Lake Wiley Today Fall 2025

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A TIME TO ENJOY TREASURES OF THE SEASON Fall.......

By Susan Bromfield

Ahhhh, fall is in the air, and the many treasures of the season are just around the corner. As the leaves change colors, the temperatures cool off after summer’s extreme heat and drought then rainy days, there is a sense of peace at the lake as the sounds and sights of nature become more noticeable. Soon we will see the pumpkins on porches and pots with pansies and mums as the days get cooler.

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons on Lake Wylie. When Labor Day passes, the lake itself becomes calm, and the boats move slower, and it becomes quieter and more serene with the passing of each day. A walk becomes an experience to soak up the beauty that surrounds us each day. Suddenly the sounds of the squirrels and birds moving about are more noticeable. The hummingbirds and butterflies are hovering by the many blossoms and flowers that are abundant. Frequently, the deer appear out of nowhere and can be seen in the neighborhoods.

As kayaking and paddle boarding have become more popular at the lake, it is a frequent sight to see groups of kayakers and paddleboarders in the coves and quieter areas of the lake. Seeing the fisherman quietly in the coves and at the marina makes me realize how truly fortunate we are to live at Lake Wylie where there is a richness of nature, beauty and recreational opportunities for all.

Visitors frequently ask, “do you need to have a boat to enjoy living at the lake?”

Clearly the answer is no. Nature is all around us and recreational opportunities change with each season.

We are fortunate to have McDowell Park with its beautiful nature trails and fishing piers along with picnic shelters and areas to enjoy nature. Pier 88 at River Hills Marina has kayaks and boats for rent for those who do not have their own. The Freedom Boat Club, Marine Max and other Boat Clubs Wylie Pelican Charters also offer plans where you can enjoy a boat when you want without the expense of docking and maintaining your own boat. The fishing store on Highway 49 and Wall-mart have a full assortment of fishing gear if fishing is your cup of tea.

In this issue of Lake Wylie Today Shoreline will feature Riversweep and the information on how we can all pitch in to help keep the lake and waterways clean by organizing groups and neighborhood to do a seasonal clean up. Food for Thought highlights Food and Football for the fall season and where and how you can support the local businesses and restaurants to plan food for football game days this season.

Walking is one of the most popular recreational activities and there is no end to the opportunities to walk around and near Lake Wylie. Walking and the slower pace allow everyone to savor the beauty we live with each day at the lake. There is satisfaction and peace that calms the soul when you walk during all the natural beauty and sights and sounds of nature. Many times, we take this for granted as part of our everyday life. We are reminded by some of our visitors who move here from cities and more urban areas of the country that walking surrounded by nature is not the norm and it is part of the appeal for moving to Lake Wylie. The simple pleasures in life can be gratifying and free when we take the time to soak in the beauty that surrounds us.

Garden Party features highlights of a few event venues in our area. River Hills Country Club is highlighted as the turnkey event venue in our area with chefs, event planners, beautiful rooms, views, and outdoor spaces to have any kind of event in any season. Five Blossom Farm is a newer rural event venue and Camelot Meadows offers acres of venue opportunities and a lovely large building where groups can gather to celebrate any occasion.

The non-profit highlighted is Clover Area Assistant Center and its new building and expanded services to meet the growing needs in the area.

Mailbag highlights local and community news, awards and happenings submitted from clubs, groups, schools, and members of the community.

We invite you to sit back with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy reading the fall issue of Lake Wylie Today.

1478 Imperial Court | York

4128 La Crema | Charlotte

1201 Featherton Drive | Belmont

Veterans Day heroes luncheon

Clover Rotary Club presents their annual Veterans Day Heroes Luncheon on November 6, 2025 honoring all military and first responders in partnership with Clover High School Interact Club, Culinary Arts, JROTC, and Choraliers. The event will be held at 11:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 124 Bethel Street, Clover, SC. Sign up at www.cloverrotary.org/heroes.

SC Representative Tommy Pope and Clover Rotary President, Dr. Michael Schonfeld

Clover Area Assistance Center receives grant from River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club

August 10, 2025

River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club member, Don Nowak presented a grant recently to the Clover Area Assistance Center, as part of dozens of organizations supported by the club annually.

The Clover Area Assistance Center operates a Full Choice Pantry, meaning that those in need shop directly from the pantry shelves. Each person is assisted by a volunteer and given a list to shop with.

They also provide financial assistance, generally for help with utility bills, rent, prescriptions,

the purchase of heating fuels, transportation, and a variety of other basic needs costs, providing over $120,000 on direct financial assistance alone, last year.

Executive Director, Cameron Hurst upon receipt of the funds, mentioned “The increase in working families, needing help has increased dramatically in our service area. Many of these working families are in entry level jobs whereby they can’t meet these needs on their own. It’s not the non-working families that many believe are the recipients.” She further stated that “The

Lions Club Charities has helped us to expand to meet the growing needs of the area and to open our new administration building that we can offer to several agencies to use that features additional office space and a conference room. Up until now, for most of them, the nearest area was Rock Hill.”

The CAAC board president, Jerry Epping, also commented, saying “There has been an increase of families and sizes of families. Further notice-

See LIONS CLUB, Page 7

Clover High School Jr. ROTC at Annual Heroes Luncheon.

The River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club presented a grant to the Clover Area Assistance Center, as part of dozens of organizations supported by the club annually.

CAAC Pantry Needs

Canned Beans- Pinto, Kidney, Navy, Refried Canned Fruit

Canned Meals- Ravioli, Beef Stew, Spaghetti & Meatballs, etc.

Canned Tomatoes- Diced/Sauce, Paste, Etc. Flavored Rice Packs

Individually Packaged Potatoes and Canned Potatoes

Manwich

Pork & Beans/ Baked Beans

Ramen Noodles

Rice-A-Roni

Spaghetti Sauce

able an increase in young families. Much of that is because of cut backs in the SNAP program and an ever-increasing population in the district.” He further stated, “the demand has grown from once seemed to be mostly senior citizens who were in need.”

Funding not only comes from the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club but also from many local church groups, local businesses, and other grants from foundations. It is also supported by the York County United Way and has a relationship with Sweet Repeat in Lake Wylie.

(803) 222-4837

Info@cloverareaassistance org

LIONS CLUB, from Page 6

The Annual Charity Veterans Day Golf event was held at River Hills Country Club.

Smoke on the Water at River Hills Country Club

The 2025 Smoke on the Water Fall Festival is Saturday, October 18th at River Hills Country Club. There will be food, music and fun. The Chef will have an incredible buffet. The Garrett Huffman Band will be featured. There will be an axe throwing, face painting, hayrides, bounce houses, a BBQ buffet, and more! Members and their guests are invited. Smoke on the Water has become an annual festival held at River Hills Country Club each fall. Contact RHCC – Brittany for membership or information (803) 621-3115

Halloween family fun at River Hills Country Club.

Chef's incredible buffet of BBQ & fixin's at the 2024 Annual Smoke on the Water Fall Festival.

A group of our ladies card players in the Cove Room.

Hayride at 2024 Annual Smoke on the Water fall festival at River Hills Country Club.

Summer Fun with Scout Troop 333

Our local Scout Troop 333 have had a busy summer full of activities. Several scouts took a week long trip to Camp Raven Knob where they earned close to 80 merit badges as a group. They also participated in a Canoe Campout to Croft State Park. To end the Summer Fun it’s water fun weekend at Mr. Pugh’s camp site on Lake Wylie. With the kids starting back to school, it’s a great time to consider joining the Scouting America program.

If you are interested in having your child be a part of the Scouting America program check out the website to find out more information in your area at: https://beascout.org

Troop 333 Group Photo at Camp Raven Knob June 2025

Photo Provided By: Tony Olivas, Troop 333 Scoutmaster

Milk Train Creamery located at 725 Bethel St., Clover, held its ribbon cutting on July 26.

Diana Gaddy, President of Destiny's Calling, and Olympia Caswell, Greater Clover Chamber Board Member

Courtey Smith with Edward Jones Financial Advisors – Clover greets members and guests to the Clover Chamber of Commerce annual meeting held June 5.

Student Reassignment

Clover School District (CSD) will undertake the student reassignment process this fall to draw new school boundaries for the 2026 school year as the district opens three new schools.

Lake Wylie High School, Roosevelt Middle School and Liberty Hill Elementary School are all slated to open at the start of the next school year. Because the district is opening a new school at each grade level, attendance maps at all grade levels will be impacted by the student reassignment process.

The district will begin communications about the reassignment process during the week of August 11, with reminder messages to follow during the week of August 18.

On Monday, August 25, the School Board will receive a first draft of the proposed attendance lines. This meeting begins at 6 p.m. and will be held at the District Office on Bethel Street. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed on the CSD YouTube channel. Draft plans will be posted to a dedicated website following the meeting.

Once the first draft is shared, CSD will enter into a month-long period of community engagement around the proposed plan. Three community forums are scheduled during this time. The first will be in the Oakridge Middle School Cafeteria on Thursday, September 4, at 6 p.m. The second will be in the Clover Middle School Cafeteria on Thursday, September 11, at 6 p.m. The final meet-

ing will be at the Clover School District Auditorium on Tuesday, September 16, at 6 p.m.

In addition to the public forums, CSD will post an online form on its Student Reassignment webpage. Parents and staff may use this form to ask questions or share concerns. Those who use the form will not receive a response, but the information shared in the form will be reviewed by the Board and Administration

and will become a part of the final report on the attendance lines.

The Board is expected to hold a vote on new attendance lines on Monday, September 22, at 6 p.m. at the District Office. This meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed on the CSD YouTube channel.

Following the adoption of a new assignment plan, CSD will communicate with families and staff about the approved

plan via all its usual communication channels.

Metrics We’re Moving

Fall is the season CSD reports on its performance from the previous school year, and the results continue to be impressive. Highlights include:

• 95% graduation rate at Clover High School;

• 96% of Clover High freshmen through juniors are on-track to graduate ;

• Increased reading and math proficiency at all grade levels;

• 307 Career and Technical Education (CTE) “completers” at the Center for Career Innovation; and

• More than 2,000 industry certifications earned by students at the Center for Career Innovation.

Fun Fact: CSD students earned more Kubota industry certifications than students at The Ohio State University!

Construction Update

A dry, albeit hot, summer meant peak conditions for the district’s construction projects.

The arts wing built at the Ninth Grade Campus to enable next year’s conversion to Roosevelt Middle School is now complete. Students in the Clover High School band program are using this space this year until it is needed for the new school next year.

Lake Wylie High School is nearly under roof, and Liberty Hill Elementary’s second wing is currently going up.

All three schools are slated to open in August 2026.

Real Estate Pathway Now Available at CCI

The Center for Career Innovation (CCI), formerly known as the Applied Technology Center (ATC), is offering a new Real Estate program for the 20252026 school year.

The Real Estate program consists of courses such as Fundamentals of Real Estate, Advanced Real Estate, Entrepreneurship and Marketing. After completing the program ,students will be able to sit for the South Carolina Real Estate exam. A passing score on that exam will qualify students for licensure upon meeting the age requirement and high school graduation requirement.

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The Lake Wylie Community’s Role in Riversweep 2025 Bagging One Bottle at a Time

By: Wendy Dimitri

Every October, Lake Wylie residents rally for the ultimate cleanup cause.

On Oct. 4, 2025, volunteers will gather at Buster Boyd Bridge, Allison Creek, Copperhead Island, and dozens of other predetermined sites for Riversweep, the largest single-day cleanup in the Catawba–Wateree River Basin.

From pulling old tires out of quiet coves to collecting thousands of plastic bottles washed ashore, neighbors unite to protect the water we boat, swim, and fish in — and, most importantly, drink. What happens on Lake Wylie flows downstream to communities across two states, making our community’s cleanup a vital part of a greater mission.

A Basin-Wide Effort

While Lake Wylie may be the heart of Riversweep for many York County residents, the event stretches far beyond our area. Organized by the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation, Riversweep spans 11 reservoirs, 14 dams, and nearly 9,000 miles of streams across the Catawba–Wateree River Basin.

“This is our drinking water,” said John Searby, Executive Director of the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation. “These lakes and rivers are owned by all of the residents who live in this area. If you care about keeping your drinking water clean, keeping it free of trash, and having a beautiful place to recreate and be outdoors, then getting involved with River-

sweep is a great way to be personally invested in improving that natural resource.”

The Work Behind the Scenes

Although Riversweep lasts only a few hours on a Saturday morning in the fall, preparation takes months. Brandon Jones, Catawba Riverkeeper and the organization’s lead scientist, said his team begins by scouting sites, some accessible only by kayak or motorboat, to determine where volunteers can make the biggest impact.

“Some sites we visited this year were spotless,” Jones said. “It’s a great problem to have, but it also means we have to pivot, because flooding and high-water events can shift where debris collects.”

Recent storms have reshaped the shoreline and riverbeds upstream of Lake Wylie, changing where trash tends to accumulate.

Once sites are identified, the Riverkeeper team recruits site captains, experienced volunteers or community leaders, who coordinate each cleanup location. These captains pick up supplies, receive safety training, and oversee volunteer efforts on Riversweep day.

One Bottle at a Time

Last year, Riversweep volunteers hauled nearly 50,000 pounds of trash from waterways in just one day — about half the total removed in an entire year.

“It’s one bottle at a time,” Jones said. “It takes thousands of people over three hours to get to this milestone.”

Fishing Licenses

A fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older when fishing in any public water, including coastal waters, in both Carolinas. Purchase NC licenses by calling 888-2486834 or at www.ncwildlife.org. SC licenses are available at www.dnr.sc.gov or by calling 803-734-3833. A 7 day license can be purchased for out of state visitors. Must have a valid state ID.

Pendleton’s Sporting Goods 5930 Charlotte Highway Clover, SC 29710 (Highway 49 near "Five Points") 803-631-5410

River Stop Food Mart 3900 Mt. Gallant Road Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-329-0002

Wal-Mart - Lake Wylie 175 SC-274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2115

Wal-Mart - Newport 4875 Old York Rd Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-323-2080

Wal-Mart-Tega Cay 1151 Stonecrest Blvd Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-578-4140

Grab N Go 13920 S Tryon St Charlotte, NC 28278 704-587-0045

In the early years, crews often encountered refrigerators, tires, and other large debris. While such items are now less common thanks to stronger waste management laws, volunteers still find smaller, persistent pollutants such as plastic bags, straws, foam cups, and even tennis balls that roll into storm drains and wash into creeks.

Still, however, old tires remain a challenge. Decades ago, they were used for erosion control or sunk to create fish habitat. Today, we know they can leach harmful chemicals into the water and break down into microplastics.

“Every tire we remove is removing toxins from the environment,” Jones said.

Why Lake Wylie Matters

Lake Wylie is more than a recreational hub, it is a critical link in our drinking water and electrical power system. What enters our lake eventually flows downstream, affecting com-

munities across the Carolinas. By cleaning our coves, creeks, and shoreline, Lake Wylie volunteers help improve water quality for the entire basin.

Because Riversweep happens simultaneously across the basin, our efforts in our community are multiplied by those in upstream and downstream communities.

Getting Involved

Registration is now open for those who want to participate. A limited number of volunteer spots are available at each site to ensure even volunteer-to-debris site distribution.

If you cannot join Riversweep on Oct. 4, the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation offers cleanup supplies year-round for groups such as Scouts, youth teams, or corporate volunteers. You can “adopt” a site for a day, receive grabbers, gloves, and bags, and make a difference on your own schedule.

A Riversweep volunteer hauls waterlogged trash from the riverbank.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

A kayaker loads river trash—including an old tire—into his boat for removal.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

A volunteer hauls out a full bag of collected litter.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

Beyond Riversweep

While Riversweep is the largest single-day cleanup of the year, the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation’s mission extends year-round. The organization educates the public, advocates for stronger environmental protections, and monitors water quality.

Jones and his team also work on legislative priorities, from designating scenic river trails to reducing runoff from parking lots. Here, membership numbers matter.

“As much as legislators like hearing from me, they want to hear from their constituents more,” Jones said. “If I can say I represent hundreds of members in their district, it carries weight.”

Members are what make Catawba Riverkeeper the voice of the river. By joining, you lend your voice to protecting the basin, aptly named “The Hardest Working River in America,” which provides drinking water to nearly 3 million people, electricity to nearly 4 mil-

lion, and recreation to hundreds of communities throughout North and South Carolina.

A Community Effort

For more than two decades, Riversweep has been a point of pride for the Lake Wylie community. Neighbors meet neighbors, families introduce their children to hands-on conservation, and local businesses step up with sponsorships or supply donations.

“It’s about taking ownership,” Searby said. “These waters belong to all of us. When you pick up a bottle or a bag from the shoreline, you are not just cleaning a spot, you are helping protect a shared resource for generations to come.”

This Oct. 4, whether you are pulling a kayak onto a muddy bank to retrieve a stray tire or walking the shoreline with a bag in hand, you will be part of a tradition that keeps Lake Wylie and the Catawba River Basin clean, healthy, and beautiful.

Proud volunteers pose with the day’s haul of tires, debris, and litter.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

Volunteers scour the rocky shoreline, collecting debris. Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

803-548-3715

704-557-0848

Volunteers pulled dozens of discarded tires from the river.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

Dozens of Riversweep volunteers tackle the sandy riverbanks together.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

Families

wooded trail.

Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation

Touchdowns & Takeout: Game Day Eats Around Lake Wylie

By: Wendy Dimitri

Football season is here, and whether you are decked out in team colors at a restaurant or cheering from your own living room, one thing is for sure: food is a major player on game day. Around Lake Wylie, local restaurants are putting up winning stats with their crowd-pleasing menus, cozy TV setups, and take-home trays fit for a tailgate—or a living room blitz. Skip the stress of prepping and let our hometown eateries handle the food side of your football festivities. Here is your guide to the best local eats for game day—whether you are hosting, heading out, or calling in reinforcements.

Post-touchdown toast, lakefront style. Cheers from Papa Doc’s. Photo courtesy of Papa Doc’s Shore Club.

Big Papa’s Pizzeria

Best For: Take-home trays of baked pasta touchdowns

5800 Charlotte Hwy A, Lake Wylie | (803) 619-4111

Sure, Big Papa’s has great pizza, but when it is game time, go for the baked pasta trays. Think: cheesy baked ziti, hearty lasagna, and meat-filled manicotti—all packed up and ready to feed a hungry crowd. Their garlic knots are legendary and perfect for passing around during halftime.

Game Day Pick: Full tray of meat lasagna, garlic knots, Caesar salad

Pro tip: Call ahead for trays; they are made fresh and go fast on weekends.

Christopher’s Grill & Bar

Best For: Laid-back vibes and loyal fans

1500 Village Harbor Dr., Lake Wylie | (803) 831-2461

If you are looking for a friendly, no-fuss spot to watch the game with locals who will cheer (or groan) alongside you, Christopher’s is it. With TVs throughout the bar and dining area, this hometown favorite is equally suited for dine-in or pickup if you would rather keep the cheering sequestered at home.

Game Day Pick: Christopher’s Signature Burger, hand-cut fries, 12-count wings (buffalo or garlic parmesan)

Pro tip: Grab a seat early—locals know this is the go-to spot for big games.

Bacon, cheddar, and crispy crinkle fries—Christopher’s signature burger brings game-day flavor to your pigskin party.

Photo courtesy of Christophers Grill & Bar.

Touchdown-worthy and dunk-ready: Big Papa’s garlic knots are golden, garlicky perfection.

Photo courtesy of Big Papa’s Pizzeria.

No flags on this play—Big Papa’s “Take & Bake” lineup is stacked with heavy hitters.

Photo courtesy of Big Papa’s Pizzeria.

Food for Thought

Every game. Every tap. No bad seats at Copper. Photo courtesy of Copper Premium Pub.

Go long for a basket of wings from Christopher’s.

Photo courtesy of Christopher’s Grill & Bar.

Copper Premium Pub

Best For: Watching every snap from every angle

4516 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie | (803) 701-7021

With a wraparound bar, an expansive patio, and TV screens seemingly on every wall, Copper Premium Pub is a field goal for football fans. Every game is on, and there is not a bad seat in the house. Want to turn your group hang into a watch party? This is the spot.

Game Day Pick: Loaded nachos, shrimp tacos, smoked wings, beer bucket

Pro tip: The patio is heated and covered— perfect for those cool-weather kickoffs.

Courtney’s BBQ and Brew

Best For: Serious BBQ without the frills 1166 State Hwy 55E, Clover | (803) 222-5900

Courtney’s is the kind of place where the smoke does the talking. No fancy décor, just mouthwatering, slow-cooked meats and Southern sides. Order per person or by the pound—perfect for feeding a hungry game day crowd.

Game Day Pick: Ribs, pulled pork by the pound, mac and cheese, coleslaw, cornbread Bonus: Yes, they do whole hog if you are going all out. Just give them a heads-up.

and

Slow-smoked, sauce-slathered,

game-day ready. Courtney’s ribs are the MVP of any tailgate or couch-gate lineup.

Photo courtesy of Courtney’s BBQ and Brew.

Food for Thought

Lake Wylie Pizza

Best For: Classic takeout that pleases a crowd

4074 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie | (803) 831-0855

1075 Filbert Hwy, York | (803) 818-6986

Pizza is the universal love language of game day, and Lake Wylie Pizza delivers the goods. Feed four or fourteen, with pizza pies, wings, and salads to match every appetite. And with locations in both Lake Wylie and York, you are always in range for a pickup.

Game Day Pick: XL Meat Lovers pizza, 20 buffalo wings, Caesar salad

Pro tip: Order online to skip the wait—especially during primetime games.

Lee’s Hoagie House

Best For: No-heat-needed party platters

312 Bulkhead Way Suite 101, Lake Wylie | (803) 619-4046

Feeding a crowd but don’t want to deal with warmers, sterno, or slow cookers? Lee’s Hoagie House has you covered with hoagie boxes, deli trays, wraps, and fresh salads. Everything is ready to eat, travels well, and does not require a single flame or plug-in.

Game Day Pick: The Big Game Box (mix of hoagies & wraps), antipasto salad, sweet tea by the gallon Bonus: Perfect for cold setups on tailgates or tabletops.

Piled high with pepperoni, sausage, olives, and more—Lake Wylie Pizza’s Supreme Pie is built for game day domination. Photo courtesy of Lake Wylie Pizza.

Even football feasts need a fresh option. Lee’s party-sized salads bring the crunch and color to your spread.

Photo courtesy of Lee’s Hoagie House.

Papa Doc’s Shore Club

Best For: Hosting the party out of your house

3990 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie | (803) 831-0043

If you want the fun of game day without the cleanup, Papa Doc’s is your MVP. With a lively indoor dining space, TVs throughout, lake views, and even a private party room, it is perfect for bringing your team to their turf.

Game Day Pick: Oysters on the half shell, southern fried shrimp basket, sliders sampler, loaded potato nachos, and their famous hushpuppies

Pro tip: They have game day drink specials and a full bar—designate a driver as your All Star player.

- Fresh, all-natural pet food made every 30-45 days.

- We have a full line of all-natural treats, chews and supplements

- One-on-one pet nutrition consultation to address your specific pet’s needs

- We offer delivery to work or home!

- Locally owned and operated

Post-touchdown toast, lakefront style. Cheers from Papa Doc’s.

Photo courtesy of Papa Doc’s Shore Club.

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Final Whistle: Where Will You Watch?

Football may be the main event, but great food is what keeps fans fueled from kickoff to the final whistle. No need to hesitate to host friends, hit a local place, or dial up for take out when Lake Wylie’s local restaurants offer enough variety to make your playbook unbeatable.

From smoky BBQ to hoagie boxes,

Dr. Ryan Colosi

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• Periodontics

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• Implants

• Whitening

baked pastas to wing trays, these businesses are serving more than food—they are mastering flavor, convenience, and community spirit. The next time you are prepping for Sunday game days or MNF (or even Saturday tailgates), skip the grocery stress and let your neighborhood favorites do the heavy lifting. Grab your foam finger, claim the best seat on the couch—or the barstool—and let the feasting begin. Game on.

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• Floor Strip, Wax & Buffering

• Construction Cleanup

Dr. Chad Vanourny Dr. Britany Baker

At MarineMax Lake Wylie, we’re more than just a boat dealer—we’re your top resource for everything boating. From offering an unparalleled selection of premium boats across leading brands to providing world-class service, certified technicians, and a full-service marina, we’re here to support your boating lifestyle on the lake. Our team delivers tailored experiences backed by expert knowledge, helping you find the perfect boat.

Plus, we offer financing, insurance, educational classes, exclusive access to Day and events that connect you with other boaters—on and off the water. We teach, we service, and we show you how to have fun! aways!

A romantic kiss surrounded by the blooming gardens at Five Blossoms Farm.

Photo courtesy of Emily Rose Photograph

By: Wendy Dimitri

River Hills Country Club

Turn-Key Elegance with a Lakeview Backdrop

For couples dreaming of a wedding that feels as effortless as it is beautiful, River Hills Country Club offers a celebration space where service and scenery come together. With the peaceful waters of Lake Wylie as your backdrop and rolling green fairways stretching beyond, it is a setting where nature frames the day without taking over the spotlight.

A Seamless Start to “Happily Ever After”

The journey begins with a warm welcome—whether your first hello comes through the club’s website, Zola, or Event Detective. Soon after, you will receive a personalized wedding packet and an invitation to tour the property.

“We love walking couples through every space,” says Membership & Marketing Director Brittany Tucker. “We get to see the couple and their families start imagining the couple’s day unfolding here.”

From the lush event lawn and lakeview backdrop to the elegant ballroom with its built-in dance floor and chandelier lighting, each space offers its own appeal. Because River Hills is a turn-key venue, every practical detail is already in place—tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, silverware, set-up, and breakdown. In-house catering and bar service are ready to create a menu that reflects your style, from champagne toasts to signature cocktails.

Spaces that Flow with Your Day

Most couples choose to exchange vows on the event lawn, where the view creates a natural focal point. From there, cocktail hour might unfold on the lower deck before guests move upstairs to the ballroom for dinner and dancing. Should weather require a change, the ceremony can easily be moved indoors with no disruption to the schedule.

With space for about 110 guests to dine comfortably (and a little more if needed), the ballroom can transform from an intimate dinner setting to a lively dance floor, complete with room for a DJ or band.

Tailored to Your Love Story

Three base wedding packages include both food and beverage, with options to upgrade from beer and wine to premium liquors or to add plated service and additional entrées. Gold or silver chargers, specialty linens, and basic centerpieces are available to match your vision. If you have something unique in mind, the team can create a customized package just for you.

River Hills hosts only one wedding per day, ensuring the staff ’s full attention. An on-site event coordinator can serve as your day-of guide, making sure flowers are placed, chairs are set, and the cake is ready for the first slice. Dressing rooms for the wedding parties offer a private retreat for getting ready and relaxing before the ceremony.

An Invitation to Celebrate

At River Hills Country Club, your wedding is more than a date on the calendar—it is a celebration made easier by thoughtful planning and an experienced team. You do not need to be a member to celebrate here, but you will be welcomed with the same care and attention as if you were. From your first tour to your last dance, the day will reflect not only the beauty of the surroundings, but also the ease of knowing everything is taken care of.

River Hills Country Club | 1 Country Club Rd | Lake Wylie, SC | riverhillscc.org

803-831-2126

Ballroom prepared for a wedding reception at River Hills Country Club. Photo courtesy of River Hills Country Club.

Buffet setup featuring floral décor and candlelight at River Hills Country Club.

Photo courtesy of River Hills Country Club.

A couple pauses for a photo beside the signature clock at River Hills Country Club.

Photo courtesy of River Hills Country Club.

Newlyweds enjoy a lakeview walk on the grounds of River Hills Country Club.

Photo courtesy of River Hills Country Club.

Outdoor wedding ceremony space with a lake view at River Hills Country Club.

Photo courtesy of River Hills Country Club.

Five Blossoms Farm

Where Love Grows Naturally

At Five Blossoms Farm, weddings unfold in a place where flowers, fresh air, and heartfelt hospitality come together. From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed like family, and every detail is handled with the care the owners would give their own celebration.

This boutique beekeeping and flower farm was created for life’s most meaningful gatherings.

“Surrounded by flowers, fed by the land, and full of joy—it is a place where beauty comes naturally and stress does not stand a chance,” says proprietor Angelica Tupper.

Five Blossoms offers all-inclusive, worry-free wedding packages in partnership with trusted local vendors. Every bloom, plate, and candle is chosen with care so you can focus on celebrating. Farm-fresh florals mingle with handcrafted honey and locally sourced dishes prepared by the farm’s celebrated chef, Lynsey Comalander,

making your meal as memorable as your vows.

From the first tour to the last toast, the wedding team ensures that every detail reflects your vision. Whether it is an afternoon among the flowers or an evening under the stars, Five Blossoms Farm offers a setting where your wedding feels both personal and naturally beautiful.

Five Blossoms Farm | 1121 Crossland Rd | Clover, SC | fiveblossomsfarm.com 803-610-5809

A bouquet of fresh farm flowers fit for the most magical of occasions at Five Blossoms Farm.

Photo courtesy of Emily Rose Photography

A romantic kiss surrounded by the blooming gardens at Five Blossoms Farm. Photo courtesy of Emily Rose Photography

A beautifully styled outdoor table by the stone fireplace, blending rustic charm with fresh floral elegance at Five Blossoms Farm.

Photo courtesy of Emily Rose Photography

Photos courtesy of Camelot Meadows Event Venue

A serene bamboo grove at Camelot Meadows provides a stunning natural backdrop for wedding day photos.

Crisp white florals in a patterned blueand-white vase add timeless elegance to the reception tables at Camelot Meadows.

Photos courtesy of Camelot Meadows Event Venue

Camelot Meadows

A Fairytale Rooted in Nature

Camelot Meadows offers couples the charm of open meadows, shady bamboo groves, and a welcoming barn, all just steps from the shore of Lake Wylie. Nestled in Belmont, North Carolina, the property spans 33 acres of forest and fields, providing a versatile setting for weddings of many styles.

Ceremonies in the bamboo sanctuary offer a quiet, intimate atmosphere, while the 7,560-square-foot, climate-controlled barn provides space for receptions year-round. The barn includes a dance floor, prep kitchen, and two private dressing suites. Overnight accommodations are available in the charming Tiny House or spacious Lakeview Cabin, making it easy to turn a wedding into a weekend celebration.

From music and lighting to preferred vendors, every detail is curated to keep the day running

An outdoor ceremony setup with a floral arch against the lush green bamboo at Camelot Meadows.

Photos courtesy of Camelot Meadows Event Venue

Covered barndominium ceremony space with geometric wooden arch, framed by the greenery of Camelot Meadows.

Photos courtesy of Camelot Meadows Event Venue

smoothly. With capacity for up to 250 guests, Camelot Meadows feels both personal and expansive.

As one couple recalled, “The bamboo forest was the ‘wow’ factor we were hoping for.” Whether you envision a rustic celebration, an elegant gathering, or a blend of both, Camelot Meadows offers a welcoming space to begin your new chapter.

Camelot Meadows | 1335 Armstrong Road | Belmont, NC | camelotmeadowsevent.com 704-277-6275

Whether your perfect day includes the elegance of a country club, the charm of a working farm, or the natural beauty of a bamboo grove, each of these venues offers its own distinct way to celebrate. With thoughtful planning, dedicated teams, and settings designed to make the most of every moment, your wedding will be more than a ceremony—it will be a day of connection, joy, and memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

Remembering Doug McSpadden

By: Dana Sipper*

The news of Doug McSpadden’s passing may have taken you by surprise, but in Doug’s words, “Few people get 4.5 years to plan their exit from this world.” Doug passed away on June 8, 2025, surrounded by his family at his Lake Wylie home. He was born on February 14, 1960, in Gastonia, North Carolina. He leaves behind

his wife and business partner, Laurie, whom he met at the University of Tennessee during his college years. Doug graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1983. He then received both his North Carolina and South Carolina General Contractor Licenses and Real Estate Brokers Licenses, leading to the start of McSpadden Development Corporation.

Since 1987, McSpadden Homes has and continues to serve their clients in Lake Wylie and surrounding areas. As a homebuilder, they guide you through the design, selection, and build of your custom home. Doug and McSpadden Homes have helped hundreds of clients build their dream homes in this area, and he is fondly remembered. Doug and his team have received several accolades over the years, including Home-A-Rama Gold and Sil-

Portrait of Doug McSpadden sitting at his desk at the McSpadden office in Lake Wylie.

Photo Provided by Laurie McSpadden

ver Awards in 2006, which put McSpadden Homes on the map as a luxury custom home builder. As a local Lake Wylie area businessman, Doug served on the board of the Lake Wylie Chamber from 2012-2018, achieving Businessman of the Year in 2011. Later the following year, McSpadden would be awarded the Best of Business, Lake Wylie, SC Building Contractors in 2012. When Lake Wylie magazine began publication, McSpadden Homes became the cover sponsor and has maintained this space ever since. Doug and Laurie joined the annual Lake Wylie boat parade and started a favorite tradition of Christmas by the Lake, encouraging the public to engage and meet area churches. They sponsored a stage with their fellow church band members and encouraged the public to participate and even sponsored a live nativity scene for all to enjoy.

McSpadden Homes corporate mission statement reads, “Deliver an exceptional Design/Build construction experience guided by servanthood to all those with whom we work. Core Values of Honesty, Diligence, and Excellence shall be our cornerstones, Wisdom our guide, and an Honorable Legacy our goal.” Though Doug has passed on, his son, Connor McSpadden, has taken the torch, now running the local Lake Wylie business. Connor came on board after serving 6 years in the United States Navy. He received his undergraduate degree from Appalachian State University in Building Sciences and a Master of Business Administration from UNC-Charlotte. Earning both his Real Estate Broker and General Contractor licenses, Connor is prepared to carry the McSpadden legacy into its second generation.

Doug lived a life of purpose, not for personal gain or recognition, but for the betterment of those around him. Doug’s Celebration of Life, held at Christ the King Church (CTK) in Steele Creek, was a culmination of the message and legacy that he hoped would inspire the generations to come. The gathering hall was filled with his earthly accomplishments. His kayak, which took him down the Colorado River for over 3 weeks, and multiple rivers across the United States. His mountain bike, climbing gear, SCUBA gear, snowboard, and countless photo albums of family memories. Many of his friends were there and shared portions of his past. Doug was not only a self-trained athlete but a teacher that inspired many to achieve their goals. He was an avid drummer, giving his time and talents to the worship leadership and band

at Christ the King Church. He cherished the time he spent on the drums, leading others in worship. However, once you visited with Doug’s extended family at his memorial and crossed the threshold into the sanctuary, you were greeted by a message pre-recorded by Doug just weeks before his passing. He invited everyone to think about how much time is invested in our earthly accomplishments versus our eternal ones. And thus, the faith journey followed.

Yes, we have lost a pillar in the community. The void left by his absence will be felt by all those that spent time with this incredible man. His passing is a touching reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the people who make our world a better place. Today, we celebrate a life well lived, dedicat-

ed to service, compassion, and putting others first. Doug has touched so many lives, especially in creating dream homes for those that put their trust in his team. He built a strong foundation in both his personal life and business life with McSpadden Homes. He fought the good fight; he finished the race; he kept the faith. Therefore, with conviction, we can say, he may be absent from the body, but he is present with the Lord.

We thank Doug for making his mark as a businessman in the Lake Wylie Community. We look forward to Connor building upon the foundation which his father started and look forward to this continued legacy.

*Article features excerpts from Doug McSpadden’s Testimony and writing contributions from the McSpadden family.

Douglas S. McSpadden February 14, 1960 - June 8, 2025

Remembering

Photo Provided by Laurie McSpadden

ULTIMATE WATERFRONT PLAYGROUND

By Dr. Steve Hicks

Camp Thunderbird transforms lives while spurring local economic growth

Nearly two miles of shoreline on Lake Wylie provides an amazing backdrop for life-changing experiences at YMCA Camp Thunderbird. Just across the bridge into the South Carolina side, this ultimate water playground has welcomed campers for over 90 years and has helped kids cultivate individual talents and skills like independence, self-discipline and empathy. When traditional overnight camp and day camp are not in session, YMCA Camp Thunderbird offers a variety of programs during the school year and has a retreat center for groups of all kinds.

Situated on 106 acres with 1.7 miles of pristine Lake Wylie shoreline, YMCA Camp Thunderbird is renowned for its immersive day and overnight camping programs. It offers a wide spectrum of activities—wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing, water-skiing, high-ropes, zip-lining, horseback riding, riflery, archery, drama, robotics, music, and more—that foster campers’ sense of independence and personal development.

From ages 6 to 16, children engage in purposeful challenges that develop self-discipline, empathy, teamwork, and confidence. Their Leader-in-Training and Counselor-in-Training programs offer national-level leadership development for teens, further preparing them for future responsibility and community contribution. Families also benefit from weekend retreats, providing an all-ages experience grounded in connection and shared adventure.

Educational programs extend beyond summer. Their Environmental Education Center hosts K–12 field trips and overnight classes, bringing more than 25 nature-focused learning experiences to students across the school year. These programs support critical thinking, environmental stewardship, and leadership. Crystal Little, the camp’s interim executive director adds, “People often ask if things slow down after summer, which brings a smile to my face, because from August to May we welcome around 20,000 guests for school trips, retreats, family camps, weddings, and more. Camp stays busy year-round — just in a different way.”

Camp Thunderbird’s Economic Footprint

1. Year-Round Employment and Business

Camp Thunderbird operates year-round, not only during summer but also offering retreats, school programs, and rentals. That continuity sustains jobs—from seasonal counselors to maintenance staff, catering, administration, and program leaders—providing steady employment in York County. “At camp, we’re always excited to partner with local businesses. Whether we’re hosting events for fellow nonprofits, enjoying a

team night out bowling, or sharing local recommendations with our guests, we’re proud to be active patrons and partners in the Lake Wylie community." Little said.

2. Local Spending and Tourism Spillover

Each week of overnight or day camp brings families, staff, and visitors who travel through and stay in the area. Whether renting homes, patronizing restaurants, shops, or gas stations, these visitors inject economic activity into nearby Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and Lake Wylie communities.

The camp’s rented facilities—catering to retreats, church groups, school trips, and conferences—draw groups who often spend on local lodging, dining, and services in the off-season, supporting local hospitality operators.

3. Scholarships and Community Investment

YMCA’s strong scholarship program ensures that financial need does not bar attendance at Camp Thunderbird. By offering access to kids from across the region, the camp invests in the personal and social capital of youth who may later become students, employees, or civic leaders in the Charlotte–Lake Wylie area.

4. Environmental Education and School Collaborations

The Environmental Education Center draws local schools and school districts, aligning classes with national standards. These visits contribute to education budgets, field trip revenue, and complementary spending in the local economy— transport providers, local eateries, supplies.

Nurturing Children’s Potential—and Regional Growth

By delivering high-quality outdoor education and camp experiences, Camp Thunderbird supports childhood development in a way that translates to long-term community benefits. Campers return as confident, self-aware youth with stronger interpersonal skills—a form of human capital essential to a thriving regional economy.

The leadership programs for teens offer structured apprenticeships that produce future counselors, nonprofit workers, and engaged citizens. Many alumni return to contribute locally, whether working in hospitality, education, or civic sectors.

Lake Wylie and York County have seen rapid population growth over recent decades—tripling since 2000 due to affordable housing, good schools, and proximity to Charlotte. Yet that growth brings infrastructure pressures—water systems, traffic, school overcrowding. While Camp Thunderbird isn’t a developer, it is nonetheless part of the local growth tapestry, offering positive use of preserved green space and serving as a community anchor amidst pressure on public resources.

Camp Thunderbird’s long-term presence helps maintain some balance: providing open shoreline access, conservation of wooded acreage, and a non-residential buffer along Lake Wylie’s banks.

In its more than 80-year tenure, YMCA

Camp Thunderbird has become more than a camp—it’s a dynamic ecosystem: enriching children, teens, and families while anchoring economic value in the Lake Wylie region. Its exceptional setting and expansive programming support campers in developing independence, empathy, leadership, and lifelong friendships. “"Whenever I’m asked about the camp experience, the best word I can use to describe it is magical”, says Little. “At camp, kids truly shine — they’re celebrated for who they are, form lifelong friendships, discover passions, and grow in countless ways. Camp Thunderbird becomes a second home to more than 3,000 kids each summer — and, through tradition and legacy, to their families as well."

Meanwhile, the camp’s ripple effects—employment, visitor spending, retreat rental income, educational tourism, scholarship investment— amplify economic vitality in fast-growing York County. As the area evolves, Camp Thunderbird stands as a beacon of purpose, preservation, and positive impact. It shows how values-based programming at a lakeside campus can nurture community growth and personal transformation in tandem.

Whether for campers craving growth, families seeking retreat, or businesses and schools needing meaningful spaces, Camp Thunderbird remains a powerful catalyst for both youth and local economic development.

About Crystal Little, Interim Executive Director, Camp Thunderbird

“I have the absolute pleasure of living full-time at Camp underbird with my husband, Ben, and our son, Gene. Ben and I are high school sweethearts, both graduates of Gaston Day School. He grew up right here on Lake Wylie — just across the bridge from Camp underbird.

When we rst started dating, our Sundays were o en spent out on the lake, always ending with family dinner at his house. A er college, we both began our careers at an overnight camp in western North Carolina, which sparked a shared passion for camp life. Eventually, we found ourselves back in the Charlotte area — Ben working for his family’s business, Little Hardware, and me joining the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

I’ve now been at Camp underbird for over two years, and it truly feels like the perfect t for our family. I can't imagine a more full-circle journey — or a better place to raise our son.”

By: Wendy Dimitri

WHospitality at Home: Lake Wylie’s Airbnb Community

hen Airbnb first launched in 2008, the idea seemed almost too simple: strangers renting air mattresses in a San Francisco apartment. But in the 17 years since, the short-term rental platform has grown into a global hospitality giant with more than 7.7 million active listings in 220 countries. Alongside competitors like VRBO, Airbnb has disrupted the traditional hotel model, created a new class of entrepreneurs, and reshaped how travelers think about “home away from home.”

In Lake Wylie and the surrounding region, the short-term rental boom is just beginning to ripple through the shoreline communities. For some, it is an opportunity for passive income and lifestyle flexibility. For others, it is a chance to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. And for travelers, it is about finding the right place to land— whether that is a quirky houseboat or a sleek lakefront cottage.

The Consultant’s View: Crafting Guest Experiences

Allison Brigham, founder of Simpli Hosted, is one of the area’s newest Airbnb consultants. She and her husband operate their own successful lake property rental and now help other would-be hosts polish their listings.

Her work is part property management, part marketing, and part interior staging—all aimed

at delivering five-star guest experiences. “When guests walk through the door, they should feel wow, I want to stay here again,” Brigham explains. “That’s what leads to positive reviews, and reviews are everything.”

She emphasizes that gone are the days of simply listing a space with a bed and chair. Today’s travelers expect design, functionality, and attention to detail. That means fully stocked kitchens, fresh linens, reliable Wi-Fi, and responsive hosts. Even the smallest misstep such as a broken hot tub, a faulty door code, or a musty smell, can tank reviews and visibility.

Brigham offers new hosts detailed audits of their properties, down to lighting, signage, and cookware. She urges prospective hosts to think like guests. “If you say your property sleeps 10, then it needs 10 towels, 10 forks, and 10 wine glasses. Guests don’t want to drink wine from a paper cup.”

The Owner’s View: Room with a View

For some, hosting is more than a side hustle, it is a chance to showcase a one-of-a-kind property.

Captain Peter Pecorella, owner of the Wylie Pelican Houseboat Airbnb, says his inspiration came after seeing similar listings in Charleston. The boat is docked on Lake Wylie at Joyner Marina and has quickly become a guest favorite.

“My property is so unique,” Peter says. “It has all the size and amenities of a home and can even be used for cruises and charters. My guests rave about

the peacefulness of the lake and the beautiful design and layout of the boat. I love the big smiles when they first enter and the five-star reviews when they leave.”

His advice to other hosts and would be hosts is simple: “You cannot and will not please everyone. Stick to your guidelines and to the core vision you have for your property. The care you take in your space is reflected in how you design and maintain it, and that same feeling is what will make guests fall in love with it.”

The Traveler’s View: Reviews and Reality

For frequent traveler Morgan Reed*, Airbnb is more than a novelty, it is a way of life. “I travel monthly, sometimes weekly, all over the world and I use Airbnbs for all of it.”

For him, choosing the right property comes down to three things: reviews, photos, and location.

“Strong reviews are non-negotiable,” Reed explains. “If there is more than one negative, I move on.” Pictures are equally critical. “If the host does not care enough to post good photos, then, from my perspective, they do not care enough to make sure the property is clean and well presented.”

Amenities also matter. Reed looks for practical comforts like washer/dryers, updated kitchens, natural light, and minimal carpet.

According to Reed, small touches are what make a stay memorable. “Surprise perks like plush

Beach front and family friendly Lake Wylie short-term vacation rental with view as far as the eye can see.

Photo courtesy of Family Friendly Lake House on Airbnb

towels, nice sheets, or a kitchen with everything you need to cook easily can set a place apart,” he explains.

By contrast, he says properties run by large management companies often miss the mark. “Minimal cookware, no extra paper towels or trash bags—it’s a huge turnoff. It’s obvious it is all about profit.” he explains. “With a true Airbnb, you can feel when a host genuinely loves their space and wants to share it with guests. That level of care transforms the entire travel experience.”

“It’s not about where I sleep,” Reed continues. “It’s about whether or not I feel welcome and appreciated versus whether my stay just a part of the property’s bottom line.”

Lake Wylie’s Airbnb Market

A quick search on Airbnb shows a variety of Lake Wylie listings: from budget-friendly rooms in private homes, to luxury waterfront houses, to niche properties like the Wylie Pelican. Prices range from under $100 a night to more than $600 for sprawling lakefront estates.

For travelers, the area offers access to water sports, fishing, and quick drives into Charlotte. For hosts, the region’s appeal lies in its blend of tranquility and convenience. With more families choosing short-term rentals over hotels, the market shows no signs of slowing.

So You Want to Host? A Starter Checklist

Thinking of turning your property into an Airbnb or short-term rental? Here are some starter steps recommended by consultants, hosts and travelers:

1. Research local regulations.

– Check zoning laws, HOA restrictions, and county ordinances. Some areas may limit or ban short-term rentals.

2. Run the numbers.

– Compare nightly rates with traditional long-term rentals. Factor in cleaning fees, utilities, taxes, and repairs.

3. Prepare the property.

– Stock essentials: linens, cookware, toiletries, cleaning supplies. Think like a guest and aim for durability over luxury splurges.

4. Invest in professional photos.

– Listings with high-quality images perform significantly better than those with cell phone snapshots.

5. Build a trusted team.

– Have reliable cleaners, handymen, HVAC techs, and landscapers ready to respond quickly.

6. Create a guest-friendly experience.

– Clear check-in instructions, smart locks, personalized notes, and welcome baskets go a long way.

7. Manage expectations.

– House rules should be clear. If you do not allow parties or pets, state it upfront.

8. Communicate.

– Prompt, friendly responses to questions and concerns set the tone for positive reviews.

The New Face of Hospitality

The short-term rental economy has blurred the line between professional hospitality and personal hosting. For some, like Brigham, it is a budding consulting career. For owners like Captain Peter, it is a chance to share a beloved property. And for travelers like Reed, it is a way to feel at home wherever they land.

As Lake Wylie continues to evolve, Airbnb and its counterparts offer both opportunity and responsibility. Success depends not just on location or price, but on the small details that transform a house into an unforgettable stay.

Setting the mood. Signage at Bottle Tree encourages guests to get their vacations started.

Photo courtesy of Bottle Tree at Quiet Cove on Airbnb

The Wylie Pelican House Boat docked at sunset, offering guests a unique stay right on the water.

Photo courtesy of Wylie Pelican House Boat

The spacious upper deck of the Wylie Pelican House Boat, designed for unwinding with panoramic lake views.

Photo courtesy of Wylie Pelican House Boat

Cozy Lake Wylie lakeside charmer meets comfort in this Tiny House short-term rental vacation retreat.

Photo courtesy of Tiny House on the Lake on Airbnb

All paths lead to the lake at this large group retreat on Lake Wylie.

Photo courtesy of Family Friendly Lake House on Airbnb

Keep your short-term rental property running seamlessly with the right professionals.

SimpliHosted

Short-term Rental Coach allisonbrigham1@gmail.com 646-884-4590

The Wet Vet Pressure Washing 860-655-5910 tennismate713@gmail.com

Jack Dagenhart (handy man) Handy-man 704-467-1636 j.dagenhart3@gmail.com

Elite Maintenance Services

Residential and Commercial Cleaning 917-749-4386

rcruz@elitemaintenanceservices.us

Elite Eco Clean

Residential and Commercial Cleaning 803-339-4515 danielle@eliteecoclean.com

KwikMaid

Residential and Commercial Cleaning 803-619-4161 sara@kwikmaid.com

Hippo Turf Care

Lawncare and Landscaping

803-810-1145 hippoturfcare@gmail.com

Yellowstone Landscape 877-785-6685 mcorum@yellowstonelandscape.com

For more about these and other services visit lakewyliechambersc.com/directory

for

“It’s not about where I sleep. It’s about whether or not I feel welcome and appreciated versus whether my stay just a part of the property’s bottom line.” —Morgan Reed, frequent Airbnb traveler.

Five star reviews are essential

a packed hosting calendar. Photo courtesy of Wylie Pelican House Boat

Modern sophistication meets Lake Retreat at the Bottle Tree on Quiet Cove. Photo courtesy of Bottle Tree at Quiet Cove on Airbnb

High-end beds and linens are a special perk to regular travelers making the space a home away from home..

Photo courtesy of Bottle Tree at Quiet Cove on Airbnb

Allison Brigham of SimpliHosted Short-term rental management and consulting.

Back to Their Roots: Daniel Stowe Conservancy’s New Chapter in Conservation and Community

By: Wendy Dimitri

Right around the corner from Lake Wylie, a beautiful and beloved outdoor oasis has embraced its heritage in a new way. The property once known primarily as Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is stepping into the future under its original legal name: Daniel Stowe Conservancy.

For Executive Director John Searby, this is not a change in brand or mission, but a refocus on what founder Daniel J. Stowe, a retired textile executive, envisioned.

“Our legal name has always been Daniel Stowe Conservancy,” Searby explains. “This rebrand is about going back to our roots — literally and figuratively — and fully embracing everything we are and will be as we grow.”

Beyond the Manicured Garden

While the Botanical Garden remains the recognizable crown jewel of the property, its manicured pathways and colorful seasonal displays represent only a fraction of the Conservancy’s 380 acres. Much of the land — including walking trails, a trailhead store, the farmhouse garden center, dog park, and ponds — is free and open to the public year-round.

“We want people to understand that this is their space,” Searby says. “The only paid admission is for the Botanical Garden. Otherwise, it’s an outdoor community space for everyone to enjoy.”

The trails wind through meadows, woodlands, and along peaceful stretches of pondscapes. Interpretive signs introduce visitors to native plants, pollinator habitats, and the area’s wildlife. The farmhouse garden center offers a charming stop for gardeners and nature enthusiasts, while the trailhead store is a welcome place to grab refreshments. The dog park has also become a gathering spot for the community’s fur-babies and their owners.

A Broader Mission

The return to the Conservancy name reflects a broader mission: protecting and stewarding the land while inspiring connections with nature.

“Daniel J. Stowe’s vision was never just about the formal gardens,” Searby says. “He wanted to preserve and share this land — its forests, meadows, wetlands — with the community. As a conservan-

A new chapter in conservation, rooted in the legacy of Daniel J. Stowe. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Dedicated volunteers take part of the stewardship of the land the Conservancy protects. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Runners gather for a spirited race as a part of the conservancy’s race series. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

A selection of local craft beers at the Trailhead Store invites guests to sip and savor the flavors of the region. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

cy, we focus on caring for the entire property for the now, but also for the future.”

That work includes habitat restoration, managing invasive species, and incorporating more native plants throughout the grounds. The Conservancy also creates intentional spaces for pollinators and migratory birds, building biodiversity across its acreage.

A Community Resource

By returning to its original name and mission, the Daniel Stowe Conservancy is embracing the full breadth of what it offers: not just a garden to admire, but a living landscape to explore, protect, and share.

“This is a place for weddings and wildflowers, for art and for hiking,” Searby says. “It’s where you can bring your dog, take a class, or simply sit by the pond and watch the world slow down.”

Connecting People and Nature

Education is central to the Conservancy’s work. The organization offers horticulture classes, sustainability workshops, and youth field trips. Partnerships with local schools, environmental nonprofits, and artists bring fresh perspectives and broaden community engagement. There is even a plan in motion for an outdoor preschool.

“Our programs are about creating that ‘aha’ moment,” Searby says. “When a child learns about pollinators, or a gardener discovers the beauty of native plants, that connection can last a lifetime.”

A Year-Round Destination

Daniel Stowe Conservancy shifts beautifully with the seasons. Spring brings a burst of color in the Botanical Garden, while summer hums with pollinators and family picnics. Fall offers a quieter beauty as golden light filters through trees, fields turn warm and russet, and migrating birds pass through.

“There is something magical about walking the trails in late afternoon light,” Searby reflects. “You can see how the land transforms — not just a space to pass through, but a place that lives and breathes in every season.”

Sustainability at the Core

In addition to education, the Conservancy models sustainable practices. Landscaping methods reduce water use and chemical inputs, green waste is composted and reused, and meadow spaces are maintained for native species and pollinators.

“Conservation isn’t something that happens far away in a national park,” Searby says. “It can happen right here, in our own community. We want to model what that looks like.”

Looking Ahead

Future plans include expanding the trail network, adding more interpretive signage, and creating immersive seasonal exhibits to encourage year-round visitation. Accessibility improvements will make the property easier to enjoy, and conservation partnerships will continue to strengthen habitat restoration work.

“We want to be a model for how a public garden and a conservancy can work together to serve both people and the environment,” Searby says.

Enriching Community Through Culture and Calm

The Conservancy’s vision extends beyond plants and wildlife, embracing cultural and social connection. Every Saturday, live music fills the air at Pickin’ on the Porch outside the Trailhead Store, creating a gathering place for conversation over coffee or a cold drink.

Beyond music, the event calendar offers opportunities to slow down and learn. Forest bathing fosters mindfulness, birding walks sharpen observation skills, and photography strolls encourage visitors to notice the fine details — the texture of bark, the pattern of petals, the play of light on water.

“These experiences are about more than recreation,” says Searby. “They weave nature into our everyday lives and help build eco-literacy, quiet curiosity, and a sense of belonging.”

To plan your outdoor experience, visit danielstoweconservancy.org.

What Visitors Will Find

• Botanical Garden – Seasonal floral displays, themed gardens, fountains, and event spaces (paid admission).

• Walking Trails – Free to the public, offering varied natural habitats and scenic views.

• Trailhead Store – A starting point for hikes, with refreshments and local goods.

• Farmhouse Garden Center – Located in the white house, selling garden items and native plants.

• Dog Park – A lively social spot for dogs and their owners.

• Pond Grounds – Peaceful areas for picnics, birdwatching, and reflection.

Upcoming Events

The Conservancy’s event calendar blends outdoor adventure, nature education, and community gatherings — many of which are free and open to the public. Here’s a sampling of what’s ahead this fall:

• Forest Bathing – Guided mindfulness walks through the woods.

• Bird Watching – Expert-led walks to spot and identify local species.

• Butterfly Walks – Learn about butterfly life cycles, host plants, and conservation.

• Photography Classes – Capture the beauty of the gardens and trails with tips from professionals.

• Trail Run Series – Scenic runs for all paces and ages.

• Live Music – Local musicians perform on the Trailhead Store porch and inside the Botanical Gardens.

• Farmer’s Markets – Seasonal local produce and artisan goods.

• Dog Park Events – Community gatherings for dog owners.

• Free Garden Nights – Enjoy the Botanical Garden after hours at no cost.

Shaded woodland paths invite little wanderers to take in the beauty of nature. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

The farmhouse greets visitors with artful displays, native plants, and garden centric curated finds.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

A cheerful cluster of hand-painted birdhouses supports the Conservancy’s mission to help protect native birds.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Vale Campus Brings Wellness and Sustainability to Lake Wylie Living

Lake Wylie’s newest development, Vale Campus, is more than an apartment community. It is a 25-acre vision that blends wellness, sustainability, and a true sense of place into one cohesive destination. Still under construction but already drawing attention, Vale is setting itself apart with green building practices, a focus on healthy living, and amenities that are as open to the community as they are to residents.

First of its Kind

The project is the first of its kind for founder and managing principal of Archetype Investments, Jaykant Patel, who is spearheading Vale Campus alongside his longtime friend and partner, Rama Penta.

The two first conceived the concept during the height of the COVID pandemic. Quarantines,

It’s All in the Technology

Patel’s partner, Rama Penta, brought a unique perspective from his career in technology and business development. The two began discussing ways to embed wellness technologies directly into everyday living—particularly in multifamily environments where controlled settings and scale make advanced features more affordable.

This thinking gave rise to WELLIFIZE, a pro-

projected for completion by the end of September.

The residential amenities are intentionally designed to foster a sense of connection and encourage healthy living. While certain spaces, such as interior courtyards, will be reserved for residents, much of the outdoor environment will be open to the public. Vale’s scenic pond, walking trails, and pavilion will welcome visitors from across the Lake Wylie community.

changing lifestyles, and a heightened awareness of health and wellbeing along with an increased appreciation of the outdoors shaped their thinking. Patel had worked on green-certified projects before, but the pandemic reinforced the need to look beyond environmental sustainability toward the wellness of the people who live, work, and gather inside and around those spaces.

“Green buildings focus on how materials, construction, and processes impact the environment,” Patel explained. “Well-certified buildings focus on how the environment inside impacts the occupants. There is overlap, but the emphasis is different. We wanted to fuse both.”

The result is a community designed to meet Green Globes standards for sustainability while also achieving WELL Certification, a program that evaluates a building’s air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, and materials to optimize health. This combination is rare in any market and virtually unheard of in multifamily developments.

prietary, patent-pending digital platform that will be integrated throughout Vale Campus. WELLIFIZE is designed to personalize wellness, connecting residents with healthy choices, events, and services in real time.

Campus and Community Focused Living

The campus itself is divided into two major sections: residential and commercial. The residential portion, covering roughly 16 acres at the back of the site, will feature three apartment buildings. As of late summer, the first building—housing most of the community amenities—was nearly half leased. The second building is awaiting its certificate of occupancy, and the largest, third building is

Patel envisions the pavilion hosting local musicians, community events, and wellness-oriented programs, creating a vibrant gathering spot that has long been missing in the area.

“The community has grown so much, but there is not a true central gathering space,” Patel said. “We want to build that from the ground up—

Wellness amenities at Vale Campus include a sauna, offering residents a quiet retreat for relaxation. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

somewhere people can walk, meet friends, hear music, and feel part of something.”

Wellness Centric Retail

The commercial phase, which fronts the property, will feature boutique retail, restaurants, and service providers—all chosen for their alignment with Vale community’s health and wellness theme. The goal is to attract businesses that complement

Aerial rendering of Vale Campus Lake Wylie, showing its mix of modern residences, green space, and community-focused design. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

A closer look at Vale Campus’ central pavilion and outdoor gathering space designed for concerts, markets, and community events. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

Residents will have access to a fully equipped fitness center, complete with state-of-the-art equipment and natural light. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

the residential environment and offer value to the entire region.

Construction on the retail section is set to begin in late spring or summer next year, and Patel expects it will move quickly. In the meantime, the open areas may be used for temporary activities such as soccer or outdoor play, further integrating the site into local routines even before the shops and restaurants open.

Long-term Community Investment

Beyond the individual components, Vale Campus is being developed with a long-term mindset. That commitment has shaped decisions from design to operations.

Larger-than-usual lobby spaces will accommodate business and civic events, providing meeting areas for local community organizations. Outdoor spaces will be designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, offering shaded seating, water features, and places to work remotely or just relax.

Even with the community still taking shape, interest has been strong. Visitors touring the property have included homeowners ready to downsize. The appeal of a purpose-built, wellness-focused environment is evident, especially as residents prioritize health, connection, and convenience in their living choices.

Persistence Plus Timing

For Patel, the significance of the project goes beyond the buildings themselves. The story of acquiring the land, which he first tried to purchase as far back as 2016, is one of persistence and timing. After losing out on the site to another buyer, Patel assumed the opportunity had passed—until the property unexpectedly came back on the market and Archetype Investments secured it.

“It was meant to be,” Patel said. “The location is perfect, and it gave us the chance to bring this unique concept to life right here in Lake Wylie.”

When Vale Campus is fully realized, it will be a destination that combines sustainable design, personalized wellness technology, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces open to the broader community. Patel and Penta believe that the model could be replicated in other markets, but their focus now is on making Vale a point of pride for Lake Wylie.

For more information or to schedule a tour, visit valecampus.com.

A Stronger Foundation: How the Clover Area Assistance Center is Growing to Serve More Families

By: Wendy Dimitri

The Clover Area Assistance Center’s (CAAC) story is one of neighbors helping neighbors, of churches and civic groups joining forces, and of ordinary citizens making extraordinary differences.

The CAAC’s new Outreach and Administration Center now stands in Clover as a hub for support, services, and community connection. The 2,700-square-foot facility houses all of CAAC’s administrative offices, provides flexible meeting space for education and training, and offers a place where partner agencies can bring much-needed services to western York County.

Moving the administrative and educational arms of CAAC’s mission into this modern, accessible space marks a major step forward in the organization’s ability to connect people with resources close to home, while also freeing up space in the main building to enhance the pantry experience.

A Mission Rooted in Service

The Clover Area Assistance Center began in the late 1990s, when two local churches — Clover Presbyterian and First United Methodist — saw a need for a central location to coordinate community food aid. Over the years, that small operation grew into a trusted nonprofit serving residents in the greater Clover School District with emergency food services. Today, CAAC is the primary local resource for residents experiencing food insecurity as well as financial hardship.

The mission is simple but powerful: to provide help with basic necessities while treating every client with dignity and respect. That help comes in many forms. The CAAC food pantry offers a variety of shelf-stable goods, dairy products, fresh produce, meats, and personal hygiene items, arranged in a client-choice model that allows individuals and families to shop for what they need.

“We want to eliminate the stigma that can come with asking for help,” Hurst explains. “Our pantry is set up like a small grocery store, so clients have a sense of control and choice.”

Beyond food, CAAC provides emergency finan-

cial assistance for rent, utility bills, and other basic needs. The organization also offers educational services. Volunteer instructors lead CAAC’s Living Basics Classes, using a budgeting and finance curriculum created specifically for the organization.

In addition, CAAC promotes participation in Tri-District Adult Education to encourage job-readiness training through SC Works.

The impact is significant. In 2023 alone, CAAC served hundreds of households each month, ensuring that children, seniors, and working families alike had access to the resources they needed to live with dignity and stability.

Why a New Building Was Needed

“We were bursting at the seams trying to offer community and educational services, host our administrative offices, and have the food pantry all in one building,” Hurst says. “As the community grew — and it is still growing — there was only one option: to build.”

The new Outreach and Administration Center frees up much-needed space in the main food pantry, allowing CAAC to improve its operations, expand storage for donations, and create an even better shopping experience for clients.

Inside the new building is a 25-person conference room where CAAC hosts educational programs, workshops, and community meetings. The outreach wing features two private offices and an eight- to ten-person conference room that both CAAC and other agencies can reserve to meet with clients.

The facility addresses a long-standing challenge in western York County: many essential services are located in Rock Hill, creating transportation barriers for those without reliable transit. Now, other agencies can use CAAC’s space to bring their services directly to Clover.

“Among the obvious benefits of a new building, now other agencies can bring their services to our side of the county,” Hurst says. “It is about removing transportation barriers and making sure people have access to the same resources as the rest of York County.”

The

Lake Wylie Lions Club shows their support

Executive Director Cameron Hurst, Kevin Kirsh, and other community members take part in the ribbon cutting ceremony.

A Community Effort to Build a Stronger Future

The new building is the result of a remarkable community collaboration. Local businesses, organizations, civic groups, and churches offered significant support wherever they could. Volunteers gave their time, while local specialists — including architects, designers, and construction professionals — contributed their expertise to bring the project to life.

Prominent families, including the Kirsh family, also stepped forward to help ensure the project’s success. Their donations, alongside contributions from neighbors of every background, created a groundswell of generosity that turned the vision into reality.

“It has truly been a team effort,” Hurst says. “We benefited from a slew of companies, agencies, and organizations offering support for our new building, including the Lions Club, York Electric, Sweet Repeat, along with the Kirshes and other prominent donors.”

Looking to the Future

Hurst envisions the new Outreach and Administration Center as a true hub for community support — a place where people connect with resources, education, and each other.

“We want this to be a space where hope grows,” she says. “A space where someone can come in for food assistance, but also leave with new skills, new confidence, and a renewed sense that they belong.”

She emphasizes that the expansion is not just about serving more people, but about serving people better.

“If someone is in crisis, the environment matters,” Hurst says. “When they walk in and see that we have created a space for them that is clean, organized, and welcoming, it communicates that we care. It tells them they matter.”

How You Can Help

CAAC relies heavily on donations and community support to meet both the ongoing needs of clients and the funding required to offer emergency services and vital support to individuals and families in need.

The new building may be complete, but there is still much to do. CAAC is now focusing on overhauling its original building to create the ultimate food shopping experience for its clients.

For more information on donating, volunteering, or learning about CAAC’s programs, visit www.cloverareaassistance.org or call (803) 2224837.

“We build hope, stability, and a stronger future for Clover. And we are doing it together,” Hurst says with pride.

Mid-year Real Estate Market Update

By Drew Choate

As we bid goodbye to another summer on Lake Wylie, the local real estate market continues to keep us on our toes. Prices for waterfront properties have reached an all-time high and continue to climb, in spite of a slight cooling in activity among potential buyers. Off the water, home prices are still inching up and taking a little more time to sell than in recent years.

Buyers are benefitting from the highest waterfront home inventory (number of listings for sale) since 2021 — but the price point of

available homes skews significantly higher than the average sale. That means that those looking for “luxury homes” at the higher prices have more to choose from than do the buyers with more moderate budgets.

With relatively high mortgage rates and some economic uncertainty across the country contributing to a degree of hesitation among both buyers and sellers, we are seeing a general slowdown in market activity. National data indicates that real estate investors (those buying for uses other than their own primary dwelling) are purchasing a bigger share of available

homes, with almost 27% of sales in the first quarter of this year being classified as such — compared to about 18% a few years ago. Many traditional buyers have been priced out of the market, both locally and nationwide.

In the Lake Wylie area, the average home price is about $520,000 for a non-waterfront home, and $1,425,000 for a waterfront home. An undeveloped waterfront lot averages about $630,000 for a homesite under two acres in size. Lake lot inventory is extremely tight, driving prices up significantly compared to just a few years ago.

This River Hills waterfront home closed for $1,330,000 in early summer. The home, built in 1981, was on the market just under a month prior to going under contract. Its open views to the main channel, expansive porches and decks, and popular location added value and appeal to this property.

Photo supplied by Lake Wylie Man team

What can my money buy in Lake Wylie?

Neighborhood homes are available in a variety of styles and price points in the Lake Wylie area. Average prices and sizes from some of the top selling neighborhoods include:

• Autumn Cove: $455,000, 2660 square feet, 4BR/3BA, 0.31 acre lot

• Bethelfields: $420,000, 2530 square feet, 4BR/3BA, 0.28 acre lot

• Cypress Point: $575,000, 2950 square feet, 4BR/4BA, 0.22 acre lot

• Edmunds Farm: $735,000, 3010 square feet, 4BR/4BA, 1.31 acre lot

• Handsmill: $765,000, 2980 square feet, 4BR/4BA, 0.50 acre lot

• Lakeside Glen: $585,000, 3431 square feet, 5BR/4BA, 0.21 acre lot

• Paddlers Cove: $625,000, 2970 square feet, 4BR/3BA, 0.22 acre lot

• River Hills: $726,000, 3150 square feet, 4BR/3BA, 0.41 acre lot

In waterfront property, buyers can expect the following home attributes by price category:

• Under $1 million: 40-year old home with 2 or 3 bedrooms, 1 or 2 baths, average size 1800 square feet.

• $1 million to $1.5 million: 30-year old home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, average size 3100 square feet.

• $1.5 million - $2 million: 20-year old home with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, average size 4400 square feet.

• $2 million - $3 million+: 10-15 year old home, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, average size 5000 square feet. As the price goes up, homes can be expected to have luxury features in the baths and kitchens, beautiful outdoor living areas, often with pools and entertainment spaces.

Heading into the last few months of the year, we expect real estate prices to hold

steady, continuing to edge upward. However — sellers should be careful to price their homes correctly when listing, instead of trying a higher price “just to see.” With the market slowing down and buyers moving cautiously, pricing a property too high will result in a much longer time on the market and will likely yield a lower price in the end.

As market conditions become more challenging, you’ll find that an experienced Realtor’s familiarity with the area and knowledge of lake property will ensure the best outcome in your sale or purchase.

Drew Choate and The Lake Wylie Man team are affiliated with Keller Williams Fort Mill. The Lake Wylie Man team has been the leader in Lake Wylie waterfront sales each year for over a decade. For more information on the market and recent sales, visit TheLakeWylieMan.com.

This 5-bedroom home in Kings Grove in Lake Wylie closed for $574,000 in July. The home went under contract on the first day it was listed. The nine-year-old home has 3400 square feet.

Photo supplied by Lake Wylie Man team.

Spotlight Spotlight light

By Susan Brom eld

Lake Wylie, a fast-growing community, continues to experience growth in every direction.

The land around the lake

A little background: In 1939 Duke Power (now Duke Energy) established a forestry department to manage company land not used for power generation. A sizable portion of land around Lake Wylie was forested land held by Duke’s forestry department. Years later, Crescent Land and Timber (1969) was formed and held property around the lake. Then in the mid 1980’s it became Crescent Resources and began to sell off property. Crescent was the major land holder around the lake. In the 2000’s, Crescent Development worked with York County to have land planned and zoned for residential and commercial development for the future. Water and sewer lines were extended out to Lake Wylie to serve the Carolina Water Service area which was mainly River Hills and the commercial area along Highway 49 by the lake. York County did studies, had committees and planned zoning and growth for this part of the county. Buffer Zone ordinances were approved and implemented by York County and the initial Lake Wylie Overlay was passed. The Five Points area (Highways 49, 55 and 274) was zoned and planning was done for this area to be a commercial hub to serve this area.

Thousands of homes were expected to be built in the area over a couple of decades. There are developments in the works that were approved and anticipated with over 3000 homes to still be built in the area. More homes are being built in neighboring York. Thus, the need for new schools in Clover and York and to plan for the future of the entire area.

Crescent Resources became Cresent Communities, a private corporation, headquartered in Charlotte (with $1 billion in assets in 2017) that develops mixed-use real estate- both multi-family and commercial. Crescent developed neighborhoods like

News of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Lake Wylie Development Update

The Landing years ago. Crescent also sold tracks of land at Lake Wylie already zoned for multi-use residential and commercial development.

While growth brings challenges of traffic, the need for transportation planning, infrastructure, schools and needs for a growing community, growth also brings prosperity, jobs, investment, and services for the area. Voters approved 5 different Pennies for Progress Road investment plans that are still being implemented. Water and sewer lines have been expanded. Highways 49 and 274 were widened and the Buster Boyd Bridge was widened and raised. Cable and internet investment occurred through the years. Natural Gas lines were extended out to Lake Wylie and to many newer neighborhoods. Schools have been built, and parks and recreational programs have come to Lake Wylie. The Bethel Fire Department has been able to plan, build a new building, and add fire trucks and equipment to meet the growing needs. The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce and community have lobbied for and worked to get the roads widened and infrastructure added and improved through the years.

What’s new

As we look around in 2025, a new much needed assisted living facility was built. Sunflower Springs located next to the chamber building opened this spring. Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentist, located on Nautical Lane, is adding another building to accommodate the growth. A new Harris Teeter Shopping Center, known as Westlake Village, is being built at Five Points. Turning lanes and road expansion are being done in that area. In addition to a

Fall 2025

new grocer and fuel station, the center will feature new restaurants, Heartland Dental, a free standing medical building is slated to locate on Homegrown Way side of the property, a free standing nationally known bank, a nail salon and other businesses to serve the area are in the works. The new Harris Teeter and Westlake Village is expected to open by Christmas 2026.

The Learning Experience, a new early childhood learning center located on Blucher Circle is nearly completed located behind Quiktrip across from Papa Doc’s Shore Club. A new Chipotle Restaurant is being built by Village Harbor by Waffle House. Behind Dunkin Donuts area, a small new hotel is being built. Vale will begin building commercial buildings in front of the apartment community. (See the story on page 55). Other projects, medical, dental, and service businesses are in the works for the area. A growing community needs local businesses, medical and dental and other services. And yes, even with all the vehicles in the area, fuel stations, car washes, auto parts and service are needed.

For those of us who lived here decades ago, an oil change or service or new tires meant a trip to Clover, Pineville or Rock Hill. It could also mean needing to take time off work just to have the work done during 8-5 Monday – Friday. Things have changed. Some for the good and some are a challenge. Growth is here and more to come. We are grateful to live in a beautiful area of the Carolinas. And just maybe with new local businesses and medical and dental options nearby, we will all make fewer trips to Charlotte or out of the area.

Harris Teeter shopping center

Harris Teeter

Nominations are now being accepted for 2025 Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Business Person and Citizen of the Year

Candidates should have the following:

• A history of long-time involvement in the community.

• A positive impact on the Lake Wylie Community.

• Business person must be a chamber member with a history of being supportive of community and chamber activities.

• Citizen should be a person who makes a positive difference to the community as a whole.

Past Recipients include:

2018 Special Legacy Award

Don Long

Business Person Citizen

2024 Carrie Bolin

2023 Huseyin Ye James Pugh

2022 Dr. Vanessa Vargas Karen van Viersen

2019 Matthew Mugavero Ed Lindsey

2017 Gwen Thompson Perry Johnston

2016 Tom Smith Melanie Wilson

2015 Kitty Muccigrosso Dick Mann

2014 Haven Presley Norma Wood

2013 Leonard Jackson Lisa McCarthy

2012 Q2U BBQ Chad Bordeaux

2011 Doug McSpadden Rep. Ralph Norman

2010 Fred Caldwell Tom Smith

2009 Rob Watson Elizabeth Hartley and Fred Nason-

Business of the Year

Watson Insurance Business Person of the Year

2008 Al Powell Vince Mugavero

2007 Ed Stewart Susan Bromfield (Milestone Award)

2006 Diana Grubenhoff Dr. Steve Miszkiewicz

2005 Mark DeChant Stacy Waddell -Blackmon

2004 Andy Kane Fred Wetherell

2003 Rod Hall Roberta Spampinato

2002 Leslie Hall Don Long

2001 Paige McCarter Charles Wood

2000 David Mathein

1999 Myron Boloyan

S.C. Rep. Becky Meacham

S.C. Rep. Herb Kirsh

1998 Tally Roberts Ruth Sheets

1997 Jong and Po Liu Diane Roberts

1996 Jack Allen

Senator Harvey Peeler

1995 MaMa “C” Nick and Joanne Jones

1994 Mark Erwin Peggy Upchurch

1993 John Wilkerson “Duck” Alexander

1992 Firechief Bill Johnston -

Nominee for Business Person:_______________________________

Nominee for Citizen:______________________________________

Please tell us about your nominee and his/or her contributions to the community

Deadline for nominees - 10/20/25 – 5:00 PM – email: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com

Business After Hours

August 7, 2025

Sponsored by Camelot Meadows Event Venue

Andy & Florence Kane

Anna Smith, Mary Williams, & Katie Christopher

Greg Holmes & Sid Wood

Camelot Meadows Event Venue inside

Deborah Baxa, Owner, Michelle Lidsky, and Greg Holmes

Nancy Snyder, Tom Pas, Gene & Lisa McCarthy

Greg Holmes presents David Redding with a door prize.

Greater Clover Chamber President, Greg Holmes & wife, Linda

Greg Holmes presents Matthew Boone (South State Bank) with a door prize.

Robert Willis (The Wet Vet), Bobbie Otto and Larry Marraccini

Katie Christopher and David Redding tour the bamboo forest.

Business After Hours

June 5, 2025

Sponsored by Marine-Max

Carl Holbrooks with MarineMax and Deb Dagilus

Lizabeth Ero and Bekka Myers with Freedom Boat Club, and Maddie with MarineMax

Linda Armfield and Michaelyn Sherrill

Charles Wood, Larry Marraccini and Bobbie Otto.

Jane DuBois, winner of a tube and ski rope

John Mattingly, Charles Wood, Larry Marraccini and Bobbie Otto

Ed Lindsey, Phil O'Brien, Edward Lukowski, Ritchie Russell adn Penny Robinson

Lauren Davis, Rebecca Cruz and Javier Cruz with Elite Maintenance Services Corp.

Lynn Sherrill with Lake Wylie Tax and Adam with MarineMax

Michael & April Robbe, Carol Chase, Kevin Bundy, David and Kris Redding

Tim Gonyer, Lynn Sherrill with Lake Wylie Tax and Adam with MarineMax

David Redding with Lake Wylie Wellness & Chiropractic wins a door prize.

Business After Hours

July 24, 2025

Sponsored by Sunflower Springs Assisted Living

Tamara Smith, Owner of Literally Lemons

Tom Dagilus and Lynn Sherrill

Yancy Wingard with Comporium and Mahogany Graham with HomeWell

Susan and Ed Lukowski

Bruce, Misty, and Kia with Sunflower Springs

Deb Dagilus, Dianne Kehler, Tom Dagilus, Lynn Sherrill, and Mary Williams

Sampling of delicious hors d'oeuvres

Greg Holmes, President of Greater Clover Chamber, and Tina and Erik Hill

Save The Date!

Lake Wylie Chamber Annual Holiday Gala

Thursday, December 4, 2025 Held at River Hills Country Club – Lake Wylie Perfect event to host your company party or guests

Jason Napoletano, Jessica Perez, Lucy Tufano & Salvatore Tufano with American Green Lawns

Liquor Team at River Hills Country Club at

Jeff Ledford with Carrie Bolin, 2024 Citizen of the Year and Sheila Quinn, Superintendent Clover School District at the gala.

Jeff Sipper, Mike & Cindy Enoch, Jennylyn Roberts, Kayla Horton, Charlie Hunsucker

Save The Date!

Lights on the Lake Lake Wylie Annual Holiday Boat Parade

Presented by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Saturday, December 13, 2025 – 6:30 p.m.

Held at Papa Doc’s Shore Club – Lake Wylie

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Promotes Worldwide Kindness Initiative

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce joined a worldwide kindness initiative and is collaborating with community leaders and businesses to encourage our businesses, groups and community be a kind community.

A few years ago, Kids for Peace launched a worldwide initiative to encourage peace and kindness. Through this initiative chambers of commerce, businesses and communities can become a certified kind chamber, business, or group. The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce leads by example and has met the criteria to be a certified kind chamber of commerce. The criteria include how employees are treated, how others are treated with kindness and efforts taken to promote kindness in our community, with our members, businesses, and others.

our businesses and local groups to join our efforts. In the coming weeks we will provide a link where our businesses can review the criteria and fill out the online form to become a certified kind business or group.

The first step to a “kindness initiative” is awareness. The Chamber is working with others in the community to bring awareness, provide some tips, encourage

The best workplace culture is formed when all employees show up, work hard and practice kindness. Working each day with kindness and empathy while extending respect to your fellow coworkers is called civility, Whether you are just entering the workforce, starting a new job, or transitioning into people management, kindness can be a valuable attribute that speaks volumes about your character, commitment, and long-term value. You can integrate a few gestures of kindness and empathy into your everyday work life that will spread kindness and help create a culture of kindness at your organization.

Kindness in the workplace, in businesses and in a community, can make a difference and create a culture of kindness for all.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Boat Parade Save the Date 2025

Festive boats park at the docks at Papa Doc's in preparation for the Holiday Boat Parade

Freedom Boat Club created a Blue Christmas themed boat for last year's parade.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

May 21–August 7, 2025

D. R. Horton Homes @ Westport

346 Miramar Drive

York, SC 29745

Chris Beard, Community Representative https://www.drhorton.com/south-carolina/south-carolina-charlotte/york/westport clbeard@drhorton.com (704) 361-9854

New construction, one and two-story homes in York/Lake Wylie area, resort themed community.

Elite Maintenance Services Corp. 722 Bluestem Dr. Clover, SC 29710

Rebecca Cruz, President www.elitemaintenanceservices.us rcruz@elitemaintenanceservices.us (917) 749-4386

Residential, commercial cleaning, carpet cleaning, construction cleanup, floor strip/wax/bu ing

Karrus Homes

#9 Executive Ct. Clover, SC 29710

Rusty Smith, Owner https://www.karrushomes.com/ rsmith@karrushomes.com (803)524-8435

Home builder, home renovations

Piedmont Medical Center –

Tenet Health

222 S. Herlong Avenue Rock Hill, SC 29730

Stephen Wright, Market Chief Strategy O icer stephen.wright@tenethealth.com http://www.piedmontmedicalcenter.com (803) 329-1234

Hospital, Urgent Care, Healthcare

SimpliHosted, Ltd.

16315 Crystal Downs Ln. Charlotte, NC 28278

Alison Brigham, Founder & CEO

Alisonbrigham1@gmail.com (646) 884-4590

Short-term rental host, coach, certified audit of property, detailed report, property management, design and décor.

Allyson Conyers, owner, and Chef Jared with Jeff Ledford, Chamber Board Chairman.

Clover Area Assistance Center held their ribbon cutting on June 6, 2025.

The Original Noodle Company held their ribbon cutting on June 26, 2025.

Contour Cryo located at 4607 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie, held their ribbon cutting on June 12, 2025.

Sara Singh, owner, with guests at the Contour Cryo ribbon cutting ceremony.

RENEWING MEMBERS

May 21- August 7, 2025

Businesses:

Azteca Grill

Bethel Commons Associates, LLC

– Mark Erwin

BNA CPAs and Advisors

Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie

CaroMont Health / Gaston Memorial

Catawba River Capital Fort Mill Ford

Freedom Boat Club – Lake Wylie

J Alden Fine Jewelry

Lake Wylie Assisted Living & Memory Care

Lake Wylie Business Center

Lake Wylie Chiropractic and Wellness Center

Lake Wylie/Clover Mayday

Lake Wylie Family Dentistry

Lake Wylie Pharmacy

M. L. Ford & Sons

Palisades Episcopal School

QuikTrip

Rey Azteca

River Hills Marina Club Inc.

Scholarship Gold

Sloan Financial

St. James Anglican Church

Sunflower Springs – Lake Wylie

The Lake Wylie Man, Inc.

United Bank

York Electric Co-Op

York Natural Gas

York Technical College

Individuals:

Debra Dagilus

Mark Erwin

Dianne Kehler

Nancy Snyder

Peggy Upchurch

LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Jeff Ledford -Chairman

River Hills Country Club

Charles Wood – Past Chairman

Susan BromfieldPresident Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Matthew Mugavero –Vice Chairman Lake Wylie Liquors

2024-2025 Board of Directors

Jane DuBois - Secretary Lake Wylie Today

Michaelyn SherrillTreasurer Home Companions

Fred Caldwell Fred Caldwell's Chevrolet

Lori Dickerson United Bank

Kim Conroy

LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Upcoming Activities

Chamber Annual Golf Classic

MONDAY, October 6, 2025

Noon – shotgun start Captains Choice Held at River Hills Country Club

Business After Golf

October 6, 2025

5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Sponsored and hosted by River Hills Country Club

Annual Holiday Gala

The Annual Meeting

Thursday, December 4, 2025

6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Cocktails Dinner and Music

Allan Gregory Altitude Wealth Management

Dr. Robert Latham Rejuvenate at Lake Wylie

Ed Lindsey Rotary Club of Lake Wylie

Angel Neelands South State Bank

Stephan Nishimuta Carolina Family Dentistry

Seating Limited, Festive Attire Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC

Holiday Business After Hours

December 11, 2025

5:30- 7:30 p.m..

Sponsored by and held at Sunflower Springs Assisted Living Latitude Lane- Lake Wylie, SC

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Presents “Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade

Saturday, December 13, 2025

6:30 p.m. Boat Parade

Hosted by and Held at Papa Doc’s Shore Club

Sheila Quinn Clover School District

Tom Smith May Green Properties

P.O. Box 5233

264 Latitude Lane, Suite 101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2827

Fax: (803) 831-2460

lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com www.lakewyliesc.com

Thank you for contributing to the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Fund!

Every year, everyone in the area looks forward to the annual Lake Wylie Community Fireworks in celebration of the 4th of July. The 2025 show did not disappoint!

Many people aren’t aware that the fireworks show is hosted by YMCA Camp Thunderbird, but it is 100% community funded. It is thanks to our local businesses, organizations, and individuals that we were able to experience a beautiful fireworks display with the *sparkliest* finale we could imagine! We’d like to recognize and thank everyone who contributed to this year’s incredible show.

Donors

John Atkinson • John Baber • Jonathan Bollman • Renee Bower • Susan Bromfield • Gloria Bruce • Camp Thunderbird • Carolina Contracting & Investments, Inc. • Carolina Family Dentistry At Lake Wylie • Dan Carretta • Robert Carroll • Casselman Custom Canvas LLC • Catawba River Capital • Virginia Chole • Christopher’s Grill & Bar - CLE Food Service Inc. • Guy Cline • Copper Premium Pub • Jenifer Dellinger • Eason Roofing • Rebecca Eggers • Linda Eiler • Elmiger George Epping Jerome • Alice Ewers • Theodore Fletcher • Eugene Foster • George Gessner • Hilda Greer • David Hadder • Susan Hills • Imperial Pool & Spa • Larry Johnson • Susan Kessell • John Killian • Henry LaBrun Henry • Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Inc. • Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry • Lake Wylie Pizza & Italian Food • Meg Landerville • James Lane • Derek Lewis • William Lucas • John McKenna • Steven Moore • Helen Moore • Toni Muse • Drew Naber • Kevin Naumann • Neil Nelson • Josephine Nolan • Donald Nowak • On the Lake Restaurant, LLC • Mark Polenski • Denny Powell • Pamela Pritchett • Red Fez Club Inc. • Daniel Reilly • Rejuvenate At Lake Wylie LLC • River Hills Community Association Inc. • River Hills Marina Club Inc. • River Hills Marina Club Inc. • Margot Rott • Anita Rounds • Cheryl Saylor • Sheryl Shanley • Frank Simone • Skinner Entertainment, LLC • Nancy Snyder • John Sowell • The Barber Lounge Lake Wylie • Susan Tremont • David Tuttle • Vascular Technologies, Inc • Ronld Wallace • Robert Ward • Waterjack Marine Construction • Watson Insurance • Mark Whittaker • Linda Williams • Joseph Wincze • Norma Wood • Charles Wood • Wylies Eats and Drinks - Wylie’s Restaurant Group LLC • Joan Clark • Connie Young • David Campbell • Lawrence Kelly • Gerald Bohannon

And though we can’t name you, we’d like to recognize our anonymous donors as well. Your generosity was experienced and appreciated by thousands who came out to enjoy the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks.

Thank You!

THE RIGHT PARTNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

For more than 185 years, we’ve forged personal relationships with our customers and communities, funding economic development and rallying around the causes that are important to our neighbors. With local bankers you know and trust, businesses and individuals throughout the Carolinas continue to choose United Bank.

A Value-Driven Private Wealth Management Firm

Where your financial wel l-being is our priority.

“ I started Catawba River Capital 25 years ago to create a firm that prioritizes the client’s interests above all else. Unlike wealth management at many banks and brokerage firms, where too often they aim to serve the institution’s goals, we’re accountable only to the client’s goals. Our primary objective is to ensure our interests are aligned with those of our clients by offering objective, transparent, and expert advice.”

– Paul Boggs Founder, CFP®

Experience the difference of working with dedicated, transparent fiduciaries in Lake Wyl ie, SC & Belmont, NC.

Let’s build your financial future—together. Contact us today.