Lake Wylie Today, Summer 2017

LakeWylie Fun in the

Summer Sun Plan your activities with the season’s calendar of events

A different way to golf Set down your clubs and pick up your discs

Chamber Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce news and information

TODAY Summer 2017 | Issue 2

Our View

Lake Wylie –

IT’S HOT!

By Susan Bromfield, President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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ake Wylie is hot! The explosion of growth continues in our area. We have the best of both worlds with our recreational, resort lifestyle, and yet within minutes we can be in Charlotte, a major metro area with an international airport.

“Come Home to a Resort” everyday, a phrase coined by longtime resident and Realtor John Wilkerson, describes the attraction to this beautiful area we call home. The abundance of recreational opportunities at Lake Wylie includes golf, tennis, boating, fishing, water skiing and just enjoying the relaxed lifestyle.

In fact, the Lake Wylie Chamber Visitor Center has a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Many are newcomers, people exploring the area or interested in relocating here. The chamber opened the center in 2007 to accommodate the growing number of visitors on this busy “Gateway” corridor. The chamber serves as a welcome center and makes a first impression to many visiting the area.

The strong and growing numbers make this area appealing for all types of businesses. The last U.S. Census showed Lake Wylie had 189% population growth. (Not because of a growing birth rate but from people moving to the area.) Growth propels economic development and prosperity, but also requires responsibility to manage and care for the environment and preserve the quality of life for future generations. Things such as tree ordinances and buffer zones help to preserve air and water quality.

The work of the Lake Wylie chamber represents 37 years of behind-the-scenes efforts to promote and market the area and

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work on vital issues such as the Highway 49 widening, the Buster Boyd Bridge widening and raising, expansion of water and sewer lines, enhancement and beautification projects to have trees and sidewalks along the roadway, and sign ordinances.

With the passing of the special tax district and promotion of the H-Tax in the unincorporated area, the chamber and community support the county’s efforts to create Lake Wylie Park, which will add another amenity and attraction to draw visitors into the area. The park will be funded by the 2% hospitality tax generated in the unincorporated area and by the special tax district at Lake Wylie. Plans and details are being worked on this year.

The schools are vital to the quality of life and prosperity in the Clover-Lake Wylie area. In response to current and expected future growth, the Clover School District passed a referendum in 2014 that generated funding to build more schools. A new aquatic center was built and is operated by the Upper Palmetto YMCA and Clover School District. It includes a water park, indoor competition-size swimming pool, handicap access pool and fitness facility.

Our community faces many challenges in dealing with the amount of growth and the need to support it while preserving our quality of life. Get involved, join the chamber, adopt a stream or cove, volunteer at Riversweep or help pick up litter in your area. Participate and make your community a better place by investing in its future.

Lake Wylie is hot, and it is up to us to keep it as a desirable place to visit, to live and to enjoy. LW

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Contents 2 Our View

Summer 2017

8 Mailbag 18 Shoreline 26 Food for Thought 34 Garden Party

Home tour with an artistic flair

42 Feature

Day in the Life of photographer Davina Fear

LakeWylie TODAY

www.LakeWylieToday.com Published by SC Biz News Lake Wylie Today Editor - Steve McDaniel smcdaniel@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3123 Associate Publisher - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Andrew Sprague asprague@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3128 Assistant Graphic Designer - Emily Matesi ematasi@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3124 Assistant Graphic Designer - Jessica Stout jstout@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Advertising Sales - Jane DuBois jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668

48 Feature

Contributing Editors Susan Bromfield President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce susan@lakewyliesc.com • 803.831.2827

52 Feature

Jane DuBois jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668

McSpadden at 30 years Disc Golf is on the rise

56 Feature

Rodeo fun comes to Cottonwood Arena

60 Feature

BMX world championships

65 Summer Calendar 68 Development Update 70 Spotlight

The magazine of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

80 Southern Gal The Southern Gal voices her concerns with

Contributing Photographers Beth Bargar Susan Bromfield Deep Creek Photography Jane DuBois Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Jan Todd The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved.

Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited.

modern tech, if that tech can understand her.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s marketing and promotional efforts are supported by York County’s Hospitality Tax.

Cover and Table of Contents photos by Jan Todd 4

Contributing Writers Beth Bargar Susan Bromfield Jane DuBois Steve McDaniel Jan Todd

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1439 Stuart Engals Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843.849.3100 • Fax: 843.849.3122 www.scbiznews.com

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Mailbag Did you just catch a fish? Celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary? Are you participating in a charity event or community fundraiser? Where did you go on your last family outing? Whether you just celebrated a major milestone or are gearing up to give back, part of our goal with Lake Wylie Today is to provide a platform for our community to share what’s happening here through stories and photos. We want to celebrate with you, laugh with you and build memories with you. Please email photos and stories to smcdaniel@scbiznews.com .

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This year’s York Summerfest on Aug. 26 features expanded hours and plenty of food, entertainment and activities.

he York Summerfest, billed as the largest one-day festival in South Carolina, features expanded hours for 2017. The Aug. 26 event will be held on North Congress and Roosevelt streets between Liberty and Mad-

ison streets in downtown York and run from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Highlights include concerts, food, art exhibits, an antique car show, hot-air balloon rides, unique craft vendors, a children’s area, a 5k fun run, golf tournament, open art exhibit,

dog entertainment and more. Summerdaze, a beach music band, will cap the festivities with a show from 8-10 p.m. Visit www.yorksummerfest.com for more information or for vendor and other registration forms.

Call for entries to Literary Competition

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he Arts Council of York County is seeking entries for its 14th annual Literary Competition, highlighting the best in short stories and poetry from across the southeastern United States; and the sixth annual Youth Literary Competition, highlighting the best in short stories and poetry by students enrolled in K-12 programs in York County.

The postmark deadline for entries is Sept. 1.

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The annual competitions include short story and poetry categories. Each category will be judged independently. Authors may enter both, and entries are eligible to win an award in each competition, however, there will be no repeat prize winners within the categories.

Prizes for the short story and poetry competitions are $125 for first place, $75 for second and $50 for third. Youth winners

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will receive a certificate of achievement.

There are no restrictions on subject matter.

In November, the winning submissions will be published in the Cotton Alley Writers’ Review, an online literary magazine published annually by the Arts Council of York County on Issuu.com. For complete guidelines and entry information, please visit yorkcountyarts.org.

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Mailbag

Good News!

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he 1980s band Huey Lewis and the News will play June 14 as part of the Summer Concert Series at Old Town Amphitheater, 144 E. Black St. in Rock Hill. The band won multiple Grammy Awards and has sold more than 20 million albums, charting such hits as Heart of Rock and Roll, Stuck with You, Do You Believe in Love and The Power of Love, a No. 1 Billboard hit nominated for an Academy Award from the blockbuster film Back to the Future.

Advanced tickets are $60 for floor seats, $50 on the terrace and $75 for upper tier, which includes catered hors d’oeuvres, cash bar and private rest rooms. Go to www.onlyinoldtown.com/concert to buy tickets.

Summer Art Camps

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he Arts Council of York County’s Summer Art Camps offers week-long and half-day summer art camps for children ages 6 and up, with a focus on the visual, literary and performing arts. The camps run from June 12-July 14 at the Center for the Arts, 121 East Main St., and at the Gettys Art Center, 201 E. Main St., in Rock Hill. View the full schedule of camps and download the registration form at www.yorkcountyarts.org.

Summer camp information is located under The Arts tab. For more information on other Arts Council events, contact the Arts Council of York County at 803-328-2787, by email at arts@yorkcountyarts.org, or visit the website.

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Mailbag

Ag+Art Tour gives public a free glimpse of local farm life

By Beth Bargar Photos by Jan Todd

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he 2017 Ag+Art tour is back, bigger and better than ever. The self-guided tour allows visitors to see working farms and enjoy a special weekend of demonstrations, food and drink, and art.

York and Chester counties’ free weekend, June 10-11, marks the fifth year since Ag+Art began, with 30 sites in the two counties participating. Visitors may choose where to start and visit as many sites as they like.

Many sites may be open at other times throughout the year or by appointment, so be sure to visit agandarttour.com for updates and vignettes about this year’s farms and artisans.

Ag+Art Tours also are scheduled at sites in other S.C. counties throughout June.

“It’s really fun and educational,” said Sonja Burris, chairwoman of York County’s Ag+Art Tour. “The tour brings visitors together with farmers and all sorts of artists.”

Expected on the tour this year are storytellers, woodworkers, potters, painters and more.

A new site this year is Curtin Farms near Clover, a small working family farm with goats, chickens and alpacas. The farm also hosts the Curtin Farm Fest in October. Another new stop is Ferebee Farm near Rock Hill, a small pasture-based farm with heritage breeds of goats, sheep and chickens living in savanna-like fields farmed using sustainable techniques.

Tega Hills Farm grows hydroponic and other vegetables. Windy Hill Orchard and Cidery is the first and only bonded and licensed cidery in the Piedmont region of the Carolinas. Bush-n-Vine farm offers blueberries or peaches in season, as well as fresh produce at area stands. Other educational sites share information on Native American culture and gardening for children.

“It’s the largest free farm and art tour in the nation,” Burris said. “And it all started right here in York County.”

Burris particularly enjoys visiting with Dori Sanders, an author and storyteller in Fil12

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Mailbag

The York County Ag + Art Tour will be held June 10 and 11. The stars of this event are the scenic rural areas of York County where farms and farm stands will showcase farm life, art work and summer produce. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. bert, a tiny community near Clover. Her family operates one of the oldest African-American farms in the region, Burris said, adding, “I just love to listen to Miss Dori.”

Burris credits Ben Boyles, director of Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service, with creating the tour in 2012.

“His passion and his enthusiasm have made it so successful,” Burris said. She noted that the agriculture sites and artists benefit from increased visibility and sales of homemade products and art, while visitors learn about farming and enjoy fresh products and demonstrations. “Having artists and hand-crafted art adds something special,” she said.

Boyles is pleased that visitors who might not otherwise get to see a working farm can get a glimpse of the work involved in raising plants and animals.

“The tour is an opportunity to meet your farmers,” he said. “And it’s a chance for farmers to see if agritourism is right for them.”

The economic and educational gains are widespread, he said. “What started in York County is now from the South Carolina mountains to the sea. It’s spread like wildfire.”

Burris said the one-weekend tours have lasting effect.

“People may come for a visit and return sometime in the future to purchase something for Christmas,” she said. “Or they may just come for a fun, educational visit. It’s all beneficial.”

For more information or to download an Ag+Art brochure, visit www.agandarttour.com.

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Mailbag The Clover High School Interact Club joined forces with Lake Wylie Rotary Club to clean up Crowder’s Creek in Lake Wylie on March 25. This is the third year participating in the project. The CHS Interact Club had a great time working with sponsoring Rotarians to complete the service project.

Crowder’s Creek Clean up

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he Clover Interact Club has been accepted as an exhibitor at the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta, where Rotarians from all over the world will gather from June 9-14. The convention has not been held in the U.S. since 2011. Clover Interact Club plans to present an exhibit in the Rotary House of Friendship where they will share their success story of becoming and maintaining the largest Interact membership lover High School Senior Choraliers at in the southeastern region of the U.S. since the spring production of The Hunch- their founding in 2010. The title of the exhibit will be “200 + Since 2010 – Our Rotary Story.” back of Notre Dame.

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Interact is a youth service organization sponsored by Rotary International. Most of these clubs are situated in public and private high schools. The 13 Clover Interact members attending will get to meet Rotarians from all over the globe and share their strategies for sustaining a successful high school service club. The Interact club at Clover High School is jointly sponsored by Lake Wylie and Clover Rotary clubs. The faculty sponsors are Jimmy Roach and Chenetra Brewington.

Microsoft founder Bill Gates is scheduled to be the keynote speaker at the convention.

Mailbag

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Shoreline

The

Glamorous Life

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Glamping in style at Long Cove Resort

By Beth Bargar

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Shoreline

(Photo/Beth Bargar)

So, you think you might like to try camping, but you’re not wild about roughing it. Long Cove Resort on Lake Wylie now offers “glamping” to combine nature with nurture.

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ong a favorite July 4 fireworks location, Long Cove has been an iconic year-round lake destination for decades. Now, new ownership and a fresh vision are transforming the recreation center into a resort with new cabins for glamping – a melding of the words glamorous and camping.

Existing RV and tent camping sites, a marina with boat and water equipment rentals, large outdoor pool, patios and lawns, and a natural beach round out the offerings. With stunning views of Lake Wylie’s main channel and competitive prices, Long Cove Resort is both the perfect getaway for visitors and a resource for locals joining the resort’s social club.

“In the first six weeks, we booked over 700 nights,” said Paul Montelongo, a principal owner of the resort. “Glamping blends the outdoor camping experience with the amenities of an indoor resort. It’s for the adventurous who yet want the conveniences of normal lodging.”

He said bookings have come from Canada, the East and West coasts, even as far away as Australia. People are learning about Long Cove through online vacation sites and social media, he said. But people visiting the area for weddings, conferences and fishing tournaments are coming too.

“There aren’t a lot of places to stay” at Lake Wylie, he said. “Here you can bring a whole group and enjoy a comfortable stay with plenty to do. And it’s only a short drive into Charlotte.”

Don’t look for crystal chandeliers at Long Cove. Glamping is a comfortable way to enjoy the lake and get away from the hubbub. You can still pitch a tent or site a camper or RV at Long Cove. The cabins are the newest option.

In other locales, you might glamp in a yurt – or a tree house. This summer Long Cove offers ­­17 cozy cabins with flexible sleeping arrangements that include fully stocked kitchenettes,

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Paul Montelongo (clockwise from top left) shows off the natural surroundings at Long Cove Resort; a row of cabins at the resort sits along the lake shore; the interior of a typical cabin; lake access at the resort; outdoor picnic space with a wide-open lake view; and a sunset seen through a stand of trees over the lake. (Photos/Provided)

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We treat every pet and person like one of the family! shower facilities, heat and AC, Wi-Fi and TV. There is room for relaxing and some units include loft areas. The birch-toned wood paneling adds a light, airy ambiance.

“They have taken something retro on Lake Wylie and reinvented it in a new, fresh approach so more people will enjoy the lake,” said Susan Bromfield, president of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a nice addition to the area.”

Montelongo thinks everyone will enjoy the lake and resort. “Lake Wylie has a character that is infectious,” he said. “It has a charisma of its own.”

Long Cove will add to the resort ambiance with special activities and events throughout the season, so check the web site often, he added.

Long Cove Resort is located off Shopton Road West on the North Carolina side of the lake, or within sight of the Buster Boyd Bridge by boat. For more information visit longcove resort.com or call 704-588-1467. LW

Making your pet care convenient & affordable Saturday hours • Flexible appointments • Early morning drop-offs Senior citizen discounts Compassionate, comprehensive veterinary care: Preventative medicine • Complete vaccinations • Emergency care • General medicine & surgery • Medications for fleas, ticks & heartworms • Wellness care • Grooming • Gentle dentistry • Boarding & lodging • Diet & nutrition counseling • Obedience counseling • Senior pet care

803.831.1318

125 Forest Oaks Dr. • Lake Wylie Dr. Jodi Werfal Dr. Cory Ellis Bring this ad in for $10.00 off an annual wellness exam Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Shoreline

Where to rent a boat Pier 88

River Hills Marina gas dock (803) 831-0088 www.pier88yachtclub.com Boat, kayak and canoe rentals

Tega Cay Marina

(803) 548-3715 www.tegacaymarina.com Pontoon boats and 22-foot boat rentals All-day rentals on weekends; half-day rentals weekdays only

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Light-N-Up Houseboat Charters

(704) 813-8033 Nancy Bedgood, proprietor. Private parties, outings, receptions and more

Wylie Boat Rentals

(803) 370-2628 Open April through Labor Day Email: fun@wylieboatrentals.com www.wylieboatrentals.com Pontoon rentals

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CareFree Boat Club (704) 557-0848 www.carefreeboats.com Boat rentals

NC Flatwater Outfitters (704) 914-7484 Canoe and kayak rentals

To check lake levels

Go online to www.duke-energy.com/ community/lakes and click ‘check lake levels’

Shoreline

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Food for Thought

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Food for Thought

Food and Drink in the Summer

Sun!

By Beth Bargar

Now that the weather is warmer, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the finer things in life.

n o i s s a P e i l y W The

Wylie) e k a L r y fo ecificall

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(Create

th rum y Streng v a N s s o ith & Cr orange) 2 oz. Sm n fruit juice alencia V r o ( e io n ti ss 2 oz. pa r clemen gerine o n ta h s e 1 fr lime ut 1/2 fresh e reof cocon e with th to n cream ic o o ju s p r s h s a te e it 1 te e fr in in ra b . Combin ice. Stra Angostu on press vigorously with 3 dashes m ) le n a o in ns d shake ady Joh nd lime gerine a haker an s, Mixologist/Gr n s ta il e ta k th c u co Squeeze McMan nts in a oto/Kim ingredie h g P ( in . s in s a m s gla lled rock an ice-fi

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Food for Thought

Copper Premium Pub

Excellent food and family fun await you at Copper Premium Pub. (Photos / Beth Bargar)

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ummertime means getting outside and licious meal and refreshing cocktail. Or you can enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Wylie. create your own concoction as a perfect compleWhat better way to do that than with a visit ment to what’s sizzling on your backyard grill. to one of the area’s favorite restaurants for a deWith so many Lake Wylie restaurants

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The summer salads (above) at T-Bones on the Lake coupled with the view can’t be beat. sporting decks and patios, it’s easy to dine al fresco, roughly translated as “in the open air.”

Copper Premium Pub, 4516 Charlotte Highway, opened less than a year ago in its new

incarnation. With its diverse menu, fully renovated dining room and outdoor “Bier Garden” and backyard – the restaurant has really taken off in popularity, says owner Fred Kanos. “We wanted to give Lake Wylie something new and exciting,” he said. “It’s a nice, casual ambience that’s family friendly.” Go to copperpremiumpub.com or call 803-301-4797 for more information.

Rey Azteca and its smaller sibling, Azteca Grill, are among Lake Wylie’s go-to spots for Mexican and Southwestern fare. While both offer outdoor dining, Rey Azteca in Lake Wylie Plaza shopping center is famous for its Cinco de Mayo festivities and occasional karaoke nights on the large covered deck. Locals especially favor the margaritas and cold cervezas from the full bar. Azteca Grill, in the Shoppes at the Landing center down the road, is smaller but with the same menu and offers inside and outside dining.

Arrive by boat or by car, but visit T-Bones on the Lake directly beside the Buster Boyd Bridge for the area’s only on-water dining experience. Owner Haven Presley loves the menu this summer and admits to being a fan of kale salads – and the new marinated beet

(Photo and text / Jane DuBois)

Summer Splash 1 jigger Deep Eddy’s Grapefruit Vodka Crushed Ice Ginger Ale Don’t we all wish we could head to the islands at the beginning of June and not come home until September? I know I do! Well you can bring that vacation or resort feeling to your own backyard with summer cocktails, like the Summer Splash seen here. It’s perfect for adding that something extra to your casual get-togethers all summer long. Serve with super easy meats, veggies and even toasted bread from the grill!

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Food for Thought

Delicious con queso cheese dip from Rey Azteca is a delight for all ages. (Photo/Beth Bargar) salad with feta cheese, strawberries and spinach. Then there’s the ceviche, a seafood dish with citrus and spices, Thai pasta and menu standards sandwiches and steaks. “I can’t pick a favorite,” she said. “Everything is made fresh in-house and we change out menu items to keep it interesting.” Go to tbonesonthelake.com or call 803-831-0170 for more information. LW

One … okay, okay Two, for the Road Seek out the delicious Flirty Martini at T-Bones.

(Photo/Beth Bargar)

The Lake Luau is as elegant as it is simple with 1 oz.

Campari and 8 oz. San Pellegrino Aranciata.

(Photo/Kim McManus) 30

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Food for Thought

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Food for Thought

Lake Wylie Dining Guide Azteca Grill

Fini’z Oyster Bar and Grill

Pier 88 at River Hills Marina

Sweetwater Grille

604 Nautical Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-8930

4555 Charlotte Highway, Suite 19 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0037

54 Marina Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0088

4582 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-1788

Bagel Boat – Bagels

Jersey Mike’s

Pizza Hut

Taco Bell at Lake Wylie

4090 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5995

604 Nautical Drive, Suite 101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0912

5241 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-1188

Best China

Lake Wylie Bowl N Bounce

Q2U BBQ and Catering

S.C. Highway 49 at Carrol Cove Road Lake Wylie, SC 29170 (803) 701-7068

5243 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5540

4034 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2553

4052 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-8883

Bojangles’

Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza

Rey Azteca Mexican

4927 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9346

4074 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0855

4052 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9277

Cherry – Asian Cuisine

Lee’s Hoagie House

River Hills Country Club

4034 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9594

312 Bulkhead Way Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 619-4046

1 Country Club Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2126

Christopher’s Bar and Grille

McDonald’s

The River Rat II

1500 Village Harbor Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2461

5262 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0577

5301 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5455

Copper Premium Pub

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Rainbow Asian Bistro

4516 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 701-7021

312 Bulkhead Way, #105 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 398-1663

4547 Charlotte Highway, #1 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 746-5588

Domino’s Pizza

Panda Hut

Sake Express

125 E. Evergreen Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-7075

144 S.C. Highway 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 631-1988

5360 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 610-0146

Dunkin Donuts

Papa Johns

Subway

335 Vesla Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 675-6044

221 Latitude Lane, Suite 101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0101

5245 S.C. Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0143

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Thai Fusion 125 Evergreen Road, Suite 102 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 746-5047

T-Bones on the Lake 3990 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0170

Waffle House 5013 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0315

Wendy’s 5188 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2687

Zaxby’s 143 S.C. Highway 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2634

Food for Thought

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Garden Party

Through the Eyes of the Photos and story by Jan Todd

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Artists

Garden Party

Anne-Marie Steele painting in the gardens of John and Geri Rinehart.

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Garden Party Painter Phil DeSano sets up poolside at Martha Young’s home.

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uests on the annual Lake Wylie Home and Garden Tour gained new perspectives this year, courtesy of artists sprinkled throughout the gardens of the featured homes. Each spring, the Clover-Lake Wylie Republican Women host a tour of some of the area’s most beautiful homes, with proceeds benefiting a scholarship fund for Clover High School girls.

Guests look forward to the tour each year, visiting homes to gather decorating and landscaping ideas, marvel at architecture and various collections, or simply spend a fun and interesting day with friends. This spring, the tour featured an added treat of artists painting “plein air,” that is, painting outdoors where people could watch them work, even asking questions and chatting about the piece in progress.

Viewing the scenery through the eyes of the artists added a delightful dimension. The fallen tree in the back of a cove, for example, may have been overlooked by most people, but once chosen as a subject by one of the painters, its hidden beauty was revealed.

The gardens and outdoor living spaces were certainly the highlight of this year’s tour.

Jim and Ann Pugh opened their French country-style estate on Lake Wylie Road, featuring

Garden Party

Jim and Ann Pugh’s French country-style home sits on 15 acres of lakefront land.

Robin Wellner (bottom photo) took advantage of Jim and May Sears’ golf course view to paint her first picture of the links; an arched entryway (top), graced with a colorful floral wreath, is a perfect prelude to Jim and Ann Pugh’s art-inspired home. covered verandas, a patio with an outdoor fireplace, a lakeside gazebo, and places to sit and relax in multiple settings outdoors. As a longtime Boy Scoutmaster, Jim has often hosted camping outings in their yard, with lots of lake fun including playing on a rope swing next to the shoreline.

As in many homes, the Pughs’ heritage plays a significant role throughout the home and garden. Jim and their sons graduated from The Citadel, and a grandson currently attends the school. Charleston and the Lowcountry influences are evident in the bottle tree by the lake, and the joggling board on the patio. “Joggling boards” were common in the Charleston area in the 19th century. Long, pliable boards mounted on stands were used on shady porches to gently bounce babies to sleep and for exercise.

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Architectural accents, a Garden fountain and tropical landscaping set John and Geri Rinehart’s pool apart from the ordinary.

Party

Martha Young’s inspired landscaping incorporates Americana art and antiques, a rustic contrast to the colorful flowers.

The Pughs’ gardens are inviting, with resting places in both shade and sun. Colorful Adirondack chairs beckon sun lovers to the shoreline, and a bench under the trees nearby provides relief from the summer heat. Whimsical topiaries in the shape of monkeys dangle from the trees, and a lawn statue of a grumpy frog brings a smile of amusement.

Just down the road at Martha Young’s home, more Lowcountry influences awaited tour guests. Martha is an artist herself, with work displayed in a gallery in Beaufort. “I was inspired by Lowcountry artist Jonathan Green,” said Martha in describing her work.

“About six years ago, I had a bicycle accident and was incapacitated for several months. I 38

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

Garden Party Step into the sensual paradise, filled with flowers and fauna, at the Sears’ River Hills home.

The entry to Jim and May Sears’ River Hills home (left) is beautiful and inviting, with flowers, fountains and a garden arch. They also have a nice view of the golf course (above).

The Everharts renovated their River Hills home (top) and installed privacy screens on their porch so that they can see out but golfers can’t see in. started painting to give myself something to do, and it just took off.”

Martha’s paintings, along with works of other artists, are displayed throughout her home, on her porch and by the pool house.

Her love of art and eye for detail are evident throughout. In her flower beds, Martha uses antique farm tools and unique garden art to add interest and contrast to the colorful blooms.

Along the poolside, under shady trees and on the sunny beach are comfy lounge chairs and benches to enjoy the expansive main channel lake views from Young’s home. Rocking chairs line the covered porch, overlooking the water.

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Garden Party

A lakeside pool (above) at Martha Young’s Lake Wylie home provides a perfect place to cool off in the summertime.

The shady porch (left) at Young’s home includes a display of her Lowcountry art, along with gorgeous lake views.

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In River Hills, two homes on the golf course were featured on the tour. Joe and Evelyn Everhart showcased extensive renovations in their home, including a screened porch designed for privacy, where they can see out, but people on the golf course cannot see in.

A short walk down the street, Jim and May Sears’ home was chosen for the tour to share its gorgeous “secret gardens,” with archways and fountains. May Sears is an artist, and enjoys painting in the sun room overlooking the golf course. The gentle sound of trickling water from her fountain feature next to the golf course enhances the serenity of the garden.

For magnificent main channel lake vistas and jaw-dropping architectural design, guests visited John and Geri Rinehart’s beautiful home on the Allison Creek peninsula. Landscaping around the Rinehart’s pool presents a tropical paradise, and archways along the property invite leisurely strolls along garden paths.

Whether on a home tour or in our own gardens, landscaping can reflect personalities of the gardener, and bring joy to owners and guests alike. LW

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Snapshots

of a Day

Local photographer Davina Fear captures the lives of others

“S

By Jan Todd Photos by Davina Fear

ay Cheese!” are two words you’ll never hear coming from this shutter snapper. Davina Fear, a Lake Wylie resident and professional documentary style photographer, makes her living by capturing the most natural moments in a family’s life. She describes her photography sessions as “A Day in the Life” of a fami-

ly, recording everyday moments from the mundane to the magical.

Most families associate picture day with a fairly stressful experience, getting dressed up and being on best behavior, posing in awkward formations and smiling for the camera. Davina describes her documentary photography

Photographer Davina Fear

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Whether it be families at home, on vacation or at performances of high school musicals, Davina works to capture the moments between the moments.

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Feature as something quite different. “There is no setup, no posing, no styling with special outfits or props, nothing out of the ordinary from everyday routines.”

Some family photographers are what may be called “Lifestyle Photographers,” who take pictures of families in their homes or elsewhere, involved in some sort of activity.

“Those photographers may give the family directions on how to pose, what to do, how to interact, orchestrating the shots. That’s not what I do,” explained Davina.

“When I do a session, I go to the family’s home, usually in the morning, before they get up. Sometimes I’ll even stay with the family the night before, particularly if they live more than a few miles away. I’ll stay the entire day, until they go to bed. I don’t prompt them to do anything. There’s no pressure to dress a certain way or not get their clothes dirty. It’s actually great for the kids to get messy. I like it when kids are kids, doing what they do! I can photograph them in their own environment.”

Davina photographs everything that happens, the kids getting up, eating breakfast, going about their day. “If they go to the grocery store, I go with them. If something happens to a kid and he has to go to the doctor, I go to the doctor. If there’s a meltdown, I take pictures of that. I photograph everything.”

Prior to a session with a family, Davina has the client fill out a questionnaire asking about their daily routine, covering getting ready for school, work and play, after-school activities, meal preparations and traditions. It gives Davina an idea of what to expect during the day, and allows her to make any special arrangements if she is to visit the school or other places.

“I become a friend of the family,” said Davina. “It isn’t like being a fly on the wall. I hang out with the family, laugh with them, eat with the family, do what they do. It’s pretty relaxed, go with the flow. At the end of the day, I feel like I’m part of the family.”

To keep the children comfortable and natural in front of the camera, Davina spends some time getting to know them ahead of time. She asks them to show her their room, gets to know them, and lets them know what she’ll be doing. “So when they wake up and see me with the camera first thing, they’re not surprised,” Davina laughed. “Sometimes the kids will want to show off a little, and say, “Miss Davina, look at me!” But, you know, they do that to their moms, too. So I’ll take pictures of them showing off, but then take pictures of them as they’re Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature brushing their teeth or playing or whatever. I’m not telling them what to do or asking them to pose, so they get used to me pretty quickly.”

Davina works with families of all ages, in many situations. “I actually had a documentary photographer come to my home when my son was getting ready to go off to college.

I knew that our family dynamic was going to completely change. I wanted to have that particular time in our life captured, with the relationships between my son and his three sisters, and all of us before this huge change

in our family. Afterwards, I really wished that I had done that every single year of our lives.”

In the session of Davina’s family, she found it particularly interesting to see pictures of herself interacting with the family. “You know, I have very few pictures of myself, and that is true in many families, where there is one person who is sort of the “designated photographer.” You’ll look through photo albums and find that one person missing from most of the photos. That’s what’s so cool about having a third party come in and photograph. You can

see how these people really are, with the dynamics and relationships in a family. You don’t get that with posed pictures.”

In addition to “A Day in the Life,” Davina has been part of family reunions, special events and even vacations. “I just got back from photographing a family at Disneyland. I spent two days with the family, and they got the real deal of the vacation, enjoying themselves without having to worry about taking pictures. They had one child who was 15, and another who was 7, and I got pictures of their excitement and wonder. That was so fun.

“I think that a documentary type of photo session can be for any family that wants to capture the real nature of their lives. Vacations are great, but it is often the daily things that build your family. It is amazing just how powerful the little things can be. The photographs often show people aspects of their lives that they don’t normally notice. I’ve had clients tell me that the photo sessions are a life-changing experience for them.”

Davina has found her life changed by client sessions as well. “One time I spent the day with a family that played the piano every night.

Several of the members played, and they’d sing along. I took piano lessons when I was younger, but hadn’t touched the piano in years. So watching how that family interacted around the piano inspired me to start practicing and playing again. I picked up some sheet music for Broadway musicals, and before I knew it my kids were gathered around the piano and singing!

“One of my clients had a really healthy life46

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The Falls family after a busy day.

Hablamos Español!

style,” Davina continued. “The mom got up very early each day to exercise, drank bone meal and carrot juice. I’d never tasted those things before, and she inspired me to exercise more and eat better. I think I pick up good habits or ideas for my family from almost every shoot.”

Davina has been a photographer for about 15 years. “I started as a street photographer in Utah, taking pictures of what was going on downtown. Some of it was really cool, and some of it was heartbreaking. I think that’s what made me fall in love with the documentary style of photography.”

Traveling all over the country for her work, Davina’s out-of-town assignments are usually centered around workshops that she leads.

Most of her training workshops, including some in the local area, are geared toward teaching moms how to take better photos of their families. Her local sessions are generally hosted in homes, with up to 12 participants.

“We talk about importance of knowing your camera, why shooting manual is important, about composition and light. We include some hands-on training. I also have an online course for those who want to dive in deeper.”

Davina is passionate about the importance of family, and uses her photography to show the magic in the midst of normal everyday life. “Real life doesn’t have to be polished to be beautiful,” she said.

Want to see more of Davina’s beautiful work? Visit her website davinafear.com. Download her free e-book “The Art of Familyness Photography: 10 tips for real photos.” LW Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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the

Manwith a Plan Doug McSpadden celebrates 30th anniversary with new design center and signature homes program

By Beth Bargar

D

oug McSpadden’s business model, incorporating core disciplines of design, construction and real rstate, has not changed over the decades, but his vision for the future has evolved to address new market needs.

As McSpadden Custom Homes celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, McSpadden and his team are launching an initiative to make custom home building a creative yet streamlined experience for clients.

It all began in 1978 when McSpadden embarked on his journey with an honors degree in architecture. After graduating, he secured his real estate licenses and developed construction experience with a respected custom home builder. During that time, he began to realize 48

clients did not need three contractors when one company – his – could meet their needs.

In 1987, McSpadden opened his custom home business, producing beautiful homes to owners’ specifications throughout the Lake Wylie area. The company integrated its philosophy of service to its clients and the community.

“I love Lake Wylie,” McSpadden said. “The river – it’s a place of solace and recreation.”

He also noted the rapid growth of the area after the downturn and financial bust following the 2007 recession.

As he listened to post-recession clients, concepts of universal design, maintenance-free living, right-sizing, building sciences, flexible living, cost-effectiveness and

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Builder and developer Doug McSpadden in his Design and Selections Center, a new feature at McSpadden Custom Homes in Lake Wylie.

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Doug McSpadden’s philosophy of home design and construction has evolved over the years to match the changing needs and wishes of his clients. One of the beautiful custom homes (left) designed by McSpadden Custom Homes. simplification began to dominate the residential design and construction world, he explained. New home clients who had “lived large” were now looking to downsize and simplify while retaining the custom features they were used to.

McSpadden’s team is putting into place new tools to help clients build their dream homes at a quicker pace and better price than traditional custom building.

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“Neither a production home in a production community nor a high-end custom home with all the bells and whistles will fit the bill” for many of the retiring boomers and millennials starting families, he notes.

To fit today’s changing market, McSpadden will soon open its new Signature Home Division and unveil its new Design and Selections Center, built exclusively for its clients.

The center will be conveniently located in the

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McSpadden building on Nautical Drive in Lake Wylie.

At the center, clients will be assisted by a professional interior design and selection specialist to choose just the right look for their homes. Side-by-side comparisons of materials, colors and other details can help streamline the building process to ensure cost-effective, timely delivery of each new home.

“Clients can start from scratch, choose from our existing plans or bring their own.

The McSpadden team’s expertise, coupled with their clients’ desires, can lead to new homes with great features at more affordable prices,” he said. He wants people to know that “you don’t have to limit your freedom of choices.”

For more information, visit mcspaddencustomhomes.com or call 704-825-7324. LW Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature Greg Ford in action.

Disc drive

By Jan Todd

I

t’s Wednesday night, and Greg Ford is climbing through the kudzu. He and his two friends, “Big Mike” Sovinski and Zack Brown, are warming up at the first hole at the Renaissance disc golf course in Charlotte. It takes all three to locate the missing disc, buried in a thick patch of vine. This is all part of the game, part of the fun of playing disc golf.

A sport that combines hiking, throwing Frisbee-like discs, and sometimes even playing pinball as the disc bounces off trees lining the course, disc golf is

growing in popularity as a world sport, vying for classification as an Olympic event. Disc golf is played much like traditional golf, but with flying discs instead of clubs.

In traditional golf, the object is to get the ball in the hole with the fewest strokes. In disc golf, baskets replace holes, and the player tries to sink the disc in the basket with the fewest throws.

Players use different discs for various conditions.

Some discs are designed to fly straight and long, while others are better suited for “putting,” short throws with optimum accuracy. Players “tee off ” by throwing a disc

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In disc golf, players throw Frisbee-like discs and attempt to land them in a basket. Baskets may be located in open fields or wooded areas and often incorporate challenging terrain.

Only three discs are necessary for play: A long-range, mid-range and putter. Most players carry a couple of spares, as sometimes a disc can be lost during play. As players advance in skill, they may add discs that differ in stability, distance potential and personal preference.

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toward the target, then picking up and throwing again from the disc’s landing spot. Trees, obstacles and changes in terrain provide challenges for the player. Official rules are dictated by the PDGA (Professional Disc Golfers Association.).

Greg Ford, a resident of Lake Wylie, is a mechanical tech support person by day and a professional disc golfer on his off hours.

“I get five weeks of vacation a year, and spend three of them playing golf,” Ford said.

He also plays many weekends and almost every Wednesday night. “Wednesdays we play for fun,” he said. “It’s good practice, good exercise, our boy’s night out.”

Zack, the youngest of the Wednesday group, is the “keeper of the tunes,” toting a speaker and a selection of music for the evening’s game.

“If he’s been fishing a lot, we can expect country music,” remarked Big Mike. “But tonight we’re lucky. This is just chillin’ kind of music.”

“The disc golf community is pretty laid back,” Ford said. “It’s a sport that I can play with guys in all age groups, and we can hang out and have fun with something in common.”

The greater Charlotte area is known for its disc golf. “There are 17 courses here,” Ford said, “many designed by Stan McDaniel. He put our area on the map for disc golf.”

McDaniel, who lives in Charlotte, is a three-time Masters World Champion and Disc Golf Hall of Fame inductee. McDaniel has designed several courses in the area and is responsible for bringing tournaments and events to the region.

In fact, the U.S. Disc Golf Championship tournament is held right here in York County, at the Winthrop University Golf Course in Rock Hill. The tournament has been held at Winthrop since its inception in 1999. This course, open for casual play throughout the year, is spruced up and transformed for the big tournament held each year in the fall, where competitors come from all over the globe.

Players find it challenging for its narrow fairways, elevated baskets and water hazards.

There are only a few hundred full-time professional disc golfers in the world.

“Most of them are young, in their twenties,” said Ford, who plays in the “Grandmasters” division, which is the age 50 and older group.

“There’s a Youth, Master and Grandmaster division. As a Grandmaster, I can compete in the Master division tournaments, but they can’t compete in mine.”

Ford has won four professional level tournaments, earning several thousand dollars.

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Zack Brown (top right photo, from left), Greg Ford and Mike Sovinski are disc golfing buddies. The sport combines throwing discs, hiking and just hanging out with friends in a natural setting (left). The overall goal is to get your disc into the basket at the end of each hole (bottom right).

“When we talk about playing golf, we’re talking about disc golf,” Ford said. “We refer to the other golf as “ball golf.” Not “regular” golf, and certainly not “real golf,” as some people call it.” One of the great things about disc golf, according to Ford, it its accessibility to everyone.

“Anyone can play, and the equipment requirements are minimal,” explained Ford.

“You have a set of three discs, a long-range, mid-range and putter. They’re inexpensive, like seven or eight dollars apiece. You walk the courses on foot, so no golf carts are needed.

And most of the courses are free to play.”

With disc golf being taught in middle school and high school physical education classes, the sport is poised to grow in its appeal. It’s easy to learn and challenging to perfect. Some holes are in open fields, but others

are deep in the woods, where players have to throw between trees, up and down hills, and over bamboo groves. Markers at the tee-off pads indicate the position of the basket, which isn’t always visible. Players choose the disc to use based on the distance to the basket and obstacles they encounter.

For the initial throw, a long-range disc might be used. “There are professional players who can consistently throw 600-700 feet.

That’s two football fields,” Ford said. “The world record is 1,100 feet – but that was with quite a bit of wind. On my best day, I can throw about 400 feet.”

There isn’t necessarily an “ideal stance” for throwing a disc, Ford said.

“For a long-distance throw, you want your disc flat, your elbows flat, but individual techniques differ,” he said.

Indeed, Ford and his Wednesday night golf buddies use a variety of throwing stances in a typical game. Zack Brown demonstrated a “tomahawk” throw, one used to thread the needle between a tight grove of trees on one of the holes. “Really, any way you can throw the disc is legal,” Ford said.

Ford is looking forward to the development of the Lake Wylie Sportsplex, which has an 18-hole disc golf course in the plans.

The course will run along the perimeter of the park. Upkeep and maintenance of a disc golf course is minimal, as natural conditions provide interest and challenges to the play.

“It’s part of the player culture to help keep a course maintained,” Ford said. “We try to keep things picked up, leave the place in good condition so others can enjoy.” LW

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AtoPlace Race Rodeo fun comes to Cottonwood Arena

I

By Beth Bargar

t was becoming difficult to find a place to race horses in York County, so Angela and Michael McCarter of York decided to do something about it.

They founded Cottonwood Arena in 2013 on 78 acres near York, providing a venue for their beloved barrel racing and other rodeo events. This summer they’re hosting amateur and sanctioned events and providing a location for locals to work their horses and hold community events.

To spread the costs, “We’re building as we go,” An-

gela said. The site currently sports an open-air arena with chutes and other equipment, concession stand, bleacher area, parking and other facilities. They don’t board horses, but horse owners can call ahead to arrange workout time.

The McCarters bring in vendors, kids’ inflatables and bleachers for 3,000 fans for such events as the inaugural Cottonwood Arena Championship Rodeo on May 20. Participants and fans enjoy bareback and saddle bronc riding, team and tie-down roping, cowgirl

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The Cottonwood Arena rodeos, built on 78 acres near York, feature bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding and more. (Photos/Provided) barrel racing and bull riding, sanctioned by the Southern States Rodeo Association and promoted by Krazy R Ranch of Blacksburg.

The Junior Southern Rodeo Association held its first Cottonwood event at the end of April, with youngsters ages 18 and under com-

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peting in barrel racing, pole bending, roping and other events, all in Western rodeo attire.

The PeeWee division featured kids under age 7 in competitions such as “mutton bustin’ and chute dogging,” Angela said. “Cutest thing you ever saw, and they’re very competitive.”

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Tickets are reasonably priced and with no alcohol or firearms allowed on site, it’s a safe place for everyone to enjoy the outdoors and the animals, she said.

“It’s good family fun,” Angela said. “We have something for everybody.”

The Cottonwood Arena vision began to form several years ago, Angela recalls, when area stables and arenas closed one by one.

“There were privately owned places, but none open to the public,” she said. “But I always made sure my girls were around horses.”

When her daughter, Mandy, now 24, caught the barrel racing bug at age 10, “That was all it took. We bought two horses and a trailer and we were off to the races,” Angela said.

And since the Cottonwood dream has turned into reality, it’s been demanding work for the McCarter family, too. Developing the facilities has involved friends and family. Mowing the pastures and grooming the arena grounds, staffing when events are occurring, scheduling – that’s a lot for a couple with full-time jobs.

Mandy and her sister Kelley are big helps on event days. Mandy, a data specialist in 3-D modeling for Insignia Group, runs the computer programs used during arena events.

“I enjoy us being able to put things on for people,” she said. “Because I had horses, I learned responsibility at a very young age. I enjoy the behind-the-scenes stuff.”

She’s also an accomplished barrel racer and pole bender. (Think slalom skiing on a big ol’ horse galloping full tilt among tall poles.) Her mom probably gave her the bug – she used to race herself.

“It’s just wonderful to see people come out and enjoy themselves,” Angela said. “Everyone who comes out, and our family and friends – we are blessed to have that support system.”

Visit cottonwoodarena.com to view the schedule of rodeos and other events or call 803-242-2506. LW

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e d i R

By Steve McDaniel

Rock Hill gets rocked this July as host of UCI BMX World Championships

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icycle racers will take center stage in Rock Hill this summer when the UCI BMX World Championships come to the Novant Health BMX Supercross Track in Rock Hill on July 25-29.

This year’s event is expected to draw more than 3,000 competitors from more than 40 countries and an estimated 20,000 spectators.

It is the first time since 2001 the world competition will be held in the U.S., according to the event website. Last year’s championships were held in Medellin, Colombia.

BMX is a nonmotorized version of motocross. It features the same style of jumps, hairpin curves and other obstacles used by motorcycles on a track with one important distinction – the power for the bike is supplied by the pedaler instead of a motor. The bikes are modified trail or mountain bikes built for maximum durability, agility and speed.

BMX racing started in the U.S. in the 1970s and has surged in popularity thanks to international television exposure on ESPN’s X-Games. Its inclusion as a medal

sport in the 2008 Beijing Olympics helped raise its profile significantly. BMX-type tracks can be set up anywhere there is open, available space for a dirt track, usually designed to follow a circular route over swells, dips and jumps. Most are built on a smaller and much less polished scale than the one in Rock Hill and can be found in many cities and towns across the country.

According to information provided by event organizers, 2.6 million people are active in BMX across the U.S., with 70 percent of those participants under the age of 24.

The publicly funded facility at 1307 Riverwalk Parkway in Rock Hill was modeled after the Beijing Olympic track and includes a 3562

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foot jump, asphalt turns to improve acceleration, a berm jump and lighting for night races. The surface is a new design that ensures dust-free racing in all weather. The facility was built to standards set by the Union Cycliste Internationale, the sport’s international governing body.

The facility also offers weekly instruction, open ride time and races for youth and adults; summer camps; clinics and rider orientation led by Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism staff.

Volunteers are needed to help stage the event. Anyone interested can go online to www.rockhillSCbmx.com and click on the volunteer tab. LW Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Here’s the dirt

What:

UCI BMX World Championships

When: July 25-29

Where: Novant Health BMX Supercross Track, 1307 Riverwalk Parkway, Rock Hill (off Cherry Road)

Advance tickets:

Photo provided

Adults, $12.50 per day or $50 event pass; children 6-17, $3 per day or $12 event pass; children 5 and under, free.

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Tickets at gate: Adults, $15 per day, $60 event pass; children 6-17, $5 per day, $20 event pass; children 5 and under, free.

More information and ticket sales: www.rockhillSCbmx.com

Calendar

What’s going on this Summer?

Celebrate the season with fun, family-friendly events held all summer long. Please check ahead to confirm dates and times as they are subject to change.

JUNE June 1 (Every Thursday through Aug. 31) Sip & Stroll at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Sip a glass of wine, stroll through the gardens and enjoy live music at Lost Hollow’s Hillside Theatre. Food trucks will be on site 5-9 p.m. Free with garden admission. 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, NC 28012. www.dsbg.org.

June 8 (every Thursday and Saturday through September) River Jam A free outdoor weekly concert series every Thursday and Saturday through September from 7-10 p.m. at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte. National musical acts and food and craft beer selections. Parking $5 per vehicle. 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte. www.usnwc.org.

June 10 Rock the Park at Carowinds Carowinds is showcasing a variety of musical acts, including Christian rock group Skillet, hip-hop artist Andy Mineo, singer-songwriter Plumb and more. 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte. www.carowinds.com.

June 10 Lake Wylie Splash Dash The Splash Dash returns to Camp Thunderbird to kick off the summer season. Put on by the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, participants run through the scenic and winding roads of River Hills. The event will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 10. Walkers will begin at 8:10 a.m. Registration for the race is $20 in advance or $25 on

the day of the event. Walker registration is $10, with proceeds going to the Camp Thunderbird Scholarship Fund. Wheelchair racers are welcome. Each preregistered runner will receive a specially designed T-shirt, and day-of entrants will get a T-shirt while supplies last. To register, visit www.lakewyliesplashdash.com or call the chamber at 803-831-2827.

dusk-9:30 p.m. This is one of the premier events of the season. The best viewing areas are: the Buster Boyd Bridge boat landing; T-Bones on the Lake outside deck; Rey Azteca deck at Lake Wylie Plaza; Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza on the patio at Lake Wylie Plaza; Bagel Boat on the lawn and Long Cove Marina. Watch by boat near the Buster Boyd Bridge.

June 10-11 Catawba Regional Ag + Art Tour

Tega Cay Fourth of July Celebration

A free, self-guided tour of farms and local artisans in York and Chester counties. Live bluegrass and folk music.

The tour will run 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on June 10 and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. on June 11.

Visit www.agandarttour.com for a list of participating farms.

June 17 Tega Cay Summer Food Truck Rallies Monthly food truck rallies held at Runde Park. Kid-friendly DJ Tim from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Headlining music acts from 7-10 p.m. Kids activities and lots of concessions. 5110 Windward Drive, Tega Cay. Reserved lawn seating available. Email jblethen@tegacaysc.gov or call 803-548-3512.

June 17-18 Father’s Day weekend at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Free garden admission for all fathers.

The weekend includes a guided hike, bourbon tasting, food trucks and more.

6500 S New Hope Road, Belmont, N.C. www.dsbg.org.

JULY Thursdays in July Sip & Stroll at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden See description in June events.

July 4 Lake Wylie Community Fourth of July Fireworks Lake Wylie’s annual fireworks display will be held on Tuesday, July 4, from

Tega Cay celebrates its birthday on July 4 each year with a parade in front of the town hall at 9 a.m. and a boat parade at the Nivens Creek landing at 11 a.m.

All-day activities are planned at the Golf Course Pavilion Area and Glennon Center. A large fireworks display concludes the celebration. www.tegacaysc.org.

Carowinds Fireworks Carowinds will hold a fireworks show at 10 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks are also featured on many other evenings.

Season passes for families make this a popular spot all summer long. 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte. www. carowinds.com.

AUGUST Thursdays in August Sip & Stroll at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden See description in June events.

Aug. 19 Tega Cay Summer Food Truck Series See description in June events.

Aug. 26 York Summerfest Celebrating its 34th year, York Summerfest is the largest one-day festival in South Carolina. The event includes concerts, food, art exhibits, an antique car show, craft vendors, a special children’s area, a 5k fun run, golf tournament, open art exhibit and more. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. North Congress and Roosevelt streets between Liberty and Madison streets in downtown York. www.yorksummerfest.com.

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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SPONSORED BY THE LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND LAKE WYLIE TODAY MAGAZINE

T Mission Statement:

he Lake Wylie Wellness Initiative is a group of wellness professionals in our area that wants to help the people in Lake Wylie achieve and maintain their wellness goals, whether that be a fitness goal, health or weight goal, emotional balance and harmony goal, financial wellness goal, or any other goal that pertains to overall wellness.

To empower the people in the Lake Wylie community to pursue wellness for a vibrant life.

Wellness Initiative Members Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry

LakeWyliePediatricDentistry.com

Sunshine Vitamin!

by Melissa Taylor One Decision Wellness

W

e have all heard it said that sunshine is nature’s cure for depression … but it is so much more! Your skin has a natural response to sunshine – it creates Vitamin D – hence its nickname the “sunshine vitamin”. Vitamin D is essential to many functions of the body. But what you might not know is that a short 10 minutes a day in the sunshine can greatly impact your level of Vitamin D. Sure, you can get vitamin D through

certain foods and supplements – and this may be necessary to ensure adequate levels. But summer is here and the sunshine is calling!

Sunlight (ultraviolet B rays) is one of the most natural ways to get vitamin D, and it doesn’t take much exposure to see the benefits.

We love the sun, the sand, the beach and the lake! But remember: sun can cause skin cancer! Overexposure and intense exposure can increase your risk of skin cancer. So, after your “healthy exposure,” cover up, wear sunscreen, a hat, loose clothing and seek shade.

T

hese are a few of the major events, but we also have smaller monthly events among the Wellness members. Please like and follow the Lake Wylie Today Facebook page for event announcements.

Family, Fun & Fitness planning underway

P

lanning meeting for the May Family, Fun and Fitness Day! There is a lot of excitement in the community about this from both Lake Wylie area families and the schools.

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Family, Fun & Fitness May 13 Splash Dash June 10 Fall Fest Late October

Pictured (from left) are Mike Spitzer of 9Round, Angie Mattar of Revel Salon, Dr. Amber Pederson of AMP Chiropractic and Integrative Wellness, Melissa Taylor of One Decision Wellness, Cana Tennant of Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry and Dr. David Redding of Lake Wylie Wellness & Chiropractic Center.

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

Glaza Chiropractic Center DrGlaza.com

AMP Chiropractic & Integrative Wellness AMPIntegrativeWellness.com

Revel Salon and Color Studio

RevelSalonandColorStudio.com

Anytime Fitness Lake Wylie, SC

Pure Bliss Yoga

Facebook @PureBlissYogaLKW

Doc Marcia

DocMarcia.info

Transcendent Touch

Facebook @TranscendentTouch

Lake Wylie Pharmacy LakeWylieRX.com

Elite Salon & Spa

anelitesalonandspa.com

One Decision Wellness

OneDecisionWellness.com

9Round Lake Wylie

Facebook @9roundlakewyliesc

Lake Wylie Wellness and Chiropractic lakewyliechiropractic.com

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Development Update

This home on 313 Sunset View, listed for $749,000, went under contract in about two months.

Another good year

By Drew Choate

A

s we enter the summer season, we can expect a real estate market as hot as the temperatures in July. Last year saw records broken on and off the lake for home sales in the Lake Wylie area, and the only thing that caused a slowdown in first quarter of 2017 was depleted inventory.

Particularly in the waterfront market, listing shortages played a key role in the housing market in late 2016 and into 2017. First-quarter sales were down 17% from the previous year. However, new listings feeding into the market have been snapped up quickly by eager buyers, and the average time on market for waterfront homes is at its shortest time we’ve seen in a decade. In addition, waterfront lot (vacant land) sales have picked up considerably, which is to be expected when the housing market is so tight. People are more likely to consider building when they’re unable to find a home that meets their criteria.

What is selling on the lake?

Looking at sales to date this year, along with what’s currently under contract, we can paint a picture of what type of properties are 68

selling, and how quickly.

Waterfront homes under $500,000 sold and under contract this year are spread over all areas of the lake, including older homes in Belmont’s Paradise Point, Tega Cay and a few cabins/weekenders. The average home selling in this category is about 40 years old and 1,650 square feet. Half of the homes selling in this category went under contract in less than two months. Demand is high and inventory is very low, the most pronounced shortage of any price category.

Lake homes priced $500,000-$699,000 continue the trend as the most popular price segment on Lake Wylie. The average home selling in this segment is 30 years old and just under 3,200 square feet. Average days on market of about three months is lowest in comparison to other price categories. The Clover School District represents almost half of sales in this segment, followed by Charlotte and then Tega Cay/Fort Mill. All but a couple of homes in this price range are primary homes (vs. weekenders), and many have been updated, which is important considering the average age.

Homes priced $700,000-$999,000 have

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

higher inventory relative to sales, and currently those sold or under contract this year have the longest average time on market in comparison to other price segments. The average age of homes sold is 21 years and are just under 4,700 square feet. All closed and pending sales in this segment are either in Charlotte or York County, none currently in Belmont.

Most of these homes have nice updates and are located on lots with bigger views.

Homes on the lake priced over $1 million have strong listing inventory, with 37 homes currently listed and five under contract. Two of the homes that have sold or are under contract in 2017 are in Belmont’s new McLean development. Three are in the Clover School District, and one is in Tega Cay. Pools, big views and gourmet kitchens are some of the extras found in this home category. The average size is about 5,340 square feet with an average age of 13 years.

Off the Lake New construction is driving the off-thelake market, with well over a third of sales.

First-quarter home sales in the Clover School

Cabins like this one at 1095 Labrador (top) are in high demand. Buyers can use it as a weekender until they’re ready to build a more permanent home.

The gourmet kitchen and other updates, plus a fantastic view from this home on 4067 Acacia Drive (middle), contribute to the $825,000 asking price.

Homes priced over $1 million, such as this one on 6982 Pine Moss (bottom) in Lake Wylie, need to have special features to attract buyers in this price segment.

District were on par with last year, but average price per square foot rose 7%, and time on market improved by 20%.

Timberlake, a new development on S.C. Highway 55, is the fastest growing development currently. Kings Grove, Somerset at Autumn Cove, Handsmill, Palm Tree Cove and Tullamore had strong activity in the past year as well. Paddlers Cove is just beginning its development and sales.

The $400,000-plus price segment is showing the largest gain in housing off the lake, with demand for custom homes in neighborhoods such as Heron Cove and The Coves on River Oaks.

In general, first-quarter sales can be erratic and don’t always paint an accurate picture of sales to come during the rest of the year.

However, given the healthy buyer activity, measured by what’s under contract and time on market, it appears we’re headed for another banner year for real estate in Lake Wylie.

Drew Choate, “The Lake Wylie Man” is a real estate agent with Wilkinson ERA in Lake Wylie, specializing in waterfront and lake community properties. LW Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Spotlight

News of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Summer 2017

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce presents

The 2017 Splash Dash 10K/5K

L

ake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s annual 10K/5K race and 5K walk will be held this year on Saturday, June 10 at Camp Thunderbird/ River Hills in Lake Wylie. This premier event is one of the most challenging runs in the Southeast. This is the 23rd year the Chamber has held Splash Dash.

The Splash Dash is a Champion Chip event by Queen City Timing.

The 10K course is USATF Certified, and the courses for both races and the walk wind through the scenic and undulating roads of River Hills. Starting time for the race is 8 am. Walkers will step off behind the runners.

Registration for the race is $20 in advance or $25 on the day of the event. Wheelchair racers are welcome.

Each preregistered runner will receive a specially designed T-shirt.

Runners who register on the day of the race will receive a T-shirt as long as the supply lasts. The fee to participate in the walk is $10. The first 100 walkers to register will also receive a T-shirt.

To register for Splash Dash, visit the Chamber’s website at www. lakewyliesc.com and download a registration form, or call Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce at 803-8312827 for forms and/or more information. Registration can also be made online at www.queencitytiming.com.

Same-day registration is at 7 a.m. at Camp Thunderbird.

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Runners at the annual Splash Dash in River Hills in June.

Splash Dash runners on the course through River Hills Plantation.

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

Spotlight 23rd Annual

Lake Wylie Splash Dash 10k Run • 5k Run • 5k Walk

June 10, 2017 - 8:00 a.m.

Registration Information and Form Event: (Check one) ___ 10k Run ___ 5k Run ___Walk Cost: $20.00 10K & 5K – early registration by June 8, 2017 $25.00 10K & 5K Day of Race

$10.00 Walkers

Volunteer! at Splash Dash 2017

Registration is 7 a.m. June 10 at Camp Thunderbird.

The race and walk start at 8 a.m. and wind through River Hills, finishing at Camp Thunderbird.

Registration /Check-in at Camp Thunderbird Race in River Hills Plantation

Run! Walk!

Name:__________________________________________ Age:_____ Sex: M___F___ Address:________________________________________ Date of Birth:___/___/____ City:_____________________________________ State:_____ Zipcode:________ Phone:________________ Email:________________________ Fax:______________ T-Shirt Size: (Check one) M___ L___ XL___

Waiver & Release: By signing this entry form, I release Lake Wylie Chamber of Com-

merce, its agencies, and representatives of the Splash Dash Road Race, Carolinas Healthcare System, River Hills Community Association and YMCA Camp Thunderbird from any claims of liability, illness, damage or injury suffered by me as a result of participating or traveling to and from this event. I understand that running or walking a road race is a potentially hazardous activity, unless I am medically able and properly trained. I hereby certify that I am in such physical condition and in good health. I also give permission for use of my name and picture to be used in any account, broadcast, or telecast of this event.

Advance reservations: $20 race, $10 walk.

Visit www.lakewyliesc.com for more information Online registration at www.queencitytiming.com

Not a runner or walker?

The Chamber can always use willing and able volunteers at Splash Dash – call 803-831-2827 and we’ll find a task for you!

Signed:______________________________________________Date:_____________ (Parent or Legal Guardian if under 18) Make Checks Payable to and Mail to:

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce/Splash Dash P.O. Box 5233 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 Phone: 803-831-2827 Fax: 803-831-2460 E-mail: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com Web: www.lakewyliesc.com

Everyone is encouraged to come out along the course to cheer the participants.

And bring your American flag to wave!

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Business After Hours March 16, 2017 Sponsored by Clover Community Bank, Lake Wylie Liquors and York Electric Co-op Held at Clover Community Bank – Lake Wylie Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Charles Wood announces the next winner!

Charles Wood, chamber chairman, and Steve Fields of SC Biz News at the March BAH.

Ester Ly of Thai Fusion and Charlie Bromfield of Lakeside Insurance.

Prizes galore at the March BAH.

Gwen Thompson of Clover Community Bank shows off all the wonderful door prizes.

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

Melanie McClure congratulates Ann Harvey on winning a prize as Andrew Matheson looks on.

Gwen Thompson of Clover Community Bank and Ester Ly of Thai Fusion.

Lake Wylie Today team - Steve McDaniel, Susan Bromfield and Jane DuBois.

Spotlight

Business After Hours April 20, 2017 Sponsored by CalAtlantic Homes at the Palisades Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Lunch Basket Cafe owner Danny Ziozios and his son catered Esther Ly of Thai Fusian the CalAtlantic Homes Business After Hours event. and Andrew Matheson.

Tom and Deb Dagilus at the April BAH.

Lynn Jordan and Michelle Hatfield of BB& T with BAH hostess Donna Varjabedian of CalAtlantic Homes.

Susan Bromfield and Rep. Tommy Pope.

Tom Wirth and Linda Eiler at the BAH.

Tonya Bowe of Lake Wylie Family Dentistry with Shawn Bowe.

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Spring Appreciation Day Luncheon and Fashion Show April 26, 2017 Held at River Hills Country Club Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Angel Neelands of Clo- Tracy Stiff and other lady models ready for the annual ver Community Bank. spring luncheon and fashion show.

Jeremy Stanford of YMCA Camp Thunderbird.

Allison Love with Matthew Bradberry.

Some of our newest members from Carolina Homes Connection enjoying the luncheon.

Chamber models strike a pose at the spring event.

Rick Jiran of Duke Energy models at the spring fashion show.

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Lake Wylie Chamber male models rocked it at the annual event.

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

Christine Robinson, strolling violinist.

Matthew Mugavero of Lake Wylie Liquors ready to model.

Spotlight

ylie W e k a L

Chamber

Annual ic lass C f l o G

ay, d s r u Th 17 0 2 , 8 2 er Septemb r Hills e v i R t Held a Club y r t n u Co

Thank You to Our

2017 Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Spring Appreciation Luncheon Sponsors!

Event Sponsors

Bank of York and Watson Insurance

Table Sponsors

Clover Community Bank Fred Caldwell Chevrolet Halford, Niemiec & Freeman Lake Wylie Family Dentistry Lake Wylie Today York Electric Co-Op YMCA -Camp Thunderbird

And Thank You to

River Hills Country Club Christine Robinson, Violinist

Alta of Rock Hill, Tracy Stiff Allison Love’s Fine Jewelry, Allison Love Mary Kay Cosmetics, Heather Catts Lake Wylie Liquor - Model Hospitality

Mistress of Ceremonies Debra Andres

Our Models

Tonya Bowe, Sonja Burris, Heather Catts, Natalie Choate, Kayla Dover, Angel Neelands, Sandee Wilkerson and Melanie Wilson.

Matthew Bradberry, Rick Jiran, Joe Moore, Matthew Mugavero, Bill Shanahan and Jeremy Stanford

Thank you also to our door prize contributors, volunteers and to everyone who participated.

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Lake Wylie Candidates Forum

Lake Wylie Candidates Forum for Fifth Congressional District candidates sponsored by Lake Wylie and Greater Clover Chambers of Commerce and the Clover-Lake Wylie Republican Women’s Club.

A candidate addresses the crowd at the Lake Wylie Candidates Forum for the Fifth Congressional District.

LWCofC Suite Available For Rent

T

his fully and beautifully furnished large rental office located in the prime location of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s Professional Business Centre (264 Latitude Lane) includes: High-speed internet & WiFi; all utilities except

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

telephone; reception area; mail service; ample parking; easy access; and hospitality area.

Save fuel and work close to home while having everything a small business needs at reasonable rates!

For information or tour call Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce at (803) 831-2827.

Spotlight New Members

Renewing Members February 1, 2017 through April 20, 2017

Businesses

Association Management Solutions, Inc. BB&T Lake Wylie Bethel Commons Associates, LLC Comfort Systems of York County, LLC Comporium Comporium Long Distance Dana Anthony Custom Homes, LLC Doc Marcia, LLC Eason Roofing, LLC Express Oil Change Flanagan Heating and Cooling Frugal Window Fashions Glaza Chiropractic Center Halford, Niemiec and Freeman, LLC Jackson’s Kitchen Joe L. Versen Appraisals, LLC Journey Fellowship Lake Wylie Bowl N Bounce Lake Wylie Wellness MarineMax-Hall Marine Lake Wylie McSpadden Development Corporation Mictrotel Inns & Suites One Decision Wellness, LLC Parkway Concrete Products

Feb. 1, 2017 through April 20, 2017

Piedmont Medical Center Publix Remedics Restoration Carolinas River Hills Community Association River Hills Community Church Rotary Club of Lake Wylie Sifford Stine Insurance Sloan Financial Group, LLC South Forty Farms, LLC Subway The Lake Wylie Man, Inc. TLC Your Way Home Care Services Inc. United Way of York County, SC Upper Palmetto YMCA Walmart White Tiger Furniture Wylie Boat Rentals Zaxby’s

Individuals: Allison Love Melanie Wilson Robert Goodell Sandee Wilkerson

2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Charles Wood - Chairman MORNINGSTAR STORAGE

Doug McSpadden MCSPADDEN CUSTOM HOMES

Susan Bromfield, President LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Jill Moore YMCA CAMP THUNDERBIRD

Donna Bordeaux BORDEAUX & BORDEAUX, CPAs, PA

Haven Presley T-BONES ON THE LAKE

Myron Boloyan, Esq. HALFORD, NIEMIEC & FREEMAN

Brian Rich Q2U BBQ and CATERING

Fred Caldwell FRED CALDWELL CHEVROLET

Michaelyn Sherrill HOME COMPANIONS

Jane DuBois LAKE WYLIE TODAY / LAKE WYLIE MARKETING

Marc Sosne CLOVER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jeff Ledford LOWE’S – LAKE WYLIE Don Long COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Gwen Thompson – CLOVER COMMUNITY BANK 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

6 Weatherly Way 704-756-4644 dreinken@lighthousefc.com www.lighthousefc.com

Financial-Contract CFO

Tiger Due Diligence Group, Inc. 264 Latitude Lane, Suite 102 803-627-4729 mkstewart@tigerddginc.com www.tigerddginc.com

Environmental & Property Condition Assessments

Carolina Homes Connections 4379 Charlotte Highway 803-701-7110 info@carolinahomesconnection.com www.carolinahomesconnection.com

Real Estate Services

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Allan Gregory K. A. WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Lighthouse Financial Consulting

Morningstar Storage of Lake Wylie 574 Nautical Drive 803-746-7698 lakewylie@morningstarstorage.com www.morningstarlakewylie.com

Storage

Sake Express of Lake Wylie 5360 Highway 557 803-610-0146 lindasakeexpress@gmail.com www.thesakeexpress.com

Restaurant

Jesse’s Place Rescue Inc. 66 Timberidge Drive 704-534-6000 dcpphoto@aol.com www.savethelabs.com

Animal Rescue

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s marketing and promotional efforts are supported

by York County’s Hospitality Tax.

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Ribbon Cuttings and Openings!

Special music at the The Shoppes @ Five Points ribbon cutting was enjoyed by all.

mes The The Chamber welco s to Lake int Po ve Fi @ Shoppes cutting.

Wylie with a ribbon

Sake Express Preview Party.

Welcome to Lake Wylie Mathnasium!

Mathnasium and Tommy D’s at Grand Opening.

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with Mathnasium opens ng. tti cu n bo celebration and rib

Spotlight Lake Wylie Community

Fourth of July Fireworks Tuesday, the 4th of July!

What:

Best Viewing:

Fantastic Fireworks Display

The Buster Boyd Bridge Boat Landing

When: Tuesday, July 4, 2017

T-Bones on the Lake outside deck

Time:

Rey Azteca deck at Lake Wylie Plaza

Dusk to approximately 9:30 p.m.

Where:

Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza on patio at Lake Wylie Plaza

Lake Wylie by the Buster Boyd Bridge S.C. Highway 49 at Lake Wylie

Bagel Boat – on the lawn Long Cove Marina

We all enjoy the fireworks each year. Since the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Display is funded solely through donations, your support of this wonderful event is really needed in order for it to continue. Please send your contribution in any amount now to: Camp Thunderbird Fireworks Fund 1 Thunderbird Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 Thanks very much for your support!

Upcoming Activities Senior Expo

Wednesday, May 31, 2017 9 a.m. – noon At Filbert Presbyterian Church Highway 321 between York and Clover in Filbert Presented by The Greater Clover, Greater York and Lake Wylie Chambers of Commerce

Lake Wylie Splash Dash

5K/10K Run and 5K Walk Presented by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Saturday, June 10, 2017 8 a.m.

Held at Camp Thunderbird and River Hills Lake Wylie

Business After Hours Thursday, June 15, 2017 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by River Hills Marina, T-Bones on the Lake, Suntrust Bank, AAA of the Carolinas, Q-2-U Catering and Sea Tow Held at River Hills Marina Pavilion River Hills, Lake Wylie Come by boat or car

Lake Wylie Fourth of July Community Fireworks Tuesday, July 4, 2017 Approximately 9:30 p.m.

See above for details

Summer 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Southern Gal

A Southern twang isn’t always tech-friendly

by Jan Todd

Y

’all know who you are. Y’all are the ones who are tickled to death when Daylight Savings Time comes to an end because, finally, the clock in your car has the right time again.

OK, I admit. I’m one of y’all. Resetting the clock on my dashboard is beyond my skill set, and unless one of my twenty-something-aged kids happen to ride with me and take it upon their sweet selves to set my time straight, I’m pretty much stuck with the wrong time almost half the year.

For many of us, technology is a blessing and a curse. I reckon I’d have a hard time getting through the day without Google. Google tells me how to pronounce stuff, how to cook stuff, and what to do about that weird bump on my thumb. It tells me what is wrong with my tomato plants, how to find my way when I’m lost in The Big City (Charlotte), how to get rid of fruit flies, and what time is high tide at the beach. How did we get along without Google?

But the curse comes in the updates and so-called improvements to what is working perfectly fine. Just when we think we have our computers and devices figured out and working fine and dandy, BAM! New release 10.7 comes out. Next thing you know, everything is haywire and we’re talking to someone with a funny accent on a Help Desk. Or worse, lost in a phone tree, “Press 1 for This, Press 2 for That, Press 3 to Listen to Music for a Really 80

Long Time, Press 4 to Be Cut Off and Start All Over.”

It may not surprise you to learn that I was fairly slow to make the transition to a smart phone. After all, I was unable to turn on the television by myself because I couldn’t figure out the remotes. Finally, my kids circled the buttons that I was supposed to push and wrote key instructions on the remote with a Sharpie. How did things get so complicated? Three remotes, each with about 50 buttons? Gracious daisies.

So, the whole concept of a smart phone was a bit intimidating to me. A couple of years ago, though, I was required to get one for work. I brought it home from the store and just stared at it for a while, not really sure what to do with it.

It sat on the counter for a couple of weeks, until my son came home from college. I asked him to show me what to do with the thing.

He took one look and said, “Mom, you need APPS!” So, apps I got. My son loaded them up and showed me how to use them. And now, I have to admit, my smart phone is a handy little thing.

It keeps me organized, keeps me connected and keeps me informed. I’ve even met the gal they call “Siri.” If I have a question about anything, Siri can provide the answer, wah la!

There’s just one thing. Siri doesn’t speak Southern.

Her favorite answer is, “I’m sorry. I do not understand your question. Please try again.”

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Summer 2017

So, let me get this straight. I can designate Siri to be male or female, British, French, Australian, whatever, but I can’t get her to understand simple Southern? So Siri has trained me to be an expressionless monotone. Not only that, but an expressionless monotone who verbalizes punctuation. And since I’ve gotten so good at that (comma), I am now qualified to teach others (period).

My mama just got her first smart phone, and each time my siblings and I visit, we show her one or two new things. I was teaching her to text, since that’s her only hope of keeping up with the grandkids. “Look, Mama, you don’t even have to type,” I told her. “Just push this little microphone –looking-thingie and talk. It’ll record your message and turn it into a text.”

“Now Mama, you have to speak very distinctly, no accent. And speak your punctuation.”

I demonstrated, “What time will you be here – question mark.” The words appeared on the screen, just as I had spoken them, with proper punctuation. “Now you try.”

So she did. She selected my sister’s name, pressed the microphone thingie, and said, “Hi honnnnney I got your maysage but I’m agonna wait and call you ta-morrow ba-cause I’m fixin’ to go to bay-yed . . . have a good nigh-yight . . .

Love youuuuuuu.”

I reckon we have some work to do. Meanwhile, back to my car. Can anyone show me how to turn the heat off, now that it’s summer? LW