We’ve got some more great content in this issue, Piloters. For the feature, Ryan Pitkin talks to Jeremy Pack of EZ Loader on the patent-holding business that treats all of their customers like family. Give it a read on pages 40 and 41 in this issue.
In The Pilot’s Galley we have a great article on the Lancaster brothers - Freddie, Mark and Jeffrey - and how they keep the Lake Norman area afloat through long standing business practices and family driven expertise with Big Daddy’s of Lake Norman, Jeffrey’s Restaurant, Lancaster’s BBQ and Lancaster Custom Dock & Lift.
We also have a short feature on The Retreat: Lake Wateree Dining by Annie Keough. Be sure to make a reservation for the weekend evenings as the husband-wife-duo owners say they get rather busy.
As the winter approaches, it is of the utmost importance that you get your boat winterized to save on costly repairs when getting the boat back out on the water in the spring. Rayne Antrim talks to a local expert at Rock Outdoors on the basic ideas and principles that you should know about preparing your boat for the cold weather.
You can check out Rock Outdoors and others including Glassic Boatworks, Wayne’s Marine Services, Charlotte Ski Boats, Mobile Motorboat Mechanics and Safe Harbor Westport for expert service on winterizing your boat. They say you can DIY it through videos on YouTube, but don’t forget how much you already spent to just get the vessel.
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On our cover: Larry Johnson founded EZ Loader Boat Trailers Inc. in 1953 after realizing he could build a better boat trailer than the one his customer had assembled, and the company has remained a family-run business ever since. Today, the company is still known for its innovative trailer designs and strong community ties, with Jeremy Pack and his team continuing to uphold Johnson’s legacy of quality and personal service at their North Carolina facility.
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
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
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
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
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. $-$$ Big Daddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar 1162 River Highway, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-663-4242; BigDaddysOfLakeNorman.com
Roomy 500-seat restaurant with oyster bar and salad bar. Seafood at its best since 1974. Open Sun.-Thurs., 5 p.m.–9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5 p.m.–10 p.m. Casual. $$
Blue Parrot Grill
River City Marina
169 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville
704-663-1203; BlueParrotMenu.com
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. $-$$
7564 Highway 150 E., Sherrill’s Ford. 704-478-3600; Facebook.com/BossHogBBQofLKN
Hickory-smoked pork barbecue, ribs and chicken cooked fresh daily. Buffalo wings. Served with homemade baked beans, slaw, Brunswick stew. Open Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m. Closed Sun.-Mon.Casual. $
Eddie's Seafood & Raw Bar
643 Williamson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-2090; EddiesLKN.com
Local favorite with an extensive menu featuring seafood, burgers, Italian specialties and Sunday brunch. On the water, but no slips. You can, however, beach your boat on the sandy strip — but you might get your feet wet! Open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Hello, Sailor
20210 Henderson Road, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-997-5365; HelloSailorNC.com
At Holiday Marina. Sophisticated, retro-inspired restaurant with a waterfront deck and tiki bar. Slips available. Open Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon.-Tues.
Jeffrey’s Restaurant
117 Trade Ct, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1110; jeffreyslkn.com
Inspired by his late father, Bud, Jeff Lancaster created a restaurant that filled the area’s need for a higher quality restaurant that wasn’t another lifeless franchise. Jeff’s passion for people pushed him to strive for the best while embracing an approachable southern charm; this idea is still woven into our essence today. Slick but easy-going hangout featuring New American eats with a Southern bent, cocktails and a patio. Open Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Mon., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m., Casual; $$ Lancaster’s BBQ 515 Rinehardt Road, Mooresville, NC 28115
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. $$-$$$
Port City Club
18665 Harborside Drive, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-765-1565; PortCityClub.com
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. $
Think of an idyllic day in a North Carolina lakeside town and three activities may come to mind: dock hangs, oyster shucking and barbecue gorges. Luckily, there are three Lake Norman locals who can always be trusted to pull off a day that includes all three.
The Lancaster brothers are a dynamic trio that’s keeping Lake Norman’s boating community afloat in more ways than one.
Freddie, the oldest, runs the 50-year-old Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Mooresville, Jeffrey opened Lancaster’s BBQ in 1986 and Jeffrey’s Restaurant in 2006, while Mark has constructed custom docks as the owner of Lancaster Custom Dock & Lift Systems for nearly 40 years.
As one might expect, the brothers host a mean outdoor dinner party — oysters and barbecue in tow.
“About every other month, we get together and have big family cookouts,” said Mark, the youngest of the three.
And once they split ways after those private affairs, the three brothers go back to cultivating the quintessential lakeside life that has made them staples in the Lake Norman community.
HARD WORK IN THE BLOODLINE
Each Lancaster brother seems to have a deeply ingrained pride in their work. A gritty work ethic is an obvious throughline between the three brothers and their businesses.
Growing up near Wilmington, the brothers were no strangers to toughing it out in “grandaddy’s” restaurants or on the docks with their uncle, who worked in construction.
Big Daddy’s, now owned by Freddie, was their grandparents’ baby.
“I was in the kitchen at 13, and before that, I was washing dishes. I’ve been doing all that all of my life,” Freddie said.
Their father passed away in the late ’90s at 57 years old, and since then, “we’ve just taken it on from there with a hard work ethic and a get-up-and-
make-it-happen every day” attitude, said Mark.
Even before then, the brothers honed an unshakeable work ethos.
Jeffrey served in the Air Force before opening up Lancaster’s BBQ while Mark dove into the marine construction industry early, working under his uncle in Wilmington.
Working in service of others, be that in restaurants or construction, isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s laborious, unpredictable and often requires more than your typical 40-hour work week.
“You have to roll your sleeves up and wash dishes,” Jeffrey said. “Every day that you’re open you gotta be prepared for that … the first 25 years of business, I was there night and day.”
At a mere 25 years old, Jeffrey opened Lancaster’s BBQ as a single father. “I got [my son] daycare … I juggled all that,” he said. “I look back and go, ‘Wow how did that ever happen?’”
PRIDE IN THE PRODUCT
At the time of its opening in 1986, Jeffrey and his cofounder, a former back-of-house employee from Big Daddy’s, believed in the product — eastern North Carolina-style barbecue with a zingy vinegar touch. He was hooked, even if at the time, Lancaster’s BBQ was just a tiny gas station dive with three booths.
Jeffrey was hooked despite once swearing he’d never be in the restaurant business. “It’s such a taxing way to make a living it’s a different animal.”
But naturally, he found immense care for and pride in the beast that is building a restaurant.
Thirty-eight years in, Jeffrey is still passionate about the product. He waxes poetic about the ChicA-Que sandwich, which smartly and dangerously combines a Chick-fil-A inspired chicken breast with BBQ pork. “The marriage of the two was inevitable,” he said.
When asked what it takes to run his restaurant, Jeffrey said, “Number one you have to care you have to take pride.”
That care and pride has grown Lancaster’s BBQ into a vast, racing-themed restaurant hosting parties, catering pork dinners, and entertaining the masses with NASCAR memorabilia.
Over at Big Daddy’s, Freddie also takes pride in his product. “We’re different; we’re not a chain restaurant, we’re family-operated.”
If you’ve never visited the Mooresville staple, Freddie recommends the “great steaks and prime rib,” adding that oyster night on Mondays is a can’tmiss.
“We shuck them right there for you” at the 51-seat oyster bar, he said.
The unshakeable work ethos is paramount for the brothers, but so is an exacting attention to detail — at least that’s what their grandmother would say.
The brothers’ grandmother used to work at Big Daddy’s too, and Jeffrey remembers her constantly proclaiming, “It’s the small stuff that makes the big picture.”
“I mean she was real particular,” Jeffrey said.
This mentality has instilled in the brothers a level of service that has allowed them to stay in business for 50 years, and to keep Big Daddy’s employees around for more than 30 years.
It’s clear that the community of servers, staff and the neighbors of Lake Norman and Mooresville have been a motivating factor and essential component to all of the businesses.
“I just love what we do … We get to see people at their best birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions,” Freddie said.
BUILDING A LASTING TRADITION
Although not in a restaurant, Mark also gets to witness his neighbors creating memories that last a lifetime. He and his team build docks that are enjoyed amongst families and Lake Norman communities for generations.
“A lot of our docks are 70-plus-year-old products … they’ll be around a long, long time … and that’s what it’s all about … creating memories,” he said.
Many customers tell him how he built their dad’s dock and their grandfather’s dock. “It’s a pleasure working with the community,” he reflected.
Both the community and the environment are at the heart of Mark’s work. For 25 years, he’s been a leader in a habitat enhancement program, where he builds osprey nests and does shoreline work to protect the lake and its species.
While so much has worked in the brothers’ favors, staffing has proven to be difficult over the years. Jeffrey firmly believes all servers and staff should be trained-up and service-oriented.
“You gotta earn that 20% tip you gotta give value to that” he said.
Freddie expressed frustration that, “It’s hard to get anybody that wants to work anymore.”
That’s why the brothers are yet again leaning into their family to provide that value. This time, it’s the next generation.
Freddie said there’s a common narrative in the restaurant industry: “The third generation never makes it.”But, he’s sure that won’t be true for Big Daddy’s.
His wife, two daughters and one of his daughter’s husbands all work in the kitchen or on the floor of Big Daddy’s. His children “wanna take it over … they wanna keep it going” with the same level of tradition Freddie himself valued, he said.
He trusts they can do just that, he said, but it’s not what’s on his mind at the moment. “I’m gonna do it as long as I can do it,” he promised.
Over at Lancaster Custom Dock & Lift Systems, Mark said his daughter and twin sons have learned the business since they were each 8 years old. Daughter Maggie manages sales while twins Clay and Clark are equipped and “really excited about taking over the business,” he beamed.
As Jeffrey reflected on the pride he felt for sharing Lancaster’s BBQ with his own son, who was raised here, he thought of his own dad, who wasn’t around to see the BBQ joint expand past the gas station and then to a second concept, Jeffrey’s Restaurant.
“I’m sure he was proud,” Jeffrey said. “Maybe one day I’ll get to sit down and hear that from him.”
But for now, the three brothers are sharing the fruits of their labor with their children, their community, and importantly, with each other.
“We work hand in hand with each other … It’s a real pleasure having such a great family,” said Mark. Freddie’s got the steak, Jeffrey’s got the barbecue, and Mark’s got the spot.
The Retreat Serves as the Perfect Lake Wateree Escape
By Annie Keough
Located on the shores of Lake Wateree in Ridgeway, South Carolina, The Retreat truly lives up to its name.
The husband-and-wife duo behind The Retreat designed the exterior aesthetic to resemble a cabin, putting customers at ease, enhanced by the view of Lake Wateree’s calming waters. The interior’s warm, wood-clad atmosphere coupled with a stone fireplace will transport you to a mountain retreat without leaving South Carolina’s Midlands.
The restaurant encourages customers to make a reservation, especially for weekend dining from Thursday to Sunday when things get especially busy. Thursday is Locals Night, with half-price appetizers and half-price wines by the glass from 5-9 p.m.
Even if it’s busy, however, waiting for a table is anything but a bad experience with a cocktail in hand, reclining on one of many rocking chairs along the restaurant’s covered porch area.
The Retreat’s menu showcases locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Chef Blake Hartwick’s belief in representing local farmers drives his approach to the refined Southern cuisine served at The Retreat.
The restaurant’s menu changes several times a week based on what they can source from local farms across the southeast region, but regularly boasts Southern staples such as mac and cheese, fried okra, Nashville fried chicken, burgers, wings and more.
“We pride ourselves in serving fresh and local ingredients you can taste,” the website reads.
The Retreat’s pride is well-placed according
to one customer’s Google review: “The food was truly exceptional, both in taste and presentation, and very reasonably priced,” the review said. “The atmosphere was serene, enhanced by the beautiful outdoor view of the lake. Overall, The Retreat at Lake Wateree offers a wonderful dining experience with great food, a lovely atmosphere, and outstanding service.”
If you’re looking for the perfect time to plan a fall “retreat” to Lake Wateree, on Nov. 10 The Retreat hosts its fourth annual community-driven Chili Cook Off, a popular event that benefits the Special Olympics of South Carolina.
The yearly culinary competition brings together local chefs, home cooks and chili enthusiasts to showcase their best recipes, all in the name of charity. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of chili dishes, vote for their favorites and enjoy a day filled with family-friendly fun, live music from Elliot Poston, beer from a local brewery, a kids corner, baked goods and more.
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Special Olympics of South Carolina, an organization dedicated to providing year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and people with disabilities. Your participation and support will help empower these athletes to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy through sports.
The Retreat: Lake Wateree Dining is located at 83 Doe Run Lane in Ridgeway, SC, on the shore of Lake Wateree. The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday and open 5-9 p.m., Wednesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. on Saturday; and 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Depth & Fish Finders, GPS Systems, and General Electric Equipment & Supplies
All Seasons Marina
At Marker T-3
827 Langtree Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-892-3478; AllSeasonsMarina.net
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
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
EZ Loader Keeps Things Rolling from Concord
By Ryan Pitkin
It was more than 70 years ago that a local mechanic in Spokane, Washington, named Larry Johnson was working in his auto shop when a customer came in to show him an issue he had with a knock-down boat trailer that he ordered from a manufacturer and assembled himself.
Always willing to help a neighbor in need, Johnson took a look at the man’s trailer and quickly realized he could build a better one himself. So that’s just what he did.
“He always wanted to make things work better,” explained Christina LaFleur, Johnson’s granddaughter, in a union newsletter in 2020.
From there, Johnson built himself a boat trailer, then another for a friend who saw his, and so on and so on until he officially made the work his business, launching EZ Loader Boat Trailers Inc. in 1953.
Seven decades and some change later, EZ Loader is still building boat trailers on that same lot in Spokane (LaFleur is the office manager). The facility has grown a bit, as has the business. Having worked for the company in some capacity since the seventh grade, Larry’s son Randy Johnson is the current owner and president.
More than 30 years ago, EZ Loader opened a boat trailer manufacturing facility in Concord, North Carolina, and today it remains the only such facility in the Piedmont Lakes region.
Jeremy Pack, a resident of Davidson who runs the Concord facility as southeast regional manager at EZ
Loader, keeps the spirit of the late Larry Johnson alive in his work. Though he travels up and down the East Coast for his work, he treats his Concord warehouse like a neighborhood business.
“If someone has an issue, you want to make sure you take care of it,” Pack explained. “I’ve driven out there on a Saturday, I’ve driven out on a Sunday, whatever it takes to make someone happy and get them home and make it happen.”
It’s not often that Pack or his team of 17 are called on to fix issues — they build things right the first time. Less than 2% of the business they do in Concord involves warranty work, but Pack approaches his relationships with dealers and other businesses the same way.
Over his 20 years in North Carolina, he has built strong relationships with local businesses such as American Marine Liquidators, Boat Sales of Lake Wylie, Charlotte Ski Boats, Doc’s Marine, Lake Norman Boat Rentals, The Boat Rack, Merritt Marine and many more.
“What I honestly value the most is, I mean, business is business, right? But the fact of it is you deal with these guys and they become more than business, they become family. They become friends,” he said. “We’re not a corporate-owned entity, we’re family.
“That’s the one thing that I’ve always stressed is if someone needs something, I don’t look at it as a business thing, I look at it as my friend,” he continued. “I don’t want
Jeremy Pack in front of the EZ Loader facility in Concord, NC | Photo by Jayme Johnson
to let him down. I don’t want to let her down. And that’s how we’ve always structured our business. We’ve built so many good relationships those people, they’re not just business partners, they’re friends and they’re family.”
Of course, not letting people down starts with keeping the quality of their products high. For decades, EZ Loader has been known for its innovation, beginning with developing the first “all-roller” trailer, where a series of small rollers make it easy for a single person to load and unload the trailer, in the 1950s.
They acquired the patent in 1964 and today hold 13 patents for similarly innovative designs.
EZ Loader sets itself apart in the industry as one of the only companies that exclusively use oil bath hubs rather than greased hubs, a far more effective lubricant, according to Pack.
The company’s see-through oil bath caps also make it easier for clients to check their bearings before a trip whereas the bearing-buddy system used on other products is enclosed and difficult to check.
“You have no idea what’s going on there; if there’s water in there, if there’s deterioration in there, you have no idea,” Pack explained. “With our system, you can literally just look at it and know you’re okay.”
While much of the work that Pack and his team do happens well away from the water, they remain connected to the local boating community because they’re a part of it. As a father of four in the era of cellphones and iPads, Pack treasures the fact that boating will always take precedence over technology when it’s time for family bonding.
It’s also apparent how much pride that Pack takes in his work.
“Going to boat ramps and seeing EZ Loaders, it gives me a good feeling in the heart to see something that we’ve done, built here by Americans, and we get to make people happy,” Pack said. “The bottom line is, boating is a family thing. It’s a happy thing. Everyone goes boating, and by the end of the day, everyone’s in a pretty darn good mood.”
That sense of pride has spread to his team of 17 that works with him at the Concord facility.
“They work their butts off and they take pride in what they do,” Pack said. “Talking to them, looking at a trailer that’s going down the road that they’ve built and they say, ‘You know what? I built that.’ It makes them feel proud
about that. In this day and age, it’s tough to put a measure on that because it’s a crazy world we live in, but to me, for us to take pride in what we do, I think that means a lot.”
And that’s how the legacy of Larry Johnson lives on along the shores of the Piedmont Lakes.
One of many EZ Loader trailers available | Photo by Jayme Johnson
Trailer assebly happening in the shop | Photo by Jayme Johnson
Trailer assebly happening in the shop | Photo by Jayme Johnson
What to Think About When Winterizing Your Boat
By Rayne Antrim
For newcomers to the boating community, those who call the lake their second home, or even folks just shopping around for their first vessel, the word winterization should be a term every boat owner is familiar with.
As the cold season rolls in, taking care of your watercraft is one of the most important things to do to maintain pristine conditions. Some Southerners think they don’t need to concern themselves with any potential damage done due to freezing temperatures — it simply doesn’t get cold enough for that. Think again.
“Contradictory to some beliefs, North Carolina’s climate will damage your motor,” warn the fine folks at Chatlee Boat & Marine in Sanford, North Carolina. “Simply draining the block and manifolds is not enough because water is still trapped in some areas of the block.”
For those who don’t know, winterization is a process to ensure parts of a boat containing raw water are fully drained and replaced with marine
antifreeze before the weather drops for the winter.
To understand how important this process is for your boat, first look to the engine.
Motor boats have two types of engines: inboard (also called sterndrive) or outboard. An inboard motor is an automotive-type engine mounted inside of the boat with a steerable unit mounted on the back.
An outboard motor is mounted outside of the boat and is designed to drain all the water from their cooling systems when placed in the down position. This means that inboard engines are especially important to winterize, though both should be maintained in preparation of the cold season to prevent damage.
Brad Bayers, a master technician from Rock Outdoors in Lexington, NC, says not winterizing your inboard engine could leave you with thousands of dollars in repairs.
“If you leave water in the cooling system, the water expands and puts pressure on the engine
block and can cause it to crack,” said Bayers.
For an outboard engine, there’s still potential for freeze damage if water has been sucked up in the cooling system or if there are any sealing problems in the gear case that boat owners might be unaware of.
If water stays in the boat, it will expand as cooling temperatures cause it to freeze, damaging anything from your engine to your ballast system. Acidic and corrosive wastes, salt and corrosion buildup can damage delicate parts in engines. Fuels break down or grow dirty, mold and mildew take root, and you may come back to a boat in the spring that’s unusable because of various system failures.
Bayers also emphasized that it’s important to consider what kind of pipes, hoses and plumbing systems your boat has to determine the type of marine antifreeze you use for your vehicle.
For example, there are alcohol and propyleneglycol-based types of antifreeze. Propylene types are okay for engine cooling hoses, while alcohol types can dry out those hoses over time. There are also -50° F and other types of antifreeze to consider, depending on how cold it gets where your boat is being stored.
“If -50° antifreeze was in something like a PVC pipe, which isn’t common in the boat engines I service, and the boat is stored somewhere where the temperature drops to zero, it could potentially burst that type of pipe,” Bayers explains.
Now that you know just how important winterization is, you can decide if you’d like to try it yourself or get a professional to help you. Bayers said YouTube can be a helpful resource for DIY-ers out there, but be aware that not every engine is the same.
There are a lot of parts to any boat, and learning
how each one works and what’s needed for winterization can be an overwhelming amount of information. He encourages boat owners to seek professional services if they have no experience winterizing boats themselves.
Bayers mentioned that the risks of DIY winterizations include damaging other parts of the boat that didn’t even risk damage due to cold temperatures. Throughout his years as a master technician, Bayers has never lost an engine.
“Most of the time for inboards and starter drives, I recommend to have their one-on-ones done, just because Rock Outdoors is insured,” he explained. “So if something does happen, we take care of the customer if a situation were to arise.”
Still not convinced? Bayers shared a couple more benefits to winterizing your boat that you may not have considered.
Using your boat in the spring. Winterizing your boat is vital for boat owners to have the ability to bring their cruisers out in the spring with no additional services. It ultimately saves money if you get your boat winterized and worked on right before the cold season hits so you won’t have to take your boat out of service midseason.
Routine check-up. Bayers said part of a technician’s winterization process includes conducting an annual service, during which they can take care of or at least raise the red flag about other unnoticed problems in your boat. Technicians also pull the drive unit off, which isn’t typical for individuals to do at home.
Places like Rock Outdoors offer several services when it comes to winterization. For example, their variety of packages includes changing your gear lube, adding fuel treatment and running your engine, fogging carbureted engines, greasing fittings, spraying corrosion inhibitor, checking power trim fluid and operation, adding needed fluid,
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 Boat Ramp
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.
Tuckertown Dam
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.
Lake Tillery
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.
Interstate Cycle
3265 Charlotte Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
(continued from page 35)
Norman-Wylie Marine
15105-D John Delaney Dr #319, Charlotte, NC 704-825-2911; NormanWylie.com
North Point Watersports
112 Doolie Rd, Hwy 150 W, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1994; NorthPointWatersports.com
Race City Marine
1192 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-0008; RaceCityMarine.com
Safe Harbor Westport 7879 Water Oaks Dr, Denver, NC 28037
