Lake Wylie Today, Winter 2017

LakeWylie TODAY Winter 2017 | Issue 4

Holiday Wonderland The holidays are upon us and it’s time to have fun!

Lighting up the lake

Lake Wylie ready to celebrate Christmas with annual boat parade

Chamber Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce news and information

Our View

The Season of Giving is year-round in Lake Wylie

By Susan Bromfield, President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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s we enter another holiday season, people naturally get into a more giving mood.

We buy gifts for our friends and family, we prepare meals to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas, and we see constant reminders that there are many less fortunate than ourselves.

Generosity, however, should not be reserved for November and December. There is never a bad time to give your time or resources to help those in need. The holidays are a good time to remember that, and maybe to help sustain that spirit into a new year.

The Lake Wylie community offers plenty of opportunities for year-round giving, whether it’s donating your time to a charity or providing necessities for the elderly or poor. The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce and Lake Wylie Assisted Living sponsor the “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” campaign every year.

Clothing, household items, canned goods and new toys can be dropped off at Lake Wylie Assisted Living any time and are distributed to the Clover Area Assistance Center. Monetary donations by check can be mailed to the CAAC at P.O. Box 521, Clover, S.C., 29710.

During the year there are many opportunities for generous support to our many community charitable efforts. The Sweet Repeat Foundation operates one of the most successful “recycling” charity projects in the area with its Sweet Repeat resale store located in Lake Wylie Plaza. Volunteers work all year long to operate the store, and money raised from donated items sold is contributed to charity. This

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year, Sweet Repeat raised more than $100,000 to contribute to area charities.

The River Hills-Lake Wylie Lions Club raises money for charity throughout the year with several annual events, including their golf tournament, charity Christmas Tree sale, the River Hills Telephone Directory and fall charity silent auction event. They are a major contributor to the Lake Wylie-River Hills Emergency Squad, a free, volunteer service to the entire Lake Wylie area.

The Mayday Golf event and foundation raises money to help the many homeless and disadvantaged students in the area. This October golf event raised funds to help homeless students and fulfill other student needs in the Clover School District. Contributions are accepted all year long by sending a check to Lake Wylie/Clover Mayday Projects, P.O. Box 5123, Lake Wylie, S.C., 29710.

The Lake Wylie Children’s Charity raises funds throughout the year to help families with critically ill children who need financial and community support.

These are just a few examples of the many ways you can share the blessings of your life with those who have traveled a harder road in theirs. Those of us who live in Lake Wylie have much to be grateful for: A beautiful community, great schools and friendly, caring neighbors. The holidays are meant to celebrate faith, family and all those blessings in our lives.

Please consider sharing that with someone else — not just in the coming weeks, but all throughout the year. LW

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Contents Winter 2017

2 Our View Carry the spirit of giving into the new year 8 Mailbag 18 Shoreline

Lake Wylie lights up for annual parade

24 Food for Thought

Holiday cocktails and Market on Wylie

30 Dining Guide 31 Entertaining Guide 34 Garden Party

Landscape lighting not just for holidays at Mychaskiws’ home

42 Feature

Southern Christmas Show a family tradition

50 Feature

Clover Community Bank celebrates 30 years

54 Feature

CAAC offers much-needed assistance

60 Feature

Support local shops this holiday season

64 Winter Caendar

Holiday happenings

66 Development Update

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 James production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Andrew Sprague asprague@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3128 Assistant Graphic Designer - Emily Williams ewilliams@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 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 Steve McDaniel Jan Todd Contributing Photographers Susan Bromfield Jane DuBois Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Deep Creek Photography Andrew Sprague Jan Todd The entire contents of this publication are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved.

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

Cover and Table of Contents photos by Jan Todd

70 Spotlight

The magazine of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

80 Southern Twang

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A look at the Southern side by Jan Todd

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

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 smcdaniel@scbiznews.com.

Lake Wylie Chamber and Lake Wylie Assisted Living continue Neighbors Helping Neighbors charity drive

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he Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce and Lake Wylie Assisted Living continue the Neighbors helping Neighbors holiday toy, canned goods and warm clothing drive. We are asking Lake Wylie neighbors to contribute new unwrapped toys for area children and canned goods and new gloves, scarves, hats and coats for children and families in need in our area. Dropoff location is Lake Wylie Assisted Living. If everyone helps by dropping off canned goods and a toy and/or warm clothing, collectively we can make a difference to many. If you are unable to shop for the needed items, checks are welcome too. Make checks to Clover Area Assistance Center and mail to P.O. Box 521, Clover, SC 29710. Count your blessings this holiday season and give to our neighbors that may need a helping hand.

The Real Christmas Story

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arroWay Productions will present “The Real Christmas Story” this holiday season.

Opening matinee is noon Nov. 4 and the production runs through Dec. 21. The show includes favorite Christmas scenes and songs, and dinner tickets are available. The theater is located at 3327 Highway 51 N. in Fort Mill. Go online to narrowaytix. com for show times and tickets.

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Mailbag

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden shines bright for the holiday season

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aniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont will stage its annual Holidays at the Garden starting Nov. 17 and running through Dec. 31. Each evening from 5-9 p.m., visitors can enjoy live music, shopping in The Garden Store, roasted marshmallows, children’s activities and more. The garden will be closed Christmas Day. The garden grounds will be decorated with

more than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available at an extra charge Thursday-Sunday during the event. The garden is located at 6500 S. New Hope Road in Belmont.

Food and beverage service will be available every night. Tickets and more information are available at www.dsbg.org or by calling 704829-1252.

River Hills Schmoozers visit Washington, D.C.

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he River Hills Schmoozers Club took a trip to Washington, D.C. recently and met with U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-York), who represents the Fifth Congressional District of S.C. , and his wife, Elaine.

It’s getting to look a lot like Cookie Season Photo/Provided

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Mailbag

Lions Club annual tree sale fundraiser begins Nov. 24

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he River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club continues its holiday tradition of selling North Carolina-grown Fraser fir trees and wreaths for Christmas at Camp Thunderbird. Money raised supports the Lions Club’s charitable efforts throughout the year. About $7,000 is raised from the sale each year. The lot is open starting Nov. 24.

(Photo/Mike Baker, MBaker Photographic)

ChristmasVille in Old Town Rock Hill starts Nov. 30

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he 12th annual ChristmasVille holiday event in Old Town Rock Hill is scheduled for Nov. 30-Dec. 3.

More than 70 events are scheduled over the four-day celebration, including a parade, horse-drawn carriage rides, historic tours, strolling Dickens carolers, art, theater, dance, music, a gingerbread house contest, multiple Santa activities and an ice skating rink.

Also, from 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., celebrate the works of illustrator Vernon Grant through activities such as “The Gnome in the Home” search and a special craft. Grant lived and worked in Rock Hill, and is the creator of the Kellogg’s Rice Krispies characters Snap, Crackle and Pop. Admission for each child is $5; caregivers receive free admission.

More information is online at www.christmasvillerockhill.com.

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Mailbag

Supplies donated

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isa Jubenville of Lake Wylie Chamber, Tisha Petrea of Morningstar Storage and Dr. Marc Sosne of CSD with the school supplies collected from the community to donate to the students.

Rotary Club of Lake Wylie raising funds to build pavilion

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he Rotary Club of Lake Wylie is holding a fundraiser to build an outdoor pavilion that will provide shade and seating for children from the YMCA and Crowders Creek Elementary School to participate in year-round outdoor activities. In addition, the space will provide an outdoor classroom for students from Crowders Creek, as well as a great venue for all types of community events.

The goal is to raise $60,000 for the project.

Contact Ed Lindsey at 803-493-4935 or ed_ lindsey@hotmail.com for more information.

Donation checks can be made to Lake Wylie Rotary Club Foundation Inc. and mailed to Rotary Club of Lake Wylie, 548 Nautical Drive, Suite 202, Lake Wylie, SC, 29710.

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Mailbag

Pick a live Christmas tree Stowe Dairy Farms, LLC

Penland Christmas Tree Farm

169 Stowe Dairy Rd. Gastonia, NC Weekdays: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturdays: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sundays: 12 p.m.- 6 p.m.

Choose and cut varieties: Leyland Cypress,

Red Cedar, Carolina Sapphire, Fresh Fraser firs, Christmas wreaths and greenery.

Special events: Santa visits with children – Sat., Nov. 26, 1 p.m.- 6 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 3, 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

Penland Christmas Tree Farm 6457 Campbell Rd. York, SC Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Choose and cut varieties: Carolina Sapphire, Deodar Cedar, Eastern Red Cedar, Leyland Cypress, Virginia Pine, White Pine.

Special events: Wagon rides on the weekends, gift shop, fresh wreaths Choose and cut your own Christmas tree from 70 acres of trees at various stages of growth. We provide you a saw and a farm map and then your tree selection begins.

Carowinds opens new holiday-themed event

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arowinds has created a new holiday event called WinterFest. The park, which in years past was closed during cold-weather months, will now be open starting Nov. 24 as it is transformed into a winter wonderland. Highlights include more than 5 million lights, a 70-foot Christmas tree and lavish displays. Live shows and strolling performers will entertain guests and spe12

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Mailbag Trees are then picked up by a truck and brought back to the sales area, old needles are removed, the tree is drilled if needed and then wrapped with string or netting for easier carrying home.

Sunday: 9 a.m. -5 p.m.

Pre-cut and choose and cut varieties: Frazier Fir Specials: Barrel fires, hot chocolate and s’mores

Lutz Christmas Tree Farm

River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club fundraiser

756 Neelands Rd. Clover, SC Monday-Thursday: 3:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

Friday-Sunday: 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Choose and cut varieties: Leyland Cypress.

Additional pre-cut varieties available: Fraser fir Specials: Free hot chocolate

1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, SC

Daily: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

For decades the Lions Club has brought North Carolina’s finest, freshly cut Fraser fir trees and wreaths to a borrowed Christmas Tree lot at Camp Thunderbird. Lions prepare and decorate the lot, display the trees and sell them to the general public.

Proceeds go to local charities and the Lions can also deliver the trees. This has become a holiday tradition for many families and the Lions volunteers alike.

Mr. Jack’s Tree Farm 16310 Wrights Ferry Rd., Charlotte, NC Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

cial holiday dishes and desserts will be available.

And it wouldn’t be Carowinds without the rides, so up to 16 of the park’s attractions will be open.

WinterFest will be open from 5-10 p.m. Friday through Sunday through Dec. 10, then every evening except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from Dec. 15-30. Tickets start at $25 and are available online at www.carowinds.com.

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Mailbag

Historic Brattonsville brings Christmas past to the present

H B

CV ill/York County

Photo/ Rock H

istoric Brattonsville will bring a Southern-style backcountry Christmas to life with its Christmas Candlelight Tours from 3-9 p.m. Dec. 2 and 9. Costumed interpreters will recreate Christmases of the 18th and 19th centuries, and visitors can learn about period crafts with hands-on activities. A campfire and music will also be part of the tours, and food will be available for purchase. Go to chmuseums.org for tickets and more information. Historic Brattonsville is located at 1444 Brattonsville Road in McConnells.

Lake Wylie’s 29th annual Lights on the Lake

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he Lights on the Lake Boat Parade, a highlight of the holiday season in Lake Wylie for the past 28 years, is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. Dec. 16. Christmas by the Lake was added to the event recently with the cooperation of several area churches. Sponsored by the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, it is an outdoor, family friendly celebration at the docks at T-Bones on the Lake held in conjunction with the parade. Boat parade co-chairmen Allan Gregory and Brad Rippetoe will add a few surprises to this year’s event.

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Mailbag

Hablamos Español!

Expires February 28, 2018

In keeping with the season, food and monetary donations will be accepted for the Clover Area Assistance Center. Also, unwrapped toys will be accepted at the chamber’s warming hut for Santa’s Sleigh to benefit area children.

“This is an opportunity for local families to give canned goods and unwrapped toys to help others while enjoying the holiday event. It is the season of giving,” said Susan Bromfield, chamber president.

It’s also not too late to register for entry in the boat parade. The registration form is on the chamber website, www.lakewyliesc.com. Sign up today.

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ake Wylie is a census-designated place (CDP) in York County. The population was 8,841 in the 2010 census, with an estimated 2016 population of about 11,000. Lake Wylie is located on a peninsula along the northwest shore of Lake Wylie, a manmade reservoir on the Catawba River that was named for 16

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Map data: Google, DigitalGlobe Dr. W. Gil Wylie in 1960. The community is an affluent suburb of Charlotte, N.C., approximately 20 miles to the northeast. Lake Wylie has a total area of 4.7 square miles, of which 3.5 square miles are land and 1.3 square miles (26.58%) are water. The average elevation is 512 feet.

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Shoreline

Lighting the Night Photos by Jeff Blake

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s a tradition on Lake Wylie for nearly 30 years, the annual Lights on the Lake Boat Parade has evolved and expanded to one of our area’s biggest events of the year.

This year’s parade, which starts at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 16, will have a big act to follow. Last year’s attendance on the ground was at record numbers, with quite a few spectators out on the water as well. Area restaurants enjoyed a significant spike in early December business, a time which typically can be slow as patrons are busy with shopping and other holiday celebrations.

T-Bones on the Lake provides docks for the boats and opens

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its deck for spectators. “The night of the boat parade is one of our busiest of the year, second only to Fourth of July,” remarked Haven Presley, owner of the restaurant.

“Part of the success of this event is due to the weather,” said Presley. “The temperature was mild, and everyone was real excited about that. But even if it’s cold, people just bundle up and come out. As long as it isn’t pouring down rain, we have a good turnout.”

Presley and the staff look forward to the event. “We’re kind of like the Griswalds (from the movie Christmas Vacation) with our decorations around here. So the boat parade fits right in.

Shoreline

Some of the competition from 2016’s boat parade.

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Shoreline

The 2016 Lights on the Lake boat parade featured colorfully decorated watercraft for spectators to enjoy along the shore at T-Bones at the Lake. A recently added event called Christmas by the Lake is now part of the festivities and includes marshmallow roasting, hot chocolate, a warming hut, charity drive, Christmas carols and more.

Having lights on the boats and on the restaurant is like having twice as many lights, since they reflect in the water.”

Presley said that the main reason for the increase in crowds, though, is the addition of “Christmas by the Lake,” an effort spearheaded by the Lake Wylie Chamber and Doug and Laurie McSpadden. This year, chamber board members Alan Gregory and Brad Rippletoe will chair the event.

Area churches come out to the boat landing next to T-Bones and share Christmas music and hospitality. This year, there will be caroling so more people can participate along the shoreline.

The Boy Scouts help set everything up.

It’s a community effort! This year the Rotary Club of Lake Wylie will also be helping out.

This is the fourth year for “Christmas by the Lake,” and it has grown to about 10 churches participating. Some provide hot 20

chocolate and coffee or marshmallows to roast by bonfires.

The main event of the evening is the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce-produced “Lights on the Lake” parade. Boats gather at the docks next to T-Bones, and captains meet prior to launching for instructions and parade order. The parade launches from T-Bones, circles around in front of RiverPointe and travels under the Buster Boyd Bridge. This year the boats will have a static display for a period of time so participants can share in the on-land festivities and people can view the details of the decorated boats and their themes.

Awards are given to the boat crews with the most creative lighting displays. Susan Bromfield, President of the Lake Wylie Chamber, said, “The boaters decorate any way they like. Some are Christmas-themed, some are cartoon-themed, movie themes, we’ve seen it all. The parade is meant to celebrate all of the holidays, religious and New Year’s. It’s a festive time for everyone.”

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Best viewing from the shore is from the deck at T-Bones and the Buster Boyd Public Boat Landing and access area. Homeowners along the shoreline are encouraged to join in the festivities by decorating their docks and homes on the lakeside. Bromfield added, “A lot of people along the parade route on the lake have parties and entertain the night of the parade, and stand along the shore to watch the boats.”

“We started this event almost 30 years ago, back when the restaurant here was the Hungry Fisherman,” added Bromfield. “Our purpose over the years has remained the same — to attract people to the lake and support our area businesses.”

The Lake Wylie “Lights on the Lake” parade was the first of its type in the Charlotte region. Depending on the weather, there are anywhere from 10 to 25 boats participating.

Regardless of the weather conditions, “the show must go on,” said Bromfield. The event

requires a great deal of coordination, with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, police force, and a host of community volunteers. T-Bones on the Lake is always a major sponsor of the event.

“This event has proven worthwhile for businesses,” explained Bromfield. “Various restaurants, particularly those within walking distance of the boat landing, are packed the night of the parade. Then, once people have their boats decorated, it has a lasting effect.

The boat owners will bring their boats up to T-Bones for the next couple of weeks.”

The community is invited to celebrate the season of giving by donating toys and food to those in need. T-Bones on the Lake collects “Toys for Tots” each year, and patrons are encouraged to bring toys for kids of all ages. In addition, canned goods, monetary donations and unwrapped toys will be collected for the Clover Area Assistance Center. Dropoff for these donations will be at the Chamber of Commerce warming tent. LW Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Food for Thought

Getting into

Christmas

Spirits

By Steve McDaniel Photos by Andrew Sprague

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Reindeer & Rye Creat

ed speci 2 oz. Mic fically fo hter’s Ry e whiske r 2 oz. Jac y Lake Wy k Rudy p omegran 1 oz. Ca lie ate grena mpari dine Juice of ½ Meye r Lemon Measure and pour all ingre half a M die eyer lem on into th nts into a Boston e mixture shaker. U Mixolog . Shake w sing ist’s note it h ice and p a lemon press, sq : The Ja find som our into ueeze on c k Rudy g e and no an ice-fill e renadine t substitu e Meyer le d ro is cks glass te the fak a key ing mons, a . e stuff. A redient. regular le It’s worth dditiona mon will lly, if you your whil do in a p r local g e to inch. rocer do esn’t car ry

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Food for Thought

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he end of the calendar brings us a multitude of traditions and festivities that we embrace with a fondness reserved only for this time of year.

What better way to celebrate family, friends and our blessings than with some holiday spirits that will warm the body and soul with subtle flavors and combinations.

We’re all familiar with eggnog, that hyper-sweet dessert drink that thankfully is

relegated to a few weeks in November and December. Hot toddies and mulled wines are also holiday drink staples, and all of those have their place. But that doesn’t mean you can’t depart a little from tradition with some new flavors and experiences that can make even the simplest get-together more memorable.

The drinks we offer here are just that.

Each has a unique character that goes be-

The Right Tools

J

ust as mentioned in the Reindeer & Rye cocktail recipe (page 25), proper quality ingedients make all the difference in your cocktails. There’s a time to skimp and a time to go all out, and I think we know which time the holidays fall under.

So remember, great cocktails come from great ingredients. And when in doubt, ask your friendly purveyor of spirits which way to go.

They are there to help!

yond the normal toddies or rum-reinforced eggnog that populate holiday festivities. They cover the cocktail spectrum from sweet to savory and can complement a variety of holiday fare or stand alone as a taste experience all their own.

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Food for Thought

Luscious Libations

Provided by Lake Wylie Liquors in partnership with Breakthru Beverage and Southern Beverage of Columbia.

The Simple Chocolate Martini 1.5 oz. - Godiva Milk Chocolate Liqueur .75 oz. - Ciroc Vodka With a chilled shaker, add ice and ingredients, shake well with ice and strain into a martini glass. For added look and flavor, garnish with a truffle and small shavings from your favorite chocolate bar. Impress your company with your extensive knowledge of the finer things.

The Old Fashion Pumpkin 1.5 oz. - Bailey’s Pumpkin Spice .75 oz. - Bulleit Bourbon The Sidecar blends cognac, Cointreau and lemon into a heady, citrusy mixture perfect for warming up chilly winter nights. The recipe combines two ounces of VSOP Remy Martin cognac, one ounce of Cointreau and the juice of half a lemon. Put it all in a Boston shaker with ice, shake, strain and pour into a small Coupe class. Remember to always spend the extra money on VSOP cognac. VS, mostly used to light flambes, is not very drinkable.

Cold weather naturally lends itself to warming drinks like spiced wines or heavier flavors of scotch, rye or bourbon, but don’t let that scare you away from chilled drinks with a bold, distinct flavor. The Sidecar and the Reindeer & Rye are perfect examples of cold cocktails that are more than capable of warming the winter chill.

On the sweeter side, the drinks described in the inset at right put an alcohol-based and decidedly non-calorie-conscious spin on some delicious chocolate, vanilla and pumpkin flavors.

Of course, the traditional holiday drinks are still party favorites. If you want to shake up the status quo a little, do some research and you can find variants of the ubiquitous eggnog that add some zing to that holiday standard bearer.

Mulled wines have been around for thousands of years. According to Vivino.com, a wine expert website, Roman soldiers heated

wine to stay warm during winter battles as early as the second century A.D. Over the intervening centuries, it has evolved to include a wide spectrum of wine varietals and flavor combinations.

The original hot toddy, a combination of whiskey, lemon and honey, is a time-honored way to ward off winter chills, and has long been touted as a treatment for ailments such as colds and sore throats. You can expand on the basic ingredients to customize your own hot toddy with brandy, scotch or bourbon flavored with cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon or sugar.

But don’t stop your holiday cocktail experience with these suggestions. Use your imagination and create your own signature drink, or provide a cocktail buffet and let your guests work their own magic.

There are no rules and certainly no limits ­— just make sure it all doesn’t taste like eggnog when you’re done! LW

Pour ingredients into a shaker with ice, stir very well and pour over ice in your favorite tumbler-style glass. Sip in front of a fire on a cool night, add blanket and a great book as necessary.

The Adult Mudslide Milkshake 1 oz. - Kahlua Rum Coffee liqueur 1 oz. - Absolute Vodka 1 oz. - Jameson Irish Whiskey 3 cups - Breyers Vanilla Ice Cream Pour all the ingredients into a blender and add an equal amount of ice. Blend the ingredients to slushy milkshake texture, then pour into a chilled hurricane glass. For added pizazz, stripe the hurricane glass with Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup from a squeeze bottle and garnish with chocolate shavings. Invite the cool family over for dessert and send the kids upstairs to play video games. Parents relax and enjoy.

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Food for Thought

Holiday traditions:

By Jane DuBois

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Photos provided

ore than decorations, more than presents, holiday traditions center around the food. The savory aroma of turkey roasting in the oven is a powerful reminder that connects us on such a deep level it is hard to describe. The yummy taste of homemade eggnog – do you ever ask yourself why we only have it at Christmas? I know I do! And, the sight of holiday desserts, so col28

orful and festive, delight us all.

Maybe you have some traditional foods that you would love to share this year but didn’t know were available. If that’s the case, you might want to visit Market on Wylie – our own gourmet shop right here in Lake Wylie.

They bring in fresh gourmet and exotic foods from all over the world. And yes, I said fresh.

If gumbo from New Orleans, cooked up last

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week, is your New Year’s Eve tradition, then you are in luck. Or perhaps Wagu beef from Australia, or lamb and elk from New Zealand? Would you love to get your hands on some Babka or Rugelach that is kosher and hand-crafted? Surprising family with oldworld holiday fare, with wines to match, is a celebration in itself.

Creating new holiday food rituals can be

Market on Wylie is well known as a bottle shop. They have an ever-changing offering of craft beer from a wide variety of breweries. They have a very nice selection of wines from the usual suspects (California, France, Italy, etc.) and also from South Africa, the Republic of Macedonia, Hungary and other less likely spots.

“I’m always interested in small vineyard, boutique wines from up and coming wine regions,” said Barbera Jenkins, the proprietor of Market on Wylie.

Barb, with the help of her husband, David, and son Matthew, has made the shop a go-to here in Lake Wylie. “I’m happy to take special orders. If someone wants a Buche do Noel for Christmas or a particular Champagne for New Year’s Eve, they just need to call me.”

Thanks Barb! I may just do that.

Please be sure to check out our Dining Guide, our Local Shopping Guide and our Entertainment guide in this issue of Lake Wylie Today for restaurants, caterers and gift giving ideas for all your holiday festivities. LW

and the not-so-traditional fun too. Farm to table is popular and Market on Wylie can assist there as well. They carry a selection of meats and brats from Thames Farm, and honey and other products from J & J Family Farm. They always have a great selection of cheeses from the Carolinas, spreads and other condiments that also make great basket stuffers if you are looking for holiday gifts.

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Dining River Hills Country Club

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

The Cove

5301 Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5455

Sake Express

5360 Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-610-0146

ungry? Let our list of dining options in Lake Wylie be your guide.

There is sure to be something for every taste.

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Copper Premium Pub

Arby’s

Domino’s Pizza

511 Nautical Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5555

4516 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7021 125 E Evergreen Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-7075

Azteca Grill

Dunkin Donuts

Bagel Boat – Bagels

Jersey Mike’s

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

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

Best China

Lake Wylie Bowl N Bounce

604 Nautical Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-8930

5243 Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5540

Bojangles

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

Cherry – Asian Cuisine 4034 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9594

Christopher’s Bar and Grille

1500 Village Harbor Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2461 30

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

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

Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza

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

Lee’s Hoagie House 312 Bulkhead Way Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-619-4046

Lily’s Bistro

4547 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710

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McDonalds

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

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Subway

5245 Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0143

Sweetwater Grille

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

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

Panda Hut

Taco Bell at Lake Wylie

144 Highway 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-631-1988

Papa John’s

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

Pier 88 at River Hills Marina 54 Marina Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0088

Pizza Hut

5241 Highway 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-1188

Q2U BBQ and Catering

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

Rey Azteca Mexican

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

311 Vesla Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7068

Thai Fusion

125 Evergreen Road 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 29710-8099 803-831-2687

Zaxby’s

143 Highway 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2634 LW

Entertaining Y Guide our Winter and Holiday Party Guide for 2017. Entries for weddings, anniversaries and special event party information are included.

Locations for parties and gatherings

Travel – Holiday and Winter Getaways

River Hills Country Club One Country Club Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2126 Full service location with food and beverage – ballroom or terrace

AAA Vacations 13540 Steelecroft Parkway Charlotte, NC 28278 704-816-1680

T-Bones on The Lake Highway 49 @ Blucher Circle Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0170

Party and Tent Rental

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490 Holiday special events and parties – need caterer

Creative Solutions PO Box 1236 Belmont, NC 28012 704- 825-8701

Musicians and DJ’s Ansel Couch, Guitarist 803-329-0640, anselwcouch@yahoo.com Christine Robinson, Violinist 803-802-1930 The Classics (Band) Jerry Robinson, 704-678-9726 Lenny Loafer and the Lazy Rhythm Section Tom Wirth 803-831-9974 www.lennyloafer.com Carol Chase, Pianist 803-831-5872 CarolChase2002@hotmail.com www.cdbaby.com/CarolChase Top Hat Entertainment (DJ) – Traditional and personalized Tom and Judy Gray 704-737-7522, nadines@bellsouth.net

Gala Affairs 1368 Constitution Road Rock Hills, SC 29730 803-324-8113

Party Trays and Catering Arby’s/Brumit Restaurant Group 803-831-5555 Azteca Grill / Rey Azteca Feliz Navidad Mexican Food Catering 803-831-9277, 803-831-8930 Harris Teeter – Steelecroft 704-587-9970 Hey Sugar Shop Specialty cookies and cake truffle www.heysugarshop.com Jackson’s Kitchen 803-222-7767 Jersey Mike’s 803-831-0912 Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza 803-831-0855 Lee’s Hoagie House 803-619-4046

Publix 803-831-5667 Q2U Catering 803-831-8883 Walmart Lake Wylie 803-619-7021

Accommodations York County Visitor and Convention Bureau 452 S. Anderson Road — Baxter Hood Center Rock Hill, SC 29731 800-866-5200 www.visityorkcounty.com

Lake Wylie Travel Susan Lukowski 6244 North Road York, SC 29745 803-831-5494, lakewylietravel@yahoo.com www.lakewylietravel.com

Red Fez Club 16600 Red Fez Club Road Charlotte, NC 28273 704-588-0574 Full-service, less-formal lakeside location, has picnic shelter and building

Entertaining

Designer and unique jewelry Precious Metals of Lake Wylie Jody Chandler 10 Executive Court Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-818-1100

Personalized Printing and Monogramming Sterling Source Lindy Wetherell 803-831-8133 Invitations and printing needs

Local Florists Magnolia House Florists Plantation Square Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9155 The Palmetto House 306 N. Main St. Clover, SC 29710 803-222-1125 888-438-9449 Hummingbird Florist 37 N. Congress St. York, SC 29745 803-684-2248 Flowers Plus 404 N. Main St. Clover, SC 29170 803-222-4796 LW Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Garden Party

Tripping the Light Fantastic Story and Photos by Jan Todd

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Garden Party

Uplighting on the Mychaskiws’ home in The Coves on River Oaks, along with low-voltage lights along the sidewalks and driveway, provide a warm, welcoming air to the home.

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Garden Party Kathy purchased strings of lights from Lowes, a small effort resulting in an instant festive atmosphere on their back porch.

Much of the Mychaskiws’ yard is left as natural area, thinned out to open up the woods. Uplighting was installed on several favorite trees, which makes the landscaping visible indoors and out after sunset.

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he magic of light! Around the holidays, people drive for miles to see beautiful light displays, and fill their own homes with candles and warm lights that bring a festive air and chase away the chill of winter.

The Mychaskiws, residents in The Coves on River Oaks in Lake Wylie, have discovered the joy of magical lighting all year round.

“It is amazing what a few lights outdoors do for the home,” said Kathy Mychaskiw. “It makes the place warm and inviting, and is so pretty at night.”

Around the outside of their home, the Mychaskiws installed low-level lighting in strategic places. Lights point up toward beautiful birch trees, line the driveway and sidewalk entrance to the home, and illuminate the front of the house. “Down lights” are installed on the stone retaining walls, casting a warm glow to define the terraced landscape. Then, for an especially festive feel, the couple strung lights along the railing of their back porch.

From the inside, lighted trees are framed by windows, offering a view of the outdoors from places that the Mychaskiws sit and relax in their home. The string of lights from the back

Garden Party

The formal dining room (above left) has an adjustable dimmer on the chandelier. Lights from the china cabinet and a candlelit floral arrangement add warmth and a festive flair when entertaining. The hearth room (above right), off of the kitchen, is warmed by a gas fireplace. It is a wonderful space for relaxing and enjoying views of the outdoors, or a cozy space for guests.

porch are seen twinkling from their kitchen and great room. If they’re entertaining, candles and indoor lighting equipped with adjustable dimmers contribute to the ambiance of a party atmosphere.

Kathy attests that outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be expensive. “I purchased strings of outdoor lights from Lowes, and with a flip of a switch we have a festive atmosphere.” While they planned some of the light schemes during the building process, other lights were added after the home was complete and the couple had a chance to determine how they’d use the outdoor spaces.

Ed Mychaskiw added, “We do have a lot of the lighting features automated. The outdoor lights are programmed to come on at twilight.”

Ed and Kathy have been in their home for about four years. “We were the first ones to build on the inside circle, the second phase of The Coves on River Oaks,” said Kathy. “We were here about four months before anyone else moved in. But this last year, it has just exploded.”

The couple loves their neighborhood. “It’s a great mixture between empty nesters, like ourselves, and younger families. There are some local people, from Charlotte and the area, and then some from other places, New York, Washington state, San Francisco, all over.”

Kathy serves as secretary of the Homeowners Association, which allows her to get to know and connect with her neighbors as soon as Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Garden Party

Kathy plants mostly perennials in her yard for low-maintenance beauty year after year. Sometimes she has to move and replant to find the most optimal soil and light for particular plants.

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Garden Party

Warm light spills onto the patio, where the Mychaskiws often dine in open air.

A wood-burning chiminea helps on chilly nights. they purchase their property.

The Mychaskiws purchased their lot in 2012, during the beginning of the real estate recovery in the area. “We moved from Greenville, SC, and I was already here working,” said Ed, who is employed by Honeywell. They’ve moved many times over the years. “All corporate relocations,” Kathy explained. The couple designed their current home, similar to the

one they owned in Greenville. Having lived in a house with a similar floor plan, they knew what they liked and tweaked some areas to improve over their previous residence.

The couple enjoys working in the yard at this stage of life. Kathy commented, “When we first moved here, we didn’t want to be mowing too much, so we left a lot of natural areas. We did have it thinned out, though, so

you could see into the woods.”

She continued, “Back when I started gardening, about 15 years ago, I thought an annual was something that comes back every year. Then some of my friends in Michigan started helping me out, and I learned the difference, than annuals are something that have to be planted annually. Now, I almost always buy perennials, so I don’t have to plant again

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Garden Party

The great room has a bank of windows open to the outside, letting the twinkling landscape and porch lights provide a festive atmosphere indoors as well. The great room has a large opening to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining. next year.” Kathy will move plants around sometimes to find where a plant grows best in the yard. “Sometimes it takes a couple of seasons to really understand which light and soil is best for a particular plant.”

The Mychaskiws are also big fans of the lake. “We love Lake Wylie. We zipped out to the lake today, had lunch on the water, and spent a couple of hours out on the water,” remarked Ed. Wherever they’ve lived, the Mychaskiws have tried to be near a lake. “When the kids were growing up, we’d spend the entire day on the lake. Now we’ll usually go out for a couple of hours or so, sometimes on weekends and often during the week, because we’re so close.”

“This area is nice because we have all the amenities of Charlotte, but we don’t have to deal with the city traffic as much,” added Kathy. “The weather is wonderful. We’d always said that the Carolinas would be a great place to end up, and we’re fortunate that the job brought us here.”

The Mychaskiws’ home is set up for entertaining. “We have a very social neighborhood,” said Ed. “We’ll get together for a Lowcountry boil or a chili cookoff. We always host a Christmas party here,” he continued.

The home has a big open kitchen with a hearth room, all opening up to the great room.

“We designed it to flow during parties. We learned if you put the wine and drinks in one room, and food in the dining room and kitchen, the people spread out a bit and it works better.”

When the weather is nice, the Mychaskiws open up the back porch and patio and let guests spill outdoors to enjoy the fresh air. Living in the sunny South, that can happen the whole year round. LW 40

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The Southern Christmas Show A Holiday Favorite

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ome people start enjoying their Christmas traditions right after Thanksgiving with a trip to a tree farm. Or perhaps they start “getting in the spirit” at the annual Choralier concert, singing along to “It’s a Sleigh Ride!” Maybe it is watching the Lights on the Lake Parade at T-Bones that sets the sail on the celebrations. But as for me? I begin my holiday celebrations by taking my mama to the Southern Christmas Show.

During the second week of every November, we gather with 100,000 of our closest friends to wander, mesmerized, through three giant exhibition halls at the Park Expo

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& Conference Center in Charlotte. Actually, the 100,000 attendees are spread over the 12day period of the show, but I feel that we’re all together in spirit. This year, the show celebrated its 50th anniversary, and my mother and I have attended for at least 30 of those years.

Just to be clear, the Southern Christmas Show is all about shopping. Over the years, various friends have accompanied Mama and me to the show. We particularly like to invite newcomers to tag along. A few years ago, we asked a neighbor, a recent transplant from New York City, to come with us. When we arrived to pick her up, we found her dressed

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Story by Jan Todd

beautifully in festive holiday wear, including a pair of shimmering spike heels!

After a bit of discussion about the amount of walking that we’d be doing at the show, we convinced our friend to change into some more “sensible” shoes. When we arrived at the show, we couldn’t help but notice our friend’s look of confusion and surprise. As it turns out, when we told her we were taking her to the “Southern Christmas Show,” she was expecting some sort of Hee Haw version of the Rockettes!

Granted, there is a Holiday Entertainment Stage at the show, tucked over by the

Photo/Southern Christmas Show

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food court. School choirs, instrumentalists, and clogging and dance teams grace the stage to contribute to the merry atmosphere for the shoppers. There are also a couple of display rooms, the “Enchanted Village” featuring decorated doll houses and other miniature scenes, and a whistling wonderland of Tiny Trains. But the stars of the show are the 450 exhibitors offering everything from hand-crafted treasures to Christmas decorations, jewelry, strudel, fine art and kitchenware.

For me, attending the Christmas Show has always been a family affair. In the early

years, some of my sisters and I would attend with my mother and grandmother. Along the way, we added baby carriages when our little ones were born, mourned the loss of my grandmother, and missed my sisters when they moved far away. Cell phones brought my sisters back to the show in a sense, as I’d snap and send pictures and videos of the “Yum yum for the tum tum” cheese guy, the darling Gourd Lady, or a particularly outlandish Christmas sweater.

I decorated my first house with pottery and art purchased at the show, and built a nice collection of Christmas decor. I bought

an Advent Calendar when my children were little, and built a tradition that lasted through their college years. I purchased a coveted Sweetgrass basket from a vendor at the show, feeling flush from a holiday bonus from an employer who knew me well enough to time his generosity to the day before my annual trek to this shopping mecca.

My mother is always on the lookout for Christmas and birthday gifts at the show, watching her daughters like a hawk as we oooh and ahhh over various offerings. Over the years, we’ve learned to contain our excitement over silly doodads unless we want to un-

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wrap them on Christmas morn. Tell that to the Dancing Santa.

Last year’s visit to the Christmas Show was particularly special, as all four sisters, from three different states, appeared at the show on my mother’s birthday. I picked Mom up and chauffeured her through the terrifying Big City Traffic, as usual, and the other sisters “popped out” of various shops and booths, choreographing a surprise that had us all in laughter and tears. We did all of our favorite show activities, sampling toasted pecans and hot salsas, checking out Teresa Pennington’s latest mountain paintings, and watching demonstrations of the miracle cleaning solutions that promised to change our lives forever.

As one of the best attended shows in the nation, vendors come from all over the country. Several, however, come from right here in York County, and their products are available to us all year round. So even if you missed them at this year’s Christmas Show, you can still check them out for your gift and decorating needs for the holiday season.

ALTA ALTA, a women’s high end fashion retailer located on 355 Herlong Ave. in Rock Hill, has participated in the Southern Christmas Show for the past 18 years or so. Owner Tracy Stiff said, “We build an entire storefront in the Old Town Shoppe area of the show. Customers come year after year to see us.”

ALTA has a very loyal customer base, and 44

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

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

Campus Scenes artwork, detailed drawings of college landmarks (above), appeal to students and alumni. The artist, Mike James, lives in Rock Hill and sells his work at festivals and online. ALTA specializes in stylish women’s clothing (left), but also offers selections for men and children at the Christmas Show (Photos/Provided).

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

is patronized by many Lake Wylie residents.

ALTA’s clothing is featured each year in the annual Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.

Participating in the Southern Christmas Show is like having a second shop location open for 12 days, plus a couple more days for setup and dismantling. Some of ALTA’s regular customers help staff the Christmas Show display, which features designer clothing, shoes and accessories. “We’ve grown over the years,” said Stiff. “We’ve added new categories like men’s clothing, children’s wear and gifts.”

Stiff says she looks forward to her time at the Show. “I love the Christmas spirit! I met a customer years ago, and she comes in every year to buy a Christmas sweater. She buys her dog a children’s outfit, and send us a Christmas card with her family photo on it, dog and all!”

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

Campus Scenes by Michael James Mike James graduated with a degree in architecture from Clemson University, and found that he loved drawing buildings more so than designing them. While in school, he sketched Tillman Hall, perhaps the most famous building on the Clemson campus, and sales of that drawing helped pay his way through school. Eventually, James’ passion for drawing took him onto a different career path, and he now is a full-time artist specializing in pen-and-ink renditions of college campus landmarks.

James uses a method called pointillism, Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature creating highly detailed images comprised of thousands of tiny dots. “Each image takes about 80-100 hours to draw,” said James.

James chooses his subjects by visiting campuses, most located in the Southeast, and tries to find unique angles and perspectives of the colleges’ most meaningful landmarks.

Some of James’ ideas come directly from his customers. “I’ll have people come up to me at a show and ask about a particular school, something that was meaningful to them when they attended there.”

Campus Scenes has exhibited at the Southern Christmas Show for more than 20 years.

“We were stunned by how busy it was,” James said about his first exhibit there. The success of that first show helped launch his business, which he now works full-time. “We’ve had the same spot for the past 22 years, in Liberty Hall, which is where you want to be. That’s the first big hall, with all of the arts and crafts.”

Best sellers at the show are scenes from UNCC and Appalachian State University.

“Both of those schools have a strong alumni Marine Corps veteran Chris McKinney (inset), owner of KBar Soap Co., stands in front of a base in this area,” said James. “And, of course, photo of his platoon on the outskirts of Baghdad in 2003. All-natural KBar Soaps are in the Clemson sells well. I have one print with a giant tiger in the Clemson stadium, and that one shape of a grenade as a tribute to McKinney’s service in the military.

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Diane and Alejandro Lopez offer samples to their customers at the Southern Christmas Show (Photos/Provided).

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Feature has sold particularly well after the football team won the national championship.”

All of his prints can be personalized with names and graduation years, if desired. Prices range from $18-$40 for most black-and-white prints.

James exhibits his Campus Scenes at a number of street festivals and shows, and also sells his work on Etsy and Amazon, and through his website, ArtByCampusScenes. com. The Southern Christmas Show, though, is by far his biggest event.

KBar Soap Co. Making its debut at the 2017 Southern Christmas Show, KBar Soap Co., owned and operated by Marine Corps veteran Chris McKinney of Lake Wylie, offers handmade soap with “manly” scents. As McKinney described, “It is an all-natural soap, but still allows guys to keep their “man cards.”

Chris and his wife, Robin, use essential oils and other natural ingredients to make coldpressed soap and beard oil with scents and names inspired by his time in the military.

For instance, “Reveille” soap is infused with brewed coffee, and contains real coffee grounds

to act as a natural exfoliator. The “Whiskey and Bad Decisions” soap is made with Leadslingers Whiskey, along with mosturizing olive, coconut, palm oils and shea butter.

Chris served as a combat engineer in the First Marine Division, and was a part of the invasion into Iraq in 2003 and the march to Baghdad. He says, “Making soap is therapeutic for me.” The soaps are all made in the shape of a grenade. “It’s manly, and ergonomically designed,” explained Chris. “Plus, everyone loves a grenade!”

Robin encouraged Chris to offer his soaps for sale at the Southern Christmas Show. “She goes every year with her friends,” said Chris.

“She said that there aren’t as many gifts for men at the show, so our soap should do very well. Plus, it honors people in the military.”

Products are available on the KBarSoapCo. com website, and in a few local retail shops.

Grapes & Olives on Tap Alejandro and Diane Lopez, of Fort Mill, specialize in high-quality Spanish olive oils and Italian balsamic vinegars, naturally infused with herbs, mushrooms and fruits. They sell exclusively at festivals, consumer shows

and on their website.

The Southern Christmas Show was actually their first show, launching their business six years ago. Diane commented, “It was an amazing opportunity and venue to establish our own small business. We have loyal customers that visit us at the Christmas Show year after year.”

Diane remembers being a bit anxious about that first show. “My husband and I had left our corporate America jobs, and had become business partners. We weren’t sure what to expect at the Christmas Show. We were so nervous that we broke a bottle of balsamic that hit our brand new backdrop! And then, I inserted the Square, the device used to process credit card sales, into our tablet cash register upside down, and panicked when it wouldn’t work. But guests came to our tasting bar, and loved our products. We laugh now, looking back at that first show!”

Customers are able to sample the products at the show. Their bestselling items are the Naturally Infused Garlic Mushroom oil and the Pecan Praline Balsamic Vinegar. Delicious recipes using their products are available on the company website, go-ontap.com. LW

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30 years and going strong Clover Community Bank celebrates three decades of banking By Jane DuBois

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emember 1986? Ronald Reagan was president, the Olsen twins were born, Mike Tyson became heavyweight champ, the Oprah Winfrey Show premiered, Top Gun ruled the box office, Clemson was ACC football champs, and shoulder pads for women were the rage. And a little idea became a big project for Clover.

This year, Clover Community Bank celebrates 30 years of community banking. The idea for a community bank came about in late summer of 1986 when local businessmen began discussing the need for a bank that was locally owned and managed. Clover residents were willing to financially support the idea, and it quickly turned into reality. Forty organizers got the ball rolling and elected the first Board of Directors. The original directors included Jim Hall as chairman, Herb Kirsh, Dick Burrell, Marvin McCarter, Ruby Bennett, Paul Boyd, Jim Harris and Hank Owen. Owen remains a member of the board and now serves as its chairman.

With local ownership and personal service being the cornerstone of the newly organized bank, Clover resident Jim Harris was named the first bank president, and plans

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moved forward. A total of 544 investors purchased the original stock certificates between April and July 1987, and ground-breaking began shortly afterward. Clover Community Bank opened its doors on October 1, 1987, in a mobile unit in downtown Clover, with eight employees.

Among those new hires was Gwen Thompson. Thompson, who is the only remaining original employee, began her career at Clover Community Bank as part of the bank operations and technology group. Her commitment

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to the bank’s success was recognized when she was named president and CEO in 2001. She has led Clover Community Bank through 30 years of expansion and growth in the region – through, economic ups and downs, the digital age and much more.

Clover Community Bank has remained committed to its original mission and experienced its own growth while keeping the needs of the community in the forefront. In 2002, Clover Community Bank opened a second branch in the Lake Wylie area. With some 32

Feature employees between the two offices, the bank continues to provide the latest products and services.

Customers can open accounts and apply for loans online at clovercommunitybank.com.

Clover Community Bank customers have access to their accounts 24/7 through online banking or their mobile app.

Clover Community Bank operates by a set of core values, which include: doing the right thing, staying positive, be efficient and driven, and have fun while doing it.

Clover Community Bank is an integral part of this community.

The bank remains focused on its customers and shareholders and the ability to make local decisions and have a positive impact the community. This focus is shown through their efforts to give back to the community as well.

The bank has created a local New Year’s Day 5K. Jan. 1, 2018,

marks the third annual running of this event. In the first two years Clover Community Bank was able to raise $3,500, which went to the River Hills Emergency Squad and the Clover Area Assistance Center. This year’s event beneficiary will be God’s Kitchen.

The bank also provides support for the future of this community by investing in our schools. Examples include the initial funding for Clover School District YMCA Aquatics Center with a $50,000 donation, providing internet to students’ homes with the Connectivity Internet Initiative, and serving as a dropoff locations for back to school supplies drive every summer.

Clover Community Bank looks forward to the next 30 years.

For more information, check out their website, Facebook page or give them a call at 803-222-7660 Clover Community Bank opened in 1986 when a group of business to experience the personal service owners saw a need for a bank that was locally owned and managed.

The bank now has more than 30 employees at two locations. from the start. LW

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Not a Handout, a Hand Up CAAC dedicated to assisting those in need

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CAAC staff members Ann Herbert and Cynthia Krause work to help those in need feel comfortable. It is difficult for many people to ask for help, and the CAAC staff works to ensure that needs are met with compassion and understanding.

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CAAC’s annual gala is the largest fundraiser for the agency. Each year it takes many individuals to make the event a success. The 15th annual event will be held April 26, 2018, and the theme is “Talk Derby to Me.” Pictured here are members of the 2017 committee: Alice Ewers, Ann Baber, Rosellen Dunn, Nadine Moletto, Pam Lydon, Karen van Vierssen, Pam Hawthorne, Marietta DiTomasso, Ann Marie Rau and Janie Davis.

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hirty-five years ago, in response to a local economic crisis triggered by closing textile mills, the River Hills Lions and Lioness Clubs began a food pantry that later morphed into the Clover Area Assistance Center. This nonprofit organization now runs the largest food pantry in Western York County, plus much, much more.

In addition to the food pantry, CAAC offers financial assistance for people needing help with rent, utilities and prescriptions, operates a free dental clinic for their clients and provides education programs on “Living Basics” such as budgeting, nutrition, couponing and needs vs. wants. It is the goal of the agency not to simply apply a band-aid to a person’s need, but to make a long-term difference in helping that person become self-sufficient.

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For services not covered by CAAC, the agency has a number of partner organizations and helps clients navigate through to find the resources and help they need. For instance, CAAC provides applications for home repairs, performed through Habitat for Humanity. Eyeglasses and hearing aids are provided through CAAC from the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club. Those needing medical care are referred to the new mobile care clinic in York.

“We partner with churches, other nonprofit agencies and various providers to work together and meet the needs in our community,” said Karen van Vierssen, executive director of CAAC. “The whole collaboration has grown over the years and has improved our ability to serve. For instance, we share

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databases with organizations such as PATH and Tender Hearts Ministry (Thrift Store and Food Pantry), and work with churches and other nonprofits.

“Churches will get calls for help all the time. A number of churches call us first, or just direct the requests to us, and we have the resources to verify where the need really is.

We can really help the churches in that way,” said van Vierssen.

Churches in return support CAAC through monetary and food pantry donations. “There are specific things that we ask for on a regular basis,” said van Vierssen.

“We always need donations of toiletries, like shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, soap. These are things that people cannot get with food stamps, and they can get expensive. Also, pa-

Feature per products, toilet paper, paper towels. And, of course, canned foods and cereal, rice, pasta, all the basics of a pantry.”

Van Vierssen commended on the creativity of some of the churches. “We’ve had one that built a Tower of Toilet Paper,” she laughed.

“They told their congregation to focus on that one thing, and they brought in enough toilet paper to stack up to the ceiling! That made it easy on the donors, too, to just focus on one thing.”

Sometimes churches and donors will coordinate first with CAAC to determine items most needed at a particular time, but other times, “They just show up with a truck load of something. We never say no!” exclaimed van Vierssen. “If we get too much of an item, we’ll share with other agencies like PATH or Tender Hearts. They do the same with us. Nothing ever goes to waste.”

With the upturn in the economy, CAAC and other needs-based agencies have seen a slight decrease in requests. “More people are getting jobs, even low-paying ones, and are trying to make it on their own,” remarked van Vierssen. She added, “If every nonprofit went out of business because there wasn’t anyone to help, that would be a good thing! But we will always be a safety net for some people. Those in rural areas and senior citizens are most commonly at high risk for food insecurities.

If they have to make a choice between paying bills, buying medications or buying food, that’s where we can help.”

Van Vierssen expressed gratitude for organizations that provide donations on a regular basis. “We are fortunate to have a good relationship with Publix,” she said. “They’ve been an incredible partner and have also opened the doors to a number of distributors who give us food. Bagel Boat gives us their excess bagels. That has been wonderful. Bright Eyes & Bushy Tails donates pet food. We have a lot of great partners.”

The Clover School District provides a large amount of food for CAAC’s pantry through food drives. “The ROTC will bring in 10,000 pounds of food at a time,” van Vierssen said.

“Individual classes or schools will collect canned goods. Knowing that that type of philanthropy is starting with kids so young is pretty amazing. Kids are learning to make their community a better place, by helping their neighbors in need.”

Something for everyone CAAC clients and recipients of food and services must reside within the Clover School District. They apply in person and are guidWinter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature ed through the process by trained volunteers.

Once eligibility is confirmed, services are available immediately.

Some of CAAC’s services are limited to their clients, but others are offered to the entire community. The Living Basic Classes on topics such as setting foals, credit and fraud, and budgeting basics are available to everyone who wants to attend. The agency will regularly schedule representatives from agencies such as Welvista, a nonprofit organization that provides free prescriptions for the uninsured, to be available to anyone in the community.

“People can sign up for our newsletter or check our Facebook page to find out about upcoming meetings and opportunities,” said van Vierssen.

How you can get involved Volunteers are always needed at CAAC, either on a short-term or long-term basis.

Greeters are needed to welcome clients when the pantry is open, entering data and updating information. Pantry “shoppers” fill shopping carts for clients and other volunteers may stock shelves, weigh and record donations, sort items and arrange in the warehouse.

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Each year, Boy Scouts from Clover and Lake Wylie (opposite page) collect more than 10,000 pounds of food for CAAC. This accounts for the largest donation of food from one group in one day annually. More than 30 Interact students from Clover High School participate in the sorting of food as it comes in.

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Feature Volunteers Rose Stapleton and Sandy Eaton are often the first people clients meet when coming into CAAC for assistance.

There are more than 60 volunteers who help provide direct services and work behind the scenes at CAAC.

Volunteers are also needed to work on the gala committee. Held in April each year at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, the gala raises money through ticket sales, sponsorships and an auction. Volunteers are vital ahead of time for event planning and gathering donations for the auction. During the gala, greeters are needed, as well as people to run the games and activities.

“We’re always looking for people with good ideas,” said van Vierssen. “We never

want to be stagnant, thinking that the same ol’ thing is good enough.”

Food donations are always welcome. Holiday meal baskets are prepared for those in need for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the community is invited to share anything that might go in those baskets, from turkey to stuffing to sweet potatoes. Individuals can organize their own food drives or efforts, for instance by asking for canned good donations in lieu of gifts for celebrations, or inviting party guests to

bring a pantry product to a holiday party.

“There are many ways to get involved,” stressed van Vierseen. “Any of these efforts really bring the community together.”

CAAC has recently extended the Food Pantry hours to serve those in need: Monday 9-noon and 1-4 p.m., Wednesday 1-5 p.m. and Thursday 9-2 p.m. Check out the Clover Area Assistance Center Facebook page, or drop by CAAC in Clover, for news, classes and specific needs and ways that you can get involved. LW

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Feature

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SPENDING IT

CLOSE TO

HOME Shop locally for gifts and holiday needs

By Susan Bromfield, President - Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

A

s the holidays rapidly approach, save time and support our community and local businesses. With just a few weeks left until Christmas, here are some ideas to consider as you prepare for the holidays: Lowe’s in Lake Wylie and Walmart will have everything for home improvements, holiday décor and gifts for the whole family with their many departments.

New this year is The Shoppes at Five

Points, located at 440 Five Points Court, near the intersection of S.C. highways 55 and 49.

The retail center has more than 28 vendors, arts and craftsmen who have everything from bamboo sheets to handmade stained glass art and Southern gifts. Stop by during this holiday season.

Market on Wylie, located by Hunt, Paddle and Fish, has selections of wine, imported cheeses, salami and gourmet foods that can make great for gifts or a festive meal at home.

Christmas trees, wreaths and greenery are available at Walmart and Lowe’s. River Hills Lions Club Charity Tree Lot at the entrance of Camp Thunderbird is always a great success and usually sells out by mid December.

Harris Teeter, Walmart, Food Lion and Publix at Lake Wylie will have a full assortment of holiday foods, deli and bakery trays for all your party needs. Harris Teeter offers online shopping for a small fee, which can make your holiday meal shopping a breeze.

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Feature Lake Wylie Liquors offers a terrific variety of competitively priced party and gift items during the holidays and is conveniently located at S.C. Highway 49 and Evergreen Road.

Gift certificates make a great gift, and there is no end to the ideas available locally.

Who wouldn’t love to receive a gift certificate for lunch or dinner at one of our local restaurants? T-Bones on the Lake offers great views, Rey Azteca offers Mexican fare for lunch and dinner and Lake Wylie Pizza and Italian even delivers. Q2U BBQ and Catering makes takeout or dine-in easy plus makes for a great place to get a gift certificate. Q-2-U BBQ and Catering offers gift certificates and catering.

For those with less time to dine, there are gift certificates at McDonald’s, Subway, Wendy’s, Jersey Mike’s, Zaxby’s, Dunkin Donuts, Moe’s Southwest, Lee’s Hoagies, Arby’s, Sake Express, Thai Fusion, Copper Premium Pub, The Cove (formerly The River Rat location) and Bojangles’.

A gift certificate from the Bagel Boat of Lake Wylie is sure to be a favorite gift or stocking stuffer. Who doesn’t love a mocha, hot cocoa or coffee at the holidays and

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on cold winter days? Hey Sugar Shop features beautiful and clever holiday cookies and cake truffles that make a perfect gift or for treats at home. Orders can be placed at www.heysugarshop.com These are just a few of the choices and ideas to shop locally this holiday season.

If meals don’t appeal to your gift-giving sense, think about other gift certificates for manicures and pedicures, available at the Nail Gallery and Nail Palace or a great massage from one of our local massage therapists, including Jeani Rogers at A Caring Environment. A gift certificate with a personal trainer also could make a nice gift. The Office (formerly Sportscenter location) and Anytime Fitness provide gift certificates to begin a healthy new year with a fitness plan and memberships. A YMCA family membership can be enjoyed all year long. A gift certificate from Vitamins 4 Less, located by Anytime Fitness, also makes a nice gift for the health-conscious. A car wash or detail at a local car wash also makes a nice gift.

A gift certificate from one of our beauty salons always makes a nice gift. Mahalo Salon, located at Evergreen Road and Highway

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49, Great Clips and Revel Salon and Color Studio, located at Lake Wylie Business Centre, all will provide personalized service. Lake Wylie Barber Shop, located on Highway 49 by Hunt, Paddle and Fish, and Gentlemen’s Cut, located at Plantation Square, are full-service barber shops, great places to get a gift certificate for men.

And for our family pets, Bright Eyes and Bushy Tails, pet grooming and supplies located in Waterside West, makes a great spot to get gifts for pets or a gift certificate for grooming and services.

Hunt, Fish, Paddle offers a full assortment of sporting goods, paddleboards and fishing supplies perfect for the sportsman in the family.

Lake Wylie Bowl ’N Bounce is a favorite place for families and groups to gather this winter for bowling and bounce. Gift certificates are available as good stocking stuffers or as a gift for the whole family.

A gift card from Quick Trip or Kangaroo Stores will be appreciated by students and kids of all driving ages. Keep it local and a useful gift is always welcome.

In Clover on Main Street, ML Ford and Sons Furniture store is a treasure trove of gift

Feature items and furnishings. The Palmetto House features many gifts and floral arrangements as well as South Carolina-themed gifts. Jackson’s Kitchen has homemade breads, salads, pies and cheese balls, great for gift-giving or for home.

The gift of time and creating memories is always appreciated. How about going for a drive to McAddenville to see the lights or to see the lights at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. These are just a few ideas for the holidays. Visit the chamber’s website at www. lakewyliesc.com and look at the online directory as you complete your holiday list.

Our entertaining and holiday party guide, on pag 31, will help you find all your party needs and locations to entertain.

Support our local businesses. They support the community and its charity activities throughout the year. Remember to give a gift of an unwrapped toy to the Clover Jaycees Toy Drive and add some canned food items or a check to CAAC, all of which can be dropped off at Lake Wylie Assisted Living seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Have a merry Christmas and happy holiday season. LW

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Feature

2017 HOLIDAY CALENDAR

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Calendar Holiday activities are in full swing in and around Lake Wylie! From parades to tree lightings, unique gift shopping at craft fairs and more, check out our winter calendar for ways to celebrate the season. Please check ahead for dates and times as they are subject to change.

Visit with Santa at Stowe Dairy Farm – Nov. 25 and Dec. 2 Santa Claus will arrive and greet children from 1-6 p.m. on Nov. 25 and Dec. 2. The farm will also have choose-and-cut Christmas trees. 169 Stowe Dairy Road, Gastonia, NC 28052.

Winter Wonderland Craft Fair at Anne Springs Close Greenway – Nov. 25 More than 150 artists and crafters will offer unique holiday gifts and decorations.

All items are handmade and include pottery, jewelry, quilts, handbags, children’s clothing, woodwork, soap, candles and gourmet foods.

Door prizes will be raffled throughout the day.

Admission is free with $5 special events parking per car. 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Real Christmas Story at NarroWay Theatre – Through Dec. 21 Guaranteed snowfall at every performance! See your favorite Christmas scenes, hear your favorite Christmas songs and watch in wonder as NarroWay Productions recreates the Real Christmas story. Optional Christmas dinner before the show. For tickets, show times and more information, visit www.narroway.net.

Christmasville in Rock Hill – Nov. 30-Dec. 3 Once again, “Old Town” Rock Hill in historic downtown will come alive as a charming, picturesque holiday village and outdoor art festival. This award-winning festival has more than 70 events, including horse-drawn carriage rides, strolling Dickens carolers, an artisan craft market, theater, dance, music, a gingerbread house contest, carousel and a real ice skating rink.

For a full list of events, visit www.christmas villerockhill.com.

Clover Woman’s Club Christmas in Downtown Christmas Village Historic Clover home tour – Dec. 9-10 in Belmont – Dec. 9 Clover Woman’s Club Christmas in Historic Clover annual tour. 2-5 p.m. Tour tickets are $10 and available at The Palmetto House, Good Things Consignment shop, the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce and at each home on the day of the tour.

Town of Clover Christmas celebrations – Dec. 2-3 The town’s tree lighting ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 2 at Centennial Park. The Clover Merry Market will open the same day at the Larne Building, 103 N. Main St. from 4-7:30 p.m. with a wide selection of gift options. The 46th annual Clover Highland Christmas parade will be held on Main Street (U.S. Highway 321) at 3 p.m. Dec. 3. The theme will be “There’s No Place Like Clover for Christmas.”

This family friendly event features horsedrawn carriage rides, trolley rides, carolers, Santa and more. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Belmont on Main and Catawba streets.

Lake Wylie’s Lights on the Lake Boat Parade and Christmas on the Lake – Dec. 16 A family friendly celebration with warming huts, free cocoa and hot cider, a live Nativity, music and a luminary release. The grassy lawn beside T-Bones on the Lake boat docks.

5-7:30 p.m. The boat parade launches at 6:30 p.m. (See page 18 for a full feature).

Christmas Candlelight Tours at Historic Brattonsville – Dec. 2 and Dec. 9 Walk the candlelit paths of Historic Brattonsville and experience a Southern-style Christmas in the Carolina Backcountry. Costumed interpreters tell the stories of people who lived in the 18th and 19th centuries as they bring to life the holiday seasons of the past. Hands-on activities for all ages, campfire, music and food available. 3-9 p.m. Adults $10; seniors $8; children 4-17 $6. Children 3 and under and museum members free.

Christmas in Olde York Towne Home Tour – Dec. 9-10 Annual holiday tour of four historic homes, Trinity United Methodist Church and the Historical Center of York County from 3-7 p.m. Advance tickets are $10 until Dec. 9 and can be purchased at the chamber office, 23 E. Liberty St., York, or online at www. yorkvillehs.com. Day-of-event tickets are $15.

Proceeds benefit the Yorkville Historical Society.

2017 Local Christmas Parades Rock Hill Parade

Friday, Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m.

Fort Mill Parade Saturday, Dec. 2 at 11 a.m.

Tega Cay Christmas Tree Lighting Saturday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m.

Clover Parade Sunday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m.

Clover Choraliers winter concert – Dec. 7, 9 and 10 The award-winning Clover Choraliers will hold their annual winter concert filled with fantastic dancing, singing and acting. Show times are 8 p.m. Dec. 7 and Dec. 9 and 3 p.m.

Dec. 10. Advance tickets are recommended.

For box office hours visit cloverchoraliers. com. Clover School District Auditorium, 1625 S.C. Highway 55 East, Clover.

York Parade Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 4:30 p.m.

Lake Wylie Boat Parade Saturday, Dec. 16 at 6:30 p.m.

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Development Update Waterfront homes in the $700,000’s and $800,000’s have the “healthiest” level of inventory, with the number of properties offered sufficient to meet buyer demand. This home on Riverfront Drive in Lake Wylie was a builder residence, fully loaded with quality features.

Seller’s Market T

he past two years have brought explosive growth to our Lake Wylie area, and it is safe to say that we are in a “seller’s market.” While increases in real estate sales are modest in comparison to one year ago, total single-family home sales in York County are up a whopping 16% from 2015.

Average home sale prices are up, and time on market is shorter, now under two months for the average house.

Real estate in York County is performing a bit better than in the neighboring Mecklenburg County, driven primarily by growth in Fort Mill and Lake Wylie/Clover. New construction in higher-end communities such as Paddlers Cove, Summerhouse at Paddlers Cove and Heron Cove in Lake Wylie are helping to fuel a higher price per square foot, satisfying buyer demand for premium finish levels in homes and amenity-rich neighborhoods.

In nearby Belmont, new development in 66

by Drew Choate

McLean is off to a good start with seven home sales in the waterfront/waterview section ($600,000+), and 16 sales in the Conservancy at McLean, where homes are priced mostly in the $300,000’s.

Waterfront Update Inventory simply can’t keep up with sales for lower-priced waterfront homes, which has caused lake home sales to dip a bit below last year’s record levels. Current listings for waterfront homes priced under $500,000 are down 71% from last year, and corresponding sales in this segment are down 41%. That is particularly significant considering that this lower-priced segment represented the largest portion of sales last year through the third quarter, almost 40% of total waterfront home sales.

Some of the “lost” sales for this segment may have shifted to a higher price point, where we see modest sales increases in the

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

$500,000-$799,000 category. Others have purchased lower-priced waterfront lots, and plan to build. Some have given up their plans to purchase waterfront property and have settled on other homes, and some are still in the market, waiting.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, the price category showing the largest gain in sales is the luxury-priced, $1 million-plus group. At the end of the third quarter, a total of 17 waterfront homes over $1 million had closed this year, compared to seven during the same period last year. While these premium homes are located all over the lake, the Clover school district has the most sales in this category to date.

Inventory is very strong in the luxury-priced segment, with an oversupply relative to demand. The homes that are selling usually have some special features, such as swimming pools and outdoor living areas, excellent views and locations. In this luxury

Development Update

This waterfront home on Tucker Road recently sold for $1.5 million. The outdoor area features a saltwater pool and hot tub, an outdoor kitchen with a stone fireplace, and a covered dock with large seating area and main channel view.

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Development Update

Inventory is tight for waterfront properties priced in the $500,000’s. A three-bedroom cottage on this lot on Summerside Drive in Lake Wylie is priced at $549,000 and currently is under contract. segment, most of the sales have been homes under 6,000 square feet. Two “mega homes” (over 9,000 square feet) have sold, but at a price per square foot of about half of other homes in this category. Most buyers are not willing to purchase overly large homes, and when they do, they purchase at a “discount.”

The strong sales in the highest-priced segment of waterfront homes has contributed to the highest average sales price since 2008, about $712,000 for lakefront homes. The final sales price for waterfront homes is averaging

93% of the original asking price, and the average time on market is 144 days, the best performance in a decade.

Waterfront lot sales are at the highest level in more than a decade, with 56 dockable lots sold through the end of September. The average waterfront lot is selling for $254,000, the highest price since 2010.

With continued population growth in our area, businesses have a wonderful opportunity to expand to meet the needs of new residents. We expect to end 2017 with record-breaking real estate sales, and enter the new year strong. LW 68

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Development Update

T t i s m e e B f e or Th i n n g n i s g i e s B N o w e w N

Buying or Selling a Home?

Connect With Us Today!

4379 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 Office: (803) 701-7110 | Mobile: (704) 615-7315 www.CarolinaHomesConnection.com

Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Spotlight

News of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Winter 2017

29th Annual “Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade

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he lake will light up with one of Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s most popular events, the 29th annual “Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade, to be held Dec. 16. Each year the event grows in number of participants and popularity, and this year many more boats are expected to join in. Homeowners are encouraged to participate too by decorating their docks as a way of adding to the festivities.

A Friday evening preview of decorated boats will be held at T-Bones on Dec. 15. This allows for a showcase of boats decorated for the holidays to dock at T-Bones for viewing and a fun-filled evening.

Also added will be warming huts along the shoreline during the boat parade, creating a Christmas Village atmosphere. Many of the area churches will host the tents and will have hot chocolate, caroling and festivities. More surprises are in the works.

At 6 p.m. Dec. 16, boats will meet at T-Bones’ dock off S.C. Highway 49 by the

Buster Boyd Bridge for lineup of the parade and a meeting of the boat captains. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. and the parade route spans both sides of the Buster Boyd Bridge.

Best viewing is from the deck at T-Bones and the Buster Boyd Public Boating Landing and access area.

Awards, sponsored by Cabela’s, will be presented to the participants with the most creative lighting display. There will also be new categories added for the awards.

Early registration is $20 and must be received by Dec. 14. Late and same-day registration is $25. Please mail your check and registration form to: Boat Parade, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 5233, Lake Wylie, SC 29710. For additional information and a registration form, contact the Chamber at 803-831-2827.

E-mail lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com or visit www.lakewyliesc.com for more information.

Holiday Gala kicks off the season

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he Lake Wylie Chamber’s annual meeting is held as a holiday gala celebration where the annual Business and Citizen of the Year are recognized. This year’s event will be Dec. 7 at River Hills Country Club. Reservations can be made by calling the chamber at 803-831-2827. Sponsorships are also available.

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Spotlight The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

29th Annual “Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade presented by

T-Bones on the Lake and McSpadden Custom Homes

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REGISTRATION – ENTRY FORM WHEN: Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017 WHERE: Buster Boyd Bridge at T-Bones in Lake Wylie Captains meeting will be held at 6 p.m.

This form and a check for $20 should be sent to: Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 5233 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 Early registration deadline is Thursday, Dec. 14. Late and same-day registration is $25.

Name:____________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ Cell Phone:________________________________________________ E-Mail:___________________________________________________ Type of Boat:_______________________________________________ Describe your holiday decorating theme:_________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Questions: Call 803-831-2827 or e-mail lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com

Business Suite Now Available For Rent

Fully and beautifully furnished rental office New, professional business center Includes high-speed internet & WiFi Includes all utilities except telephone Large office Includes reception area and mail service Prime Lake Wylie business location Ample parking Easy access Convenient location Save fuel and work close to home Includes hospitality area

Everything a small business needs at reasonable rates!

Located at 264 Latitude Lane at Lake Wylie Business Centre For information or tour call Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 803-831-2827 Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Business After Hours Oct. 12, 2017 Sponsored by BB&T and Halford, Niemiec and Freeman Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Cam Halford, Michelle Hatfield, John Freeman and Matthew Niemiec, sponsors of the October Business After Hours.

Joe Versen, Myron Boloyan and John Freeman sample the fare at the October Business After Hours.

Melanie McClure and Norma Wood welcome Laura Stewart of Carolina Family Dentistry to Business After Hours at BB&T.

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Tom and Deb Dagilus at the buffet.

Jane DuBois of Lake Wylie Today and Robert Rosenberger of Eastwood Homes at the Business After Hours.

Spotlight

Thank You! Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

2017 Golf Classic Sponsors!

Lunch Sponsor Jersey Mike’s – Lake Wylie

Hole Sponsors

Hole-in-One Sponsor Hospitality Sponsor Fred Caldwell Chevrolet

Lake Wylie Liquors

Elrod Pope Law Firm

ML Ford & Sons

Joyce Presley Realty

MarineMax Lake Wylie

Kasby’s By The Lake

Morningstar Storage

Bethel Commons

Lakepointe Ridge by Redwood

Noble Training & Learning Center

Bliss by Jamie Lee

Lake Wylie Assisted Living

Piedmont Medical Center

Carolina Family Dentistry

Lake Wylie Family Chiropractic

The Lake Wylie Man

Carolina Home Connection

Lake Wylie Today

The Village at Lake Wylie

Clover Community Bank

Lakeside Insurance

YMCA Camp Thunderbird

Comporium

Lee’s Hoagie House

York Electic Co-Op

Duke Energy

Lowe’s - Lake Wylie

Walmart

Arby’s Bank of York

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!

And many thanks to our excellent

Business After Golf Sponsors Halford, Niemiec and Freeman Q2U BBQ and Catering River Hills Country Club Watson Insurance Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

19th Annual Golf Classic Sept. 28, 2017 Photos by Jan Todd

Bo Redmond and Angel Neelands of Clover Community Bank at their Dream it and Drive it hole.

Charles Wood and Tisha Petrea of Morningstar Storage at the tent on their sponsorship hole.

Lisa Jubenville (left) and Susan Bromfield of Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce checking on the golfers.

Joe Versen, Mark Wright, Jeff Ledford and Bill Holleman enjoy the perfect weather at the Chamber golf event.

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Bob and Monique Boekhout with Lisa and Gene McCarthy at the Chamber golf outing.

Matthew Mugavero and the Lake Wylie Liquor team of Walker Ranger, Pete Connolly and Larry Holder.

Jeff Ledford of Lowe’s Lake Wylie and Bill Holleman line up a putt.

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Paige McCarter of Fairway Mortgage helps out at the Lake Wylie Liquor hospitality hole.

And the winners are ‌ Jimmy Sprouse, Joe Sprouse, Jay Wilson and Tim Baldwin of the York County Natural Gas team!

Jason Kosierb, Chris Thompson, Fred Frick and Tom Smith enjoy the chamber of commerce weather.

Drew and Natalie Choate at The Lake Wylie Man hospitality hole.

Spotlight

Business After Golf Sept. 28, 2017 Halford, Niemiec and Freeman, Q2U BBQ and Catering, River Hills Country Club and Watson Insurance Photos by Jan Todd

Jerry Bullard, Sara Kraft and Brian Rich of Q2U BBQ and Catering, sponsors of the Business After Golf, serving a great meal after golf.

Rob Watson of Watson Insurance and Brian Rich of Q2U BBQ and Catering, sponsors of the annual Business After Golf.

Myron and Peggy Boloyan with Pam and Al Haselden, formerly of Haselden, Owen and Boloyan, which is now merged with Halford, Niemiec and Freeman LLC.

Sandy and Duane Stanek and golfers enjoy the buffet by Q2U BBQ and Catering.

It was a beautiful evening for Business Aftr Golf on the terrace at River Hills Country Club.

Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

&

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

The Year in Review Annual Report

T

By Susan Bromfield, President and Charles Wood, Chairman

he Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce had another very active and productive year. Here is a recap of the variety of activities and accomplishments and Lake Wylie highlights during the past year: • Positively promoted Lake Wylie and economic development all year long. Look around in every direction.

• Operated a Lake Wylie Visitor Center in one of the busiest corridors in the state.

• Held more than 10 Business After Hours networking events with the support of 20 sponsors.

• Held ribbon-cuttings and grand openings with new and expanding area businesses.

• Staffed a beautiful Lake Wylie Visitor Center and developed a team of volunteers.

• Operated a Small Business Center in Lake Wylie with six beautifully furnished rental offices with conference room and hospitality area; has been perfect for small businesses to launch or downsize and remain in Lake Wylie.

• Hosted Spring Appreciation Luncheon and Fashion Show • Presented annual Splash Dash showcasing Lake Wylie with a premiere regional running event.

• Successfully presented and promoted Lake Wylie events and activities throughout the year by collaborating with Lake Wylie Today magazine.

• Helped YMCA Camp Thunderbird to promote and raise money to facilitate Lake Wylie Fourth of July Community Fireworks Display.

• Hosted an outstanding golf tournament

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and after-golf event at River Hills Country Club involving more than 85 members, includes sponsors, golfers, volunteers and participants.

• Added more than 25 new members.

• Continued partnership with South Carolina Biz News to publish Lake Wylie Today, a premiere, quarterly magazine to promote the Lake Wylie lifestyle, business and events. Lake Wylie Today features the chamber’s Spotlight newsletter and helps to promote and market the area and our members.

• Published quarterly newsletter in Lake Wylie Today.

• Presented the 28th annual Lights on the Lake Holiday Boat Parade, an event that uniquely promotes Lake Wylie during the winter.

• E-communication capability by utilizing chamber “e-communications.”

• Hosted many business seminars, meetings and informational opportunities for members at the chamber facility.

• Actively supported the many local service organizations like Lake Wylie Rotary Club and River Hills Lions Club.

• Supported a coat collection drive, toy drive for holidays and canned good drive.

• Celebrated chambers accomplishments at annual holiday gala and recognized leaders for the accomplishments during the year.

• Worked with neighboring Chambers of Commerce to Sponsor York County Daywith a VIP event in conjunction with the BMX international event .

• Maintained Lake Wylie website and social media 24/7.

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• Successfully implemented business plan goals and objectives.

• Continued collaborations with educational programs.

• Successfully served as legislative liaison.

• Worked with other Chambers of Commerce on issues and areas of common interest and concern.

• Actively supported economic development efforts and issues.

• Supported the efforts to get a Lake Wylie Park plan for the area.

• Developed and collaborated to publish Lake Wylie materials to support members and tourism.

• Supported use of “green” standards for chamber offices.

• Supported “Going Green” efforts at Lake Wylie to include adopt-a-stream-and-coves and storm-drain-marking program at Lake Wylie.

• Worked with a variety of economic development prospects that have now selected Lake Wylie to launch or locate their businesses.

• Worked to support a variety of community projects and charitable efforts and groups.

• Supported members and their efforts to promote economic development and growth and prosperity for the community.

• Promoted and marketed Lake Wylie throughout the year via materials, magazines, visitor center, speaking engagements and promotional events.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to and planning another active and productive year for 2018.

Spotlight The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Renewing Welcome New Members Members Aug. 1 - Oct. 23, 2017

Aug. 1 - Oct. 23, 2017

Individuals:

Businesses 9 Round

Dianne Kehler

AAA of the Carolinas

Businesses:

Agape Senior Health & Wellness BBSI Bright Eyes & Bushy Tails, LLC

The Office Gym and Fitness Center

Restore Mobility for the Blind Cynthia Thompson 3233 Wicklow Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 704-906-6021 cynthia.thompson@rmftb.com www.rmftb.com Transportation Services

YMCA Camp Thunderbird Carolina Contracting and Investments Carolina Family Dentistry of Lake Wylie Duke Energy Halford, Niemiec, & Freeman, LLC KA Gregory Wealth Management, LLC

Clawson’s Pile Driving & Construction Kim Shrewsbury 5805 Fiesta Road Clover, SC 29710 803-831-8316 rclaw35@earthlink.net www.clawsonsdocks.com Marine Construction

Kasby’s By The Lake

Lake Wylie Public Library

Mark Henderson 14040 S. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28278 980-224-9868 mhenderson@sterlingbedding.com www.kasbys.com Furniture

Laurel Oak Farm, LLC Lowe’s – Lake Wylie Mattamy Homes May Green Properties Nail Gallery Scholarship Gold Consulting

Carolina Risk Advisors

Sea Tow

Representative Bruce Bryant

Watson Insurance

SC House of Representative - District 48 P.O. Box 11867 Columbia, SC 29211 803-212-6888 brucebryant@schouse.gov Government

Individuals Bobbie Otto George Gessner

e v a S e Th ate!

D

Caleb Sherrill 4076 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-8331 www.theofficegymandfitnesscenter.com Fitness

Chris Long 1201 Carolina Place Drive, Suite 102 Fort Mill, SC 29708 803-547-0000 clong@cra-nsure.com www.carolinariskadvisors.us Insurance

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to attend the

Libations & Dinner Music by The Classics for your listening and dancing pleasure

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017 6:30 p.m. to Midnight at River Hills Country Club

Seating limited · Festive attire Sponsorships available

Annual Holiday Gala

Please contact the Chamber at 803.831.2827 for reservations.

Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

77

Spotlight

Bob Burke showcases his 2010 Shelby GT 500 at the September Cars with Coffee held at Lake Wylie Assisted Living.

Chamber Chairman Charles Wood (above left) welcomes Dr. Vik Shukla and his wife, MaryLou, to the Lake Wylie Chamber business suites. Dr. Shukla is a psychiatrist and has opened a second office at Lake Wylie.

Chamber Chairman Charles Wood and former chairman Andy Kane thank Jill Moore of YMCA Camp Thunderbird for her service as a chamber board member at her farewell luncheon.

Ribbon-cuttings!

Wylie tness Center at Lake The Office Gym & Fi t. 21.

Oc ld he ng Plaza ribbon-cutti

78

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

lcomed ber of Commerce we The Lake Wylie Cham ening op d an n-cutting at its gr Arby’s with a ribbo Sept. 27.

Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Upcoming Activities Annual Holiday Gala Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017 6:30 p.m.-midnight Cocktails

2017-18 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Charles Wood - Chairman MORNINGSTAR STORAGE

Susan Bromfield, President LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Donna Bordeaux BORDEAUX & BORDEAUX, CPAs, PA

Dinner and Music

Fred Caldwell

Seating Limited, Festive Attire

FRED CALDWELL CHEVROLET

Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC

Jane DuBois LAKE WYLIE TODAY / LAKE WYLIE MARKETING

Allan Gregory K. A. WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Jeff Ledford

Holiday Business After Hours Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017

LOWE’S – LAKE WYLIE

Don Long Paige McCarter

5:30-7:30 p.m.

FAIRWAY MORTGAGE

Sponsored by

Matthew Mugavero

Lake Wylie Assisted Living, Home Companions and Lake Wylie Liquor

LAKE WYLIE LIQUOR

Brad Rippetoe YMCA CAMP THUNDERBIRD

Doug McSpadden MCSPADDEN CUSTOM HOMES

Annual Holiday Boat Parade and Christmas by the Lake Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017 – Parade 6:30 p.m.

Christmas by the Lake – 4-7:30p.m.

By T-Bones on the Lake and Buster Boyd Bridge Sponsored by McSpadden Custom Homes, Cabela’s and T-Bones on the Lake

Brian Rich Q2U BBQ and CATERING

Michaelyn Sherrill HOME COMPANIONS

Marc Sosne CLOVER SCHOOL DISTRICT

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

Winter 2017 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

79

Southern Twang

Let it Snow!

F

or many “transplants” to the South, “Snow” is a 4-letter word. Well, I reckon, if you get right down to it, “snow” really is a 4-letter word, but that’s beside the point.

The point is, Southerners LOVE snow! I mean, it turns an everyday day into a holiday!

At the mere mention of a potential flake from the weatherman, we rush to the store for milk, bread, and grits. Better throw in a bag of rock salt for the front porch, too, because you KNOW that none of us owns a snow shovel. I don’t think they even sell those things in our zip code.

And if some of that white stuff actually starts falling from the sky? Gracious daisies, we gotta pick up our little ones from school before the roads get bad, that is, if the schools haven’t been called off on a mere prediction.

Then, we gotta put a pot of chicken stew on the stove (cooked chicken in its broth, milk, butter, salt, pepper and Texas Pete), ‘cuz baby, it’s cold outside!

No work can be done when it is snowing outside. Even though I’ve worked out of the house for years, and technically, snow doesn’t impede my ability to sit at my computer and be productive, I still must take the day off if it snows. I mean, how can I possibly concentrate when it is SNOWING outside?

I have to do what every other Southerner is doing at that moment. I have to watch the snow falling, check in with the Weather 80

by Jan Todd Channel, call my mother/sister/neighbor to see if it is snowing at THEIR house, comment on the size of the flakes and potential to accumulate, and make sure that all of our loved ones are home or on their way home. Then, if accumulation does occur, I must take out a ruler and measure the deepest pile on my deck, and post a Facebook photo of my back yard with the caption, “It’s SNOWING!” How could I possibly be expected to work, with all of that going on?

If there is sufficient coverage, heck, even if it’s questionable, we must go sledding. Now, with Southern snow, the saucer-type sleds usually work best, as they don’t have runners and sit on top of the grass. So even if the snow isn’t very deep, or if it’s basically cold, wet grass, you can still get some movement if you have a nice hill. In college, we used to use cafeteria trays, and they worked quite well. Of course, we returned the trays to the cafeteria after use. Really, we did.

The saucer-type sleds are hard to control, though, which can be an issue when sledding towards the lake. Around Lake Wylie, some of the best hills happen to end with a splash, so that can add a whole new dimension to the excitement of sledding.

Only on rare occasions can we bring out the Flexible Flyer, the classic wooden sled from our childhood, gathering dust for years while hanging in the garage, waiting for “The

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2017

Big One.” Ah, remember that time it snowed SIX INCHES? The kids were out of school for two weeks!

One of the best parts of a BIG snow is making snow cream. I didn’t realize until recently that snow cream is a Southern Thing. Like many “Southern Things,” it was simply part of my childhood, and just as normal as boiling peanuts or putting pimentos in cheese.

Snow Cream requires dry, fluffy snow, and is best gathered by putting a bowl on the deck and letting the snow naturally accumulate. In a pinch, you can scoop up some snow and put it in the bowl, but make sure it is fresh and clean! Mix in some milk (remember that grocery store run?), sugar, and a couple of drops of vanilla extract. If you’re feeling fancy, use sweetened condensed milk. The resulting snow cream should have the consistency of a Slushie, and tastes like heaven!

After eating snow cream, hot chocolate is a necessity. Then it’s time to go back outside and let your Barbie Dolls build a snowman (because a doll sized snow man is usually as good as it gets.)

While many of our friends from “Up North” may say things like, “I moved from Wisconsin/New York/Chicago/Insert Cold Place Here to get AWAY from this stuff,” they soon discover the best thing about Southern Snow. Enjoy it today, because tomorrow? It’ll be gone. LW