Lake Wylie Today, Winter 2013

LakeWylie today Winter 2013 | Issue 4

The Holiday Issue

‘Tis the season to celebrate, give thanks and give back to your community

Making a difference Kenya Orphanage Project celebrates 10 years

Chamber Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce news and information

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Our View

Season of Giving at Lake Wylie

lasts all year long

By Susan Bromfield, President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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any people associate Thanksgiving with the beginning of the Season of Giving. However, the Season of Giving lasts all year long at Lake Wylie. It seems that each week there are various charity projects, fundraisers, volunteer projects and a range of efforts to help others. Our community is a giving community every day of the year.

An example of this generosity is Sweet Repeat Foundation, a “recycling charity” that has donated nearly $100,000 to local nonprofits or charities during the last two years. The volunteer-run resale store in Lake Wylie Plaza sells gently used items donated by local residents.

Money raised from the items sold is contributed to charities. Each year, Sweet Repeat Foundation selects a few nonprofit projects or charities to receive a $5,000 contribution. Organizations Sweet Repeat Foundation has contributed to include the Wayne Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill, Habitat for Humanity, York Place, Pilgrim’s Inn and the River Hills Emergency Squad. Many smaller contributions are made as well.

The River Hills – Lake Wylie Lions Club raises money for charity throughout the year with several annual events. Proceeds from their annual golf tournament, Christmas tree sale and the annual fall silent auction event go to fund area charities and nonprofits, including Clover Area Assistance Center, YMCA Camp Thunderbird, Back Pack Program and more. They also contribute to the Lake Wylie-River Hills Emergency Squad, a free service to the entire Lake Wylie area.

The Kenya Orphanage Project, founded

by Monique Boekhout, is an ongoing effort to raise money and help orphans in Kenya. It has become a labor of love to help these children first survive, then to feel cared about, have a safe home, health care and have educational opportunities. People in our community have “adopted” these children by sending an annual contribution to support basic needs and schooling. This year marks KOP’s 10th anniversary. Read the feature story in this issue outlining the journey of the organization and the children, many of which are now going to college and technical training.

The Lake Wylie/Clover Mayday Project holds an annual golf tournament in October

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to raise money to help homeless and disadvantaged students in the Clover School District.

Current figures were not in at press time, but the tournament raised $23,000 in 2012.

Examples of big name companies that have gotten involved in helping the community include Lowe’s and Wal-Mart.

Lowe’s employees participated in RiverSweep by “adopting” the cove near Mill Creek Commons to keep it litter free and clean. Lowe’s contributed more than 40 gallons of paint and building materials to the Clover High School Shop program. Lowe’s employees also worked with CAAC to collect and contribute new hats, gloves and scarves to area children and adults during the holiday season. This year, Lowe’s is working with the Lake Wylie Athletic Association to prepare the playing fields. More than 350 children participate in soccer, basketball and football through the LWAA. Wal-Mart opened its Lake Wylie store a few of years ago and has made several major contributions to area charities and organizations, including the Lake Wylie Library, Clover Area Assistance Center, Clover Schools, Lake Wylie River Hills Emergency Squad and York County Recycling. In addition, Wal-Mart and its employees have adopted Highway 274 and pick up litter regularly. Through the WalMart Foundation, grants continue to be given to many local charities.

You and/or your business can get involved, too. In addition to the organizations we’ve named here, there are so many other ways you can help and you can start this holiday season. Area banks and churches will have Angel Trees, collect Toys for Tots, collect warm coats, participate in the Clover Jaycees’ Santa’s Toy drive (benefiting children in the Clover School District), collect food for Second Harvest Food Bank in Charlotte and CAAC, and more. Donating your time to an organization is a priceless gift.

Our community is a giving community. Whether it’s time, a warm coat, a new unwrapped toy, canned food or a monetary donation, we hope we’ve inspired you to give what you can to help those who need a helping hand.

The holidays are a time to celebrate, give and care for those around us. And at Lake Wylie, the Season of Giving is all year long. LW

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Contents Winter 2013

2 Our View The Season of Giving 6 Mailbag The 25th annual Lights on the Lake boat parade

19 Roving Palate

Leave your holiday party planning to the pros at area restaurants

28 Garden Party

Visit a local Christmas tree farm to choose and cut the perfect tree

32 Feature

A listing of local holiday events

36 Feature

Clover School District Auditorium’s Performing Arts Series

40 Feature

Kenya Orphanage Project celebrates 10 years

44 Community Connection

Ways to support your local community

50 Development Update 53 Spotlight

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

Cover and Table of Contents photos by Jan Todd 4

today

www.LakeWylieToday.com Published by SC Biz News Director of Business Development - Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143 Andy Owens - Managing Editor aowens@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3141 Senior Copy Editor - Beverly Barfield bbarfield@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3115 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117

14 Shoreline

LakeWylie

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Andrew Sprague asprague@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3128 Advertising Sales - Jane DuBois Coulter jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668 Event Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Audience Development & IT Manager Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116 CEO and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Contributing Editors Susan Bromfield President, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce susan@lakewyliesc.com • 803.831.2827 Jane DuBois Coulter jane@lakewylietoday.com • 704.287.8668 Project Manager - Allison Cooke Oliverius Contributing Writers Susan Bromfield, Jane DuBois Coulter, Allison Cooke Oliverius, Jan Todd Contributing Photographers Monique Boekhout, Susan Bromfield, Jane DuBois Coulter, Diana Grubenhoff, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, Point of View Photography, Jim Stadnyck, Ed Stewart, Jan Todd, John Warner The entire contents of this publication are copyright by SC Biz News with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited.

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 send photos with captions to info@lakewylietoday.com.

The Greater York Chamber of Commerce and the City of York held the 30th SUMMERFEST in August

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eld annually on the fourth Saturday in August, Summerfest has been recognized at the S.C. Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Travel as the Most Outstanding Festival of the Year in a community between 5,000 and 15,000. It’s also made the Southeast Tourism Society’s list of Top 20 Events, and it was honored by the Olde English District in 1996 as the Attraction of the Year.

This year, the Summerfest turned 30 and

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special events were held in celebration.

Summerfest included a juried craft and food festival featuring only handmade crafts and an array of delicious foods. More than 120 vendors participated in the show held in the center of York. Downtown businesses, nonprofit agencies and other organizations were also on hand to share information. This year featured several attractions, including one of the largest regional car shows; sports tourna-

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ments in golf, softball, tennis, along with 5K and 10K races; musical entertainment located at three stages; a health clinic with more than 30 separate medical services for all ages and groups; children’s activities and coloring contest; a giant scale model airplane fly-in; a 4-H petting zoo; inflatables and a climbing wall.

The event drew more than 45,000 visitors.

For info on Summerfest 2014, visit www. greateryorkchamber.com.

Mailbag

Arts and Craft Fair at the Garden Café

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ocal artists and craftsmen will display their wares at the Garden Café Pavilion in York Nov. 29-30. The Garden Café is located at 307 West Liberty St. Start your holiday shopping with handmade and vintage gifts.

DSBG’s Orchid Spectacular

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aniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s annual Orchid Spectacular is coming up in January. The actual dates have not been announced yet, but it’s usually held in late January through mid-March.

Garden guests will be able to view some of the world’s most stunning varieties of orchids throughout the Orchid Spectacular in the acclaimed Orchid Conservatory. Inside the conservatory, the garden displays fascinating orchids from around the globe in a fashion that combines botanical splendor with creative artistry. More than 22,000 species of orchids exist on all but one of the earth’s continents, and intergeneric hybrids number in the hundreds of thousands. The Orchid Conservatory presents a sampling of these, which offer outstanding display features and represent the great diversity of temperate and tropical species.

For more information, visit www.DSBG. org or call 704-825-4490.

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Mailbag

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Mailbag

SAVE THE DATES!

2013 Local Christmas Parades Clover York Belmont Rock Hill Fort Mill Lake Wylie Boat Parade

Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7

3 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

11 a.m.

Dec. 14 6:30 p.m.

2013 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

Clover Belmont Fort Mill Tega Cay

Nov. 29 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 7

5 p.m.

5 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Director at Victory Farm receives advanced certifications

Dory Pell, program director at The Victory Farm, has just completed several special training courses. She just returned from Arizona with advanced training from Certified Horsemanship Association and certifications as an advanced riding instructor for people with physical and cognitive disabilities, as well as standards/safety and horsemanship certifications.

Victory Farm focuses on helping children and adults overcome or learn to cope with traumatic injuries or illnesses which might otherwise hold them back from thriving in life. Victory Farm improves lives and gives opportunity through therapeutic horseback riding. Victory Farm relies upon the support of our community to provide these services, through your generous financial support, the sponsorship of riders or rescue horses, or by volunteering. For more information or to make a donation, visit the website at www.VictoryRides.org.

Irene Emery and Jane Coulter at the Chamber Golf Event. Lake Wylie Today sponsorsed the 18th hole.

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Mailbag Chamber honored with

‘Excellence Award’

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce has been selected for the 2013 South Carolina Excellence Award by the Small Business Institute for Excellence in Commerce.

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce promotes its members to residents, tourists and newcomers. More than 8,000 residents, tourists and inquirers call and visit the Chamber each year. The chamber is dedicated to promoting its nearly 400 members, as well as other chambers of commerce in the area.

Each year the Small Business Institute conducts business surveys and industry research to identify companies that have achieved demonstrable success in their local business environment and industry category.

They are recognized as having enhanced the commitment and contribution of small businesses through service to their customers and community.

This is the second award the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce has received this year. Earlier this year, the Chamber attended the S.C. Press Association awards, at which the Chamber’s magazine, Lake Wylie Today, received third place for the best magazine.

The Chamber and SC Biz News have been publishing Lake Wylie Today since 2010. Local writers and seasonal topics and stories add the local flavor to the quarterly community magazine designed to market and promote the Lake Wylie Area.

T

he Clover High School’s Choralier Christmas Show is a great way to kick off the holiday season. Concerts are scheduled Dec. 12, 14, and 15 and will feature classical music followed by a variety show with singing and dancing. Tickets are available at the box office.

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Mailbag KOP celebrates 10 years The Kenya Orphanage Project recently celebrated 10 years. Pictured are volunteers who participated in past mission trips to Kenya.

KOP works year-round to raise money that goes to help orphans in Kenya. People in our community have not only donated money, they’ve also donated time, traveling to Kenya to work and to mentor the children.

Lions’ Club elects new president

The 150-member River Hills Lions Club elected a new president in July. In a tribute to the outgoing president, Frank Van Leer — affectionately known as “Father Christmas” — incoming president Peggy Upchurch sported a beard at an event. The River Hills Lions is a leading volunteer nonprofit club in the area.

Members consist of an eclectic group of professionals from across the area to raise funds for local, state and national causes. The club’s activities raised approximately $100,000 last year, 100% of which went back into the local community.

Gov. Haley visits Lake Wylie The River Hills Lions Club hosted S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley Oct. 10 to celebrate World Sight Day. South Carolina Lions Clubs last year through their charitable services and foundation provided more than $1.4 million in health care services.

These services reached almost 9,000 individuals with vision, hearing and other health screenings through the Lions’ Mobile Health Screening Unit, primarily to school-age children. The River Hills Lions Club is one of the largest providers of money for Lions’ health screenings.

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Mailbag

Students give back at Thanksgiving Oakridge Middle School Giving Back club has organized the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faculty and students and teams with the Lake Wylie Rotary Club to provide Thanksgiving meals for 30 families within the Clover School District. The school districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social workers provide the names of the families to be serviced by OMS. The giving back team organizes the 13 academic teams so each provides one item that when combined with other teams creates a com-

plete Thanksgiving meal.

The faculty and staff at OMS provides the desserts for the families and the Lake Wylie Rotary Club provides the turkeys and helps to deliver the meals to the families that cannot pick up the dinners at OMS. To increase participation, the students and pastors of First Thing bless the food before it is distributed, and the Friends of Rachel club make Thanksgiving greeting cards also included.

Sweet Repeat holds grand opening at new location Sweet Repeat held a grand opening for its new location at Lake Wylie Plaza. The shop accepts gently used furniture and household goods and then resells them. Proceeds are donated to local charities. More than 80 volunteers help run the thrift store, along with two employees, a shopkeeper and a bookkeeper.

Sweet Repeat is open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Coins for CAAC Lake Wylie and Clover Rotarians joined together to raise funds for Clover Area Assistance Center to complete renovations for the Full Choice Pantry. The coin collection drive ended Nov. 1, but there are still a number of cans that have not been returned. Collection cans will be accepted through the end of the year at CAAC, Bordeaux & Bordeaux, Clover Community Bank, Sifford-Stine Insurance or Family Trust Credit Union.

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Mailbag

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Charity Drive 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 gloves, scarves, hats and coats for children and families in need.

In November, the Lake Wylie Chamber of Drop off location is Kodiak Mini Storage.

If everyone helps by dropping off canned Commerce and Lake Wylie Pilot join forces to support the Neighbors Helping Neighbors goods and a toy and/or warm clothing, col-

lectively we can make a difference to so many people. If you are unable to shop for the needed items, checks are welcome too.

Please make checks payable 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.

Community raises $48,000 for child with cancer Each year the Lake Wylie Children’s Charity holds a fundraising concert and donates the proceeds to help a local family with a child facing pediatric cancer. Hundreds of people attended this year’s event in September that included several bands, kids’ activities, live bands, a silent auction, food vendors, a bake sale and more.

Lake Wylie Children’s Charity raised $48,000 from the event and recently presented a check to the family of Emma Poplin-Revels. Emma, 3, was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia.

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25th annual

Lights on the Lake The crew on this boat dressed like the residents of Whoville from the movie The Grinch.

This Christmas pirate ship took third place in 20 12.

Boats prepare to launch for the annual Lights on the Lake parade.

Crews race to make final preparations before the parade.

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Photos by Jan Todd

Shoreline Crowds gather along the shoreline, some even tailgating and grilling out, prior to the parade.

M

ark your calendars for Dec. 14 and plan to attend Lights on the Lake, Lake Wylie’s annual holiday boat parade. This year’s event begins at 6:30 p.m. and applications are now being accepted to participate in the popular nighttime parade.

The annual parade of lights is an event the entire family can enjoy. Boats line up at the T-Bones dock at 6 p.m. prior to the 6:30 p.m. kickoff.

The parade route spans both sides of the Buster Boyd Bridge. Spectators can watch the parade from Buster Boyd Landing and access area, one of Lake Wylie’s lakeside restaurants, or their own

dock. In fact, homeowners around the lake are encouraged to decorate their docks.

If you’d like to participate in this year’s boat parade, you can register at the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce. Early registration is $20 and must be received by Dec. 12. 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 803831-2827, lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com or visit www. lakewyliesc.com. LW

2012 Winners Every year, excitement builds as boat owners dream up new ways to decorate tor the annual boat parade. Last year’s winners were: First place - Rock and Roll Christmas by Brad Thomas.

Second place - The Russell Partin family for their design, Rudolph pulling Frosty.

Third place - Jack Tomasovich for Pirate Christmas

A young Santa watches the parade from the shore.

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Shoreline

Hunt Fish Paddle Local business gets a new name, adds product lines

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ake Wylie Bait and Tackle is changing its name and adding to the range of stock it carries.

“Our new name will be Hunt Fish Paddle,” said Adam Fillmore, who’s owned the store since April.

The new name takes effect this fall and will

be more representative of the full range of stock the store now carries, including fishing and archery gear, as well as kayaks. Fillmore is adding clothing, as well.

The store already has an indoor archery shooting range and Fillmore said he’s been making additional changes inside the

7,000-square-foot store to accommodate retail sales, as well as services the store will provide to customers. For example, people are interested in kayaks for fishing and want depth finders and rod holders mounted on the boats, he said. As a full-service provider, Hunt Fish Paddle will be able to take care of that for customers.

“This spring, we’ll also do kayak rentals.

We’re carrying Native kayaks, which are made in North Carolina.”

For more information, including hours, visit facebook.com/huntfishpaddle.

Did you know?

If you’re a newcomer to Lake Wylie, or just visiting, you may not know that Lake Wylie is located on the border between South Carolina and North Carolina. Its size is 12,177 in total acreage, with 7,316 acres in South Carolina. Duke Energy, in cooperation with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and York County, S.C., maintain five public boat access areas in South Carolina. Bank fishing access is also available at Ebenezer County Park in York County.

First created in 1904 by a dam near Fort Mill, S.C., Lake Wylie is one of the oldest reservoirs in South Carolina.

Miles of Shoreline: 227.86 in SC (325 total) Acres of Surface Water: 7,316 in SC

(13, 433 total) Counties Lake is within: York Maximum Depth: Approximately 94 feet Boat Ramps: 4 Fish Attractors: 6 Fishing Access Locations: 2 Fishing Loaner Tackle Locations: None Fish Stocking Marinas with Pumpouts: 3 Owned and Managed by: Duke-Energy Source: SC DNR

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Shoreline

Winter Fishing Tournaments Bass Tournament

Hunt Fish Paddle’s winter bass tournament trail begins the first Sunday in November and goes to the end of February.

Meet Sunday mornings between 6 and 7 a.m.

Blast off is at 7:30 a.m., weigh-in is 3:30 p.m.

Anglers will receive points each week and an Angler of the Year will be named the last weekend in February. The grand prize is $500 cash and a $250 gift card to Hunt Fish Paddle.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ huntfishpaddle or call the store at 803-8310251.

Catfish tournament The Catawba Catfish Club’s catfish tournament began Sept. 14 and runs until May 3, 2014. The tournament bounces around several locations. Dates for Lake Wylie are Nov. 9, Jan. 11 and April 12.

Nov. 9 and Jan. 11 are day tournaments.

Blast off from Buster Boyd Landing at 7 a.m. with weigh-in at 3:30.

Anyone can join in the tournament, however if you’ve missed the first few events, you won’t be eligible for the Championship Event May 3, 2014 on Lake Wateree.

For more information, visit www.catawbacatfishclub.com.

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Roving Palate

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Roving Palate

Festive decorations add to the party atmosphere at TBones on the Lake.

Leave it to the

Pros Story and photos by Jan Todd

When it comes to holiday parties, one of the easiest ways to host an event is to let the professionals handle the details. Several area restaurants specialize in serving groups for special events and celebrations, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better way to let the host relax and enjoy the party.

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Roving Palate

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Roving Palate

The Concord Cove has three separate dining rooms, presenting an intimate European bistro atmosphere accented by beautiful oil paintings and murals.

Concord Cove

When it comes to elegant entertaining, there’s no better choice than Concord Cove.

Located on the Concord Road peninsula of Lake Wylie, it provides a convenient place for business celebrations, gatherings of friends, or club festivities. With three separate dining rooms, the restaurant can accommodate groups of up to 40 people.

The atmosphere is intimate and warm, with a European flair complemented by the Tuscany wine region murals and the beautiful oil paintings depicting the streets of Paris and Mediterranean scenes. Co-owner Donna McSwain designed the interior, inspired by her love of the culture and food of the regions.

With impeccable service and fine cuisine, guests can relax and enjoy dining at an unhurried pace, relishing in quiet conversation and exquisite flavors in each course of the meal.

For large parties, Concord Cove offers menu choices to serve a group most efficiently.

“Our most popular items for party choices are the filet of beef, grilled salmon with peppercorn cream sauce, and stuffed chicken breast,” said co-owner Johnny Funderburke.

The meats are top quality, the beef hand cut and the desserts homemade. The food is presented to please both the eye and the palate.

Thanksgiving dinner has become a tradition at Concord Cove, with guests’ choice of roasted or fried turkey, and honey glazed ham.

Garlic mashed potatoes, sweet potato souf-

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Roving Palate The grilled salmon with peppercorn sauce is a delightful dish against the Tuscany backdrop in the center dining area at Concord Cove.

fle, and Southern fried squash and okra are among the sides offered with the Thanksgiving feast. The Thanksgiving dinner is served from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., allowing the staff to go home and enjoy an evening meal with their own families.

For New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve, Concord Cove will have a special menu with a champaign toast, a delicious way to end the year and celebrate the coming New Year.

Concord Cove is located at 5303 Concord Road and is open for lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. Saturday brunch is served each week from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information and holiday hours, visit www. theconcordcove.com.

T-Bones If a more casual atmosphere is your style, T-Bones on the Lake is the spot to kick up your heels a bit. With two full-service bars, live music and a dance floor, the party can move from the dining room to the saloon for extended hours of revelry.

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Roving Palate

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Roving Palate ened and served over roquefort cream sauce, topped with bleu cheese crumbles. Most of the appetizers are adequate as a light meal, perfect for those who want to enjoy an evening of dancing.

Parties at T-Bones can be scheduled to accommodate up to 55 people, and the staff will work with any special requests to ensure that the menu is the perfect complement to the celebration.

To make reservations, call 803-831-0170.

The deck at T-Bones is a great place to enjoy a meal or to relax and watch the boats motor past. It’s a prime spot to watch Lights on the Lake, Lake Wylie’s annual holiday boat parade.

One of the highlights of the holiday season is the annual Lights on the Lake boat parade, scheduled for Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. The deck of T-Bones is usually closed during inclement and cold weather, however, it will be open the night of the parade, regardless of the temperature.

It’s a great spot for patrons to watch the lighted boats cruise from T-Bones across the lake.

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The bar on deck will be serving selections from T-Bones’ cocktail menu, including Peppermint Hot Chocolate, spiked with Peppermint Schnapps and topped with whipped cream.

Appetizers are a welcome accompaniment to drinks from the bar, with selections such as hot chicken wings, fish tacos and hot crab dip.

One customer favorite is filet chunks, black-

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Garden Cafe, York For fine food in a casual, eclectic atmosphere, The Garden Cafe has been a favorite destination since 1995. Whether it is a holiday celebration for a group, a girls night out, or a fun and romantic date, the funky decor and delightful cuisine are sure to please.

Located in the heart of historic York, the restaurant includes a large dining room, sectioned into intimate seating areas by owner Teresa James’ recycled treasures. Partitions made of antique doors and windows, for example, provide more intimate dining areas for those desiring a quiet dinner.

Live acoustic music contributes to the relaxed atmosphere on most weekends. Justin Aaron, the head chef at The Garden Cafe, serves premium quality cuts of meat presented with an artistic flair. Southern favorites such as Lowcountry crab cakes and Jereline’s fried chicken are on the menu, along with a Southern signature dish of torched Southern steak topped with homemade pimento cheese.

More casual fare, including burgers, pizza, and quesadillas, are also available and equally delicious. All bread for sandwiches and burgers, as well as that served alongside the dinner entrees, is hand made by a local baker, and vegetables and other ingredients are the freshest available.

Large groups can be accommodated for parties and celebrations.

While waiting to be seated, or after enjoying a slice of Teresa’s famous buttermilk pie, guests can browse in the gift shop, where handmade jewelry, decor, pottery, and other items are offered for sale. The works of many local artisans and craftsmen are featured in the shop, and some of the items feature lake themes or other local interests.

The Garden Cafe is located at 307 West Liberty Street in York. 803-684-7019. LW

Grilled Shrimp Salad garnished with a parmesan cheese wafer is a special salad prepared by the chef at The Garden Cafe.

Acoustic music provides relaxing entertainment for patrons of The Garden Cafe in York.

The recycled treasures that adorn the Garden Cafe in York present personality and conversation topics for diners seeing memorable cuisine in a casual atmosphere.

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Roving Palate

Winter and Holiday Party Guide

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning a wedding, anniversary or another special event, this guide will help you find the location and vendors you need for the perfect party.

Locations for parties and gatherings Concord Cove

5303 Concord Road York, SC 29745 803-831-1036 Restaurant

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490 Holiday special events, parties. Need caterer.

Red Fez Club

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

River Hills Country Club

One Country Club Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2126 Full service location with food and beverage.

Ballroom and terrace available.

T-Bones on the Lake

Highway 49 at Blucher Circle Lake Wylie, SC 29710 Restaurant

Musicians and DJs Carol Chase, Pianist

12 Hummingbird Court Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5872 CarolChase2002@hotmail.com www.cdbaby.com/CarolChase

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The Classics (Band) Jerry Robinson 2191 Lawrence Road Clover, SC 29710 704-678-9726

Ansel Couch, Guitarist

120 Captain White Drive Rock Hill, SC 29730 803-329-0640 anselwcouch@yahoo.com

Joan Johnson, Harpist 4002 Windward Drive Tega Cay, SC 29715 803-548-3832

Christine Robinson, Violinist 25026 Riley Lane Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-802-1930

Top Hat Entertainment (DJ)

Tom and Judy Gray 5362 Bluebird Lane York, SC 29745 704-737-7522 nadines@bellsouth.net Traditional and personalized music.

Photographers

Flamingo Digital Studios

David Tobin 168 Highway 274, PMB 40 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9233 flamingodigit@aol.com www.flamingodigitalphoto.com

Point of View Photography Jim and Charlene Stadnyck 2115 Culp Farms Drive Fort Mill, SC 29715 803-370-1174 jim@povphoto.com www.povphoto.com

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Carriage Rides

(Also offers Santa with Carriage)

Happy Trails Horse & Carriage Events Miriam Barrett 386 Hoot Owl Hollow Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-7301 Danny and Vonda Weaver 704-308-1212 muledad1@aol.com

Travel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Holiday and Winter Getaways AAA Vacations

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

Lake Wylie Travel

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

Houseboat Charter:

Light-N-Up Houseboat Charters 704-813-8033 Unique bridal/wedding party

Party and Tent Rental Creative Solutions P.O. Box 1236 Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8701

Gala Affairs

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

Roving Palate Party Trays and Catering Azteca Grill / Rey Azteca

Feliz Navidad Mexican Food Catering 803-831-9277 803-831-8930

Harris Teeter – Steelecroft 704-587-9970

Q2U BBQ Pit and Catering Lake Wylie Plaza 803-831-8883

Walmart - Lake Wylie

Personalized Printing and Monogramming Sterling Source

Lindy Wetherell 803-831-8133 Invitations and printing needs

Monogram Fever

Rob DeBoer 4543 Charlotte Highway #8 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-8199 Personalized monogrammed gifts

Mill Creek Commons 803-323-2080

Local Florists

Accommodations

4080 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie Plaza Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803- 831-9935

York County Visitor and Convention Bureau

452 S. Anderson Road – Baxter Hood Center Rock Hill, SC 29731 800-866-5200 www.visityorkcounty.com

Locations for group parties

Emily’s Garden, Gift and Floral

Flowers Plus

404 N. Main St. Clover, SC 29170 803-222-4796

Concord Cove

Hummingbird Florist

River Hills Country Club

Magnolia House Florists

5303 Concord Road York, SC 803-831- 1036 Great for small or larger parties See info above

T-Bones on the Lake

3990 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0170

Designer and unique jewelry David Wysor Jewelry David Wysor Lake Wylie Plaza Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0355

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

37 N. Congress St. York, SC 29745 803-684-2248

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

Men’s Formal Wear and Tuxedos – rentals & sales The Men’s Shop of York 49 N. Congress St. York, SC 29745 803-684-4121

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

27

O Christmas Choose and cut your own from a local farm

W

hen you think of Christmas traditions, what comes to mind? Making cookies, stringing lights, hanging stockings? Or do you immediately think of picking out and decorating the Christmas tree?

The Christmas tree takes main stage in many households, as well as businesses, town halls, stores and parks. They are pretty much everywhere. But there was a time when the Christmas tree was an oddity.

The first record of a Christmas tree on display in America was in the 1700s. German settlers reportedly brought their centuries-long tradition of a decorated Christmas tree with them. The decorated trees were at first strange to others who had settled here, but the tradition eventually took hold, and now for generations, decorating

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the Christmas tree has become an exciting holiday event.

Nowadays, there are 20.8 million trees cut and sold every year for Christmas, according to the U.S. Census. These come from 21,904 farms that are scattered around the country.

Two farms are right here in the Lake Wylie area: Lutz Christmas Tree Farm in Clover and Penland Tree Farm in York.

At both locations, you can choose and cut your own tree, or select one from a variety of precut trees.

Check them out for some seasonal fun and maybe even a new family tradition.

The Lutz Christmas Tree Farm 756 Neelands Road Clover, SC 29710

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

803-627-2392 Look for them on Facebook Open: Nov. 28 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dec. 24 Monday: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Thursday: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Choose-and-cut tree varieties: Leyland cypress, Virginia pine.

Additional pre-cut varieties available: Fraser fir.

Services include: Tree trunk drilling available for spike stands; trees are shaken to remove any loose or old needles; trees are wrapped for transporting home.

Continued on page 30

as Tree

Garden Party

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Garden Party In addition to the choose-and-cut trees, Lutz Christmas Tree Farm also sells precut trees and fresh wreaths.

Penland Christmas Tree Farm

6457 Campbell Road York, SC 29745 803-366-7605 â&#x20AC;˘ www.penlandtreefarm.com Open: Nov. 29 - Dec. 23 Monday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Thursday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Saturday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Choose-and-cut tree varieties: Blue ice, Carolina sapphire, Eastern red cedar, Leyland cypress, Virginia pine, white pine, Murray Christmas mint cypress.

Additional pre-cut varieties available: Fraser fir.

Services include: Trunk drilling available for spike stands; trees shaken to remove loose or old needles; trees wrapped for transporting home; assistance available for loading tree.

In addition to the trees, the farm also offers trees with roots available for replanting, fresh wreaths, gift shop/barn and wagon rides on the weekend. LW

Keep your Christmas tree fresh

R

efresh the tree by making a straight cut, taking one inch off the bottom and immediately place in water. This will improve water uptake. Cutting a refresh cookie off the tree base is important only when trees have been cut for more than four hours.

Place the tree in a stand that can hold at least one gallon of water. You should expect the tree to take up additional water. Water the new tree until water uptake stops.

Always keep the base of a tree in water. If the base dries out, resin will form over the cut end and the tree will not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need anything

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Decorating your tree

A

few years ago, Penland Tree Farm opened a gift shop called the Treasure Barn stocked with Christmas ornaments and decorations.

Farm owners Steve and Judy Penland said the Treasure Barn evolved as a trove of mostly one-of-akind recycled decorations. Whenever the Penlands attended auctions looking for farm equipment, they would find lots of treasures they could make into Christmas ornaments and decorations.

Garden Party Stock up on ornaments at the Treasure Barn at Penland Farm

By recycling these items and making them useful again, the Penlands are able to offer very unique ornaments and decorations you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find anywhere else. Judy Penland also makes some items herself. For example, she makes rustic wreaths out of barbed wire, adorned with ribbons and flowers. She also makes angels from recycled hymnals, painted gourds, baskets decorated with pine cones, reindeer from tree bark and more.

other than regular tap water - drying out deters future water uptake and will need a new cut.

Commercially prepared mixes like aspirin, sugar and other additives introduced into the water are not necessary. Research has shown that plain water will keep a tree fresh.

Check for worn Christmas tree light electrical cords and always unplug at night. Use UL approved electrical decorations and cords. Using miniature lights produces less heat and reduces the drying effect on the tree or any chance of fire.

Take down the tree before it dries out. Many fresh cut trees if properly cared for (using the first five steps) should last at least five weeks before drying out. Some species keep their moisture longer than others.

Tips: For easier watering, buy a funnel and a 3 to 4 foot tube. Slip the tube over the funnel outlet, extend tubing down into the tree stand and water without bending over or disturbing the tree skirt. Hide this system in an out-ofthe-way part of the tree.

Source: About.com

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature

Celebrate the holidays

F

rom festivals and parades to ballet and historical tours, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday season in the Lake Wylie area. Here is a sampling of just a few of the many things going on this season. Please call ahead to check days and times, as they are subject to change.

NOVEMBER The Real Christmas Story Nov. 1-Dec. 22, 2013 The Real Christmas Story by Narroway Productions in Fort Mill. www.narroway.net.

Holidays at the Garden Nov. 22 – Dec. 31, 2013 From roasting marshmallows over a fire pit to enjoying thousands of beautiful Christmas lights, the organic rhythms of nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a holiday harmony this time of year at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

The annual holiday display promises surprises aplenty with a new festive display of Christmas trees. About 500,000 lights will offer a touch of holiday warmth. Crowd favorites include the Orchid Tree, the standing sentinel over the Great Hall and a fire pit for making s’mores. Holidays at the Garden is fun for the whole family, as kids can make nature-based crafts and enjoy a visit from Santa on select days. Check www.dsbg. org for daily admission hours and fees.

Winter Wonderland Craft Fair Nov. 30, 2013 Winter Wonderland Craft Fair is held at the Dairy Barn at the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill. The Craft Fair will feature more than 50 local and regional vendors who sell only handmade and homemade items. This is a great time to shop for unique Christmas and holiday gifts and you will find everything from children’s specialty clothing to handbags, quilts, baskets, fine woodworking, jewelry and gourmet foods.

Bring the kids because Santa will be making an appearance and children can sign up for the annual Candy Cane Hunt, which takes place at noon. Event begins at 9 a.m. Admission is free.

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

DECEMBER Holidays at the Garden Nov. 22 – Dec. 31, 2013 See calendar item in November.

Lake Wylie Chamber’s Annual Holiday Gala Dec. 5, 2013 Lake Wylie Chamber’s annual Holiday Gala will be held at the River Hills Country Club Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. until midnight. Reservations are required and seats are limited.

Contact the chamber for more information.

ChristmasVille Dec. 5-8, 2013 Did you ever open a storybook and want to step inside? Or dream of a simpler time filled with music and merriment and festive folks brimming with good cheer? If so, then bundle up the family and become part of the whimsical world of Rock Hill’s adopted son, Vernon Grant, America’s favorite children’s illustrator and artist of the famed Kellogg’s Rice Krispies’ Snap! Crackle! Pop! Once again, Old Town Rock Hill will come alive as a charming, picturesque holiday village and outdoor art festival. The 8th annual ChristmasVille will take place Dec. 5 - 8, 2013.

This award winning festival has more than 70 events including horse drawn carriage rides, historic tours, strolling Dickens carolers, art, theater, dance, music, a gingerbread house contest, multiple Santa activities, an ice skating rink and 20 tons of real snow. Visit www.christmasvillerockhill.com for more event information.

Feature The Magic of Christmas Dec. 5-8, 2013 A holiday tradition from the Charlotte Symphony Pops. For more info, www.charlottesymphony.org.

Santa’s Workshop at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Dec. 7, 14, 2013, Participating children will make a special gift for someone special, decorate cookies and participate in a holiday sing-along, as well as spend some time with Santa. The workshop events include: 3:30 p.m. - Sing along in the Great Hall with Ms. Claus; 3:40 p.m. - Story Time by Ms. Claus in the Great Hall; 4 - 5 p.m. - Professional photos with Santa, cookie decorating, two make-n-take

crafts; and 5 - 5:30 p.m. Garden Express rides in Tram Plaza.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., enjoy Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens’ regular Holidays at the Garden Festivities.

Space is limited. Reservations required. To register, call 704-8291294. Fee: Members, $20;

Candlelight Tours at Historic Brattonsville Dec. 7 and 14, 2013, 3-9 p.m.

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 here long ago. The Historic Brattonsville Gift Shop will feature period-style items for sale. Hot drinks, seasonal foods, and baked goods will be available for purchase.

Attendees can participate in candle dipping and paper ornament making activities, and listen to dramatic readings and classical Christmas songs. Santa will make an appearance, as well.

Christmas Candlelight Tours will feature five interpretive venues across the site divided into two time periods, 1781 and 1851. Each scene will be centered around getting ready for Christmas and setting for up a holiday party.

The running theme will be on the joy and excitement of the holiday, as well as examining where most of the holiday’s traditions originated and how they came to be enjoyed by the people living in the Carolina Piedmont.

Tours will start in the Homestead (1851) and move backwards in time ending with the Tavern Party celebrating the defeat of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown (1781).

Historic Brattonsville is located at 1444 Brattonsville Road in McConnells. For more information and admission fee, visit www. chmuseums.org or call 803-684-2327.

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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non-members $25. Price includes admission to evening lights and festivities.

Rehab with a sports conditioning specialist to restore sports performance post injury. Functional sports screening and running evaluations offered to prevent injuries and improve performance.

Karen S. Shuler PT, DPT

Greg Kucharski PT, DPT, SCS

We specialize in: • One-on-one personalized care.

• Neurological recovery for individuals who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.

• Individuals experiencing chronic pain, overuse sports and work injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, low back pain, arthritis and osteoporosis.

4543 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 11 Located in the Plantation Square Plaza

Lake Wylie, SC 29710

Most insurance plans accepted

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Defy Gravity!

Rehab and Train without Pain.

803.831.1454 www.lifestyle-physical-therapy.com

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Clover High School Choraliers’ Christmas Show Dec. 12, 14, 15, 2013 The Clover High School’s Choraliers’ Christmas Show is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Concerts are scheduled Dec. 12, 14, and 15 and will feature classical music followed by a variety show with singing and dancing.

Tickets are available at the box office. For more info, www.cloverchoraliers.com.

The Nutcracker Ballet Dec. 13-22, 2013 The Nutcracker at the Belk Theater celebrates the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Come along for this holiday voyage featuring live music from the Charlotte Symphony and more than 100 performers. Be there as the Nutcracker Prince triumphs over the evil Mouse King and as the Sugar Plum Fairy entertains Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and the audience with dazzling dancing sweets. For more info, www.blumenthalarts.org.

Lake Wylie Lights on the Lake Boat Parade Dec. 14, 2013, 6:30 p.m.

You won’t want to miss the annual Lake Wylie Lights on the Lake Boat Parade. Decorated boats will start lining up about 3 p.m. at the dock at T-Bones on the Lake. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. After leaving the dock at T-Bones, the boats usually cruise north toward Long Cove Marina, go under the bridge and eventually turn around and head back to T-Bones. Prizes are then awarded for the best decorated boats. For information on the 2013 boat parade and how you can register your

Feature boat for the parade, please see the Chamber Spotlight section.

Downtown Belmont Christmas Village Dec. 14, 2013, 6-9 p.m.

Come celebrate Christmas in downtown Belmont. Stroll down Main Street, enjoy the decorations, the songs of carolers, a cup of hot apple cider and visit downtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique stores. Santa will be in front of city hall for the children to enjoy and pose for a photo. Horse-drawn carriage rides and hay rides will be available, as well. Enjoy roasting marshmallows over an open fire, as well as food and beverages made available by the local restaurants and vendors. For more info, www.cityofbelmont.org.

Christmas in Olde York Dec. 14, 2013, 4-8 p.m., Dec. 15, 2013, 3 -7 p.m.

The Annual Christmas in Olde York â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Holiday Tour of Historic Homes & Sites will be held Dec. 14 and 15, 2013.

All Christmas Tour tickets are $10 (includes all children) but can be used on either day or both days until you have toured all the sites. Advanced tickets are available at the Greater York Chamber of Commerce, 23 E. Liberty St., 803-684-2590, and the McCelvey Center, 212 E. Jefferson St., 803-684-3948.

Tickets will no longer be sold at the homes on the event days.

On tour this year: Pratt House, 7 College St.; McElwee House, 8 College St.; Witherspoon/Hunter House, 15 West Liberty St.; Spencer House, 102 Kings Mountain St.; Snyder/Gilliam House, 109 E. Jefferson St.; The McCelvey Center, 212 E. Jefferson St. For more information, visit yorkvillehs.com. LW

2013 Local Christmas Parades Clover York Belmont Rock Hill Fort Mill Lake Wylie Boat Parade

Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7

3 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

11 a.m.

Dec. 14

6:30 p.m.

2013 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies Clover Belmont Fort Mill Tega Cay

Nov. 29 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 7

5 p.m.

5 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Feature

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Feature

W

hen Lake Wylie residents want to have dinner and see a show, they don’t even have to leave the ZIP code.

One of the area’s best kept secrets is the Clover School District Auditorium. This entertainment facility has both audiences and entertainers gushing over the 1,500-seat Proscenium Theater, the talented lighting and audio staff and the acoustical clarity throughout the auditorium. The Clover School District Auditorium, which sits adjacent to the Clover High School, hosts events for both the school district, as well as the community.

Program Director David Yandle explained, “The facility is owned and funded by the school district, and is available for any school related events for all in the Clover School District, but the facility has always been available

Story and photos by Jan Todd for the community as well.”

The Auditorium opened in the fall of 1994.

Yandle, who at the time was the high school band director, recalled, “Before the CSDA was built, we had band and chorus concerts in the school cafeteria. We really had no other place to perform concerts.”

Several members of the school board at that time, along with teachers and others interested in bringing the fine arts programs to a new level in the area schools, were instrumental in bringing the dream of a performing arts center to reality. “Pat Harvey, Matt Wingard, Kay Owen, Ron Wright, they were all part of

the team that made it happen,” Yandle remembered.

However, a place for school functions, was just part of the dream. The size and technical offerings of the CSDA provided a forum to expose students and the community to professional artist performances as well. To fulfill its mission of educating, enlightening, enriching, and entertaining the entire community, the CSDA introduced the Performing Arts Series, now in its 12th season.

Each year, the Series offers 10 performances with a mix of comedy, instrumental and vocal music, drama and magic. “We usually have a couple of shows targeted to families with younger children, and other acts that appeal to a wide variety of audiences,” Yandle said.

Yandle and Rick Hamrick, the technical di-

Feature

Some of the visiting artists conduct clinics and work sessions for students.

The Fettucini Brothers

Professional artists are always impressed by the Clover School District Auditorium and a the staff’s dedication to excellence in the technical support for their performances.

The CSDA provides a venue for students to showcase their own singing and dancing skills. rector for CSDA since its opening year, attend the North Carolina Presenters Consortium each fall to schedule the next season’s performances. “It’s like a flea market for artists, with artists and their agents providing tapes and samples of their shows,” Yandle said. Based on audience feedback, some performers are invited back. “We also get referrals from the performers themselves. Once they see our facility and caliber of the staff and audience, they often suggest other performers that would be well received in our community,” Yandle continued.

The technical collaboration can be a challenge. For school performances and plays, the lighting and audio technicians rehearse with the groups. “That’s not the case with the professional performers,” revealed Hamrick.

“Usually we get a program sheet with instructions, we have a brief sound check, then we’re on.”

Audience and artist appreciation is a testament to the professional expertise to Hamrick and his staff. “They do a really good job,” said Lake Wylie resident Judy Watson, who has been a subscriber to the Performing Arts Series for a few years. “I’m always impressed with the variety and quality of the performances.”

Connie Bishop, another subscriber and

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The CSDA seats 1,500 and is often packed to capacity.

resident of Lake Wylie, added, “I’m amazed by the talent that is brought to our community.” Bishop, a long time fan of Franco Bateria, the actor who portrayed the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera, remembered when Bateria was scheduled in the CSDA Performing Arts Series a couple of years ago. “I saw him perform in San Francisco,” said Bishop, “and then I turn around and he’s coming to Clover.

I don’t know how David Yandle arranged that one!”

Yandle tries to keep his finger on the pulse of the audience and has succeeded in scheduling acts that will wow the audience.

“When we had our first series, we had about 100 subscribers and had the rest of the tickets available for general sale,” he said. “We had a reception after the first show and the entire audience fit on the stage for refreshments. Now, we have 1,000 subscribers.”

Church groups, friends, senior groups, various clubs and individuals make up the subscriber list. “It is something that is good for the community as a whole.”

Students also benefit from the Performing Arts Series. Several of the artists hold clinics for student musicians and performers while they’re in town. A capella groups, conductors, and instrumentalists hold master classes and work with students on their technical and

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

performance skills.

Tickets are very affordable, in the interest of building art and music appreciation for all in the community. For individual show tickets, prices are about $15 a ticket for most performances, $5 per ticket for family shows, and occasionally free for select artists. The best deal is a subscriber ticket, all 10 shows for just $50.

As the facility nears its 20 year anniversary, it has staged such acts as George Winston, the Kingston Trio, the U.S. Marine Band, Ricky Skaggs, Kathy Mattea and the National Symphony Orchestra.

It has also provided a platform for local dance recitals, high school drama performances, Choralier productions and school band concerts. High school scholars and athletes have crossed the stage during award ceremonies, and first solos have been sung by future stars. Beauty queens have been crowned and class comedians have clowned around. Laughter has rung out and tears have been shed, both on stage and in the audience.

As for the mission of educating, enlightening, enriching, and entertaining the whole community? Mission accomplished.

For ticket information, visit www.clover. k12.sc.us/csda or call 803-222-8018. LW

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

The Depue Brothers band

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

appreciate

Thomas Kubinek

Charlotte Jazz Orchestra (free event) 11/19/13, 8 p.m.

803.831.1318

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

Dallas Brass 1/9/14, 8 p.m. - One of America’s foremost musical ensembles with full complement of brass and percussion.

California Dreaming 1/28/14, 8 p.m. - A song and dance tribute to the pop music of the mid60s.

Hansel & Gretel, 2/11/14, 7 p.m. - The Children’s Theater of Charlotte’s Tarradiddle Players present a new twist on a classic fairy tale for the whole family.

Fettucini Brothers, 2/20/14, 7 p.m. - A family favorite! Blend of juggling, variety arts, and slapstick comedy.

Jimmy Webb, 3/1/14, 8 p.m. - Singer songwriter, and the only artist ever to receive Grammy awards for music, lyrics and orchestration.

Kathy Mattea, 3/27/14, 8 p.m. - Country star singing a blend of Appalachian, gospel, bluegrass and Celtic music.

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Anna Omelchenko / Shutterstock.com

Feature

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www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Feature

It began with

a birthday wish

S

ome people have a big party when they turn 50 years old. Others celebrate with a special trip, the purchase of a convertible sports car, or perhaps their first contribution to an I.R.A. Lake Wylie resident Monique Boekhout,

however, considered her â&#x20AC;&#x153;mid-lifeâ&#x20AC;? status and told her husband that she wanted to run a major marathon and go on a mission trip to mark her milestone birthday.

So she started training, adding a serious running regimen to her active tennis schedule, and also began researching different opportunities for mission work.

Story and photos by Jan Todd

Feature During her search, Boekhout was introduced to a couple from Kenya, and attentively listened as they spoke of the impact of the AIDS virus in their country. The high death rate from the disease left thousands of orphans shifted to the homes of relatives or left alone to live in the streets. When Boekhout heard of the plight of these children, she knew she had found her cause. The Kenyan couple told her of a project to build an orphanage, and Boekhout knew she wanted to help.

Boekhout set her sights on the 2002 Chicago Marathon, a race in the fall that provided a means to raise money for the charitable organization of her choice. She established a goal of raising $26,200 — $1,000 for each mile of the marathon. Boekhout met her fundraising goal, and thanks to a matching donor, ended up with over $50,000 to contribute.

With such a large donation, Boekhout wanted to see how the funds were being used, and help with the establishment of the orphanage. She organized a trip the following February for 10 people to go to Kenya. This first mission team assisted with construction and organization, visited the area and realized the vast needs of the children. Boekhout described the squalor and living conditions of the poor in Kenya, which still exists today.

“It is unimaginable. They are living in what resembles a landfill in our country, piles of garbage, flies and rodents, the most unsanitary conditions you could picture.”

“When we went into the slums,” Boekhout recalled, “the children were drawn to my husband Bob. They all ran to him and touched the hair on his arms and head, fascinated. We were all puzzled about their fascination with him, until we realized that these kids had never seen someone with white hair. Most people in their living conditions only lived to age 40, at best.”

When the team returned to the U.S.A., they discussed ways to make a real difference to some of the children of Kenya. Lisa McCarthy of Lake Wylie, who was instrumental in the “Sponsor a Child Program” was on the first mission trip to Kenya. “The issues faced by the children in Kenya are overwhelming,” she said.

“We realized that we couldn’t help all of the children, but we could help some, and change the outcome of their lives.” It was this type of thinking that led to the development of the Kenya Orphanage Project (KOP), a mission organization in Lake Wylie that goes beyond the basic housing and food needs of the children by providing for education and vocational training within a Christian environment.

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1

6 5 KOP partners with several area churches to raise funds, gather supplies and send mission teams to Kenya. The organization has evolved over the past 10 years to now support 31 orphans. Boekhout’s partners in Kenya selected the first group of 26 children, who were between the ages of 4 and 12 at the time, for the orphanage. “There are no social programs

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in Kenya, so the children were selected from the slums, after talking with some of the people there to determine which children had no parental care,” Boekhout explained.

As the orphans sponsored by KOP have grown up, the organization has adapted to meet the changing needs of the kids. “We want these kids to break out of the cycle of

Feature 2

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1. A group of happy children enjoy a break from school. 2. Children at the House of Hope High School. 3. Millicent, Jedidah and Joselyn in Form 1 class. 4. Joseph has started raising his own crops and selling them to market vendors in Nairobi. 5. Louise, Mary, Rosemary and Miriam now attend Kenyatta University. 6. A photo of Louise, age 10, the year she was adopted by a caregiver through Kenya Orphanage Project. Fast forward 10 years, Louise now attends Kenyatta University. (Photos provided) poverty,” Boekhout said. “So we emphasized education, then began to incorporate realistic career planning and goal setting.” A couple of years ago, KOP sent Kelli Dawkins, the Dean of Student Affairs at York Technical College, to work with a Kenyan representative to assess the children in the program and work with them to identify their interests and skills and set goals.

“They all want to be doctors and pilots, but most of them don’t have the grades to get into the University,” Boekhout said. “So we talked to them about vocational training, apprenticeships, and that sort of thing. We encourage them to be the best they can at whatever they do.”

Joseph, one of the oldest orphans in the program, enjoyed helping with the gardening at the House of Hope boarding school that he attended in Nairobi. When it was time for him to support himself, he began raising crops to sell to the market vendors in Nairobi. “I like farming and I want to be successful,” Joseph

told Boekhout.

Supporters of KOP had real reason to celebrate this fall, when four of the students in their program entered Jomo Kenyatta University. Louise is majoring in Primary Teacher Education, Mary in Special Needs Education, Miriam in Community Health and Development, and Rosemary is studying Tourism and Hospitality. Upon completion of their education, each of these young women will be in positions to impact the lives of others and improve the fate of others in their community.

Many people from the Lake Wylie community have contributed to the Kenya Orphanage Project over the years, and have participated in fundraising events ranging from boat cruises on Lake Wylie, to school supply drives at their churches, to mountain climbing at Kilimanjaro. More than 100 people from Lake Wylie area have traveled to Kenya to help with construction projects, medical and dental trips, and camps for the orphans.

As members of KOP celebrate the 10-year

mark of their work, they look to the next decade.

“We plan to see this group of children through their education, as the younger ones go through high school and then on to college or vocational training,” Boekhout said.

This group of orphans, who 10 years ago had very bleak prospects in life, will be in positions to make a real difference in their communities and country, thanks to efforts that began on the other side of the world, with a 50th birthday celebration.

Want to get involved? You can sponsor a child, or contribute any portion of sponsorship. It costs about $1,500 a year for room, board and education for each orphan in the program. Sponsors can send letters to the children, and will receive progress reports and communication from the kids. You can also donate your time to help with collection and organization of donated supplies for the program, help with fundraising events, or even participate in mission trips. Visit www.kenyaorphanageproject.org for more information. LW

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Community Connection

Support local businesses Shop locally for gifts and holiday needs

By Susan Bromfield, President - Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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s the holiday rapidly approaches, save time and support our community and local businesses. With just a few weeks left until Christmas, here are just a few ideas to consider as you prepare for the holiday ahead.

Lowe’s-Lake Wylie will have everything for home improvements, holiday décor and gifts for the whole family with its many departments.

For a special gift for the women in your life, stop by D. David Jewelry, located in Lake Wylie Plaza. Owner David Wysor is an internationally known jewelry designer and is now located in Lake Wylie. This is a great opportunity to purchase beautiful designer pieces that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Floral arrangements and a selection of gift items are available at Emily’s Garden and Gift located in Lake Wylie Plaza by the Village Cellar. The Village Cellar has a wide selection of wines for all your holiday needs.

Christmas trees, wreaths and greenery are available at Walmart and Lowe’s. River Hills

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Lion’s 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 and Food Lion will have a full assortment of holiday foods, deli and bakery trays and all your party needs. Lake Wylie Liquors offers a terrific variety of competitively priced party and gift items during the holidays and is conveniently located on 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? The variety gives many choices.

T-Bones on the Lake offers great views, Concord Cove located just off Highway 274 has become another favorite dining experience for Saturday brunch and dinners, Rey Azteca offers Mexican fare for lunch and dinner and Lake Wylie Pizza and Italian even delivers.

Q2U BBQ and Catering makes take-out or dine-in easy. A gift certificate from the Bagel

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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 on these cold winter days? For those with less time to dine, there are gift certificates at McDonald’s, Subway, Wendy’s, Jersey Mike’s and Bojangles’.

These are just a few of the choices and ideas to shop locally this holiday.

Consider a gift certificate for a manicures and pedicure, available at the Nail Gallery and Nail Palace. Or a relaxing massage from any one of our local massage therapists, including Jeani Rogers at A Caring Environment, Lake Wylie Massage and Zen Massage.

A gift certificate with a personal trainer also could make a nice gift. Rachel Gilmore and Wellness Ridge provide personal services and coaching for weight loss, fitness and lifestyle change. The Sportscenter and Anytime Fitness provide gift certificates to begin a healthy new year with a fitness plan and memberships. Rich Biggers is a physical therapist and fitness trainer and is available to work with individuals to

improve their fitness and specific health needs.

A car wash or detail at a local carwash also makes a nice gift.

A gift certificate for services from one of our beauty salons always makes a nice gift. Let your loved one get pampered at Classic Salon located at Rivers Edge pavilion, Salon 108 located at Shoppes at the Landing, Great Clips and Revel Salon or Color Studio located at Lake Wylie Business Centre. They all provide personalized service. Gentlemen’s Cut, located at Plantation Square is a full-service barber shop, a great place to get a gift certificate for men.

A gift certificate from Flamingo Digital Studios or Point of View Photography for a family portrait would make a wonderful gift.

Newly opened, 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 card for grooming and services.

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 and this treat will make good stocking stuffers or gift for the whole family.

A gift card from Quik Trip or Kangaroo Stores will be appreciated by students and kids of all driving ages.

In Clover, ML Ford and Sons furniture store on Main Street offers a treasure trove of gift 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 cheeseballs.

The gift of time and creating memories is always appreciated. How about going for a drive to McAddenville to see the lights. 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.

If you’re planning to throw a party, please see our Winter Party Guide within this issue for information on all your party needs.

One last reminder is that our local businesses also support the community. Many will hold toy, food or coat drives, others will have Angel trees where you can select a family or a child for whom you can provide gifts. Remember to give a gift of an unwrapped toy to the Clover Jaycee’s Toy Drive and add some canned food items and/or a check to Clover Area Assistance Center. All these items can be dropped off at Kodiak Mini Storage.

Have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season. LW

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Community Connection

Give and receive

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iving back to your community has The River Hills Lion’s Club many advantages. Not only do you help someone in need, you also get the satisfaction of being connected to and involved in your community. You may be helping someone better themselves, feed their family or gain confidence to achieve a dream.

There are many ways you can give back to the Lake Wylie community. Donating money is always helpful, but so is donating your time.

Numerous local organizations exist that offer opportunities to get involved. We’ve compiled a few of them for you. This is not a complete list, but it gives you an idea of what’s out there and how you can make a difference.

While Thanksgiving usually serves as a reminder to be thankful for the things we have been given and to share our wealth (time and money) with others, the season of giving is all year long here in Lake Wylie. All of these orChartered in 1975, the River Hills Lions ganizations operate all year long and rely on Club is now the largest and most active Lions the generosity of our community to continue Club in South Carolina. The River Hills Lions to make a difference in people’s lives.

Club is a group of men and women that serves

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those in need in the entire Lake Wylie and Clover area. Yearly charitable contributions exceed $100,000 and come from the support of local businesses and individuals involved in various fundraising and community service projects.

The Lions Club holds several events throughout the year, including an annual golf tournament, Christmas tree sale and the fall silent auction. The club’s largest fundraiser is the River Hills Lions Club Directory, which is a telephone and email address directory for River Hills residents and Lions Club members.

During the club’s annual charity golf tournament, the group raised more than $14,000.

Proceeds from all of these efforts go to fund area charities and nonprofits including Clover Area Assistance Center, YMCA Camp Thunderbird, Back Pack Program and more.

The Lions Club also is a major contributor to the Lake Wylie-River Hills Emergency Squad, a free service to the entire Lake Wylie area. For more information, or to get involved, www. riverhillslions.org.

Community Connection Giving back to your community provides a return on investment that can’t be measured in dollars and cents

household items and clothing. Proceeds from the sale of these items go right back into the community through donations to local charities and nonprofits.

Sweet Repeat’s impact is felt by many, as the foundation has donated nearly $100,000 to local organizations in the past two years.

The store has been operating for 10 years out of a space in Lake Wylie Plaza and recently moved to a new, larger location within the same shopping center. More than 80 volunteers work to accept, organize and arrange items in

the store that are then sold to the public.

When Sweet Repeat prepares to make a charitable donation, the foundation’s budget committee seeks member input and then selects a few nonprofit projects or charities to receive a $5,000 contribution. Organizations Sweet Repeat Foundation has contributed to include the Wayne Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill, Habitat for Humanity, York Place, Pilgrim’s Inn and the River Hills Emergency Squad. Some of the other beneficiaries are God’s Kitchen in Clover, Clover Area Assis-

Sweet Repeat Foundation

Sweet Repeat Foundation operates a simple thrift store with a huge community impact. The store, located in Lake Wylie Plaza, accepts and sells gently used furniture,

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Community Connection tance Center, PATH in York, Camp Thunderbird Scholarship Fund, Kenya Orphanage Project and many local charity works for the deaf and blind. Many smaller contributions are made, as well.

Sweet Repeat is open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Donation items of household goods and furniture, and clothing are needed. Pickup is available for large items.

For more information or to get involved, call 803-831-0722.

Lake Wylie Children’s Charity The Lake Wylie Children’s Charity holds several events throughout the year, all with the purpose of raising money to aid and support families whose children suffer from childhood illnesses. Over the past 10 years, the group has raised nearly $400,000.

The organization’s annual events include the Lake Wylie Children’s Charity Golf Tournament, The Captain Clueless Race for the Cup,

the LWCC 5K Fun Run and the LWCC Charity Ride. They also hold an all-day concert called the Lake Wylie Children’s Charity Benefit Concert, which includes a bake sale, children’s games, concessions and a silent auction.

The organization recently held its fall benefit concert and raised $48,000. A check was recently presented to Emma Poplin-Revels and her family. Emma, 3, was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Lake Wylie Children’s Charity accepts donations throughout the year and is always looking for volunteers, as well as silent auction items. For more information please visit www. lkwchildrenscharity.org.

Clover Area Assistance Center The Clover Area Assistance Center provides services to those in need residing within the boundaries of the Clover School District.

Urgent needs are met either directly or collaboratively through food, financial assistance, health services, and special need items.

Through educational programming, CAAC works to help people bridge the gap between dependence and self-sufficiency.

Each month, CAAC provides food to 300350 households, dental care to 60-75 patients and contributes financial assistance to another 65 families to help cover utility bills, prescriptions, gasoline or rent. One service that sets CAAC apart from other organizations is its Living Basics Class. In order to receive financial assistance, clients must attend one of these classes held at CAAC and taught by qualified volunteers.

Last year, CAAC expanded its food center, making it a full-choice pantry. Before, clients received a bag filled with food items. Now, clients can “shop” for their groceries. The difference reduces waste, as clients select items they will eat; and it “adds dignity back into the pro-

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Community Connection cess,” as clients are able to shop like they would in a conventional grocery store.

Donations and volunteers are always needed. For more information and to get involved, visit www.cloverareaassistance.org.

The above organizations are just a few of the wonderful groups in our community who are making a difference. For more information on how to get involved in the community, contact the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce at www.lakewyliesc.com. LW

KEEP IN MIND …

• Volunteering connects you to others, to your community and gives you the opportunity to help make it a better place.

• Volunteering is good for your mind and body. It increases self-confidence, combats depression and helps you stay physically active. Helping others kindles happiness.

• Volunteering brings fun and fulfillment to your life. It’s a great way to explore your interests, can be a relaxing, energizing escape from your day-to-day routine. It’s often very motivating, which can carry over into your personal and professional life. *Source: www.helpguide.org

Getting the most out of volunteering You’re donating your valuable time, so it’s important that you enjoy and benefit from your volunteering. It’s important to make sure that your volunteer position is a good fit and to communicate with the people you’re working with in the volunteer organization.

Ask questions. You want to make sure that the experience is right for your skills, your goals, and the time you want to spend.

If you have any questions, be sure to speak up. Sample questions to your volunteer coordinator might address your time commitment, if there’s any training involved, who you will be working with and what to do if you have questions during your experience.

Make sure you know what’s expected. Before starting, make sure you are comfortable with the organization, know what is expected, and understand the time commitment.

Consider starting small so that you don’t over commit yourself at first. Give yourself some flexibility to change your focus if needed.

Don’t be afraid to make a change. Speak up if your experience isn’t what you expected. Don’t force yourself into a bad fit. Talk to the organization about changing your focus or consider looking for another match.

Enjoy yourself. Most importantly, make sure you’re having fun! The best volunteer experiences benefit both the volunteer and the organization. If you’re not enjoying yourself, ask yourself why. Is it the tasks you’re performing? The people you’re working with? Or are you uncomfortable simply because the situation is new and familiar?

Pinpointing what’s bothering you can help you decide how to proceed.

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Development Update

New and expanding businesses invest in Lake Wylie

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he year 2013 is coming to an end, however businesses donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to be slowing their investment in the Lake Wylie area. In fact, they continue to open new locations or expand existing ones and when this happens, the impact is felt throughout the community.

For example, new rooftops mean new business, which boost the economy, which means new rooftops and new businesses, which boost the economy.

One development that will likely have a great impact on the Lake Wylie area is one proposed for 670 acres within the Seven Oaks Property located in Gaston and York counties. A development company purchased the property, a portion of which is on Lake Wylie and stretches about 5 miles along its northern shoreline between South Fork River and Catawba Creek.

NW Lake Wylie LLC, an affiliate of Northwood Investors LLC, has proposed to use the land for a mixed-use master planned develop-

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ment. About 800-900 homes would be built on the property. The Herald reported that more than 20 acres would be set aside for commercial use, another 10 acres would be for a public park. Homes would sit on one-acre lots.

The proposed community would be on land that is adjacent to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. The Gaston Gazette reported that the 670 acres NW Lake Wylie purchased is part of 800 acres that were left to the Seven Oaks Foundation after the death of Daniel Stowe.

The property is adjacent to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

The proposed plan is currently going through the channels for approval. Lake Wylie Today will include more information in future issues about this development as the information is made available.

Publix has purchased the BI-LO grocery store in Lake Wylie on Highway 274. The local store in Shoppes in the Landing was purchased with six other BI-LOs scattered throughout Rock Hill and Charlotte. The deal

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gives Publix five stores in York County. Grand opening dates for the locations will depend on the scope of the remodels.

Sunny Then has purchased The Nail Palace at Shoppes at the Landing from original owner Maline Chea. Then has been the manager of the salon since it opened in 2006.

Lake Wylie Bait and Tackle was sold in April and will soon change its name. Adam Fillmore purchased the store and is chang-

Development Update ing the name to Hunt Fish Paddle. The new name will better reflect the type of stock the store carries and the services the store will provide to customers. The store now carries a full range of fishing and archery gear, as well as kayaks and gear. Fillmore intends to add clothing to the store, as well.

CrossFit Lake Wylie is opening a 5,500-square-foot fitness coaching facility that is being built out with two showers and two restrooms. They will also have an air-conditioned designated kid’s area where kids can safely play and watch their parents work out.

CrossFit Lake Wylie is located in the Shoppes at the Landing shopping center on Highway 49. Check CrossFit Lake Wylie’s Facebook page for information on the opening date.

Sweet Repeat thrift store has relocated to a bigger space within Lake Wylie Plaza. The new location is next to Fred’s, providing the charity thrift shop with a more visible location. The store is also expanding its hours.

McCorkle has more than 30 years of experience, and as an industry consultant is one of only a few broker/consultants specializing in residential and commercial real estate along with land development and construction.

Shia Asian Bistro has opened at 4547 Charlotte Highway, Suite 1. The restaurant features soups, sushi, noodles and fried rice and more. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.

Bright Eyes and Bushy Tails opened in Lakeside West in October. The family owned

shop provides pet supplies and pet grooming services. Pet grooming hours (for cats and dogs only) are 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Pet supply hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday. The shop is closed Sunday. The store currently stocks dog and cat food, toys and treats and accessories. However, should there be a demand for other animal products, they try to fulfill those wishes. For more information, call 803-831-7169. LW

Cheer Tumbling Academy, also in Lake Wylie Plaza, is doubling its space. It is taking over the former location of Sweet Repeat, adding nearly 2,500 square feet to its current space. Cheer Tumbling Academy offers tumbling, year-round cheer and half-year cheer instruction. The new space will allow them to offer more classes and add equipment. Owner Christy Cross said they will be adding a tumble track, a long trampoline that will allow students to advance their tumbling skills. Cheer Tumbling Academy expects to complete the renovation in November.

David McCorkle and Don Stephens have opened Lake Wylie Realty at One Executive Court. The real estate company is located in what was for years the First Properties of the Carolinas space in the Wilkerson Building.

Before that, First Properties was River Hills Realty. Stephens has more than 35 years of experience in Lake Wylie waterfront sales and has sold more than 400 waterfront properties.

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Real Estate Forecast

It’s ‘hammer time’ in Lake Wylie

By David Coone

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s you walk through newer neighbor- about 6% over last year. With “pending sales” being the norm for year-to-date sales. That’s hoods where construction was stalled lining up, I’m expecting a more dramatic in- down from about 4,100 square feet, the average a few years ago. New homes prior to the a couple of years ago, you’ll hear crease by year’s end.

There are some interesting trends in the wa- market downturn were getting bigger and hammers, saws and drills. That’s sweet music to many people in our area, from construction terfront market right now. For one, homes sold bigger, with many on the market in excess of workers, to mortgage lenders, landscapers, are on average 25 years old, which is several 6,000 square feet. Many of those large homes decorators, building material suppliers, real years older than homes sold before the market ended up as distressed sales, and now builders estate agents and so on. As new people move adjustment. Of course, part of the reason is the and buyers have a new attitude.

Buyers want quality homes with smart into the community, local retailers and service decline in new construction on the lake, but anfloor plans that make the most of the providers also experience improveReal Estate Sales through August 2013 space, with efficient and low-mainment in their businesses. tenance features. Incorporating the The real estate market is defi 2011 2012 2013 home’s location into the design is nitely on an upswing in our area, Houses sold 66 90 139 also important to buyers. For inwith the Charlotte Multiple Listing $ Volume (millions) $23.1 $31.4 $46.0 Service reporting 139 homes have Source: Charlotte Multiple Listing Service - Area 15-3 stance, waterfront homes should be designed to capture lake views and been sold so far in 2013, an increase other reason is that the “choice lots,” that is, the to enhance outdoor entertaining that is often a from 90 homes sold in 2012.

Some of the new developments in the area ones with big views and desired locations, are part of living on the lake.

Prices for some segments of the market are have changed hands in the last few years and in more established neighborhoods. In many developers are breaking ground again on spec cases, these older homes have been remodeled starting to ease upwards, particularly for midhomes. We’re even seeing a couple of spec extensively, but in other cases, buyers are find- priced properties that possess some of the athomes being built on waterfront lots, which ing homes with “good bones” and taking on re- tributes described above. As we apply lessons learned in recent years to promote careful modeling projects themselves. shows confidence in market recovery.

The average size of the homes sold is get- development in our area, the community can Waterfront sales in the whole Lake Wylie area are continuing to improve, with sales up ting smaller, with about 3,400 square feet enjoy the benefits of growth. LW

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Spotlight The magazine of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

hts on Lake Wylieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Lig . ade the Lake boat par

Spotlight

25th Annual Lights on the Lake Holiday Boat Parade

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Set for Dec. 14, 2013

he lake will light up Saturday, Dec. 14 during one of Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s most popular events, the 25th annual “Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade. 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.

Boats will meet at T-Bones dock, S.C. 54

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Highway 49 by Buster Boyd Bridge, by 6 p.m. for lineup. A meeting of the boat captains will be held at the same time. 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 will be presented to the participant with the most creative lighting display. There will be first, second and third place winners.

Early registration is $20 and must be re-

ceived by Thursday, Dec. 12. Late and sameday 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 803-8312827, email lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com or visit www.lakewyliesc.com.

Spotlight Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 25th Annual

“Lights on the Lake” Holiday Boat Parade presented by

T-Bones on the Lake, Light-N-Up Houseboat and

Lake Wylie Pilot

REGISTRATION – ENTRY FORM When: Parade begins Saturday, Dec.14, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.

Where: Buster Boyd Bridge at T-Bones – Lake Wylie Captains meeting begins 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

by Thursday, Dec. 12, 2013. (Late and same-day registration is $25) Name:____________________________________________________________________ Addrss:___________________________________________________________________ Cell Phone:_________________________ Email:_________________________________ Type of Boat:_______________________________________________________________ Describe your holiday decorating theme:_________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________

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

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Charles Wood - Chairman KODIAK MINI STORAGE Ed Stewart – Past Chairman M.L. FORD & SONS Susan Bromfield, President LAKE WYLIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Donna Bordeaux BORDEAUX & BORDEAUX, CPAs, PA Myron Boloyan, Esq. HASELDEN, OWEN, BOLOYAN & CORSON, LLC Susan Bryant RINEHART REALTY Fred Caldwell FRED CALDWELL CHEVROLET Allan Gregory K. A. WEALTH MANAGEMENT Diana Grubenhoff LONG COVE MARINA Leonard Jackson LAKE WYLIE BUSINESS CENTRE Don Long Haven Presley T-BONES ON THE LAKE Paige McCarter CLOVER COMMUNITY BANK Doug McSpadden MCSPADDEN CUSTOM HOMES Michaelyn Sherrill PLANTATION HOME REALTY

Holiday Gala kicks off the season The 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 held Dec. 5 at River Hills Country Club. Reservations can be make by calling the chamber at 803-831-2827.

Sponsorships are also available.

Marc Sosne CLOVER SCHOOL DISTRICT 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 Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce’s marketing and promotional efforts are supported by York County’s Hospitality Tax.

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Spotlight

Business After Hours Aug. 22, 2013 Sponsored by Allen Tate Realty Photos by Diana Grubenhoff

Allen Tate Realtors welcome the Chamber to the August BAH.

Carolyn Huneycutt, Peggy and Myron Boloyan with Watt Roberson at the August BAH at Allen Tate Realty.

BB&T was well represented by Jack Chamber volunteer Norma Wood Green, Kate and Carole Lang. with Nancy Snyder.

Hank Owen and David Coone talk with another chamber member at the Allen Tate BAH. 56

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Gwen Thompson of Clover Community Bank with Watt Roberson of Allen Tate Realtors.

Spotlight

Business After Hours Sept. 26, 2013 Sponsored by Allstate Insurance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Vickers Agency, Anchor Self Storage, Edward Jones, Classic Salon, Hannon Orthodontics Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Charlie Bromfield and Bob Wheeler greet guests at the check-in table.

Jack Green of BB&T and Vic DiTomnaso.

Crystal Carr of Classic Salon welcomes chamber members.

Leeanna London of Hannon Orthodontics and Charles Wood of Kodiak Mini Storage.

Anne Marie and Bernie Perrine of Lakeside Limousine.

Fred Farkas of IPest and Ron Kraft of Lake Wylie Web Design.

Mark Cieslikowski and Jerry Bullard of Q2U BBQ and Catering.

Elena MIller and Phil Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien attended the BAH.

Jon Kinston of Edward Jones and the group gather at the September BAH. Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Business After Golf Oct. 10, 2013

Sponsored by Carolinas Healthcare System, Haselden, Owen, Boloyan and Corson, Watson Insurance, Lake Wylie Business Centre, Lake Wylie Pilot, River Hills Country Club and Q2U BBQ and Catering Photos by Diana Grubenhoff

Andy and Florence Kane with Tom Smith.

The York County Natural Gas Team tied for first place at the 2013 golf classic.

Mary Kate McManus of Hey Sugar Shop and Brian Rich of Q2U BBQ and Catering.

Bill Shanahan, York County manager and Hank Owen.

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Thank you to all the Business After Golf sponsors.

Larry Marracini and Bobbie Otto.

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Nancy Snyder and Peggy Upchurch.

The Watson Insurance Team visits with Carol Chase.

Spotlight

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 15th Annual Golf Classic Oct. 10, 2013 Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Team River Hills Country Club was well represented at The 15th annual Golf Classic drew a crowd of the Chamber Golf Classic, held at River Hills. competitors.

Buddy Thomas and Team T-Bones on the Lake at their popular margarita hole.

Buddy Thomas and Diana Grubenhoff

The David Weekly Team, new members of the chamber, at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf event.

Paige McCarter, Mary Pettus, Wendi Samples and Linda Eiler at the Hula Hole.

Lake Wylie Realty Team, new members of Gene and Lisa McCarthy, David Cox and Ted Pahon. the chamber, at the Oct. 10 golf event.

Golfers at the annual Golf Classic.

Tom Smith, Mike Miller, Ralph Belk and Charles Wood enjoyed the chamber golf event.

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Spotlight

Thank you!

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 2013 Golf Classic Sponsors!

Business After Golf Sponsors Carolinas Healthcare System Haselden, Owen, Boloyan and Corson Lake Wylie Business Centre Lake Wylie Pilot River Hills Country Club Q2U Catering Watson Insurance

Lunch Sponsor

Jersey Mike’s – Lake Wylie

Hole-in-One Sponsor Fred Caldwell Chevrolet

Hole Sponsors

Agape Senior Bank of York Bethel Commons Bojangles Carolina Family Dentistry Caromont Family Medicine Clover Community Bank Comporium Duke Energy Elrod Pope Law Firm Friend in Business Home Helpers

Hospitality Sponsors

Lake Wylie Assisted Living Lake Wylie Liquors Lake Wylie Marina Lake Wylie Plaza Lake Wylie Realty Lake Wylie Today Lowe’s-Lake Wylie ML Ford & Sons Remedics Restoration River Hills Country Club The Village at Lake Wylie York County Natural Gas Walmart

Please support our sponsors!

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T-Bones on the Lake

Spotlight

Thank You to Our Business After Golf Sponsors!

Carolinas Healthcare System Haselden, Owen, Boloyan & Corson Lake Wylie Business Centre Lake Wylie Pilot Q2U BBQ & Catering River Hills Country Club and Watson Insurance Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight Thank You to 2013 Business After Hours Sponsors Elrod Pope Law Firm Clover Community Bank Lake Wylie Liquor Lake Wylie Professional Center Bordeaux & Bordeaux, CPAs Focus Physical Therapy Glaza Chiropractic Center Lake Wylie Eye McSpadden Custom Homes Miller & Dixon Orthodontics Kodiak Mini Storage

River Hills Marina T-Bones on the Lake Sea Tow The Mosquito Authority Q-2-U Catering Lake Wylie Business Centre Allen Tate Realtors Carolinas Healthcare System Haselden, Owen, Boloyan & Corson Lake Wylie Business Centre Lake Wylie Pilot

Welcome New Members Apex Exterminating Jeff Pegram 232 Riverview Terrace Lake Wylie, SC 29710 apexexterminating@hotmail.com 803-979-7556 Pest Control Gentlemen’s Cut Tina Marie Burke 4543 Charlotte Highway, Suite 10 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 www.gentlemenscut.lakewylie.com 803-831-0500 Barber I Pest Inc. Brandon Johnson 5250 Forestwinds Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29745 www.ipest.biz 803-707-7171 Pest control and critter removal

Businesses: 10 Managed Services Andy Reynolds at Keller Williams Anytime Fitness Bernard Ackerman, CPA Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie Carolinas Healthcare System Caromont Classic Salon Farley Construction Forms and Supply

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July 1 - Oct. 10, 2013

Lake Wylie Commercial Cleaning Willard H. Smith III 803-831-8380 Cleaning Services Lake Wylie Realty David McCorkle 1 Executive Court Lake Wylie, SC 29710 www.lkwrealty.com 704-309-1549 Fax 803-831-8588 Real Estate Sales Standard Pacific Homes Krista Long 6701 Carmel Road, Suite 425 Charlotte, NC 28226 www.standardpacifichomes.com 704-759-6000 Fax 704-759-6020 Home Builder - developer

Renewing Members

River Hills Country Club Watson Insurance Q2U BBQ & Catering “Businesses at Rivers Edge Pavilion” Allstate – The Vickers Agency Anchor Self Storage Classic Salon Edward Jones Hannon Orthodontics City Tavern Fred Caldwell Chevrolet Lake Wylie Retirement & Assisted Living

Trident Builders Inc. Paul Christopher Homes Paul Garbon 4102 River Oaks Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 www.tridentbuilding.com 803-818-0185 Fax 803-619-4269 Home builder - developer Bright Eyes and Bushy Tails Joanne Styslinger 4034 Charlotte Highway Lakeside West Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-675-4359 Joanne.brighteyesbushytails@gmail.com Pet grooming and supplies Hey Sugar Shop Mary Kate McManus 803-984-5997 sweet@heysugarshop.com www.heysugarshop.com Specialty desserts and gifts

July 1 - Oct. 16, 2013

Good Samaritan Church Great Clips Hannon Orthodontics Kenya Orphanage Project Lake Wylie Auto Care Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza Lake Wylie Massage Marlin Bay Apartments Maygreen Properties Parkway Construction Presbyterian Hospital

Quik Trip RP Boggs & Company Wealth Management Syphard Construction Watson Insurance YMCA Camp Thunderbird Individuals: Bob Stiger David Stewart George Gessner Kevin Brackett Sandee Wilkerson

Spotlight

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 2013 Year in Review

By Susan Bromfield, President and Charles Wood, Chairman

L

ake 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:

• RiverSweep – Supported this annual lake annual holiday gala and recognized leaders for the accomplishments during the year. clean-up event on Lake Wylie.

• Collaborated with Clover Chamber to • Worked with neighboring chambers of commerce to sponsor York County Day in present the luncheon for Honors Students.

• Hosted an outstanding Golf Tournament Columbia.

• Positively promoted Lake Wylie and eco- and after golf event at River Hills Country Club involving more than 200 members, nomic development all year long. includes sponsors, golfers, volunteers and • Operated a Lake Wylie Visitor Center in participants. Networking at its best – Lake one of the busiest corridors in the state.

Wylie style.

• Was selected for the 2013 South Carolina • Added more than 35 new members.

Excellence Award by the Small Business Insti• Continued partnership with the SC Biz tute for Excellence in Commerce.

News to publish Lake Wylie Today, a premiere, • Received recognition by S.C. Press Asso- quarterly magazine to promote the Lake Wylie ciation for Lake Wylie Today magazine. LWT lifestyle, business and events. Lake Wylie Towon third place in the magazine division. day features the Chamber Spotlight newsletter • Held more than 10 business after hours and helps to promote and market the area and networking events with the support of 40 our members. sponsors.

• Published 12 full-color page quarterly • Held ribbon cuttings and grand openings newsletter in Lake Wylie Today. with area new and expanding businesses.

• Presented the 24th annual Lights on • Staffed a beautiful Lake Wylie Visitor Cen- the Lake Holiday Boat Parade, an event that uniquely promotes Lake Wylie during the ter and developed a team of volunteers.

• Operated a Small Business Center in Lake winter.

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.

• Launched a Lake Wylie Wellness Initiative.

• Maintained Lake Wylie website and 24/7 .

• 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 Pennies for Progress, and other economic development efforts and issues.

• Supported the efforts to get a county park plan for the area.

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

• Supported use of “green” standards for • Enhanced communication capability by chamber offices. utilizing chamber “e-communications” and • Supported “Going Green” efforts at Lake new and modern methods of communicating Wylie to include adopt a stream and coves and to the members and public. storm drain marking program at Lake Wylie.

• Collaborated with Lake Wylie Pilot to have • Worked with a variety of economic develchamber news and chamber activities and opment prospects that have now selected Lake events included.

Wylie to launch or locate their businesses.

• Hosted many business seminars, meetings • Worked to support a variety of community and informational opportunities for members projects and charitable efforts and groups. at the chamber facility.

• Supported members and their efforts to • Actively supported the many local service promote economic development and growth organizations like Lake Wylie Rotary Club, and prosperity for the community.

River Hills Lions Club and more.

• Successfully presented and promoted Lake Wylie Events and Activities throughout the year by collaborating with Lake Wylie Pilot • Collaborated and organized a coat collecand Lake Wylie Today magazine.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce is looking • Helped to raise money and facilitate tion drive, toy drive for holidays and canned forward to and planning another active and Lake Wylie Fourth of July Community fire- good drive. productive year for 2014.

• Celebrated chambers accomplishments at works display.

Winter 2013 | www.LakeWylieToday.com

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Spotlight

Save the Date!

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

Annual Holiday Gala Thursday, Dec. 5, 2013 • 6:30 p.m. to Midnight at the

River Hills Country Club Libations & Dinner Music by The Classics for your listening and dancing pleasure Seating limited • Festive attire Please contact the Chamber at 803.831.2827 for reservations.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Upcoming Activities Business After Hours Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by and held at Fred Caldwell Chevrolet Bethel St. Clover, SC

Annual Holiday Gala

Thursday, Dec. 5, 2013 6:30 p.m. to Midnight Cocktails & Hors D’oeuvres Dinner and Music Seating Limited, Festive Attire Held at River Hills Country Club Lake Wylie, SC 64

www.LakeWylieToday.com | Winter 2013

Holiday Business After Hours

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Lake Wylie Retirement & Assisted Living, Home Helpers and Lake Wylie Liquor

Annual Holiday Boat Parade

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013 – 6:30 p.m.

By T-Bones on the Lake and Buster Boyd Bridge Sponsored by Light-N-Up Houseboat Charters and T-Bones on the Lake