Lake Wylie Today, Fall 2016

LakeWylie TODAY Fall 2016 | Issue 3

Fall back into Autumn Ways to make the most of the season

From Farm to Table Fall Fresh Food in Lake Wylie

Chamber Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce news and information

Our View

FALL…

A time to enjoy the beauty of rural experiences

By Susan Bromfield, President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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all 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, there is a sense of peace at the lake as the sounds and sights of nature become more noticeable. Soon pumpkins will appear on porches and pansies will be planted. Area farm stands will offer apples, pumpkins and local cider. A drive through the county will be a welcome treat.

This is the fall and green issue of Lake Wylie Today. It features stories about a beautiful fall rural experience at the Curtain Farm where families and kids of all ages can soak in the experiences of farm life and fall beauty. Mr. Jack’s Tree Farm is a beautiful farm and picnic location minutes from the lake where trees are grown and sold and a rural experience with a story of heritage welcomes visitors.

Food for Thought features “Farm to Table- Lake Wylie style” where readers will be taken on a tour of local farm fresh opportunities that can transform meals at home to a delightful fresh and local experience this fall. Fresh and local offerings are all around us.

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons on Lake Wylie and in the area. As Labor Day passes, the lake itself becomes calm, 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. It is a time to savor the fall and rural experiences. We are fortunate to live in an area where 2

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there are farm stands, natural spaces, recreational opportunities and an abundance of beauty and nature to enjoy each season.

The lake gets calmer and quieter. Kayakers are seen in the coves and quieter areas of the lake. Fisherman cast their lines in quiet coves and the richness of nature, beauty and recreational opportunities are enjoyed all season.

No need for a boat; nature is all around us and recreational opportunities change with each season. Our Shoreline story lists places to take in the beauty of the lake from the shore.

Enjoy a fall experience by visiting McDowell Park with its beautiful nature trails and fishing piers along with picnic shelters and areas to enjoy nature and savor the season on the lake and in the countryside.

Pier 88 at River Hills Marina has kayaks and boats for rent for those who do not have their own. The Fishing and Bait Shop on Highway 49 and Wal-Mart have a full assortment of fishing gear if fishing is your cup of tea.

And don’t forget to check out our list of fall events with several festivals to ease you into these cooler months.

There is a satisfaction and peace that calms the soul when you walk in the midst of all the natural beauty and sights and sounds of nature or go for a drive in the rural areas. Many times we take this for granted as part of our everyday life. The simple pleasures in life can be gratifying and free when we take the time to soak in the beauty that surrounds us. LW

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Contents 2 Our View The hidden jewels of Lake Wylie

Fall 2016

16 Shoreline

Ways to enjoy the lake from the shore

22 Food for Thought

Fresh is best: Lake Wylie farms to your table

26 Garden Party

Mr. Jack’s Tree Farm adds height to your landscape

32 Feature

Clover Middle School students go green with solar power

36 Feature

Curtin Farm a delight for all ages

41 Happenings

Book clubs offer more than just reading

48 Development Update

Henry’s Glen delivers low-density living

52 Development Update

Continued growth in Lake Wylie

54 Spotlight

Lake Wylie Today Editor - Jenny Peterson jpeterson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3145

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 Matasi ematasi@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3124 Advertising Sales - Jane DuBois jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668

Contributing Editors Susan Bromfield President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce susan@lakewyliesc.com • 803.831.2827 Jane DuBois jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668 Contributing Writers Susan Bromfield Jane DuBois Jan Todd Natalie Swanson Ciapha Dennis Contributing Photographers Susan Bromfield Jane DuBois Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Deep Creek Photography Jan Todd Jessica Turner Jessica Coffin The entire contents of this publication are copyright by SC Biz News with all rights reserved.

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

The magazine of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 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

www.LakeWylieToday.com Published by SC Biz News

Fall Calendar of Events

42 Feature

TODAY

Associate Publisher - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546

8 Mailbag

LakeWylie

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1439 Stuart Engals Blvd., Suite 200 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843.849.3100 • Fax: 843.849.3122 www.scbiznews.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 in the community through stories and photos. We want to celebrate with you, laugh with you and build memories with you. Please email photos and stories to info@LakeWylieToday.com

Lake Wylie donates T-shirts to Kenya’s House of Hope

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ake Wylie T-shirts were shipped to Kenya and distributed among students and teachers at The House of Hope, built from funds raised by a Lake Wylie group that hiked

Lions welcome two exchange students

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he River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club welcomed students Elisabeth Stig-Meyer from Denmark and Alex Day from England for a one month stay in the United States.

Lions Frank and Dona Van Leer were their hosts. Their visit included acclimating to American English dialects, the Lake Wylie community lifestyle and, in keeping with the Lions’ motto, sightseeing and volunteering.

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Mt. Kilimanjaro 10 years ago. House of Hope provides comprehensive care for orphans and continues to help and give young people hope, opportunity, education and training.

Longtime Lion honored

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t the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club monthly breakfast meeting, club treasurer Martin Lewis was recognized for 35 years of service. Over the years, Lewis has participated in numerous fundraising events and is currently serving on both the club’s Board of Directors and The River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club Community Foundation.

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Lake Wylie Rotary president Ed Lindsay and Chad Bordeaux, past president, with a Little Free Library.

Little Free Libraries installed to improve childhood literacy

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he Lake Wylie Rotary Club has installed Little Free Libraries with the goal of impacting early childhood literacy by increasing the availability of books in the community. The libraries are wooden boxes from

which individuals can take books for no cost and return them when finished reading. Currently, there are libraries installed at the Good Samaritan United Methodist Church and at the school bus stop at Stateline Trailer Park.

Aurora Wellness Center and Lake Wylie Yoga grand opening

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amara Jefferies, 2016 Spokesperson for the Lake Wylie Wellness Initiative, has opened the Aurora Wellness Center and Lake Wylie Yoga at River Hills Marina. The

center will serve as “a destination of beauty and tranquility right on the water to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.� The weekly schedule is available on the Lake Wylie Yoga Facebook page.

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Mark your calendar for New Year’s Day 5k

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tart your new year off right! The second annual Clover Community Bank New Year’s Day 5K will be held on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017 at the Camp Thunderbird/River Hills entrance in Lake Wylie. Walkers and runners are welcome! For more information, visit the Clover Community Bank’s Facebook page. Registration opens Oct. 1.

Register at either bank location or online at www.active.com. This year’s donation will be made to the Clover Area Assistance Center. The race is managed by RMS Sports.

River Hills Country Club to hold art exhibit from Sept. 23-24

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he art show will exhibit oils, pastels, water colors, mixed media, photography and jewelry from 40 area artists. “Visions of Art 2016” will also feature a demonstration of Catawba Indian basket weaving and art pieces available for sale. An art stroll and preview party will be held to celebrate the exhibit on Friday, Sept. 23 from 7-9:30 p.m. at River Hills Country Club. Reservations are $28 per person. Dress is “dressy casual.” The exhibit will remain open Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with free admission.

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Vitamins 4 Less opens smoothie bar

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he vitamins and sport supplements store has announced a new smoothie bar to complement its retail. “This has been in the works for a while. We are thrilled to have it up and running,” said Mike Kimbro, owner of Vitamins 4 Less. The store is located at 131 Evergreen Road in Lake Wylie.

We treat every pet and person like one of the family!

Lions honor David Allen

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n recognition for all his efforts, David Allen was named Lion of the Year at the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club June dinner meeting. Club officers say Allen is a “yes” man. According to outgoing club president Len Fleet, David always accepts requests to serve on committees and participates in volunteer opportunities. His primary focus is on Kidsight, a state-of-the-art program that provides free eye screenings to children in learning facilities throughout the area.

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 Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Clover High student gets travel grant

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annah Parker, a junior at Clover High School, will be on her way overseas with the Youth Camp and Exchange Program next year thanks in part to a $3,000 grant provided by the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club. Hannah is an outstanding student near the top of her class. She has been heavily involved in volunteerism for years at her school, church and through her own initiative.

According to Lion Frank Van Leer, she is a “‘people magnet” and a natural leader.

(From left): Joseph Swift and Clyde Sargent, who both served in the U.S. Air Force, stand next to the Blue Star Memorial.

Blue Star Monument to honor area veterans

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lans are underway to honor area veterans with the placement of a Blue Star Monument in Lake Wylie along Highway 49 near the gateway entrance into South Carolina. The exact location will be announced this fall. The placement ceremony is set for Veterans Day – November 11, 2016.

Blue Stars are a National Garden Club project initiated in 1945 and honor all veterans. Presently there are over 3,000 memorials throughout the 50 states.

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River Hills Plantation to celebrate 45 years

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iver Hills Community Association, a neighborhood with nearly 1,100 homes, will kick off its 45th anniversary with a ceremony at the flagpole located at intersection of Hamilton’s Ferry Road and Apple Orchard Rd. in River Hills. To commemorate the milestone, officials will bury a time capsule and dedicate a new memorial at the flagpole site. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Oct. 22.

Lions Club president Len Fleet hands a check for $400 to Dory Pell at Victory Farm to pay for ten therapeutic riding lessons. Photo by Ken Sanford

Lions help with horseback riding therapy

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or teenager Julia Walsh, horseback riding is more than a pleasure; it’s physical therapy. She was born at 29 weeks, weighing just over two pounds, and she is afflicted with cerebral palsy. Under the leadership of Dory Pell, Victory Farm operates a Therapeutic Riding Program, and according to Julia’s mother, Janet, riding helps stretch Julia’s muscles and improves her ability to walk. The River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club has provided a donation to help Julia get the physical therapy horseback riding lessons she needs.

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Thrill seekers get married at Carowinds

hen James Music and Cortni Bryant began planning their nuptials, they knew they wanted something different from the traditional wedding ceremony. The Mount Airy, NC couple met in 2015 and had their first official date at Carowinds last spring—riding Fury 325 more than a dozen times. They decided they wanted to scream “I do” while taking the plunge on the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster. On July 14, the thrill-seeking lovebirds were joined as man and wife on the Carowinds coaster.

Learn to make herbal tea at Lavender Farm

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earn how to make your own delicious herbal tea with a special workshop on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 2-5 p.m. Participants will sample flights of tea, learning about the special world of tastes, scents and properties of the tea at the York County Lavender Farm. Attendees will learn the process and will be sent home with wonderful plants for teas, tips on how to grow it, how to use it for tea and a bag of their own creative tea blend. Sign up at www.sclavender.com for a fun and informative afternoon of delicious herbal tea making and some delicious crumpets. Cost: $60.

Lion Bill Dillion and Karlee Isbell.

Lions announce scholarship winner

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t the River Hills/Lake Wylie July breakfast meeting, Karlee Isbell was honored as the 2016 winner of the annual Harold Breitman scholarship, entitling her to $1,500 a year for four years of college study. Karlee has been accepted at Clemson University where she will major in biology to pursue a career in pediatric medicine. Karlee was in the top 10% of her graduating class at Clover High School and was active in student government, all-state chorus and honor choir. During the summer and on weekends, she worked at York Veterinary Services.

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Shoreline A glimpse of Lake Wylie from River Oaks Road.

Photo by Jan Todd

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Shoreline

Fromthe shore Take in the fall beauty of Lake Wylie, no boat required

By Jenny Peterson

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s the weather changes and the trees along the shores of Lake Wylie turn brilliant red and orange, the lake returns to calm after a summer of boating and wakeboarding.

Watching the lake from the shore can be a reflective time to take in the beauty of the surroundings and appreciate the stillness of the season. Thankfully, there are lots of places to admire Lake Wylie, no boat required.

Many natural areas along the shore are prime for lake gazing with rustic wooden

benches and picnic tables beckoning visitors to sit awhile. For those looking for a bit more action, there are more than a few fishing spots along Lake Wylie banks and piers that are open to anyone with a fishing license.

Here are some places to check out:

ing to “get away,” the park offers nearly 70 campsites along the shores of Lake Wylie.

The park is open daily from 6 a.m. until dusk.

Visit www.yorkcountygov.com/ebenezer or call 803-366-6620 for more information.

4490 Boatshore Rd., Rock Hill, S.C.

Ebenezer Park

This 1,115-acre park along Lake Wylie offers eight miles of hiking trails—two miles that hug the shore of Lake Wylie— with a number of picnic sites, fishing sites and a waterfront deck for lake gazing. Cop-

This 26-acre park on Lake Wylie offers five picnic shelters, fishing and a public swimming beach to cool off. After Labor Day, park admission is free. For those wish-

McDowell Nature Preserve

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Shoreline

(above) Gaze out at Lake Wylie long enough and you might see a sailboat slowly floating by.

Photo by Al Schonberg. (top left) A view from the Handsmill on Lake Wylie neighborhood.

Photo by Jan Todd. (bottom left) Little Allison Creek. Photo by Jan Todd. perhead Island at McDowell Nature Preserve offers bank and pier fishing, trails and picnicking. Visitors may also reserve the picnic shelter for day-use or rent the entire “island” for overnight group camping. 15222 York Rd. (Hwy. 49), Charlotte, NC. Visit www.parkandrec.com or call 704588-5224 for more information.

Allison Creek

A public pier on Allison Creek has been a favorite fishing spot for the community for many years. Cast a line or just admire the expansive lake views. From York, take SC Hwy 49 N/N Congress Street 8.9 miles.

Turn right on SC Hwy 274 S/Hands Mill Hwy. Travel 1.2 miles and turn left onto Allison Creek Road (State Road S-46-1081).

Go 0.5 miles and turn left onto Viesta Road.

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Seven Oaks Preserve Trail One of the most popular trails among the Carolina Thread Trail, the Seven Oaks Preserve Trail is the longest continuous trail along Lake Wylie. As you walk or bike ride along the 2.8mile trail, keep your eye out for unique bird species including the bald eagle. Located on land protected by the Catawba Lands Conservancy, Seven Oaks Preserve Trail also connects with additional trails at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, so stop by after your hike to learn more about native and exotic botany.

6900 South New Hope Rd., Belmont, NC

South Point Park at River Hills

For River Hills residents and their guests, a waterfront park at South Point offers beautiful lake views. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere or take a dip in the beautiful lake. LW

Shoreline

Don’t miss these lake events Photo by Kristin Doebler Antemann

Sailboat racing

The popular Catawba Yacht Club weekly sailboat racing returns to the fall on Saturday mornings in September, October and November. Each week, sailing enthusiasts will raise their sails and set off on the lake. A skipper’s meeting is held before each race at 9:30 a.m.; the race starts promptly at 10 a.m. and lasts approximately two hours. Sept. 10, 17, Oct 8, 22 and Nov 19. Best places to watch are at the Catawba Yacht Club gazebo, 19809 W.

Youngblood Rd., Charlotte, NC or anywhere near the Buster Boyd Bridge. For more information, visit www.catawbayc.org.

Old Brown Dog Regional Regatta

If you needed another reason to gaze out onto the lake, a regional regatta sailing event will be held on Nov. 5 and 6.

Hosted by the Catawba Yacht Club, the Old Brown Dog Regatta will bring skippers of Wayfarers and MC Scows sailboats—in

the past from as far away as Canada—to Lake Wylie for a friendly sailing competition.

Expect colorful sails and enthusiastic teams. The top three winners will be recognized. According to Ron Wright, sailing fleet captain with the Catawba Yacht Club, the best place to watch the regatta is from the Catawba Yacht Club gazebo, which is open to visitors.

19809 W. Youngblood Rd., Charlotte, NC. For more information, visit www.catawbayc.org.

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Food for Thought

Our farm to your

table

- Lake Wylie Style

By Jane DuBois

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Photos by Jessica Turner

Food for Thought

Mushrooms at J&J Family Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com 23 Farm in Clover.

Fresh bread from On the Rise bakery.

Food for Thought

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arm-to-Table or Farm-to-Fork is the popular movement inspiring us to eat locally-grown foods and especially local organic or sustainably-grown foods as well as locally grown hormone-free beef, pork and chicken.

A big part of Farm-to-Table is knowing where the food on your fork came from.

Restaurants and agriculture coalitions and Eat Local groups nationwide are busy planning menus and events focused on “Farm-toTable.” Maybe you’ve had a chance to dine at

such a restaurant or attend such an event.

You don’t need to wait for an event in Lake Wylie—we can dine Farm-to-Table every day in our own homes! And, by the way, another thing about eating local: it pretty much means you are eating vegetables and fruits that are in season, which means they cost less. Anyone else happy to save a little cash on that grocery bill? Here are just a few places to get you started. There are many more, so we encourage you to get exploring! Think of it: Farm-to-Table cuisine served on your kitchen table!

South Forty Farm 640 Highway 274 Lake Wylie, SC 704-575-3550

South Forty Farm is open from midApril until the end of October every year.

Tim and Phillis Reid, owners of South Forty Farm, are an absolute delight. They can tell you what is coming in next so you can plan your menus in advance. They have seasonal produce from local farms, eggs and meats also sourced locally and there are wonderful outsourced products like Amish butter available for purchase.

On the Rise 9 North Congress St. York, SC 803-818-7318

“No mixes, no frozen dough, no preservatives—made by hand.” The minute you walk into this tiny bakery in Historic Downtown York, you will know you are in for a treat. Their best-seller is their sunflower bread, which is a loaf made for slicing, perfect for your morning toast or a lunchtime sandwich. Terri Kreger, owner and baker, can tell you all about the fresh ingredients in her freshly-baked breads, cakes and pastries.

J & J Family Farm 1077 Wayfield Rd Clover, SC

A family adventure in farming is one way to put it! The J & J Family Farm describes itself as “a 60-acre certified tree farm with sus-

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Food for Thought Produce from South Forty Farm.

Tega Cay Tega Cay Pharmacy

1741 Gold Hill Road Suite 106 Fort Mill, SC Pick up: Thursday, 3 - 6 p.m.

Fort Mill Fleet Feet Sports

1750 Highway 160, Ste. 117 Fort Mill, SC Pick up: Thursday, 4 - 7 p.m.

Chelsea & Savannah Art Studio

506 Mercantile Place, Suite 104 Fort Mill, SC Pick up: Thursday, 4 - 6 p.m. LW

tainably-grown foods that are SC Certified.

No herbicides or pesticides used.� They have shiitake mushrooms pretty much year-round depending on the weather, according to Jennifer Stalford of J & J. For fall, they have kale, radishes and other fall vegetables. You can purchase their produce online and at The Catawba Fresh Market.

Catawba Fresh Market www.CatawbaFreshMarket.com The Catawba Fresh Market online is an online farmer’s market for our area. There is no fee to join and they have pick-up locations near you. Place your order by 2 p.m. on Wednesday and pick up your order on Thursday. The offering is surprisingly varied: vegetables, fruits, cakes, soaps and fresh ground coffee.

Pickup Locations: Lake Wylie Market on Wylie

4070 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC (803) 701-7300 Pick up: Thursday, 4 - 7 p.m.

Clover Saltwater Markets

713 Bethel St Clover, SC (803) 222-6057 Pick up: Thursday, 4 - 7 p.m.

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Garden Party

Afternoon at

Mr. Jack’s Story and photos by Jan Todd

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rive up to Mr. Jack’s Tree Farm, and chances are you’ll be greeted enthusiastically by Dakota and Fanny, two of the friendly farm dogs, or by one of the equally friendly owners or staff. Want an exotic fruit tree or ornamental that differs from any of your neighbors’ on the block? Or perhaps some fast-growing evergreens to serve as a privacy screen? “We have quite a variety of trees to meet every need,” said Casey Bolen, owner and manager of the business.

In fact, Mr. Jack’s farm has over 30 varieties of apple trees alone!

Patrons can also purchase peach, plum, persimmon, pecan and pear 26

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trees, and with a bit of guidance from the staff, produce a fruit harvest that lasts throughout the whole summer. “Different varieties ripen at different times,” explained Bolen, “so you can have fruit ready to pick in June, July, and August.”

Bolen is the grandson of “Mr. Jack Turpin,” who founded the farm in 1979 and lived there until he passed away last year. Turpin originally owned about a hundred acres, but sold about seventy acres for residential development. “Back in the 80’s, the farm was considered “out in the country,” said Bolen. “There was nothing out here, no development.” Located

Garden Party

Mr. Jack’s Farm has a beautiful pond as its centerpiece, where gu ests are invited to fish, walk the perimeter, or just sit for a spell.

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Garden Party

Customers can tour the farm to select fruit, ornamental, and evergreen trees for their yards. Casey Bolen (right), grandson of Jack Turpin, the original owner of the farm, now owns and manages the business.

just a tenth of a mile off of Highway 49 in bustling Steele Creek, the farm has since been surrounded by homes, apartments and retail stores, and is a convenient place for customers to stop.

Accessed through the Steelecroft neighborhood, it is hard to believe that a farm could be found in the midst of its current surroundings.

But once the customers turn in the farm’s entrance, they are magically transported to an idyllic setting as the drive winds around a large pond brimming with fish, ducks and turtles.

Flowers bloom around the perimeter of the pond, and a swinging bridge is currently being installed spanning the north end. Benches overlooking the water encourage folks to sit a spell and take in the beauty of the outdoors.

Turpin lived on the farm and began planting and raising trees as a hobby. That hobby grew into a business, and Turpin was renowned for his hospitality, customer service 28

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and generosity. Turpin maintained an orchard for display of mature trees, and shared the fruit harvest with friends and customers.

Bolen seeks to continue that hospitality.

“We encourage our customers and community to come out and enjoy the farm,” he said.

“We have people who come out here to walk, fish in the pond, and just relax.”

Bolen grew up in Fort Mill, and spent a lot of his childhood at the farm. “I remember all sorts of family celebrations on this property.

Birthdays, anniversaries, picnics. I want to share this place with others,” he said.

Bolen began working with his grandfather when he was 16, and learned about raising and caring for trees of all types. Bolin later earned his certification as an arborist.

Bolen, who is in his twenties, has enlisted the help of three friends to help run Mr. Jack’s Farm and market their services. “We live to-

gether in one of the farm homes built by my grandfather, and use the house as an office as well,” said Bolen. Social media, a snazzy website and event planning are some of the ways Bolen and his team are breathing new life into the business.

“We had a food truck event in the spring to celebrate Arbor Day and invited the community out to see the farm,” said Bolen. “Several hundred people came, many for the first time. Some live in our neighborhood and never realized we were here.” In the future, the team at Mr. Jack’s plans to hold live music events, pumpkin patch parties, and perhaps provide a venue for weddings, reunions and corporate events.

But for now, the primary business is trees.

Over 200 varieties of trees are offered at the farm. Bolen and his staff are eager to help customers select the types that meet their needs.

When a customers arrive at the farm, they

may be chauffeured around the property in one of the golf carts to see the variety of trees available.

Bolen helps the customer design a plan for their landscaping. “Sometimes customers will bring in drawings or pictures of their yards, but I also like to visit their property and look at the space for myself. I brainstorm with the customer and come up with a design that fits the space,” he said.

If desired, Bolen and his staff can deliver and plant the trees. “We provide education to the customer as well. How and when to water, what to watch for in terms of pests or disease, that sort of thing,” he said.

Fall is the ideal time for planting most trees, and Mr. Jack’s Farm is open to the public Monday - Saturday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Check their Facebook page or www.MrJacksFarm. com for fun, family events coming soon. LW Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Clover Mid dle School students with their “ Green Pow er Solar School” ba nner at the solar panel dedic ation.

Here comes

sun

the

Solar panels help Clover Middle School students learn about renewable energy

By Jenny Peterson

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or the past few years, sixth-grade students at Clover Middle School have had a new kind of teacher—the sun.

A solar panel solar cell array was installed in 2014, thanks to a partnership between Santee Cooper and York Electrical Co-Op for Green Power Solar School initiative.

The 2-kilowatt solar power system panel was mounted high on a pole and continues to produce electricity 100 percent from the sun’s rays.

The Santee Cooper program is part of the organization’s specially-designed “renewable energy curriculum,” which meets state science and math standards for sixth grade students, said Mollie Gore, manager of corporate communications with Santee Cooper.

As part of the program, three sixth-grade science teachers at Clover Middle School

Photos provided by York Electric Cooperative

were trained on how to teach students using the new technology and gave the teachers solar power lesson kits and materials to incorporate into their science lessons.

Students were then able to get a hands-on look at how the sun can harness energy and save money.

Students could log in each day to a “sunny portal” online through Santee Cooper that monitors the panel to see exactly how many kilowatts of total energy was being captured.

“It was a great learning connection for our sixth grade students to have a panel on site when we did our solar energy lesson,” said Morgan Lombardo, sixth grade science teacher at Clover Middle School. “Students could see the direct link on how it worked in the school.”

Students were able to see the energy harnessed by the solar panel on sunny days versus cloudy days, and also could tell when the sun set each evening and rose each morning based on the readings, Lombardo said.

“The higher the kilowatt per hour the more energy it is able to produce—if it’s cloudy, there’s a dip,” Lombardo said. “At night it was cool for the students to see how the energy production flat-lined because it was dark.”

As an additional part of the lesson, students were given mini solar panels and were asked to build a car that runs solely on solar power.

Students had to place the solar panels on the cars and adjust them so that the solar panels were angled perfectly towards the sun.

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Feature The renewable energy curriculium created by Santee Cooper includes pocket-sized solar panels for students to use in the classroom.

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is an energy source and the car needs electricity to run,” Lombardo said.

After the solar cars were built, students raced them outdoors in a competition to see which went the fastest using just sunlight.

The Santee Cooper Solar Schools Program is part of the organization’s specially-designed “renewable energy curriculum.”

There are 28 solar schools around the state of South Carolina and the mission of the program is to promote renewable energy.

“The intent is to help middle school students learn first-hand the opportunities and challenges that come with solar power,” Gore said.

“The great things about these programs is that Clover Middle School students see in real time what the panel is generating and what it has generated over time.”

The initiative is designed to encourage interest in the environment and demonstrate the feasibility and limitations of renewable power generation. The solar power system provides a teaching and research opportunity for students.

Santee Cooper launched and dedicated its first solar school in 2007 and is working to add more Green Power solar schools, in partnerships with local electric cooperatives, Gore said.

As of 2015, the Green Power program across the state has produced 1 million megawatt hours of electricity.

Clover Middle School principal Calub Courtwright said he’s been pleased with how much the solar panels have enhanced the school’s sixth grade science program.

“We teach our students that global warming threatens our environment and in the classroom, the teachers do a great job of discussing the importance of taking care of the environment,” he said. “Overall, it’s a great real-life learning experience.”

Paul Basha, CEO for York Electric Cooperative added, “These dynamic lessons empower our youth and energize our future.”

While Clover Middle School relocated to Barrett Road from its previous location on Highway 55 this school year, Lombardo said the solar power kits moved over with them and once construction on the new building is complete, teachers expect a panel to be installed at the new school.

The old site will become a Ninth Grade Academy next year, with the school’s electricity still being harvested.

To learn more about the program, visit www.scgreenpower.com LW

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Cows and Turkeys Chickens, Oh My! Story and photos by Jan Todd

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and

Feature There is much to explore and discover at Curtin Farm.

S

omething magical happens when a child gets to see farm animals up close and personal. Experiencing the sheer size of a cow, the soft fleece of an alpaca, and the grunts (and yes, even the smell!) of pigs is a fascinating experience for kids of all ages. Cathy and Hugh “Doc” Curtin in Clover seek to share their farm experience with school groups and the community through farm tours and a Fall Festival.

The Curtins live in a 150-year-old farmhouse on Paraham Road in Clover. For over 25 years, Doc has been raising beef cattle, growing hay and corn for the cows and building and maintaining both new and historic farm buildings on the property. The Curtins and their two children, Katelyn and Laird (now in college), planted a large vegetable gar-

den for the family and raised a few egg-laying chickens.

The Curtins added a few other farm animals along the way, including goats, horses, pigs, and turkeys. When in high school, Laird expressed an interest in raising alpacas. His parents thought it was an excellent way for Laird to learn about the business side of raising animals, and invested in a few alpacas. Laird took on responsibility for feeding and caring for the animals, as well as shearing and processing the fleece. Cathy then spins the fleece into yarn, which can be used for knitting.

Now that Laird is in college at Penn State, his mother Cathy takes care of the alpacas and other animals on the farm. Laird still helps out during his vacations from school, and also

works on the farm’s website and social media.

“He likes to be involved, keep tabs on us.” said Cathy. “He is always posting updates on our Facebook page or tweaking the website, even when he is at school.”

Cathy is passionate about educating and encouraging young people to take an interest in farming. When her children were growing up, they often hosted church groups and school friends at the farm for outings and parties. After Katelyn and Laird left for college, Cathy’s hospitality needed an outlet. She found that outlet in hosting farm tours for school children.

“We offer the tours for six weeks during the fall,” Cathy said. “I have several friends and family members who are certified teachers, Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Among the various animals at the farm, cattle are brought into the barn for feeding during the farm tour, so children and their families can see them up close!

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and they help me run the tours. We keep it very structured. We have several stations, and rotate the groups through. We can handle up to 150 students per day. Last year, we had over 1,800 kids come to our farm tours!”

While at the farm, the children go on a barnyard animal tour, where they get to feed the pigs, see where the chickens lay their eggs and observe the gigantic beef cattle from just a few feet away. They go on a hayride out to the pumpkin patch and see what food looks like on a vine, instead of a grocer’s shelf.

The children are escorted to a hay loft, which has been converted to a replica of a one-room schoolhouse, complete with vintage desks and farm tools, Here, they listen to a story about the life cycle of a pumpkin and learn a bit about the farm’s history.

“Our motto is “Preserving Yesterday, Cultivating Tomorrow,” explained Cathy. “We really want to instill an appreciation for our history as well as the importance of farming for our future.”

The creativity of the Curtin farm staff really shines in the educational game area set aside for the farm tours. Children milk a model cow, ride stick ponies, wander through a hay bale

Feature

(Left and center) A barn loft at Curtin farm has been converted to a teaching center, with old farm tools and props to represent the history of the farm. (Right) In the fall, Curtin Farm truly shows its colors. maze and play carnival-like farm games to learn about animals and crops.

At another station, the kids meet some of the alpacas and watch a spinning demonstration. “Most children think that hats and scarves come from Walmart,” Cathy laughed.

“I show them how the animals provide fiber to make the things that we wear.”

Last year, Cathy started the Curtin Farm Fest, a one-day festival with vendors, food, and farm tours. “I wanted to open up the farm to the whole community, if only for a day,” said Cathy. “Last year we had 27 vendors, everything from stained glass artisans, weavers and spinners, painters and potters, hand

made jewelry and musicians. The response was overwhelming! We had over 1,200 people come.”

The festival is scheduled for October 15 this year, and Cathy expects it to be even bigger than last year. “We’ll have local farmers selling produce, meat and honey, plus artisans and antique vendors. We’ll even have a blacksmith this year. People can come and shop, eat and see all of our farm animals.”

What’s next for the Curtins? Cathy mused, “We’re starting something new all the time.

The farm tours have opened a lot of doors.

People will ask about things, like free range chicken eggs. So I’m giving that a try, and

hope to market the eggs locally to neighbors, the community and local restaurants.”

The Curtins have even begun offering their farm as a birthday party venue. “Doc and I have worked really hard on restoring this farm, and my goal is to share it. Many people have never seen a real pig, a cow up close, or where food comes from. I just want to share and educate.”

Want to go? Don’t miss the Curtin Farm Fest, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Rain or shine.

The farm is located at 407 N. Paraham Road in Clover. More information is available at www. curtinfarms.com or on the Curtin Farms Facebook page. LW

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Feature

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FALL CALENDAR

I

f it’s fall, there’s a good chance there is a festival! Check out these fun, fall-inspired, family-friendly events in the Lake Wylie area that will help ease you into cooler weather.

Please call ahead to check times as they are subject to change.

September Hard Cider tastings - Every Sat. and Sun. in Sept. Windy Hill Orchard will hold

hard cider tastings Saturdays and Sundays in September with live music from 1-5 p.m.

Enjoy an open air farm stand, pick-your-own apples and a hayride with Johnny Appleseed (hayride times vary). Visit windyhillorchard. com. 1860 Black Hwy, York.

Fiddle ‘n Pig Shindig Annual BBQ & Bluegrass Festival. - Sept. 10 The Anne

Springs Close Greenway hosts the annual barbeque and bluegrass festival featuring bluegrass acts from the Carolinas and a variety of barbeque and other food trucks. Music begins at 11 a.m. This year’s festival will include the Palmetto Biergarten Grand Tasting highlighting South Carolina breweries from 2 - 6 p.m. Admission: music only tickets are $10, and ages 18 and under receive free entry.

Grand Tasting tickets are sold separately; $30 in advance, $40 day-of. Limited number available. Dairy Barn, 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill.

Great Pumpkin Fest at Carowinds Sept. 17 – Oct. 30 Family-friendly

Halloween attractions for the little ghosts and goblins Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.

– 5 p.m. including a costume parade, foam zone, mazes and more. It’s kid-sized frights that every age will love in addition to all the rides. 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC Visit www.carowinds.com for ticket information.

SCarowinds - Fri., Sat., Sun. Sept. 16 - Oct. 30 Carowinds will transform from a

“theme park” to a “scream park” at SCarowinds. This year will be bigger with new exciting experiences. Experience the thrills and chill of over 16 different haunted shows and attrac-

tions. 7 p.m. - midnight. Not recommended for children under 13. 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC. www.carowinds.com.

Clover Jaycees Fall Festival and Car Show - Sept. 17 Family fun, inflatables,

arts and crafts, food, games, face painting, live music, car show, ‘parking lot’ party, children’s games and prizes. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free.

Downtown Clover, Highway 321.

Theatre in the Garden - Sept. 18 The

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden will partner with the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for the first-ever Theatre in the Garden. Children’s Theatre Resident Touring Company will provide a live performance of Commedia Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs geared towards children ages 4-11. The performance will take place at 11 a.m. Food and other activities will be available. Free with garden admission. 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, NC. www.dsbg.org.

Piedmont Pottery Festival - Sept. 24

Over 20 potters from both North and South Carolina, including contemporary Catawba Indian potters, will be on hand at the Piedmont Pottery Festival. Demonstrations in 18th century cooking with pottery on an open hearth, artful presentations, live music, tours of a plantation house and booths. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Adults $8, seniors $7, kids $3, Culture and Heritage Museums members and ages 3 and under free.

Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, SC. 803-684-2327.

October Lake Wylie Children’s Charity, Inc. Fall Benefit Concert - Oct. 2 The annual fall

benefit concert is the last big event of the year for LWCC. Come join in a fun day of live music, food, a silent auction, and kids zone to raise money to help families of children with life threatening illnesses. In the past, auction items included helicopter rides, wing parties, catering events and winery tours.

Noon-6 p.m.

Beer Walk: Tour of the South - Oct. 8

Happenings The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden brings more than a dozen breweries to the garden.

Beer sampling stations, live music, games and more. Each participant will receive a commemorative sampling glass. 1 p.m. Admission: $20 until Oct. 9, $25 at the door. 15% off for members. 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, NC. www.dsbg.org.

Curtin Farms Fest - Oct. 15

Curtin Farms Fest is a community gathering featuring a marketplace for handmade, hand crafted, and hand restored goods at a working farm. Food and music. 407 Paraham Rd., Clover. Adults and children 6 and older $5; kids 3-5, $1; kids 2 and younger, free. 10 a.m.4 p.m. Rain or shine.

Lost Hollow Music Festival - Oct. 15-16 Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s music fest will include two days of live performances, food and family fun. The music lineup includes Nashville, TN-based American quintet Forlorn Strangers, North Carolina songwriter David Childers and more. 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, NC. www.dsbg.org.

Apple Harvest Festival - Oct. 15

22rd Annual Apple Harvest Festival. Windy Hill Orchard. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 1860 Black Hwy, York. 803-684-0690. www.windyhillorchard.com.

U.S. Marine Band - Oct. 28 Part of the

Clover School District Auditorium Performing Arts Series, the President’s own U.S. Marine Band will perform. The ensemble claims a heritage that places it in a category of its own. 7:30 p.m. Free, but tickets are required.

Call 803-222-8018 to reserve tickets. 1625 Highway 55 East, Clover.

Tega Cay Fall Festival - Oct. 29 Features arts and crafts, businesses and food/beverage vendors. Local entertainment and kid zones.

Children’s costume contest and the hula hoop contest for all ages. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Glennon Center, 15083 Molokai Dr, Tega Cay. Boo-tanical at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden - Oct. 22 Live folk music,

horse-drawn carriage rides, games and not-so-frightening fall activities. Food and drinks will be available. Free with general garden admission. All children wearing costumes will receive free garden admission.

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 6500 South New Hope Road Belmont, NC. LW

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Feature

A

novel idea Lake Wylie book clubs offer more than just reading

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Feature One Lake Wylie book club begins each year at a restaurant, where members select books and schedule hosts for the upcoming season.

Story and photos by Jan Todd

W

ith cooler weather and kids back in school, fall is the perfect opportunity to read a book, indoors or outdoors.

Lake Wylie resident Doreen Kowalczyk recalls reading habits among her extended family.

"Ten lounge chairs lined up, with every nose in a book. My husband didn't understand it at first, how we could sit there for hours with no one saying a word. But that was how we'd relax. We'd read."

As books were finished, Doreen's family would often swap titles and discuss the stories they'd read. Sharing a book is like sharing an experience, and talking about the plot twists and character developments contributes to the joy of reading and ignites a spark in everyday conversation.

The love of reading and conversing about books made Doreen jump at the chance when invited to join a book club with some of her Lake Wylie friends. Alice Smith, a long-time member and the current club coordinator, said, "I don't know exactly how long the club has been in existence, but more than 20 years.�

Alice's club meets once a month starting in fall during the school year, usually around the third Thursday night of the month.

Each fall, the group holds an organizational dinner, introducing new members and choosing books to read in the coming year.

Their club has about a dozen members, and each recommends a book or two, providing a synopsis of the storyline and personal or second-hand reviews. If the number of book recommendations exceeds the number of

monthly meetings planned, the ladies vote on the books they'd like to read. Alice tallies the votes and issues a monthly reading schedule.

The women take turns hosting the book club at their homes, usually hosting the month that her recommendation is read. The host prepares a few questions to stimulate conversation about the book. A meal is themed to complement the book, and the host provides the entree and designates the menu. Other members bring side dishes, appetizers, wine and dessert to complete the meal.

For instance, this past spring, the club read "Go Set a Watchman" by Harper Lee, the sequel to "To Kill a Mockingbird." The setting of the book was Alabama in the 1950's.

Susan Murphy hosted and served a Southern-themed meal with ham and biscuits, sweet potato casserole and a festive wine Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature

Staff Picks!

Cannery Row

by John Steinbeck

The Lake Wylie library provides the public opportunities to participate in book clubs punch. The ladies visited together over appetizers and punch, and dinner conversation centered around the book.

"I don't think this book was one that you like or dislike," commented Rose Cummings.

"It was more a slice of history that needed to be read." The ladies discussed the characters in the book, the social issues covered, and related memories and personal observations pertaining to the theme.

Sue Brown said that she reads more, thanks

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to this book club.

"Before I joined, I didn't allow myself time to read very often. There were so many other things that needed to be done. But being part of a book club gives me a reason to read, and is an event. I look forward to having a night with my friends to eat and laugh and talk about books."

Doreen said that she doesn't necessarily read more, but she does read differently.

"Being part of a book club exposes me to

I first read it in the 1960’s as a college student. Since I lived on the Monterey Peninsula in California, and where many of John Steinbeck’s books are set, I especially enjoyed it.

When my now-husband and I first met, we went to Kalisas on Cannery Row, a Bohemian style restaurant and gathering place that Steinbeck wrote about at an earlier time. We read the book together again as we explored Cannery Row as a young couple. I love the book and the memories it reminds me of in years gone by. – Susan Bromfield, President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce and contributing editor, Lake Wylie Today Magazine

The Red Garden

by Alice Hoffman

The Red Garden is a dreamy novel from Alice Hoffman about a fictional

Feature town of Blackwell, Massachusetts, from its first settlers 200 years ago to present day.

I enjoyed reading about the things that change, and things that stay the same (such as a magical garden that only produces red plants) in this beautiful New England town Hoffman has created.

Readers are transported in time to follow four families who first settled the land and each generation thereafter, intertwining the special landscape with curious visitors and strong red-haired women. Hoffman spins a magical and mysterious tale about life, love and fate in this fast-paced novel. –Jenny Peterson, editor, Lake Wylie Today

Jitterbug Perfume

by Tom Robbins

True love, the quest for immortality, drunken

Greek gods and the mysterious power of perfume are a few of the heady ingredients in this literary cocktail. Drink up. Jitterbug Perfume is considered a cult classic. I’ve read it several times. Might be time to read it again. – Jane DuBois, advertising sales, Lake Wylie Today Magazine

11/22/63

By Stephen King

You’ll need to do some hard convincing to get your book club to tackle this 842-page novel. But it is absolutely spell-binding, and not at all scary.

Stephen King is an amazing storyteller, and has written only a few books outside the horror genre.

“11/22/63” is a fast read, thought-provoking, and fun to discuss. It mixes true historical events surrounding JFK’s assassination with compelling fiction. I’ve shared my copy with quite a few, and everyone loves it!

– Jan Todd, writer and photographer, Lake Wylie Today

The Silencers

By Donald Hamilton

When I was a boy I used to stay up late watching the “Late Late Movie” with my dad. I think that activity helped form who I am today as a creative person. Of the countless movies we watched together, the ones that stuck with me all these years later were the “Matt Helm” flicks starting Dean Martin. They were Super-Campy, Super-Spy action at its finest all wrapped in a hip 1960s shell. Now as an adult I’ve gone back to visit the source material for those films, the books of Donald Hamilton. Knowing full well that they were void of all that tongue-in-cheek Dean Martin swagger, they still proved to be an excellent return to my childhood with suspenseful writing and a very real take on being a spy in a Cold War America.

Two fisted action with a shot of bourbon.

– Andrew Sprague, graphic designer, Lake Wylie Today

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature

Book clubs are about camaraderie, lively discussions and exploring new books.

Themed dinners are one way to make a novel come alive.

different authors, different types of books that I might not normally read."

Carol Goehring, a River Hills resident, monitors another book club, one that has been meeting for about five years. Her club meets monthly and the members take turns hosting.

"The host selects the book, leads the discussion and provides all refreshments," said Carol. "So each member takes care of everything about once a year, and lets others do it the rest of the time."

Carol's group reads all sorts of books. "We'll read autobiographies, historical fiction, top sellers and motivational titles. We used to pick categories, but now we just go with the flow.

The hosts are really good about mixing it up 46

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Feature group is sampling Southern authors.

Recent selections include Pat Conroy's "Death of Santini," John Grisham's "Skipping Christmas," and "The All Girl Filling Station"

by Fannie Flagg.

At the library's book club meeting, former school teacher Robin Jackson enjoys providing props and a presentation to help the books come alive and spark conversations.

She sometimes uses book club kits provided by the library to select titles.

Anyone registered with the library can check

out book club kits to use in their own groups.

The kits contain ten copies of the book, an author biography, and suggested discussion questions. The York County Library website lists over 100 kits which can be checked out free of charge, and are loaned out for a period of eight weeks. The kits are located at the main branch in Rock Hill, but can be transported to any branch.

To find and reserve the kits, go online and type "Book Club Kits" in the "Search the catalog" field or call the library at 803-831-7774.

Happy reading! LW

a bit. If we've read several titles within a particular genre, we'll go on to something else."

Some of her club's recent favorites include "All the Light We Cannot See,"

by Anthony Doerr, "The Gravity of Birds" by Tracey Guzeman and "The Book Thief " by Marcus Zusak.

Carol thinks that a dozen members is the ideal size for a book club.

"If it gets any bigger than that, then smaller conversations start to break out around the room. We have thirteen members, and usual attendance is ten or eleven, which is perfect."

Lives can get busy, and most book clubs encourage attendance even if the member didn't finish the book.

"It is really about camaraderie and stimulating conversation," Carol remarked. "Compatibility is important in a book club, and we're really lucky to have a group that gets along well."

Public book clubs are also available through the York County Libraries.

"Wylie Readers," led by Robin Jackson at the Lake Wylie branch, is a club open to the public that meets the first Saturday morning of each month. Currently, the "Wylie Readers" Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Development Update

“Nothing but the Wind” in Henry’s

Glen Story and photos by Jan Todd

-owner of May Tom Smith, co rties, is one of Green Prope e tract homesit the last large. ea ar e th developers in

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Development Update

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Development Update

J

ust seven miles from the retail center of Lake Wylie, a new development is being carved out along babbling brooks, nearby horse pastures and local farms. Henry’s Glen offers thirty-six homesites ranging from just over an acre up to almost nine acres in size. Crowders Creek runs through the neighborhood, with swimming holes and rocky creek beds for wading and fishing.

May Green Properties, owned and operated by father-son team Tim and Tom Smith of Lake Wylie, began development on this property earlier this year. It is located on Brandon Road, off of Ridge Road in Lake Wylie. The first phase includes seven of the larger lots, and four have already been sold. Covenants for these lots allow horses, barns and second residences for extended families.

Tom Smith is excited about offering this property. “Its location is so serene,” he described. “It’s close enough to Lake Wylie, but far enough away that all you can hear is the wind blowing.”

One of the first lots was purchased by Lake Wylie’s very own Dr. Alan and Elizabeth Hartley. “Our plan has always been to build a home on several acres in Lake Wylie,” said Elizabeth.

“We’ve kept our eyes open for something for

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several years. With so much development in the area recently, we knew our options were becoming more and more limited.”

The Hartleys currently live on the same street as Elizabeth’s mother and sister Nancy, who has special needs. “With the care required for my family, it just makes sense for us to live under the same roof. So we’re planning to build a home in Henry’s Glen to accommodate everyone.”

The Hartleys knew Tom Smith and were aware of his strong reputation within the community, both as an individual and as a developer. When they heard that he was starting work on a new large tract development, they were intrigued.

“It was absolutely what we’ve been looking for,” said Elizabeth. “Nancy will love watching the birds and wildlife, and listening to the creek in the back of the property.”

Elizabeth and Alan chose the lot that had remnants of a stone fireplace from the original home on the property. “That’s really cool,” said Elizabeth, “to have a piece of history on our land.”

The Smiths love the opportunity to honor history within their developments. Patrick Place, for instance, incorporates a historic

Some of the homesites in Henry’s Glen border the banks of Crowders Creek, with fishing holes and small rapids cabin at the entrance of the neighborhood.

Several of May Green communities, including Henry’s Glen, are named after original owners of the land. “It is our way of honoring the heritage and keeping the area’s history alive,” remarked Tom. Tom Smith sees his company as “The Last of the Mohicans” when it comes to large tract developers in Lake Wylie. May Green Properties is known in the area for its low density, environmentally-friendly neighborhoods such as The Coves on River Oaks, Patrick

Place, Vanderlakes and Carolina Coves. These neighborhoods share a winning formula: homesites that are an acre or more in size, plenty of green space and wooded areas, rural settings and custom homes by local builders.

“We’ve met a need in this area for many years. There has been and still is a big demand for natural settings for building homes,” said Tom. “But it is getting harder and harder to do what we do.”

“Building regulations are written for mass grade development,” Smith explained. “But we don’t develop in the same style. Trying to adhere to specific tree counts, stormwater plans and requirements written for high-density development becomes cost-prohibitive and impractical when you try to translate that to a development like ours.”

“It isn’t that we fall below county standards,” Smith continued. “In fact, it’s the exact opposite. We have tree buffers, storm control, and much more green space than any developments in the county. We are vigilant about conservation and erosion control during development, and incorporate maintenance of these in our lot restrictions. But trying to follow development regulations such as tree surveys in buffers around tracts that are eight acres in size is extremely costly. The perimeter buffer shouldn’t even be a requirement in low density developments. We buffer all of the streams and sensitive areas anyhow, above and beyond the requirements.”

Tom has long been an activist in improving county development and planning, and hopes to encourage changes that will make development of large tract homesites easier to navigate. “York County is a beautiful area and has so much to offer our residents,” Smith concluded. “We need to offer a mix of development styles that accommodate all of the different needs and desires of our residents.” LW Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Development Update Creative Kids, located on Highway 49 at entrance of Paddlers Cove, is a new child development, daycare center now open.

Growth continues in all parts of Lake Wylie T

aco Bell has opened its new location at Lake Wylie on Highway 29 across from BB&T this summer. Located on the property next to Taco Bell is a new Dunkin’ Donuts.

Meanwhile down the road, Copper Premium Pub will open at 4516 Charlotte Highway, the former site of Cafe 49.

It’s owner, Fred Kanos, is also co-owner of Glenway Premium Pub at 55 Glenway St. in Belmont.

The Lake Wylie site has been under construction for months, mainly expanding the outdoor seating area. It’s opening date was set for August.

Construction has begun on several Shoppes at the Landing additions, bringing more than 100,000 square feet of new commercial space.

Morningstar Mini-Storage is the largest.

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The company recently broke ground at 574 Nautical Drive. Morningstar is expected to be 87,000 square feet when complete by winter 2016.

Morningstar storage facilities are two to three stories with interior access. The Lake Wylie location may include boat or vehicle parking. Shoppes at the Landing has several projects underway.

Three other projects will be Cunningham Waters, Heartland Dental and Wylie Commons that are all are multi-tenant buildings.

Cunningham Waters, at 534 Nautical Drive, will be having nearly 7,000 square feet of office space when complete. Heartland Dental, located at 209 Latitude Lane, was approved for an almost 5,500-square-foot office building which will be family dentistry.

Other businesses announced in the area include Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry lo-

By Susan Bromfield

cated on Nautical Lane, under construction now. Across the road on Nautical Lane will be a small complex housing a Moe’s Southwest Grill, Sport Clips and TK Nails Spa & Waxing.

Another business that opened at Shoppes at the Landing is 9Round Fitness Lake Wylie. The 30-minute kickboxing fitness center opened at 221 Latitude Lane Suite 104 in the existing building.

“It’s a 30-min workout,” said owner Julie Spitzer. “It’s a training format. There are nine different stations, nine rounds. The workout changes every day.”

Three businesses will be going into Wylie Commons that front Charlotte Highway at Shoppes at the Landing.

Down the road on Highway 49, the new Clover School District Aquatic Center is near completion. A September opening is expected with swim complex that will also include

Development Update

the Upper Palmetto YMCA facility, water park and competition sized swimming pool.

Also on Highway 49 at Paddlers Cove, Creative Kids, a new preschool, daycare and child development center has opened. Paddlers Cove, a Crescent Communities development, is now open with home sites and plans for neighborhood choices to include single and multifamily homes.

Clover School District has had two new schools built that will open this fall. The Oakridge Elementary School located on Oakridge Road next to the Bethel Fire Department has opened this August. The second school is in Clover at Barrett Rd. These are just a few of the business openings and plans for 2016. The Lake Wylie area is a hot spot for businesses and for residential developments. Growth is all around and will continue into 2017. LW Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight News of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Fall 2016

LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC THURSDAY, September 29, 2016

Some serious golfers? Or are they just having fun at the Hula Hole?

1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start Captain’s Choice Held at

River Hills Country Club Play limited to 25 foursomes $145.00 per golfer - $560.00 per foursome Hole Sponsorships Available Fabulous day of golf, hospitality, networking and fun!

Prizes at almost every Hole Featuring our special “HULA” and “MARGARITA” Holes Prizes, box lunch and hospitality included

Business After Golf Hospitality and Libations 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on the terrace of River Hills Country Club

Contact Lake Wylie Chamber at 803-831-2827 (e-mail: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com) for further information or to reserve a spot

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Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Charles Wood Chairman KODIAK MINI STORAGE Don Long Vice Chairman Donna Bordeaux Secretary BORDEAUX & BORDEAUX, CPAs, PA Michaelyn Sherrill Treasurer HOME COMPANIONS

Susan Bromfield President LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Ed Stewart Past Chairman M.L. FORD & SONS Myron Boloyan, Esq. HASELDEN, OWEN, BOLOYAN & CORSON, LLC Fred Caldwell FRED CALDWELL CHEVROLET

Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC - REGISTRATION FORM Thursday, September 29, 2016 1:00 pm

Contact Name:___________________________________________________________

River Hills Country Club

Address:________________________________________________________________

Golf - Includes box lunch,

City:____________________________________State:___________Zip:_____________

Shotgun Start– Captain’s Choice

driving range privileges, golf, cart, hospitality and great networking!

All player spots are reserved upon receipt of payment and registration form.

Golfer Gift Bag Donation

(for 120 golfers, i.e. pens, tees, hats, balls, etc.)

Don’t miss this great opportunity to showcase your business to participants.

Please return this registration form with your check to:

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

Company:_______________________________________________________________

Daytime Telephone: ( )_________________________ Fax: ( )___________________ E-mail:__________________________________________________________________ ________ Individual Golfer(s) @ $145 per person

________ Golf Team(s) – Four players @ $560 per team Total $_______ Golfer’s Name:________________________ Handicap:___ E-mail:___________________ Golfer’s Name:________________________ Handicap:___ E-mail:___________________ Golfer’s Name:________________________ Handicap:___ E-mail:___________________ Golfers Name:________________________ Handicap:___ E-mail:__________________ Optional: _____Mulligan (s) – Limit 2 per player $5 each _____Mulligan (s) – For the team $40

Jane DuBois LAKE WYLIE TODAY / LAKE WYLIE MARKETING

Brian Rich Q2U BBQ and CATERING

Allan Gregory K. A. WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Marc Sosne CLOVER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Doug McSpadden MCSPADDEN CUSTOM HOMES

Gwen Thompson CLOVER COMMUNITY BANK

Jill Moore YMCA CAMP THUNDERBIRD Haven Presley T-BONES ON THE LAKE

Total $_______

Total $_______ Total $_______

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 Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Business After Hours May 26, 2016 Sponsored by Kodiak Mini Storage Photos by Jessica Coffin and Ed Stewart

Rep. Ralph Norman at the May BAH.

Melanie Wood Wilson with Charles Wood.

Jane DuBois, Kitty Muccigrosso and Jamie Dodd.

Patty Hyre at the Kodiak Mini Storage BAH.

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Andrew Miller, The Lake Wylie Mortgage Man and Yvette of Anchor Self Storage at the BAH.

Deb Dagilus, Kay Peters and Bobbie Otto chat at the May BAH.

Anita Johnson of Kodiak Mini Storage at the BAH.

Mike Miller at the BAH.

Spotlight

Business After Hours May 5, 2016 Sponsored by Allen Tate Realtors Photos by Jessica Coffin

Kay Westmoreland and Joe Versen at the BAH.

Ron Domurat, Ken Alexander and Russell Partin at the May 5 BAH.

Tom Pas, Nancy Snyder and Tom Dagilus at Allen Tate Realty BAH.

Charles Wood, Kay Westmoreland and Joe Versen at the BAH.

Team Pioneer Pest Control at the BAH.

Margaret and Doug Meyer-Cuno chat with Ron Domurat.

Allen Tate Realtors welcome the chamber to the Cinco de Mayo BAH at Allen Tate Realty.

Team Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie at the BAH.

Doug McSpadden (rt) and friends at the Cinco de Mayo themed BAH at Allen Tate Realty.

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Business After Hours June 16, 2016 Sponsored by River Hills Marina Club, T-Bones on the Lake, SeaTow, Carefree Boating Club, Remedics Restoration and Q-2-U BBQ and Catering Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Joe Versen and Mary Stewart at the River Hills Marina BAH in June.

Kate Meeks and Paul Montelongo at River Hills Marina BAH.

Lake Wylie Wellness and Chiropractic was represented by Dr. David Redding (right) and friend.

Linda Eiler and Tom Wirth at River Hills Marina.

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Brian Rich and Jerry Bullard the Q2U BBQ and Catering Team at the River Hills Marina BAH in June.

Spotlight

Business After Hours June 23, 2016 Sponsored by CalAtlantic Homes at Palisades Country Club Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Carol Chase and Steve Sanella enjoy a lovely dinner and networking at Palisades Country Club at the June BAH.

Elizabeth Hinson welcomes Donna Varjabedian to the chamber’s CalAtlantic Homes BAH at the Palisades Country Club.

Elizabeth Hinson of CalAtlantic Homes and Cathy Wiesneth with Linda Eiler and Tom Wirth at the CalAtlantic Homes BAH. Toll Brothers Homes in Regency,at the Palisades at BAH.

Rick and Marsha Gross and Dianne Kehler at Palisades Country Club at the June 23 BAH.

Nancy Snyder and Tom Pas enjoy dinner at the CalAtlantic Homes BAH at the Palisades in June.

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight And they’re off … runners at the start of the race.

Thank You From the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

2016 Splash Dash Sponsors

A runner greeted as she nears the finish line at YMCA Camp Thunderbird.

Runners gather before the event start.

Runner Beth Fox of Matthews placed first in her age category.

Pace car compliments of Fred Caldwell Chevrolet.

Michaelyn Sherrill and volunteers greet runners at the hospitality tent co-sponsored

by Harris Teeter near the finish line.

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Runners of all ages are winners at the annual Splash Dash.

Carolinas HealthCare System Lowe’s River Hills Community Association YMCA Camp Thunderbird Baker Financial Group Bank of York Bethel Commons Burger King Fred Caldwell Chevrolet Clover Community Bank Comfort Systems Comporium Contagious Graphics Duke Energy Frito Lay Glaza Chiropractic Center Hannon Orthodontics Harris Teeter Healthier Life – Affordable Price Homebridge Financial Kodiak Mini Storage Lake Wylie Pilot Lake Wylie Realty Lightning PC Solutions Long Cove Marina M.L. Ford & Sons Novant Rehab Portable Restrooms Queen City Timing Rey Azteca River Hills Community Church Sportscenter Walmart Watson Insurance York County York County Natural Gas

Please Patronize Our Sponsors!

Spotlight

Membership Renewals May 1, 2016 -July 18, 2016 Ackerman CPA

Lake Wylie Assisted Living and Retirement

Agape Hospice

Lake Wylie Family Dentistry

Bagel Boat

Lake Wylie Man

Bank of York

Lake Wylie Pet Resort

CalAtlantic

Lake Wylie Pizza and Italian

Carolina Family Dentistry

Lake Wylie Realty

Carolina HealthCare

Long Cove Marina

Caromont Health

Marlin Bay Apartments

Clover Community Bank

New River Church

May 1 - July 18, 2016

Dream Properties

Pioneer Pest Control

Duke Energy

Q-2-U BBQ Pit

Healthier Life Affordable Price

Fort Mill Ford

R.P. Boggs

Good Samaritan Church

Riordan Orthodontics

Good Year Tire

Steele Creek Animal Hospital

Great Clips

T- Bones on the Lake

K.A. Gregory Wealth Management

Waterside Partners

Keller Williams

York Technical College

Welcome New Members Melissa Taylor Lake Wylie SC 29710 803-493-0552 melissaforhealth@gmail.com healthierlife-affordable price

Lake Wylie Wellness & Chiropractic Center

Ribbon Cutting!

Dr. David Redding 4535 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7077 drredding@icloud.com www.lakewyliechiropractic.com

Savage Skin Robbyn Ketner 3 Executive Court Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-810-2398 savageskin13@aol.com savageskinlwsc.com

Ribbon Cutting at Aurora Wellness Center at River Hills Marina with owner Tamara Jeffries and Charles Wood, chamber chairman.

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Nominations are now being accepted for

2016 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:

2015 2014 2013 2012

Business Person Kitty Muccigrosso Haven Presley Leonard Jackson Q2U BBQ

Business of the Year 2011 Doug McSpadden 2010 Fred Caldwell 2009 Rob Watson and

Fred Nason with

Watson Insurance 2008 Al Powell 2007 Ed Stewart

2006 Diana Grubenhoff 2005 Mark DeChant 2004 Andy Kane 2003 Rod Hall 2002 Leslie Hall 2001 Paige McCarter

2000 David Mathein

1999 Myron Boloyan

1998 Tally Roberts

1997 Jong and Po Liu

1996 Jack Allen

1995 MaMa “C”

1994 Mark Erwin

1993 John Wilkerson

1992 --

“Meet the Candidates” Evening June 3, 2016 Sponsored by Clover-Lake Wylie Republican Women’s Club and Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Held at River Hills Country Club Photos by Donna Bordeaux

Citizen Dick Mann Norma Wood Lisa McCarthy Chad Bordeaux Rep. Ralph Norman Tom Smith Elizabeth Hartley Vince Mugavero Susan Bromfield (Milestone Award) Dr. Steve Miszkiewicz Stacy Waddell -Blackmon Fred Wetherell Roberta Spampinato Don Long Charles Wood S.C. Rep. Becky Meacham S.C. Rep. Herb Kirsh Ruth Sheets Diane Roberts Senator Harvey Peeler Nick and Joanne Jones Peggy Upchurch “Duck” Alexander Firechief Bill Johnston

2016 Meet the Candidates Night held at River Hills Country Club on June 3.

Kevin Tolson, candidate for sheriff speaks to the crowd.

Allison Love, Councilwoman elect for District 2 at the forum.

Senator Harvey Peeler with senate candidate Wes Climer at the June 3 candidate forum.

Congressman Mick Mulvaney at the June 3 Meet the Candidates event held at River Hills Country Club.

Nominee for Business Person:_______________________________ Nominee for Citizen:______________________________________ Please tell us about your nominee and his/or her contributions to the community: ____________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________

Deadline for nominees - 10/18/16 – 5:00 pm email: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Fall 2016

Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Upcoming Activities Business After Hours

Tuesday, September 13, 2016 5:30- 7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by and held at Fred Caldwell Chevrolet Clover, SC

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament

Thursday, September 29, 2016 1 p.m. Shotgun Start, Captain’s Choice Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC

Business After Golf

Thursday, September 29, 2016 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC

Annual Holiday Gala

Thursday, December 1, 2016 6:30 p.m. to Midnight Cocktails & Hors D’oeuvres Dinner and Music Seating Limited, Festive Attire Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC

Save the Date!

The La ke Wylie Chamber of Co mmerce cordially invites you to attend the

Annual Holiday Gala Thursday, December 1, 2016 6:30 to Midnight at River Hills Country C lub Libations & Dinner

Music by The Classics for your listening and dancing pleasure Seating limited · Festive attire

Please contact the Cham ber at 803.831.2827 fo r reservations.

Ribbon Cutting!

Holiday Business After Hours Tuesday, December 6, 2016 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by and Held at Lake Wylie Retirement and Assisted Living Lake Wylie, SC

Holiday Boat Parade

And Christmas by the Lake Saturday, December 10, 2016 6:30 p.m.

Held by T-Bones on the Lake Lake Wylie, SC

Ribbon Cutting for Mr. Jack’s Tree Farm

Fall 2016 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Southern Gal

The Church of Carolina BBQ

by Jan Todd

K

now what’s a noun, verb, meat, method, social event, and source of heated opinions greater than those spurred by any political party? If you guessed “barbecue”, you got it right! In the South, barbecue is practically a religion.

Here in the Carolinas, just to be clear, barbecue is pork. Slow smoked meat, pulled or chopped, and served with or without a bun, most likely with slaw.

I spent my early years in Tennessee, and barbecue was an adjective attached to grilled chicken with sauce. It wasn’t until I lived in the Carolinas, shortly after college, that I was introduced to the pork phenomenon in the form of a “pig pickin’,” which happened to serve as a wedding reception for one of my friends.

At the reception, one of the groomsmen was hovering over a smoking oil drum, which he’d converted into a grill. As he lifted the top of this grill, I saw that it was loaded with meat.

Sizzling, succulent, mouth-watering Boston butts. Thus began my love affair with Carolina barbecue, and the groomsman who later became my husband.

Since moving to the Carolinas, I’ve sampled many styles of barbecue. I’ve dined at dives and BBQ chains, purchased pulled pork from the Pig Palace on Wheels parked at a gas station, and attended and feasted at barbecue festivals.

Once, I almost bought a barbecue sandwich at a bowling alley. I asked the girl at the concession stand, “How’s the barbecue?”

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“Well,” she said, “It’s not the best thing on the menu.”

“What’s better?” I asked.

“Everything else.”

I don’t know what I was thinking. Barbecue at a bowling alley? They have no smoker.

Proper barbecue takes commitment. Hours of slow roasting, begun before the crack of dawn. Fire and danger. It cannot be produced on a griddle or microwave found in a typical bowling alley concession stand.

In fact, some argue that the best barbecue is found off the beaten path. When I lived in North Carolina, some of my co-workers and I would venture to remote locations far and wide to find those BBQ joints with gravel parking lots, tattered booths, smoke billowing up from somewhere out back, and a name like “Snooks Barbecue.” If the place had a “B” rating from the health department, man, we knew it was gonna be good.

One of my co-workers would always order his ‘cue “Outside chunky brown,” which means some of the crispy skin portions would be mixed in with the tender pulled pork.

Health food this was not.

One of the great debates about barbecue is whether to cook the whole hog, shoulders, or butts. But that debate pales when it comes to discussions about the sauce. “The secret’s in the sauce,” said Sipsey in “Fried Green Tomatoes.” And oftentimes, the sauce is a closely guarded secret in itself. I know of one man

who keeps his sauce recipe in a sealed envelope, only to be opened upon his death. Some people are dang crazy about their sauce.

Probably the most basic sauce (called “dip” in some regions) for smoked pork is some mixture of vinegar, salt, pepper, and butter, used to baste the meat while cooking. This style dominates the Eastern Carolina region.

Lexington-style, originating in North Carolina, adds a little tomato paste or ketchup to sweeten the vinegar base. In South Carolina, the area surrounding Columbia and headed towards the coast is known as the “Mustard Belt,” where yellow mustard is mixed in with the vinegar and various spices. Thousands of variations exist with peppers, apple juice, molasses, or those elusive secret ingredients.

As barbecue has become more popular, many restaurants serve a variety of sauces “on the side,” so everyone can choose their favorite style. Q2U in Lake Wylie has its roots in a backyard competition barbecue team. Their original vinegar-based sauce has won a number of awards and was even named the official sauce of the Democratic National Convention when it was held in Charlotte. Q2U also offers a hotter version of the sauce, plus a tomato based “Thick and Sweet Sauce” and a Mustard sauce.

Whatever the style, if you walk out of a barbecue restaurant without a few stains on your shirt, you need to go back in and eat some more. LW