City Marine.
In 1925 business and purpose merged at Nautique Boats, a company that is currently celebrating 100 years working under the motto “Building Boats to the Glory of God,” it appears in hindsight to only be a matter of time until they connected with Race City Marine.
“We line up in our faith journey,” said Lynette Santomenna of Race City’s partnership with Nautique. “This is God’s business; He’s in charge He’s the boss. We have a steady path that we’re
following and Nautique is the same way. Their whole company is built on faith. That is their guiding principle, their guiding purpose. And that’s how we are; it’s God’s business. It’s not ours, we are just the managers.”
In 2009, when the local warranty service provider for Nautique went out of business, Larry Shay at Nautique got word that an expert with PCM engines and Nautique boats was working in a small shop in Mooresville. They gave Matt a call and approved his humble business as a Nautique warranty center.
“We were thrilled because that was huge for our little repair shop,” said Lynette.
From that early relationship something bigger bloomed; about a year later Matt and Lynette found themselves up against seven other dealers who wanted to be the Charlotte, NC, Nautique dealer.
Today, Race City Marine sells products from three top-brand boat companies — Nautique, Barletta and Chris Craft — becoming Mooresville’s premier family-owned-and-operated boat dealership, serving customers in both North and South Carolina with all their boat needs, be it sales, service, storage or a pro shop.
In 2025, they’re marking 17 years in their relationship with Nautique as a service center and dealership. Race City Marine is the longest-running Nautique dealership in the Charlotte market, more than a decade longer than any other in the area.
This accomplishment reflects the company’s dedication to providing the absolute best products, outstanding service and amazing customer care.
“That creates stability for the community because, every year, I feel like we get better,” Lynette said. “Our goal is to give excellent service, to serve the community well, and every year, we learn how to do that better. So I feel like having consistency with the brand being with us really benefits the
community as a whole because they get expert knowledge with their service.”
Service in more ways than one
While Race City Marine stays committed to helping first-time or experienced boaters find the boat that’s perfect for them, they also offer impeccable service in boat repair.
Since moving into their new 17,000-square-foot facility on nearly 11 acres in Mooresville, the team has been able to perfect their detailing work, focusing on gelcoat repair, ceramic coating and fiberglass.
Their state-of-the-art facility on River Highway includes a 5,800-square-foot service department and a recent expansion into a 5,000-square-foot detail and gel shop where all of this high-quality work occurs.
“As boat prices rise, people are looking at, ‘How can I retain the value in the boat that I have and love?’” explained Lynette. “Not everybody is looking to upgrade. Some want to keep their current boat looking fabulous! A lot of people are opting for ceramic coating right now, and we’ve got a highly skilled team that are factory-trained on gelcoat and fiberglass repair, which is a very niche business because not everybody can do it right.”
Built with the help of 20 Groups’ David Parker, the facility also includes a 7,200-square-foot showroom, a conference room, a parts room, a pro shop, a break room and offices. Plus their 45,000-squarefoot indoor storage facility that protects their customers’ boats and RVs. Customers can access one of the 92 storage units to easily store their boat with zero hassle and protected by 24-hour gated security.
It’s a long way from the days when Race City Sales team members set up their work desks inside the boats they were selling — a fact that Matt and Lynette don’t take for granted.
“We will never say we have arrived,” Lynette said. “We will always be learning, growing and
stretching for even a higher level of excellence to be able to serve everyone better and better. The ultimate goal is to get families out on the water having fun together and making memories.”
While passionate for their work helping families enjoy the water, the Santomennas are most proud of their faith-centered community impact.
In 2014, Race City Marine partnered with Power Cross Ministries, founded by Jeff and Natalie Storment in 2006 with a Bible study followed by dinner and a football game. It has since grown into a training and discipleship program that serves more than 350 young men every year from two locations — one in Salisbury and another in Statesville.
Serving hot meals daily, providing academic support, athletic development and daily Christian discipleship are the tools Power Cross uses to shape young lives everyday. Since its inception Power Cross has served over 200,000 meals, seen more than 3,000 salvations, and helped award over $8 million in scholarships to participants.
After nearly 10 years tithing 10% of every sale they made to Power Cross, in the last year the Santomennas have upped their commitment to 15% at the Lord’s prompting. As the couple is fond of saying: “You can’t outgive God! Our ultimate goal is fulfilling God’s plan and purpose for us.”
On top of that, Race City also supports Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center in Statesville, Liberty Preparatory Christian Academy in Mooresville, Ambassador Christian School in Huntersville, and Hope At The Lake Foundation, which helps raise funds for charities focused on a number of issues surrounding the Lake Norman area, from combating hunger to providing services to veterans.
“We’re just being obedient to whatever God wants us to do,” Lynette said. “My husband always says, ‘You can’t take it with you.’ We’re here to give back and serve. That’s what Jesus did, right? He came to serve.”
[TOP] The Race City Marine facility, courtesy of Race City Marine
[BELOW] Matt and Lynette Santomenna of Race City Marine, courtesy of RCM
Missing Aircraft Just One Aspect of Badin Lake’s Rich History
By Pat Moran
On June 8, 1944, Mary Elizabeth McDaniel rushed out of her home in Palmerville, near Badin Lake’s southern shore, and searched the sky. It was two days after the historic D-Day invasion of Normandy and Mary Elizabeth was looking for her husband, Second Lt. Charles McDaniel, US Marine Corps, whom she had married just seven months prior.
Shortly after noon, the sea blue, twinengine, twin-tailed PBJ-1 bomber piloted by her husband, flew overhead.
“He was going from Charlotte to Cherry Point on the [North Carolina] coast, and he told [Mary Elizabeth] he would fly over and dip his wings … to say goodbye,” says Martha Garber, treasurer of the Badin Historic Museum.
Charles was supposed to circle three times before continuing on his mission. After the bomber passed twice, however, witnesses heard a mighty roar followed by an explosion. Mary Elizabeth never saw her husband again — alive or dead.
The Badin Bomber, as the PBJ-1 became known, is a part of the rich folklore of Badin Lake, a popular recreational spot amid the Uwharrie National Forest. In addition to the Badin Bomber, local lore includes one of the oldest sites in the southeastern US for early Americans and buildings dating back to Badin’s founding in 1913.
“We have a lot of history for such a small town,” says Garber, a Badin native.
The fate of the Badin Bomber
The PBJ-1, flown by McDaniel and copilot ensign John P. Withrow of the US Navy Reserve, was the Marine Corps’ heavily armed modification of a B-25 Mitchell bomber, writes
McDaniel and Withrow were ferrying the brand-new plane from an Ohio factory to Cherry Point. On June 7, they ran into bad weather and landed at Morris Field in Charlotte. McDaniel took a bus to visit his wife in Palmerville and on the following morning returned to Charlotte to complete his mission.
An air pocket over Badin Lake may have forced the bomber’s wing to hit the water, causing the crash, but no one knows for sure.
“The military found the plane,” Garber says. “The water was about 150 feet deep and there was a lot of silt at the bottom.”
She adds that when the Alcoa company built the dam that created the Badin Lake in 1917, they didn’t clear any of the flora in the wooded areas. Trees, some as tall as 50 feet, made diving conditions hazardous.
Instead, a joint Army/Navy salvage crew set dynamite charges to raise the bomber, but it didn’t work.
The aircraft was technically identified as being located after an acceptance form for the new plane was found floating in the water, but the wreckage has never been raised and the bodies of McDaniel and Withrow have never been found.
“[The museum] has a wheel that we think came from the plane,” Garber says. “From the serial number
Badin Historic Museum vice president Debrah Lovan on the museum’s website.
on the wheel, we’re pretty sure it is the right year.”
A local farmer had been using the PBJ-1 nose wheel for several years on his tractor. When a local history buff saw it, he bought it from the farmer for $20 and donated the artifact to the museum.
The secrets of the Hardaway Site and century-old French houses
The Badin Historic Museum hosts much more than artifacts from the ill-fated bomber. The museum complex at 60 Falls Road in Badin contains three buildings.
The main building houses the Hardaway Site exhibit. The Hardaway archaeological site, a national Historic Landmark protected within Morrow Mountain State Park, sits on a rocky ridge above Badin Lake. It is one of the oldest sites of human habitation in the southeastern U.S., going back 12,000 to 14,000 years.
The project has yielded ancient spear heads and tool points, many of which are on display at the museum.
The Badin Historic Museum’s second building, the Firehouse Museum, houses early local fire fighting equipment, plus a photo history of Alcoa and the Narrows Dam that the company built.
The third building is a 1915 French quadruplex apartment built for four families of workers for L’Aluminium Français/Southern Aluminum Company. The French company began building a dam along the Yadkin River Narrows to power an aluminum plant, plus a town for the
workers named after company president Adrien Badin.
With the outbreak of World War I in 1914, the French returned home and Aluminum Company of America [later renamed Alcoa] acquired the French company’s holdings. They finished building the dam, the town and the aluminum plant.
While Badin Historic Museum celebrates all of the small town’s rich and varied history, Garber says the Badin Bomber remains an enduring mystery as well as a heartbreaking tragedy.
“The bride was standing on the lakeshore, watching her husband fly overhead when he crashed,” says Garber, identifying the bittersweet indelible image left by a personal tragedy in the midst of wartime.
Mary Elizabeth later moved to Charlotte and remarried, but that union ended in divorce, writes author Robyn Yiğit Smith in a story about the bomber and its emotional aftershocks for Our State Magazine. Perhaps Charles remained Mary Elizabeth’s one true love for the rest of her life.
Mary Elizabeth is buried in a small cemetery less than 4 miles from the Badin Historic Museum. Next to her headstone is one for Charles, marking a grave that remains empty to this day.
Lake Hickory was completed in 1928, and has 105 miles of shoreline. Lake Hickory is managed by Duke Energy. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button. Indicates Public Access
See the Marina Guide on pages 34-37
Lake Hickory
Lake Norman was completed in 1963, covers 32,510 acres, has 520 miles of shoreline and is managed by Duke Power Company. For current lake-level information,visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com . Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Lake Wylie was completed in 1904 and was the first lake built on the Catawba River. It was reconstructed and enlarged in 1925, has 325 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 12,455 acres. Lake Wylie is managed by Duke Power Company. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmont lakespilot.com . Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Lake Wateree was created in 1920 with the operation of Wateree Hydroelectric Station. Lake Wateree has 13,864 surface acres and 242 miles of shoreline and is the largest of the lower lakes. The lake also provides a dependable water supply for Lugoff and Camden, South Carolina. Full pond elevation is 225.5 feet. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
High Rock Lake
High Rock Lake serves as the principal water storage and release facility for the entire Yadkin/PeeDee River. It consists of 360 miles of shoreline and 15,180 acres of water surface at a full-pond depth of 59 feet. For the latest lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Badin Dam Badin Lake, also known as Narrows Reservoir, was completed in 1917. It has 115 miles of shoreline and 5,353 acres of water-surface at full-pond. The lake is adjacent to the 50,000-acre Uwharrie National Forest, and north of the 4,693-acre Morrow Mountain State Park. For the latest lake level information, consult the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
The Lake Tillery Project is owned and operated by Duke Energy. It began operation in 1928 with the development of Norwood Dam, has approximately 118 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 5,263 acres at full-pond. Besides hydro-electric power generation, Lake Tillery provides drinking water for Montgomery County and the City of Norwood. For the latest lake-level information, consult the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button
Mountain Island Lake has a surface area of 3,235 acres with 61 miles of shoreline. Completed in 1923, it’s the primary source of drinking-water for more than 500,000 North Carolinians in the cities of Charlotte, Gastonia and Mount Holly. Mountain Island Lake is managed by Duke Energy. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com Click the “Lake Maps” button.
(continued from page 35)
Merchandise Resource
Boat finishes & piling jackets
412 Castlestone, Matthews, NC 28104
704-821-3503
Mountain Creek Marina 7515 Stonewall St, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673
704-483-0077; MtCreekMarina.com
Perth Marine
818 Perth Rd, Troutman, NC 28166
704-528-0500; PerthMarine.com
Pier 88 Yacht Club
At River Hills Marina on Lake Wylie 54 Marina Rd, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
When it comes to fishing, information is key. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran fisher or a newcomer, having as much information as possible at your disposal can help ensure a successful voyage.
Regardless of how long you’ve been doing it, discovering the best spots in a new area or staying up to date with lake conditions can be hugely helpful. The convenience of having that information on an app in a handheld device is something the generations that preceded today’s fishing community could only dream of.
Below, we’ve picked out a few of the finest apps that we’ve found to be most helpful if you’re looking for that extra boost, whether to get out of a slump or just stay out of the rain.
Fishbrain
Fishbrain is a great tool for planning a fishing trip ahead of time. It explores millions of locations with verified catches to bring users data about boat ramps, marinas, bait shops and license vendors.
Whether looking for a decent fishing spot or hunting a specific fish, Fishbrain can help. Users can filter by location and even fish breed. Conversely, less-experienced users who are unsure of what exactly they’re catching can identify and log their catches within the app.
The app is also a bit social, giving users the opportunity to connect with other fishers for insider tips or to just share how their trip went.
OnWater
Much like Fishbrain, OnWater helps anglers
connect with one another and provide tools and information about prime fishing spots. It takes it a step further by adding conservation efforts to their mission. After all, you can’t fish without water.
The app partners with organizations such as Trout Unlimited, which helps protect trout and salmon populations for future anglers, and Science on the Fly, which allows OnWater users to help environmental research efforts by uploading information about their experiences to the app.
Duke Energy Lake View
This app is perfect for anyone wanting the skinny on river and lake conditions before they trek to the site. Duke Energy operates 13 hydroelectric stations and 11 reservoirs from Lake James in North Carolina to Lake Wateree in South Carolina. Using data straight from these stations, Duke Energy’s Lake View app provides info on lake levels and scheduled flow releases for lakes and rivers managed by the company.
Lake View also provides information on Lake Tillery and Blewett Falls Lake in the Yadkin-Pee Dee River basin, Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee in the Keowee-Toxaway basin, and Ninety-Nine Islands in the Broad River basin.
The app isn’t limited to providing information for people wanting to fish; it also provides information on whitewater rafting, kayaking and other recreational activities.
All apps are available in the Google Play or Apple store apps. The Duke Energy app is free for all. The Fishbrain and OnWater apps each offer a free version and a subscription-based version.
[PHOTO] Adobe Stock image
Lake Hickory Scuba & Marina
420 Taylorsville Beach Ct, Taylorsville, NC 28681
828-455-6556; LakeHickoryScuba.com
AK McCallum Co.
Tackle, Jon Boats
715 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28302
910-483-6804 or 800-682-2628
Beaches Grocery Hwy 73, Stanley NC 704-827-2188
Boater’s Warehouse
798 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 704-664-2628
Carolina Fishing Tackle Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 704-799-2912
